Dakota State University students walking around campus

Preparation + opportunity = success

That's the DSU equation. We're a four-year university with nationally recognized programs, cutting-edge facilities, and the brightest thinkers. But we're also a tight-knit, inclusive community. Small class sizes mean hands-on training and individualized attention. All this with an affordable, public school price that's among the best values in the region.

Majors & Degrees

Communication Studies Minor

Find your voice

Do you want to sharpen your public speaking skills? Do you have a flair for the dramatics? Or want to come out of your shell? A communication studies minor enhances all majors by preparing students to be effective communicators. Students will take courses in argumentation and debate, stagecraft, directing, and oral interpretation of literature. Upon completion of the minor students will be able to communicate in a variety of speaking formats including oral interpretation, persuasion, and impromptu.

Image courtesy of Ian Mitchell Wallace

The study of communication is an avenue to many research opportunities. For example, Dr. Matthew Ingram, Assistant Professor of Communication, began research into how gestures and body movements aid communication, especially between different groups. There are always discoveries to be made in the world of communication, and we are looking for students who have the drive to make these discoveries.  

Window to the World

Career paths

Communication is a critical skill valued by all employers. In fact, it is commonly regarded as one of the most important soft skills an employee can have. This program is designed to support every major so you can gain essential communication skills regardless of your career path.  

Learning outcomes

Upon completion of the Communications Study minor, students will:

  • Crafting oral, written, and technologically mediated messages appropriate to the audience, purpose, and context. 
  • Evaluating and interpreting oral, written, and technologically mediated messages. 
  • Adapting, adjusting, and solving communication issues that arise in a variety of communication contexts. 

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