Welcome to the Department of Communication Studies website! The importance of communication competence has been recognized since the inception of TCU-oratory was one of the first classes taught at AddRan Male and Female College (TCU’s original name in the 1800s). Today, communication studies remains one of the largest fields of study on campus. In addition, basic public speaking is an essential component of the TCU core.
We believe that communication competence is an essential part of a liberal arts education. It empowers individuals to think for themselves, communicate their views clearly, and to “…act as ethical leaders and responsible citizens in the global community.” Moreover, the ability to communicate clearly is a fundamental requirement for almost every modern vocation, and numerous surveys have listed communication competence as one of (if not the) most important skills required in modern organizations.
We offer the Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Arts, and Master of Science degrees. Course specializations include interpersonal communication, organizational communication, and communication theory and research. We are a popular program because students find value in our classes and because our teachers are outstanding. What our students may not always realize is that they are working directly and personally with some of the leading scholars and communication scientists in the nation. In fact, the Communication Studies department is currently ranked #1 in the nation for research productivity among programs offering the Master’s Degree (program data available from COM Vista online database).
If we may assist you, please contact us. If you are interested in our program, stop by and visit. We will make you feel at home.
Melissa Young Schroeder
Chair, Department of Communication Studies