Program Overview
The Communication Studies Associate of Arts - Direct Transfer Agreement at North Seattle College is a two-year program designed to provide students with a strong foundation in communication theory and practice. The program prepares students for transfer to a four-year university to pursue a bachelor's degree in Communication Studies or a related field. Graduates of the program have a strong track record of success in their careers, working in a variety of industries including public relations, advertising, marketing, and education.
Program Outline
Communication Studies Associate of Arts - Direct Transfer Agreement (LASDTAA) at North Seattle College
Degree Overview:
Overview:
The Communication Studies Associate of Arts - Direct Transfer Agreement (LASDTAA) is a two-year program designed to provide students with a strong foundation in communication theory and practice. This program prepares students for transfer to a four-year university to pursue a bachelor's degree in Communication Studies or a related field.
Objectives:
Upon completion of this program, students will be able to:
- Demonstrate a strong understanding of communication theory and principles.
- Apply communication skills effectively in various contexts, including interpersonal, group, public, and organizational settings.
- Analyze and critique communication messages effectively.
- Conduct research on communication topics.
- Develop strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Program Description:
This program offers a comprehensive curriculum that covers a wide range of communication topics, including:
- Interpersonal communication
- Group communication
- Public speaking
- Organizational communication
- Mass communication
- Communication theory
- Communication research methods The program also includes opportunities for students to develop their communication skills through hands-on experience, such as:
- Participating in class discussions and presentations
- Completing group projects
- Conducting research projects
- Internships
Outline:
Program Content:
- Communication Theory: Students will gain a strong understanding of the fundamental principles of communication, including communication models, communication ethics, and the role of communication in society.
- Communication Skills: Students will develop a variety of communication skills, including effective listening, persuasive speaking, conflict resolution, and teamwork.
- Communication Analysis: Students will learn how to analyze and critique communication messages effectively, paying attention to verbal and nonverbal cues, cultural influences, and the impact of communication on individuals and society.
- Communication Research: Students will be introduced to research methods in communication, including data collection, analysis, and interpretation.
- Interpersonal Communication: Students will explore the dynamics of human relationships, including communication styles, conflict management, and emotional intelligence.
- Group Communication: Students will learn how to work effectively in teams, including how to lead, facilitate, and resolve conflict.
- Public Speaking: Students will develop the skills necessary to deliver effective presentations to a variety of audiences.
- Organizational Communication: Students will learn about the role of communication in organizations, including workplace communication, leadership, and conflict resolution.
- Mass Communication: Students will explore the impact of mass media on society, including the role of media in shaping public opinion and culture.
Program Structure:
- Quarter System: The program is offered on a quarter system, with three quarters per year.
- Credits: The program requires a total of 90 credits.
- Course Schedule: The program offers a variety of courses each quarter, including both day and evening classes.
- Individual Modules: The program is divided into individual modules, each focusing on a specific area of communication. Each module typically includes a combination of lectures, discussions, and hands-on activities.
Module Descriptions:
- Module 1: Introduction to Communication Studies: This module provides an overview of the field of communication studies, including the history of the discipline, major theoretical perspectives, and key concepts.
- Module 2: Communication Theory: This module explores various communication theories, including interpersonal communication theory, group communication theory, public speaking theory, and organizational communication theory.
- Module 3: Communication Skills: This module focuses on developing essential communication skills, including effective listening, persuasive speaking, nonverbal communication, and conflict resolution.
- Module 4: Communication Analysis: This module teaches students how to analyze and critique communication messages effectively, paying attention to verbal and nonverbal cues, cultural influences, and the impact of communication on individuals and society.
- Module 5: Communication Research: This module introduces students to research methods in communication, including data collection, analysis, and interpretation.
- Module 6: Interpersonal Communication: This module investigates the dynamics of human relationships, including communication styles, conflict management, and emotional intelligence.
- Module 9: Organizational Communication: This module examines the role of communication in organizations, including workplace communication, leadership, and conflict resolution.
- Module 10: Mass Communication: This module explores the impact of mass media on society, including the role of media in shaping public opinion and culture.
Assessment:
Assessment Methods:
The program uses a variety of assessment methods to measure student learning, including:
- Exams: Exams are used to assess students' understanding of course content and concepts.
- Quizzes: Quizzes are used to assess students' understanding of specific topics covered in class.
- Presentations: Presentations are used to assess students' public speaking skills and ability to communicate effectively with an audience.
- Group Projects: Group projects are used to assess students' ability to work effectively in teams and to produce a high-quality product.
Assessment Criteria:
The program uses the following criteria to assess student learning:
- Accuracy: Students' work is assessed for accuracy in terms of facts, concepts, and theories.
- Clarity: Students' work is assessed for clarity in terms of organization, structure, and expression.
- Critical Thinking: Students' work is assessed for critical thinking in terms of analysis, evaluation, and synthesis.
- Creativity: Students' work is assessed for creativity in terms of originality, innovation, and problem-solving.
- Professionalism: Students' work is assessed for professionalism in terms of presentation, grammar, and mechanics.
Teaching:
Teaching Methods:
The program uses a variety of teaching methods, including:
- Lecture: Lectures are used to present key concepts and theories.
- Discussion: Discussions are used to encourage students to actively engage with the material and to share their own perspectives.
- Group Work: Group work is used to provide students with opportunities to apply communication skills in a collaborative setting.
- Case Studies: Case studies are used to help students understand real-world communication challenges.
- Role-Playing: Role-playing is used to help students practice communication skills in a safe and supportive environment.
- Technology: Technology is used to enhance the learning experience, such as through online discussions, presentations, and simulations.
Faculty:
The program is taught by a team of experienced and qualified faculty members who are passionate about teaching communication studies. The faculty members have a wide range of expertise in communication theory, research, and practice.
Unique Approaches:
The program offers several unique approaches to teaching communication studies, including:
- Emphasis on Active Learning: The program emphasizes active learning through discussions, group projects, and hands-on activities.
- Focus on Real-World Applications: The program focuses on real-world applications of communication theory and principles.
- Integration of Technology: The program integrates technology into the curriculum to enhance the learning experience.
- Individualized Attention: The program provides individualized attention to students, ensuring that they receive the support they need to succeed.
Careers:
Potential Career Paths:
The Communication Studies Associate of Arts - Direct Transfer Agreement can prepare students for a variety of careers in communication, including:
- Public Relations Specialist
- Advertising Account Executive
- Marketing Communications Specialist
- Social Media Manager
- Human Resources Specialist
- Event Planner
- Journalist
- Teacher
- Trainer
- Consultant
Career Opportunities:
The program can open doors to a wide range of career opportunities in both the public and private sectors. Graduates of the program can work in a variety of industries, including:
- Public relations
- Advertising
- Marketing
- Human resources
- Education
- Non-profit organizations
- Government
Career Outcomes:
Graduates of the program have a strong track record of success in their careers. Many graduates go on to work in top companies and organizations, while others pursue further education in graduate school.
Other:
Transfer Opportunities:
The Communication Studies Associate of Arts - Direct Transfer Agreement is designed to be easily transferable to four-year universities in Washington state. Students who complete the program will be able to transfer their credits and continue their studies towards a bachelor's degree in Communication Studies or a related field.
Program Recognition:
The Communication Studies Associate of Arts - Direct Transfer Agreement is recognized by the Washington State Board for Community and Technical Colleges. This means that the program meets the highest standards of quality and is recognized by four-year universities throughout the state.
Program Cost:
The cost of the program will vary depending on a student's residency status and the number of credits they take. However, the program is generally considered to be affordable, especially when compared to the cost of attending a four-year university.
- The program is offered both on campus and online.
