Communications Degrees & Certificate - Communications Communications

Associate Degrees

Language Arts – A.A. Degree

Coursework in Language Arts emphasizes both the form and content of linguistic communication. Students will learn to examine communicative acts within a wider social context, and to apply the principles of language and rhetoric toward the development of logical thought, precise and effective expression, and critical evaluation. For the Associate of Arts Degree in Language Arts, students must complete the General Education pattern and elective courses for an additional 42 units. Students must complete 18 units in the area of emphasis courses with a grade of “C” or better, 19 units of general education requirements, and an additional 23 units of elective courses for a total of 60 units. As this degree alone may not be complete preparation for transfer, students wishing to
continue at the UC or CSU system should meet with a counselor to develop a transfer plan which addresses all general education and lower-division transfer requirements.

Degree Requirements

Program Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program a student will be able to:
1. Speak clearly, listen effectively, resolve conflict, and deliver a message/presentation concisely, while using appropriate nonverbal communication, and voice shared goals to create, build and maintain relationships.
2. Use conflict resolution to strengthen groups and individual cohesion.
3. Research and think critically about effective communication skills to influence and impact mass communication.
4. Analyze and reflect on interactions that are empathetic, non-defensive, therapeutic, and appreciative, while listening to others.

Career Opportunities

An Associate of Arts (AA) degree in Language Arts can provide a foundation for various career paths that require strong communication, critical thinking, and analytical skills. While an AA degree may not lead directly to specialized careers like engineering or nursing, it does offer versatile skills that are valued across many industries. Here are some career options for individuals with a Language Arts AA degree:

Writer/Author: Graduates with a Language Arts AA degree can pursue careers as writers or authors, creating content for books, magazines, websites, blogs, or marketing materials. They may specialize in fiction, non-fiction, journalism, technical writing, or copywriting.
Editor: Language Arts graduates can work as editors for publishing houses, newspapers, magazines, or online content platforms. They review and revise written material for clarity, accuracy, and style, ensuring that it meets editorial standards and audience expectations.
Content Creator/Manager: In the digital age, there's a growing demand for content creators and managers who can develop engaging written and multimedia content for websites, social media platforms, and digital marketing campaigns.
Technical Writer: Technical writers produce documentation, user guides, manuals, and instructional materials for software, hardware, and technical products. They translate complex technical information into clear and accessible language for end-users.
Communications Specialist: Graduates with a Language Arts AA degree can work as communications specialists for corporations, non-profit organizations, government agencies, or educational institutions. They develop and execute communication strategies, write press releases, speeches, and articles, and manage internal and external communication channels.
Public Relations Specialist: Public relations specialists manage the public image and reputation of organizations or individuals. They write press releases, pitch stories to media outlets, coordinate events, and handle crisis communication to maintain positive relationships with stakeholders.
Marketing Coordinator: Marketing coordinators assist with the development and implementation of marketing campaigns and strategies. They write content for advertisements, email campaigns, social media posts, and promotional materials to attract and engage customers.
Education Administrator: Language Arts graduates can pursue careers in education administration, working as academic advisors, admissions counselors, or program coordinators in schools, colleges, or educational organizations.
Human Resources Specialist: Human resources specialists handle recruitment, employee relations, training, and development within organizations. They may write job descriptions, employee handbooks, training materials, and internal communication documents.
Librarian/Library Technician: Graduates with a passion for literature and language can explore careers in libraries as librarians or library technicians. They assist patrons with research, manage library collections, organize programs and events, and promote literacy and lifelong learning.
Freelance Work: Many Language Arts graduates choose to work as freelancers, offering their writing, editing, or communication services on a project basis to clients across various industries.

While an AA degree in Language Arts provides a solid foundation for these career paths, individuals may also choose to pursue further education, such as a bachelor's degree or professional certifications, to enhance their skills and advance their careers in specific fields. Networking, gaining practical experience through internships or volunteer opportunities, and building a strong portfolio of work can also help Language Arts graduates succeed in their chosen career paths.

Communication Studies 2.0 – AA-T Degree

The Associate in Arts Degree in Communication Studies 2.0 for Transfer is designed to prepare students for a seamless transfer with junior status and priority admission to their local CSU campus to a program or major in Communication Studies or similar major for completion of a baccalaureate degree.

Students are required to complete:

• Completion of 60 semester units or 90 quarter units that are eligible for transfer to the California State
University, including both of the following:

(A) The Intersegmental General Education Transfer Curriculum (IGETC) or the California State University (CSU) General Education – Breadth Requirements.

(B) A minimum of 18 semester units or 27 quarter units in a major or area of emphasis, as determined by the community college district.

• Obtainment of a minimum grade point average of 2.0. Students must earn a C (or “P”) or better for each course in the major or area of emphasis.

• No more than 60 semester units are required.

The Associate in Arts Degree in Communication Studies 2.0 for Transfer will also assist Communication Studies major students to transfer to a U.C. or other baccalaureate institutions. Students are advised to consult with a counselor to verify transfer requirements.

Degree Requirements

Program Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program a student will be able to:
1. Research and think critically about the influence and impact of Mass Media on society.
2. Speak, listen and critically think to resolve conflict and get your message across as intended.
3. Deliver presentations that are clear in message and voice, using appropriate nonverbals.

Career Opportunities

Public Affairs, Public Relations, Journalism, Speech Writing, Media Consulting, Politics, Translating, Sales and Marketing, Broadcast News, Entertainment, Mediation, Education, Coaching, Counseling, and Corporate Communication.

Certificate of Achievement

Communication Studies – Certificate of Achievement

Communication skills are essential to forming and maintaining personal relationships, acquiring and excelling in a job, and relating to the world around us. Through the study and practice of interpersonal, professional, and intercultural communication skills, students will learn how their perceptions and self-esteem affect their interactions with others. Beyond this, students will improve their abilities to speak, write, and present information effectively, whether in face-to-face interactions or in public or mass-media settings. The Communication Studies CA prepares students for jobs related to the field of speech/communications.