Communication Studies
ALAN HANSEN, PH.D.
CHARLOTTE M. JONES, PH.D.
BRENT NORTHUP, M.A., DEPT CHAIR
Mission
Our broadest departmental mission is to educate the mind and illuminate the spirit of students through systematic coursework and holistic advising.
Our departmental goals are both education/vocational and holistic. Educational/vocational goals are related to graduate school and/or specific communication-related careers. The student learning outcomes—and holistic goals—reflect the broad Carroll mission of educating the entire person including both the mind and the spirit.
Departmental Goals
The educational/vocational mission of the Communication Department:
- to teach students to communicate effectively
- to prepare students for a career in a communication-related field
- to prepare students for possible graduate study in communication or a related field
- to prepare a student for a possible career in public relations
- to prepare students for a possible career in journalism
- to prepare students for a possible career as a secondary education teacher of communication, speech or forensics
- to train students to succeed in intercollegiate forensics competition
Student Learning Outcomes
The student learning outcomes of the Communication Department are:
- students will learn to use communication constructively and unselfishly, to serve others and to promote peace on all levels—interpersonal, societal and global
- students will learn the moral foundations of communication, which include the need to treat every person with reverence
- students will gain intercultural awareness in order to treat people of all backgrounds with tolerance and respect
- students will gain practical communication skills—such as conflict management skills, small group communication skills and relationship-building skills—which can enhance the personal life of students for a lifetime