B.A. in Communication Studies – Organizational Communication

A study of the skills necessary (problem-solving, creative thinking, decision making) for effective communication in the small group. Course draws on readings and provides group activities such as round-table discussions, lecture forums, symposia, and panels.

Students examine and develop proficiency in the skills necessary to communicate effectively within organizations as well as between organizations and their constituencies. Topics include conflict resolution, developing trust, clear presentation of organizational image, and decision-making in organizations.

Investigates the nature of nonverbal communication as part of the human message system. Students discuss research on the types of cues that are part of the nonverbal system, review some communicative functions allowed by nonverbal cues (e.g., emotional expressions, relational messages, deception, coordination, or interaction), and tie nonverbal communication to language.

Integrates the major disciplines in communication and affords the student direction and advisement in proposing, designing, and executing a senior research paper or project. Prerequisites: COMM 245 and Senior standing.

Exploration of expectancy, leader-member exchange (LMX), transactional, transformational, servant leadership and other theories, including foundational leadership principles and concepts.

Leader’s behaviors and decisions in sending messages to people throughout the organization. Analysis of the concept of organizational culture, its development, and the effect it has on the leader and people in the organization; focus on a leader’s ability to positively influence followers. Prerequisite: LDST 201.

The concepts, theories, and current practice regarding organizational structures and their development, the dynamics of individual and collective behavior within organizations; human interaction within organizations to foster and manage change. Emphasis on the role of leadership and cultural values. Prerequisite: Junior standing and prior management or leadership coursework.