Speech Communication

Are you really saying what you think you're saying? Study what makes verbal and non-verbal communication effective. In Canada's only honours program in the theories and practice of human communication, you'll discover how communication creates meaning in our world by encouraging creative, collaborative, and critical engagement.Develop teamwork, research, and analytical skills in classes that range from 15 to 35 students. Writing and presenting research reports will improve your written and oral communication skills. Get a head start on your career in public relations, marketing, teaching, or broadcasting with professional development workshops organized by the Speech Communication program.

Field of study: Communication Studies/Speech Communication and Rhetoric

The Bachelor of Arts in Speech Communication at the University of Waterloo provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the fundamental principles and practical applications of effective communication. This program explores various aspects of spoken and written communication, emphasizing the development of critical thinking, analytical skills, and the ability to convey ideas clearly and persuasively. Throughout the program, students engage with topics such as interpersonal communication, organizational communication, media studies, public speaking, and intercultural communication.

The curriculum is designed to prepare students for diverse career paths in fields such as media, public relations, community advocacy, corporate communication, education, and government. Students will learn about the theoretical frameworks underpinning communication processes and acquire practical skills through workshops, presentations, and real-world projects. The program encourages active participation and experiential learning, enabling students to apply their knowledge in various contexts.

Moreover, the program emphasizes the importance of ethical considerations and cultural sensitivity in communication. Students will critically analyze how communication practices influence society and individual relationships. They will also develop skills in research methods used in communication studies, including data collection and analysis, to support evidence-based conclusions.

Graduates of the Speech Communication program will be well-equipped to pursue further education or directly enter the workforce with a strong foundation in effective communication strategies. The program also offers opportunities for specialization in areas such as media studies, intercultural communication, or organizational communication, allowing students to tailor their education to their career interests. Overall, the Bachelor of Arts in Speech Communication aims to produce versatile, reflective, and skilled communicators ready to meet the demands of a rapidly changing global landscape.

Program requirements for the Bachelor of Arts in Speech Communication at the University of Waterloo include completing a total of 120 university-level credits. Students are expected to fulfill a combination of core courses, elective courses, and capstone experiences. The core curriculum typically covers foundational topics such as Introduction to Communication Studies, Public Speaking, Interpersonal Communication, and Media Analysis. Electives may include courses in rhetoric, organizational communication, intercultural communication, and communication technology. Students must also complete a set of interdisciplinary courses that enhance their understanding of social sciences and humanities, as communication is an interdisciplinary field. To graduate, students are generally required to maintain a minimum average grade as specified by the university, often around 60-65%, depending on the year and specific course offerings.

Additionally, students are encouraged to participate in practical experiences such as internships, co-op placements, or research projects to apply their theoretical knowledge in real-world contexts. The co-op program enables students to gain professional experience in media organizations, corporations, or public relations firms, which enhances employability after graduation. Students must also complete a capstone project or a thesis, depending on their focus area, that demonstrates their ability to conduct independent research and present their findings coherently.

Language proficiency requirements include demonstrating proficiency in English through standardized tests or previous education completed in English-medium institutions, if applicable. It is also important for students to adhere to any prerequisites set for advanced courses, which may include introductory courses in communication, psychology, or sociology. The program may also recommend or require participation in seminars, workshops, or conferences related to current developments in speech communication to stay updated with industry trends. Overall, the program is designed to equip students with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary for careers in media, public relations, corporate communication, and related fields.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The University of Waterloo offers a comprehensive range of financing options for students enrolled in the Speech Communication program. Undergraduate students have access to several sources of financial support, including government-sponsored loans, scholarships, bursaries, and work-study opportunities. The Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP) provides need-based loans and grants to eligible students, helping to alleviate the financial burdens associated with higher education. Additionally, numerous entrance scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, leadership qualities, and extracurricular involvement, which students can apply for during the admission process.

The university also offers a variety of merit-based scholarships and awards that can be renewed annually, contingent upon maintaining good academic standing. Bursaries are available for students demonstrating financial need, offering non-repayable financial assistance to help cover tuition fees and living expenses. International students enrolled in the Speech Communication program may have access to specific scholarships dedicated to international students, as well as private funding sources and external grants.

Part-time work opportunities on campus, such as research assistantships and employment in university facilities, allow students to gain practical experience and supplement their income throughout their studies. The university's co-operative education (co-op) program is an integral part of many of its degree offerings, providing paid work placements that combine academic learning with practical work experience. These co-op placements often come with financial compensation, which can significantly support students' educational expenses.

Financial aid counseling services are available to help students navigate the various funding options and complete application processes effectively. Moreover, the university regularly updates its financial aid policies and introduces new scholarship programs to accommodate changing student needs. The goal is to ensure that capable students have access to education regardless of their financial circumstances, promoting diversity and inclusion within the Speech Communication program. Overall, the University of Waterloo is committed to providing a robust support system for students seeking financial assistance, enabling them to focus on their academic and professional development without undue economic stress.

The Speech Communication program at the University of Waterloo offers students an in-depth exploration of human communication processes, focusing on understanding and improving verbal and non-verbal interactions in various contexts. The program emphasizes the development of critical thinking, analytical skills, and practical abilities necessary for effective communication across diverse settings, including interpersonal, organizational, and public domains. Students have the opportunity to study topics such as speech production, listener perception, rhetorical strategies, persuasion, intercultural communication, and the impact of communication technologies.

The curriculum typically includes foundational courses in communication theory, research methods, and speech fundamentals, alongside specialized courses that allow students to tailor their learning to areas of personal or professional interest. Hands-on experience is often integrated through opportunities such as speech development and delivery, debate, presentations, and research projects. The program prepares graduates for careers in areas such as public relations, media, corporate communication, education, politics, healthcare communication, and community engagement.

At Waterloo, the program encourages an interdisciplinary approach, drawing from psychology, linguistics, and media studies to provide a well-rounded understanding of communication phenomena. Students may also have access to state-of-the-art facilities and participate in research activities, internships, or cooperative education placements that enhance practical skills and employability. The program aims to produce graduates who are effective communicators, critical thinkers, and reflective practitioners capable of addressing complex communication challenges in a globalized world.