The ability to speak clearly, eloquently, and effectively has
been recognized as the hallmark of an educated person since the
beginning of recorded history. Under the label "rhetoric," the
study of the theory and practice of communication was a central
concern of Greek, Roman, medieval, Renaissance, and early modern
education. In the United States, rhetorical training has been a
part of formal education since Harvard's founding in 1636. As a new
millenium dawns, rhetoric has once again assumed a central role in
discussions of the "post-modern" world.
Excellent communication skills are important in both social and
career settings. A U.S. Department of Labor study indicated that
there are 16 qualities for high job performance. Ten of these
qualities are commonly studied in the field of communication:
listening, speaking, creative thinking, decision making, problem
solving, reasoning, self-esteem, sociability, self-management, and
integrity/honesty. Another study indicates that the most essential
skills need to be a competent employee are: interviewing,
listening, planning and conducting meetings, resolving conflicts,
and public speaking. All of these are communication skills.
By majoring or minoring in Public Address at St. John's, you
will gain invaluable skills that can be applied in a variety of
careers including law, education, business, religious vocations,
media, and public service. More importantly, the study of
communication will equip you for leadership in whatever career you
eventually pursue. Stop by the Speech Department at St. John's
Hall, Room 344, for a free copy of Pathways to Careers in
Communication.
Courses and Requirements
In addition to the basic course, Public Speaking for the College
Student, the Speech Department offers a variety of courses that
emphasize either performance or the history and criticism of
communication. Some courses currently offered include
Persuasion, Foundations of Rhetorical Theory, American Public
Address, Decision-Making Discussion, Argumentation: Inquiry and
Advocacy, Legal Argumentation, Rhetoric of Religion, and Rhetorical
Communication Strategies.
A major in Public Address consists of 36 semester hours in the
discipline including the basic course. A minor has 18 hours
including the basic course. A Religious Communication minor
is also offered. Consult the university bulletin for full
details.
Undergraduate Admission
Contacts
Queens
Office of Admission
St. John’s University
8000 Utopia Parkway
Queens, NY 11439
1 (888) 9STJOHNS
admissions@stjohns.edu
Staten Island
Office of Admission
St. John’s University
300 Howard Avenue
Staten Island, NY 10301
(718) 390-4500
siadmhelp@stjohns.edu