The Department of Communication offers programs leading to degrees at both the undergraduate and graduate levels.
The courses offered in communication are based on the premise that an educated individual must be able to think critically and analytically, comprehend political, social, cultural, institutional, international, and mediated communication, listen effectively, and be sensitive and adaptive to communicative encounters with persons of diverse abilities, backgrounds, and situations. The effective communicator has an understanding of the complexity and dynamic nature of the communication process, as well as a sense of responsibility for the substance and consequences of communicative interaction.
Film Studies Minor
Students may elect to pursue a minor in film studies, jointly offered by Communication, English, and Theater Arts and should consult the department adviser for a complete list of courses that apply to the minor from offerings in Communication, English, and Theater Arts. A minimum of 20 adviser-approved credits in film studies is required. At least 16 of these credits must be taken at Portland State University from any of the three participating departments, and 16 credits must be upper-division.
Courses taken under the undifferentiated grading system (pass/no pass) will not be counted. A minimum grade of C is required for courses to be counted toward the minor. Adviser-approved film courses taken in communication will also be credited toward the major.