Communication Studies The University of Iowa College of Liberal Arts and Sciences Search

Undergraduate Major in Communication Studies

Rhetoric and Public Advocacy

Educational Goals

As citizens of the twenty-first century, we need to explore the dynamics of diversity, popular culture, media, political institutions (both counter and mainstream), ethics, and civic responsibility.  This course specialization will enable you to adopt rhetorical and critical perspectives--that is, points of view emphasizing the use of language and image to characterize social reality, to create forums for debate, and to confront controversies. It includes courses that engage the issues raised by differences of race, class, gender, nationality and political conviction. It also includes courses that examine such cultural processes as the legitimization of social authority and the construction of identity.  The courses also emphasize the role of communication in argument, debate, and politics, including the ethical and rhetorical implications of speech practices and persuasive strategies characteristic of contemporary political communication. This specialization is also intended for students who are interested in positions of leadership in civic life -- in cultural and educational institutions, community-based organizations and social reform movements.

A list of courses that you can take to satisfy requirements for the Communication Studies major is listed on the back-side of each cluster along with a list of other relevant courses that you might consider taking while completing your degree requirements.  These courses are often helpful for exploring possible minors or certificates.

Rhetoric and Public Advocacy Courses (pdf)

Potential Careers

  • Alumni Officer
  • Audio Visual Specialist
  • Campaign Director
  • College Admissions Representative
  • College Placement Officer
  • College Recruiter
  • Community Affairs Liaison
  • Corporate Lawyer
  • Development Officer
  • Director of Collegiate Information Center
  • Director of College News
  • District Attorney
  • Educational Administrator
  • Educational Fundraiser
  • Educational Researcher
  • Educational Tester
  • Elected Official
  • Film Critic
  • Human Rights Officer
  • Legal Mediator or Negotiator
  • Legal Reporter
  • Legal Researcher
  • Legislative Assistant
  • Lobbyist
  • Music Critic
  • Negotiator
  • Newspaper or Media Critic
  • Paralegal Researcher
  • Press Secretary
  • Private Practice Lawyer
  • Program Coordinator
  • Public Administrator
  • Public Defender
  • Program Coordinator
  • Public Administrator
  • Public Defender
  • Public Information Officer
  • Public Interest Lawyer
  • Religious Leader
  • Research Specialist
  • School Counselor
  • School/University Information Specialist
  • Speech Writer
  • Teacher (Elementary or Secondary)

Note: This list serves as a representation of potential careers and is not intended to be an exhaustive list of possible options; some career options may require additional training, education or an advanced degree.