The minor in communication helps students build the communication skills that are necessary for success in technology-intensive, team-oriented, and multicultural workplaces. Students can choose to build skills in interpersonal and small group communication, presentations and public speaking, digital media production, and informational or persuasive writing. Alternatively, students considering graduate study in communication can take courses in communication research and theory. To further enhance their skills and gain practical experience, students have the option to participate in an internship as an elective, which will provide valuable hands-on experience and a competitive edge in the job market.
Policies
Eight credits of coursework must be unique to the minor and students must earn a minimum grade of 2.00 in all courses applied to the minor. COMM 100 Public Speaking (Mason Core), COMM 101 Fundamentals of Communication (Mason Core), or COMM 487 Washington Media Institute cannot be used toward the minor. For policies governing all minors, see AP.5.3.4 Minors.
Minor Requirements
Total credits: 18
Students should be aware of the specific policies associated with this program, located on the Admissions & Policies tab.
Core Courses
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| COMM 208 | Introduction to Media Production | 3 |
| COMM 305 | Foundations of Intercultural Communication (Mason Core) | 3 |
| COMM 320 | Digital Innovations in Professional Communication (Mason Core) | 3 |
| Total Credits | 9 | |
Internship and Electives in Communication
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Select three COMM courses from the following groups in any combination. Students with career goals in the field of communication (e.g. advocacy, public relations, journalism, human resources, and/or media) are encouraged to enroll in a three-credit internship as part of their electives. 1 | 9 | |
| Interpersonal communication or presentation skills | ||
| Small Group Communication | ||
| Voice and Articulation | ||
| Interpersonal Communication: Theory to Practice | ||
| Performance for Communication Arts | ||
| Nonverbal Communication | ||
| Performance for Digital Production | ||
| Ceremonial Speech Writing and Performance | ||
| Media and digital production skills | ||
| Podcasting Production | ||
| Multi-Camera Studio Production | ||
| Digital Postproduction | ||
| Videography | ||
| Social Media and Strategic Communication | ||
| Informational and persuasive writing skills | ||
| Introduction to Journalism | ||
| Introduction to Public Relations and Strategic Communication | ||
| Practical applications | ||
| Internship in Communication | ||
| Other communication electives | ||
Other COMM courses not included in the above groups, in consultation with the COMM minor advisor. | ||
| Total Credits | 9 | |