Learn Communication by Doing
Communication Studies at Cal Poly prepares students to understand how communication shapes the world and how they can shape it in return.
What we study
The department offers a comprehensive curriculum focused on the composition and influence of messages across personal, professional and civic contexts. Students study communication through historical, critical, humanistic and social scientific approaches, developing the ability to create communication that is ethical, culturally aware and effective.
Purpose and vision
Purpose
The Communication Studies program helps students gain the knowledge and skills to effectively engage in and change the world around them.
Vision
Create a culture that promotes critical consciousness, empathy and collaboration through communication in personal, professional and civic contexts.
A long history at Cal Poly
Instruction in oral communication has been part of Cal Poly since the university opened in 1903. Over time, what began within English evolved into a standalone department, first as Speech, then Speech Communication, and eventually Communication Studies. That history reflects the field’s growth from public speaking and debate to broader study of media, relationships, organizations, advocacy and public life.
Learn by Doing in a broad and evolving field
Communication Studies stands out for its combination of breadth and applied learning. Students test ideas through research, debate, mentoring, student leadership, community-facing projects and senior project work. The department also emphasizes ethical and inclusive communication, helping students become thoughtful communicators in a diverse and mediated world.
Faculty & Staff
Our people are what make us extraordinary. Meet the leaders who guide our mission and support our community every day.
Latest Communication Studies News
Critical consciousness, empathy and collaboration
Those three ideas sit at the heart of the department’s culture. They shape how students learn, how faculty teach and mentor, and how Communication Studies prepares graduates to contribute in workplaces, communities and public life.