Communication Studies
9 courses · Napa Valley College · 2026-2027 Catalog
Classes: Fall 2026 · Spring 2027
COMM-C1000 Introduction to Public Speaking
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 54 hours lecture; 54 hours total
- Transfers to
- UC, CSU
In this course, students learn and apply foundational rhetorical theories and techniques of public speaking in a multicultural democratic society. Students discover, develop, and critically analyze ideas in public discourse through research, reasoning, organization, composition, delivery to a live audience and evaluation of various types of speeches, including informative and persuasive speeches. Formerly known as COMM 122.
COMM-120 Interpersonal Communication
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 54 hours lecture; 54 hours total
- Transfers to
- UC, CSU
This course is designed to improve the student's ability to communicate one-on-one with other individuals. The course covers a range of topics such as the self-concept, perception, verbal and nonverbal communication patterns, assertiveness, listening, conflict resolution, developing relationships and the impact of culture and gender on each aspect of communication.
COMM-124 Career Communication
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 54 hours lecture; 54 hours total
- Transfers to
- CSU
This course covers a range of workplace communication concepts and skills related to interpersonal communication, public speaking and group dynamics. The course also will include topics such as developing resumes, interviewing, leadership, conflict resolution and critical thinking.
COMM-126 Intercultural Communication
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 54 hours lecture; 54 hours total
- Transfers to
- UC, CSU
This course provides an introduction to the factors affecting intercultural communication. The course will examine the influences of culture and gender on areas such as worldviews, values, beliefs, verbal and nonverbal communication patterns, conflict styles and more, in order to develop self-awareness and sensitivity to others in intercultural interactions.
COMM-128 Critical Thinking: Argumentation and Debate
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 54 hours lecture; 54 hours total
- Prerequisite
- Completion of ENGL-C1000 with a minimum grade of C.
- Advisory
- Completion of COMM-C1000 with a minimum grade of C.
- Transfers to
- UC, CSU
This course focuses on argumentation theory including research, methods of analysis, use and test of evidence, refutation, and the logical responsibilities of advocacy, and the rhetorical theories and communication techniques in a multicultural democratic society. It emphasizes the preparation and presentation of cases for and against propositions of Fact, Value, and Policy through debate and public address.
COMM-130 Small Group Communication
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 54 hours lecture; 54 hours total
- Transfers to
- UC, CSU
This course focuses on the dynamics of small group interactions. Students will combine theory and practice to develop skills in running and participating in groups. Topics include group formation and development, roles and norms, leadership, decision-making and problem solving, running meetings, conflict resolution and effective verbal and nonverbal communication.
COMM-132 Oral Interpretation
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 54 hours lecture; 54 hours total
- Transfers to
- UC, CSU
This course covers a range of delivery concepts and skills for spoken and literary interpretations of text. Topics include literary analysis, vocal and physical delivery, group presentation, intellectual and emotional interpretations, and effective presentations. In addition, the course develops skills in articulation, reading, audience analysis, and presentation evaluation.
COMM-134 Introduction to Communication Theory
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 54 hours lecture; 54 hours total
- Transfers to
- UC, CSU
An introduction to essential theories, perspectives, and approaches of human communication and how they work in various settings, including interpersonal, organizational, public, and mediated contexts.
COMM-400 Organizational Behavior
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 54 hours lecture; 54 hours total
- Transfers to
- CSU
The study of how people interact in organizations. Course covers a wide breadth of advanced theories and applications dealing with such topics as perception, motivation, decision making, team dynamics, negotiation, conflict management, leadership, and organizational culture. Development of a conceptual understanding of organizational behavior theories and practical applications. Key techniques and processes designed to improve organizational efficiency and effectiveness are fully examined from the perspective of management, workers, and society at large.