Communication and Media Studies majors will learn the dynamics of communication between
and among individuals, groups and cultures, and/or the media. Communication integrates
courses in interpersonal, intercultural, organizational and mass communication and
public relations. There is a wide range of employment possibilities for students trained
in Media Studies in business, sales, public and personnel relations, and advertising.
Students can prepare for careers in media news writing and editing, announcing, programming,
publicity, community relations, directing and public relations.
Speech and Communication Studies majors pursue a variety of careers depending on their
interests. Public relations and advertising firms, health care organizations, government
and educational institutions, entertainment companies, social service groups, and
media-based firms are just some examples of organizations having a need for people
with highly developed interpersonal and technical communication skills. Some of the
current career titles include communication consultant, public information officer,
public relations specialist, political consultant, press secretary, labor relations
specialist, public opinion researcher, news producer, speech/language pathologist,
speechwriter, advertising account executive, media manager, human resources manager,
mediator, special events coordinator and development officer/fund raiser.
Because of the focus on interpersonal, professional, and intercultural communication
skills, this major may also lead to many other careers. For additional career possibilities,
visit the Career Services Center on the main campus to utilize computerized career
information systems and other valuable career resources.
Completion of 60 semester units or 90 quarter units of degree-applicable courses,
Minimum overall grade point average of 2.0,
Minimum grade of “C” (or “P”) for each course in the major, and
Completion of Cal-GETC.
A Certificate of Achievement is granted upon successful completion of a program of
study with a minimum overall grade point average (GPA) of 2.0 (C) and a designated minimum number of units, including:
Completion of the area of emphasis with a grade of C or higher in each course, or
with a P if the course was taken on a Pass/No Pass basis, and the P is equal to a
C or higher;
Completion of at least 50% of area of emphasis units at Santa Monica College. Department
Chairs have the discretion to waive the 50% minimum units required at SMC to meet
the major or area of emphasis. All major coursework must be completed with a “C” or
better grade.
A student may satisfy the requirements of a degree that were in effect at any time
of the student’s continuous enrollment. Continuous enrollment means attendance in at least one semester (Fall
or Spring) in each academic year.
Many colleges/universities offer baccalaureate degrees in this field. Students planning
to transfer to a four-year college or university should complete the lower-division
major requirements and the general education pattern for the specific transfer institution.
SMC has articulation agreements with the many UC and CSU campuses, as well as several
private and out-of-state institutions.
Exact major requirements for UC and CSU campuses can be found online at assist.org.
A listing of private, nonprofit California colleges and universities can be found
online at aiccu.edu. For articulation agreements between SMC and some of these institutions see smc.edu/articulation.
SMC offers the Communication Studies 2.0 Associate Degree for Transfer. Students completing this degree are eligible for priority transfer admission consideration
in the majors at many California State University campuses. In addition, students
will be required to complete no more than 60 semester/90 quarter CSU units of coursework
after transfer to complete the baccalaureate degree.
NOTE: Students considering transfer to a UC, private, or out-of-state school should
consult a counselor BEFORE applying to transfer, as the transfer requirements may
be different from those required for the Communication Studies 2.0 AA-T.
The University of California system has a transfer pathway for any UC campus that
offers Communication. For more information, visit UC Transfer Pathways Guide.
Communication Studies 2.0, Associate Degree for Transfer
Upon completion of the Associate in Arts in Communication Studies 2.0 for Transfer,
students will have a strong academic foundation in the field and be prepared for upper
division baccalaureate study. Completion of the degree indicates that the student
will have satisfied the lower division requirements for transfer into communication
studies or similar major for many campuses in the California State University system.
This degree complies with The Student Transfer Achievement Reform Act (Senate Bill
1440).
Students pursuing the Associate in Arts in Communication Studies 2.0 for Transfer
will demonstrate, through written and oral academic work, knowledge of communication
principles, concepts, and theories and be prepared to pursue further study in communication
studies or a similar major at the baccalaureate level at the California State University.
Program Learning Outcomes: Upon completion of the program, students will be able to analyze and demonstrate
the relationship between speaker, audience, message, and medium in a variety of communication
contexts. Students will also be able to identify, analyze and demonstrate appropriate
conflict management styles in both interpersonal and intercultural forums.
Area of Emphasis: (18 units)
Required Core Course: (6 units)
COMM C1000,Introduction to Public Speaking (formerly COM ST 11)(3)
COM ST 35,Interpersonal Communication(3)
List A: Select three of the following: (9 units)
COM ST 12,Persuasion(3)
COM ST 14,Oral Interpretation: Performing Literature Across Cultures(3)
COM ST 16,Fundamentals of Small Group Discussion(3)
COM ST 21,Argumentation(3)
COM ST 30,Introduction to Communication Theory(3)
COM ST 37,Intercultural Communication(3)
MEDIA 1,Survey of Mass Media Communications(3)
List B: Select one of the following: (3 units)
Any course not already used above or any one of the following:
ANTHRO 2,Cultural Anthropology(3)
COM ST 9,Introduction to Communication Studies(3)
COM ST 13,Voice and Diction(3)
COM ST 20,Agitational and Protest Communication(3)
COM ST 31,Research Methods for Communication Studies(3)
COM ST 36,Gender and Communication(3)
COM ST 38,Introduction to Latina/o/x Communication Studies(3)
ENGL C1001,Critical Thinking and Writing (formerly ENGL 2)(3)
Unlock Your Voice. Empower Your Future. Communication isn’t just a skill — it’s a
superpower. Whether you're looking to excel in your career, build stronger relationships,
or confidently express your ideas, our Certificate of Achievement in Communication
will give you the tools to thrive. This dynamic program offers hands-on training in
public speaking, interpersonal communication, active listening, and persuasive messaging.
You’ll master the art of crafting impactful stories, navigating difficult conversations,
and understanding diverse audiences. Designed for students of all backgrounds, the
certificate provides practical skills you can apply immediately — in the workplace,
community, and beyond. Whether you want to become a more influential leader, improve
workplace collaboration, or just communicate more effectively in your daily life,
this program equips you with the power to make your voice heard.
Program Learning Outcomes: Upon completion of the program, students will demonstrate confidence and clarity
when speaking in public settings. Manage interpersonal conflicts effectively using
appropriate communication strategies. Craft and deliver effective and appropriate
messages for achieving desired outcomes in various contexts. Engage with individuals
from diverse backgrounds to develop a deeper understanding, increase motivation, and
refine communication skills.
Area of Emphasis: (9 units)
Required Core Course: (6 units)
COMM C1000,Introduction to Public Speaking (formerly COM ST 11)(3)
COM ST 35,Interpersonal Communication(3)
Select one of the following: (3 units)
COM ST 12,Persuasion(3)
COM ST 16,Fundamentals of Small Group Discussion(3)
COM ST 21,Argumentation(3)
COM ST 36,Gender and Communication(3)
COM ST 37,Intercultural Communication(3)
COM ST 38,Introduction to Latina/o/x Communication Studies(3)
