Associate of Arts in Communication Studies
Tacoma, USA
Associate of Arts
DURATION
2 years
LANGUAGES
English
PACE
Full time
APPLICATION DEADLINE
EARLIEST START DATE
TUITION FEES
USD 10,573 / per year *
STUDY FORMAT
On-Campus
* $22,408 including fees and on-campus housing
Key Summary
TCC's program provides an introduction to the concepts, theories, terminology, and current topics in the versatile and popular field of Communications. The Communication Studies (CMST) emphasis of the Associate of Arts (DTA) degree prepares students for the challenges of a world that are shaped by communication that is rich with intercultural exchange. Students specializing in Communication Studies examine and produce work in oral, written, media, and visual communication and practice critical skills in groups and one-on-one settings. This includes an examination of power structures and systemic issues and barriers within various environments. Communication Studies students develop skills in listening, conflict resolution, and critical communication that inform purposeful and reflective responses during interaction with a diverse and complex society. Additionally, they observe and respond to both verbal and non-verbal cues from others. Students will employ strategies that draw valid conclusions based on logical, available information, crafting ethical and equitable responses that are indicative of an ever-changing civilization.
Communication Studies coursework at TCC prepares students to transfer to four-year communication programs and provides students with tangible skills for the workforce and relational communication. Students planning to transfer to four-year institutions elsewhere should consult their advisor as well as the specific institution’s transfer requirements for programs of interest. Students should review those requirements to confirm that they meet them before they transfer.
- Fall 2023 - Application Deadline (Aug 15) and Classes Start (Sep 25)
- Winter 2024 - Application Deadline (Nov 15) and Classes Start (Jan 3)
- Spring 2024 - Application Deadline (Feb 15) and Classes Start (April 1)
The following courses are recommended for students wishing to earn a four-year degree in Communication Studies. Substitutions may be made, provided that the degree plan is followed for the Associate of Arts (DTA) degree. Consult with an advisor for other program options.
Communication majors may use communication courses to fulfill humanities distribution requirements only at the University of Washington, Western Washington University, Seattle Pacific University, and Pacific Lutheran University.
First Year
- ENGL&101**
- CMST&101**
- NAT.SCI.DIST*
- P.E. ACTIVITY ENGL102**
- CMST&220*
- NAT.SCI.DIST*
- P.E. ACTIVITY QUANT. SKILLS
- PSYC&100**
- NAT.SCI DIST.*
- P.E. ACTIVITY
Second Year
- POLSCI
- HUMAN 101*
- SOC&101* HIST& 147
- CMST 110
- HUMAN DIST. ENGL103**
- HIST&148**
- CMST&230
A major in Communications or Communication Studies might be a great option for you if you are interested in informing, entertaining, and influencing others through media, or written and spoken word. There are many 4-year and graduate tracks under the specialization including:
- Media Studies
- Crisis Communication
- Intercultural Communication
- Organizational Communication
- Interpersonal Communication
- Business Applications
- Rhetoric
The Communication major tracks cover many areas that include preparation for careers in advertising, education, marketing, public relations, media, broadcast, film, influencing, group leadership, nonprofit work, and countless others. Career options include:
- Public Relations and Crisis Communication Specialists
- Journalism
- Special Events Planning
- College Fundraising, Alumni, Development
- Media Planning and Management
- Human Resources
- Education
- Sales and Sales Management
- Health Educator