Speech Communication is the world's oldest academic discipline, tracing its roots to ancient Greece. Communication helps us form relationships, allows cultures to evolve and encourages understanding among people. Communication is the thing that makes us human. The study of speech is based on the assumption that one's ability to communicate in an effective manner is vital to productive human interaction and professional success. Knowledge of communication is essential for survival in a democratic society.
Career Opportunities
Speech communication graduates are prepared for a multiplicity of potential careers in many different fields. A survey of the employment opportunities include job titiles such as: communication consultant, director of corporate communication, lawyer, mediation specialist, development officer, business manager, speech writer, employment interviewer, human resources manager, public information officer, forensics/debate coach, governmental press secretary, community relations director, high school speech teacher, training specialist, lobbyist, sales manager, arts administrator, sales representative, customer service representative, negotiator, college professor, hospital director of communication, minister, public relations officer, government official and others.
Opportunities
Qualified students in speech communication may complete an internship in an approved organization. NAU forensics: The NAU forensics program offers students opportunities in American Forensic Association-National Individual Events Tournament events. It also offers opportunities in debate. Open to all students, the program is a respected component of the educational mission of NAU and the School of Communication. Delta Sigma Rho-Tau Kappa Alpha is a national honor society open to forensic competitors who meet membership requirements.
Student Organization:
The NAU Student Communication Association is open to majors and minors in Speech Communication. This organization provides guest speakers, school wide projects and opportunities for students to interact with professionals in the discipline in a variety of contexts. Lambda Pi Eta is the national honor society available for Speech Communication majors and minors who have a minimum 3.4 GPA.
Scholarships:
Full and partial scholarships are available for students participating in the NAU forensic program. The Harold Larson and Klonda Lynn Scholarships are awarded yearly to qualified speech communication majors.
Additional Information
For major specific information including study abroad:
Contact Gayle Houser
NAU
Box 5619
Flagstaff, AZ 86011-5619
Telephone: (928) 523-0458
E-mail: Gayle.Houser@nau.edu
