Academics

The Department of Communication Studies has been a pioneer in speech and communication studies since 1912. Our program takes full advantage of Denver's position as the Colorado capital, offering students excellent opportunities for a variety of internship opportunities and other community collaborations.

As you pursue a BA or minor in communication studies, you'll study a wide range of communication contexts and explore those that interest you most, from families and friendships to cross-cultural interactions, social movements and politics. You'll hone your practical communication skills as you learn the foundation of ethical and effective communication and apply these skills through internships and community-engaged learning opportunities.

Our Academic Programs

BA in Communication Studies

Our courses explore the role of communication in fostering high-quality human relations in interpersonal, organizational, cultural and public contexts. To major in communication studies, you must complete 40 credit hours, including foundational courses, a performative course, two communication inquiry courses, and breadth and depth electives. 

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Minor in Communication Studies

With flexible requirements, pursuing a minor in communication studies allows you to customize your experience to align with your other major(s) and career interests. To minor in communication studies, you must complete 20 credit hours. 

See the DU Undergraduate Bulletin for full course requirements. 

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Why Communication Studies?

Communication plays a crucial role in shaping the world around us, from the most seemingly mundane interactions with friends and family, to presentations we give at work, to participation in democracy, to how we view ourselves and interact with communities and cultures. In all of these contexts, from interpersonal communication to transnational communication and more, communication matters.

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    Communication in the Workplace

    Our courses help prepare you for future communication in your career by teaching skills that top the list of what hiring employers want in their new employees, including integrity, the ability to relate well to others, analytic abilities, leadership and teamwork skills, and the ability to articulate your ideas.

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    Communication Outside Your Comfort Zone

    Although communication studies addresses phenomena and artifacts that pervade our everyday lives, examining, interpreting and critiquing these phenomena is not easy. In fact, it often leads you out of your comfort zone, asking you to look at the implications of the norms that govern communication in everyday life. 

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    Communication in Sociopolitical Contexts

    Our programs encourage students to address issues such as race, class, gender and privilege and look at particular events, standpoints, artifacts and identities from a number of different angles. Our courses challenge you to personally reflect on and engage with your world from a critical perspective. 

DU Debate

Extracurricular Opportunities

DU Debate

Previously housed under the Department of Communication Studies, DU Debate Across the Curriculum (DAC) now exists on campus as its own initiative, designed to cultivate a dynamic learning environment where critical thinking, open inquiry, and meaningful conversation thrive. 

Leading this initiative is Professor of Communication Studies Darrin Hicks & program alumnus Rob Margesson. 

Learn More About DAC