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Communication Studies

Overview Degrees/Certificates Courses

The communication studies department at Folsom Lake College is committed to excellent teaching that provides an innovative and stimulating environment for student learning in theoretical and pragmatic applications of communication education. With the primary mission of encouraging completion of an associate degree and promoting transfer opportunities, the department provides superior educational opportunities to a diverse student population and supports a cooperative environment that reflects and honors the diverse backgrounds, perspectives, abilities, and interests of all.

The department supports both students and faculty in the pursuit of continuing education to better their personal, academic, and professional lives; to help them meet the communication challenges of an increasingly complex world; and to adapt to the changing communication demands of the future.

Degrees and Certificates Offered

A.A.-T. in Communication Studies 2.0
A.A. in Interdisciplinary Studies: Communication and English
A.A. in Interdisciplinary Studies: Social and Behavioral Sciences
Applied Communication Skills Certificate

Division Dean Francis Fletcher
Department Chair Paula Cardwell
Phone (916) 608-6752
Email fletchf@flc.losrios.edu

Associate Degrees for Transfer

A.A.-T. in Communication Studies 2.0

The Associate in Arts in Communication Studies for Transfer Degree 2.0 program provides students with a major that fulfills the general requirements for transfer to the California State University. Students with this degree will receive priority admission with junior status to the California State University system. Students should work closely with their Folsom Lake College counselor to ensure that they are taking the appropriate coursework to prepare for majoring in Communication Studies at the institution they wish to transfer to because major and general education requirements may vary for each CSU and the degree may only transfer to specific institutions.

This program has the following completion requirements:

(1) Completion of 60 semester units or 90 quarter units that are eligible for transfer to the California State University, including both of the following:

(A) The Intersegmental General Education Transfer Curriculum (IGETC) or the California State University General Education – Breadth Requirements.

(B) A minimum of 18 semester units or 27 quarter units in a major or area of emphasis, as determined by the community college district.

(2) Obtainment of a minimum grade point average of 2.0.

ADTs also require that students must earn a C or better or a "P" in all courses required for the major or area of emphasis.

Catalog Date: August 1, 2024

Degree Requirements

Course Code	Course Title	Units
COMM 301	Introduction to Public Speaking	3
COMM 321	Interpersonal Communication	3
A minimum of 12 units from the following:		12
List A At least 9 units should come from List A.
COMM 305	Oral Interpretation (3)
COMM 311	Argumentation and Debate (3)
COMM 315	Persuasion (3)
COMM 325	Intercultural Communication (3)
COMM 331	Group Discussion (3)
COMM 351	Mass Media and Society (3)
COMM 363	Introduction to Communication Theory (3)
COMM 341	Organizational Communication (3)
COMM 351	Mass Media and Society (3)
or JOUR 310	Mass Media and Society (3)
A minimum of 3 units from the following:		3
Group B: An additional 3 units from Group B or any course not used in Group A
ANTH 310	Cultural Anthropology (3)
COMM 361	The Communication Experience (3)
ENGWR 301	College Composition and Literature (3)
ENGWR 302	Advanced Composition and Critical Thinking (3)
PSYC 300	General Principles (3)
SOC 300	Introductory Sociology (3)
Total Units:		18

The Associate in Arts in Communication Studies 2.0 for Transfer (AA-T) degree may be obtained by completion of 60 transferable, semester units with a minimum overall grade point average (GPA) of 2.0, including (a) a minimum grade of "C" (or "P") for each course in the major or area of emphasis described in the Required Program, and (b) either the Intersegmental General Education Transfer Curriculum (IGETC) or the California State University General Education-Breadth Requirements.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:

explain the history, evolution, and multidisciplinary nature of human communication.
analyze evidence and reasoning to identify and provide appropriate and credible support for written and oral communication.
demonstrate individual responsibility, integrity, and respect in all communication interactions.
design and deliver effective and appropriate written, oral, and/or visual messages in a variety of personal, professional, and social contexts.
utilize both nonverbal and verbal communication strategies appropriate for diverse audiences in order to demonstrate communication competency.
differentiate amongst various theoretical perspectives within the discipline of Human Communication.

Career Information

Public Information; Human Resources Development; Corporate Training; Motivational Speaking; Political Speech Writing; Broadcasting; Advertising; Public Relations; Teaching; Organizational Administration; Negotiation and Mediation Services; Personnel Management; Customer Service; Corporate Imaging; Campaign Management; Marketing; Community Relations.

Associate Degrees

A.A. in Interdisciplinary Studies: Communication and English

The Interdisciplinary Studies degree is designed for students who wish a broad knowledge of arts and sciences plus additional coursework in a prescribed “Area of Emphasis”. This program is a good choice for students planning on transferring to the California State University or University of California. The student will be able to satisfy general education requirements, plus focus on transferable coursework that relates to a specific major and/or individual interest. This degree will have an "Area of Emphasis" in Communication and English. These courses emphasize the content of communication as well as the form and should provide an understanding of the psychological basis and the social significance of communication. Students will be able to assess communication as the process of human symbolic interaction. Students will also develop skills in the areas of reasoning and advocacy, organization, accuracy, and reading and listening effectively. Students will be able to integrate important concepts of critical thinking as related to the development of analysis and critical evaluation. Students will also learn to reason inductively and deductively in order to make important decisions regarding life and society at large. (Possible majors at a four-year institution include, but are not limited to: English, communication and philosophy.)

It is highly recommended that students consult a counselor to determine the classes within each area that will best prepare them for their intended transfer major.

Catalog Date: August 1, 2024

Degree Requirements

Course Code	Course Title	Units
A minimum of 18 units from the following:		18
You must select courses from three different disciplines.
COMM 301	Introduction to Public Speaking (3)
COMM 311	Argumentation and Debate (3)
COMM 315	Persuasion (3)
COMM 331	Group Discussion (3)
COMM 361	The Communication Experience (3)
ENGRD 310	Critical Reading as Critical Thinking (3)
ENGWR 300	College Composition (3)
ENGWR 301	College Composition and Literature (3)
ENGWR 302	Advanced Composition and Critical Thinking (3)
PHIL 300	Introduction to Philosophy (3)
PHIL 320	Logic and Critical Reasoning (3)
PHIL 325	Symbolic Logic (3)
Total Units:		18

The Interdisciplinary Studies: Communication and English Associate in Arts (A.A.) degree may be obtained by completion of the required program, plus general education requirements, plus sufficient electives to meet a 60-unit total. See FLC graduation requirements.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:

analyze critically, argue persuasively, and communicate clearly (Communication and English).

A.A. in Interdisciplinary Studies: Social and Behavioral Sciences

The Interdisciplinary Studies degree is designed for students who wish a broad knowledge of arts and sciences plus additional coursework in a prescribed “Area of Emphasis”. This program is a good choice for students planning on transferring to the California State University or University of California. The student will be able to satisfy general education requirements, plus focus on transferable coursework that relates to a specific major and/or individual interest. This degree will have an "Area of Emphasis" in Social and Behavioral Sciences. These courses emphasize the perspectives, concepts, theories, and methodologies of the disciplines typically found in the vast variety of disciplines that comprise study in the Social and Behavioral Sciences. Students will study about themselves and others as members of a larger society. Topics and discussions to stimulate critical thinking about ways people have acted in response to their societies will allow students to evaluate how societies and social subgroups operate. (Possible majors at a four-year institution include, but are not limited to: history, sociology, social studies, psychology, and family consumer science.)

It is highly recommended that students consult a counselor to determine the classes within each area that will best prepare them for their intended transfer major.

Catalog Date: August 1, 2024

Degree Requirements

Course Code	Course Title	Units
A minimum of 18 units from the following:		18
Select courses from at least 3 different disciplines.
ADMJ 300	Introduction to Administration of Justice (3)
ADMJ 302	Community Relations: Multicultural Issues (3)
ADMJ 320	Concepts of Criminal Law (3)
ANTH 310	Cultural Anthropology (3)
ANTH 319	Visual Anthropology: Introduction to Ethnographic Film (3)
ANTH 323	Introduction to Archaeology (3)
ANTH 330	Magic, Witchcraft, and Religion (3)
ANTH 341	Introduction to Linguistics (3)
BUS 320	Concepts in Personal Finance (3)
or ECON 320	Concepts in Personal Finance (3)
BUS 330	Managing Diversity in the Workplace (3)
BUS 340	Business Law (3)
BUS 345	Law and Society (3)
COMM 325	Intercultural Communication (3)
COMM 341	Organizational Communication (3)
COMM 351	Mass Media and Society (3)
COMM 363	Introduction to Communication Theory (3)
ECON 302	Principles of Macroeconomics (3)
ECON 304	Principles of Microeconomics (3)
ECE 312	Child Development (3)
or PSYC 372	Child Development (3)
ECE 314	The Child, the Family and the Community (3)
ECE 330	Infant and Toddler Development (3)
ECE 430	Culture and Diversity in Early Childhood Education (3)
ETHNS 300	Introduction to Ethnic Studies (3)
ETHNS 320	Introduction to African American Studies (3)
ETHNS 330	Introduction to Asian American Studies (3)
ETHNS 360	Introduction to Chicana/o/x Studies (3)
ETHNS 350	Introduction to Native American Studies (3)
GEOG 310	Human Geography: Exploring Earth's Cultural Landscapes (3)
GEOG 322	Geography of California (3)
HIST 307	History of World Civilizations to 1500 (3)
HIST 308	History of World Civilizations, 1500 to Present (3)
HIST 310	History of the United States (To 1877) (3)
HIST 311	History of the United States (1865 - Present) (3)
HIST 314	Recent United States History (3)
HIST 319	American Environmental History (3)
HIST 331	Women in American History (3)
HIST 344	Survey of California History: A Multicultural Perspective (3)
HIST 368	History of France (3)
JOUR 310	Mass Media and Society (3)
NUTRI 310	Cultural Foods of the World (3)
POLS 301	Introduction to Government: United States (3)
POLS 302	Comparative Politics (3)
POLS 310	Introduction to International Relations (3)
POLS 320	Introduction to Political Theory (3)
PSYC 300	General Principles (3)
PSYC 312	Biological Psychology (4)
PSYC 320	Social Psychology (3)
PSYC 335	Research Methods in Psychology (3)
PSYC 340	Abnormal Behavior (3)
PSYC 356	Human Sexuality (3)
PSYC 368	Cross Cultural Psychology (3)
or SWHS 331	Cross Cultural Psychology (3)
PSYC 370	Human Development: A Life Span (3)
SJS 300	Introduction to Social Justice Studies (3)
SOC 300	Introductory Sociology (3)
SOC 301	Social Problems (3)
SOC 310	Marriage and the Family (3)
SOC 321	Race, Ethnicity and Inequality in the United States (3)
SOC 341	Sex and Gender in the U.S. (3)
SOC 379	Making Social Change (3)
SWHS 302	Introduction to Psychology of Human Relations (3)
Total Units:		18

The Interdisciplinary Studies: Social and Behavioral Sciences Associate in Arts (A.A.) degree may be obtained by completion of the required program, plus general education requirements, plus sufficient electives to meet a 60-unit total. See FLC graduation requirements.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:

evaluate how societies and social subgroups operate (Social and Behavioral Sciences).

Certificate

Applied Communication Skills Certificate

Effective communication skills allow people to improve many areas of their lives, but especially their social, academic, and professional lives. Effective communication skills are among the top skills sought by organizations. The Certificate in Applied Communication Skills provides meaningful and marketable skills designed to further a student's personal, academic and professional growth. Courses in this certificate may be applied towards associate degree and/or transfer requirements.

Catalog Date: August 1, 2024

Certificate Requirements

Course Code	Course Title	Units
COMM 301	Introduction to Public Speaking (3)	3
or COMM 361	The Communication Experience (3)
A minimum of 9 units from the following:		9
COMM 311	Argumentation and Debate (3)
COMM 315	Persuasion (3)
COMM 321	Interpersonal Communication (3)
COMM 325	Intercultural Communication (3)
COMM 331	Group Discussion (3)
COMM 341	Organizational Communication (3)
COMM 351	Mass Media and Society (3)
Total Units:		12

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:

design and relate messages clearly for effective and appropriate oral communication.
apply effective listening skills to comprehend spoken messages, analyze information critically, and consider multiple perspectives.
compose ideas clearly in effective, appropriate, and well-organized written messages.
demonstrate effective communication appropriate to diverse contexts and people.
demonstrate and apply effective group communication strategies.
demonstrate effective problem solving and conflict resolution skills.

Career Information

Virtually every employer survey identifies effective communication skills as highly desired and sought-after. Students can utilize their Applied Communication Skills in every employment context.

Communication (COMM) Courses

COMM 301 Introduction to Public Speaking

Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:None.
Transferable:CSU; UC
General Education:AA/AS Area II(b); CSU Area A1; IGETC Area 1C
C-ID:C-ID COMM 110
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course prepares students to speak in a variety of rhetorical situations: academic, professional, social, and political. Students will demonstrate effective verbal and non-verbal delivery, ethical research methodology, analytical thinking and listening skills, organization and outlining skills, and appropriate presentation skills. In order to effectively assess oral communication competency, this course requires faculty-supervised, faculty-evaluated oral presentations in the presence of others (physically or virtually). Emphasis is on researching, preparing, organizing, writing and presenting a variety of speeches for different audiences. Video recording equipment may be used as an aid to the student’s self-analysis and improvement. Access to a computer with online capabilities may be required and is available on campus.

COMM 305 Oral Interpretation

Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:None.
Advisory:COMM 301 or ENGWR 300
Transferable:CSU; UC
General Education:AA/AS Area I; CSU Area C1; IGETC Area 3A
C-ID:C-ID COMM 170
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course introduces students to the field of performance studies through the oral interpretation of various literary genres, including Western and Non-Western literature. The focus is on audience analysis, selection and thematic analysis of literature, script writing, discussion and application of vocal and physiological delivery techniques, program performance, and post-performance evaluation. Theoretical issues and historical developments are examined and applied to the current performance trends in solo, duo and interpreters' theatre.

COMM 311 Argumentation and Debate

Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:ENGWR 300 with a grade of "C" or better; or ESLW 340 (Advanced Composition) with a grade of "C" or better, or ENGWR 480 (Honors Composition) with a grade of "C" or better.
Advisory:COMM 301
Transferable:CSU; UC
General Education:AA/AS Area II(b); CSU Area A1; CSU Area A3; IGETC Area 1B; IGETC Area 1C
C-ID:C-ID COMM 120
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course covers critical reading, writing, thinking and speaking through the preparation and practice of argumentation. Special consideration will be given to the relationship between claims, evidence, and reasoning, and the standards of interpreting information and research. Students will learn to effectively develop reasoned written and oral arguments, recognize fallacies, and understand the relationship language has with logic and reasoning.

COMM 315 Persuasion

Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:ENGWR 300 with a grade of "C" or better
Transferable:CSU; UC
General Education:AA/AS Area II(b); CSU Area A3; IGETC Area 1B
C-ID:C-ID COMM 190
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course presents fundamental theories and techniques of persuasion as they occur in various communication contexts, including commercial, interpersonal, public, and mass media. Students develop critical thinking skills by engaging in oral and written analysis, evaluation, and composition of persuasive messages and by examining the personal, political, cultural, and social impacts of persuasion. Students explore ethical considerations of persuasive communication, learn about types of reasoning, and identify fallacious arguments as they occur in persuasion. Students will write a minimum of 5,000 written words in a variety of essay formats.

COMM 321 Interpersonal Communication

Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:None.
Transferable:CSU; UC
General Education:AA/AS Area III(b); CSU Area E1
C-ID:C-ID COMM 130
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course provides students with basic knowledge of relational, social, and cultural development through the study of interpersonal communication dynamics. Emphasis is placed on the personal, situational and cultural influences on interaction, with attention given to human perception, interpersonal dynamics, power and conflict enactment, verbal and nonverbal symbol systems, and listening behaviors. Through theory, discussion, and structured exercises, students will explore various approaches to interpersonal relationships in personal and professional contexts.

COMM 325 Intercultural Communication

Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:None.
Transferable:CSU; UC
General Education:AA/AS Area V(b); AA/AS Area VI; CSU Area D; IGETC Area 4
C-ID:C-ID COMM 150
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course introduces students to the challenges and promises of intercultural communications in the United States. Variations and commonalities in communication patterns across cultures are examined as well as processes and outcomes among persons of different group-based experiential backgrounds. Practical application of factors which influence communication among individuals of different cultures is emphasized.

COMM 331 Group Discussion

Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:None.
Transferable:CSU; UC
General Education:AA/AS Area II(b); CSU Area A1; IGETC Area 1C
C-ID:C-ID COMM 140
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

Group communication is pervasive in all academic, professional, and social environments. This course is designed to increase students’ understanding of group communication and to prepare students to function more effectively in various types of groups. Students will learn about the dynamics of group roles, the multiple functions of groups, leadership styles, conflict management, problem-solving, and decision-making. Individual and group presentations are required. Video recording equipment may be used as an aid to the student’s self-analysis and improvement. Access to a computer with online capabilities may be required and computer access is available on campus.

COMM 341 Organizational Communication

Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:None.
Transferable:CSU
General Education:AA/AS Area V(b); CSU Area D
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course is designed to allow students to examine both theoretical and pragmatic essentials of effective organizational messages from preparation and presentation to effective observation and analysis. Students will explore the dynamics of organizational communications in various situations including conflict negotiation teams and problem solving/decision making groups. The dynamics of leadership and communication will be explored. Current techniques of evaluating organizational communication for the purpose of improving organizational effectiveness will also be examined.

COMM 351 Mass Media and Society

Same As:JOUR 310
Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:None.
Transferable:CSU; UC
General Education:AA/AS Area V(b); CSU Area D; IGETC Area 4
C-ID:C-ID JOUR 100
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

The class will offer a survey of the mass media: history, philosophy, structure and trends, as well as theories, which help to explain effects and the importance of media as a social institution. The course will explore economics, technology, law, ethics, and social issues, including cultural and ethnic diversity. This course is the same as JOUR 310; only one of these courses may be taken for credit.

COMM 361 The Communication Experience

Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:None.
Transferable:CSU; UC
General Education:AA/AS Area II(b); CSU Area A1; IGETC Area 1C
C-ID:C-ID COMM 115
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course introduces students to the fundamental concepts and skills necessary for effective interpersonal, small group and public communication. Course content includes an emphasis on both communication theory and practice by providing students with the opportunity to develop communication competency through a variety of presentation formats. Special emphasis is placed on practical experiences within groups, facilitation of interpersonal relationships, as well as message design and delivery for multiple purposes and to diverse audiences. In order to effectively assess oral communication competency, each student will complete a minimum of 22 minutes of evaluated speaking time. Videotaping may be required for this course. Access to a computer with online capabilities may be required and is available on campus.

COMM 363 Introduction to Communication Theory

Units:3
Hours:54 hours LEC
Prerequisite:None.
Transferable:CSU; UC
General Education:AA/AS Area V(b); AA/AS Area II(b); CSU Area D; IGETC Area 4
C-ID:C-ID COMM 180
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

A survey of the discipline of communication studies with emphasis on multiple epistemological, theoretical, and methodological issues relevant to the systematic inquiry and pursuit of knowledge about human communication. This course explores the basic history, assumptions, principles, processes, variables, methods, and specializations of human communication as an academic field of study.

COMM 494 Topics in Communication

Units:0.5 - 4
Prerequisite:None.
Transferable:CSU
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

A survey of contemporary communication topics that allows students to choose a particular option from several. Possible options may include, but are not limited to: extemporaneous speaking, intercultural communication in the workplace, communication in the classroom, conflict, principles of visual communication, readers' theatre, parliamentary procedure and decision making techniques. Students may receive one unit of credit in each topic area. Consult class schedule for specific topics offered.

COMM 495 Independent Studies in Communication

Units:1 - 3
Hours:54 - 162 hours LAB
Prerequisite:None.
Transferable:CSU
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

COMM 498 Work Experience in Communication and Media Studies

Units:0.5 - 4
Hours:30 - 300 hours LAB
Prerequisite:None.
Enrollment Limitation:Student must be in a paid or non-paid internship, volunteer opportunity, or job related to career interests.
Advisory:ENGWR 110 or ESL 325
Transferable:CSU
General Education:AA/AS Area III(b)
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This course provides students with opportunities to develop marketable skills in preparation for employment or advancement within the field of Communication and Media Studies. Course content will include understanding the application of education to the workforce; completing required forms which document the student's progress and hours spent at the work site; and developing workplace skills and competencies. During the semester, the student is required to attend orientation. the student is required to complete 37.5 hours of related paid work experience, or 30 hours of related unpaid work experience for 0.5 unit. An additional 37.5 or 30 hours of related work experience is required for each additional 0.5 units. The course may be taken for a maximum of 16 units. Students should have access to a computer, the Internet, and some computer media such as a USB drive to store data files. Online students must have an email account. Only one Work Experience course may be taken per semester.

COMM 499 Experimental Offering in Communication

Units:0.5 - 4
Prerequisite:None.
Catalog Date:August 1, 2024

This is the experimental courses description.