Concentration Requirement
The Rhetorical Studies concentration rests on the premise that, in order to be responsible citizens, we must be critical, ethically minded producers and consumers of a wide variety of publicly communicated messages. Contemporary rhetorical scholars inquire into the development and consumption of many of these kinds of messages, including presidential addresses, social movement discourse, radio, films and television shows, and digital communication. Keeping this context in mind, students arc challenged to improve their rhetorical skills by crafting, delivering, and critiquing public presentations, practicing the rhetorical arts of listening and silence, deliberating across differences, and analyzing public discourse. As they apply these skills, students engage in critical thinking, gain a deeper understanding of their roles and responsibilities as citizens in a deliberative democracy, and improve their understanding of the power of rhetoric when adapted and communicated effectively in diverse settings.
All students pursuing a concentration in Rhetorical Studies are required to take the following two courses (6 credits):