Speech Communication

www.linnbenton.edu/communication

The Speech Communication program offers students an opportunity to pursue expertise, or preparation for advanced study, in the field of communication. The program offers the Speech Communication emphasis, Associate of Science degree, designed for students interested in completing a bachelor's degree at Oregon State University (OSU). Additionally, the Speech Communication program course offerings support institutional general education degree requirements in Communication. To make the best selection, check the Communication requirement for your particular degree and speak with a program advisor.

To complete the Associate of Science degree and transfer to OSU, students are strongly encouraged to enroll in the Degree Partnership Program during their second year of study and take classes at both LBCC and OSU. Students should work with advisors at both LBCC and OSU. An OSU Bachelor of Arts degree requires that students take two years of a college-level world language. While this is not a requirement of this Associate of Science degree, it is highly advised that students complete this coursework at LBCC, or after transfer using the Degree Partnership Program. It is also recommended for students to take some electives in Journalism and New Media Communication.

In addition to transferring to OSU, students can also transfer to Western Oregon University (WOU) by pursuing an AAOT. Students interested in this option should contact a Speech Communication faculty advisor to discuss the Degree Partnership Program with WOU.

Recent studies confirm that in today’s job market, employers rate effective communication skills as a top priority. Students who earn a grade of B or higher in COMM 111Z Public Speaking, COMM 114 Argument and Critical Discourse, and COMM 218Z Interpersonal Communication, will receive the Communication Focus Award, a departmental award that documents a student’s training in communication. Additionally, the Speech Communication program offers a civil discourse co-curricular program for students who are interested in developing valuable communication skills. Students also have an opportunity to gain valuable work experience in communication fields through the COMM 280 elective.