Communication Studies and Theatre

Laurie Haleta, Head
Department of Communication Studies and Theatre
Pugsley Center 115
605-688-6131
e-mail: laurie.haleta@sdstate.edu

Faculty
Professor Haleta, Head; Distinguished Professor Emeriti JJohnson; Professors Ackman, Shelsta; Professors Emeriti Ferguson, Hefling, Hoogestraat, Peterson, Schliessmann, Widvey; Associate Professor Tolman; Assistant Professors Anderson, Hauschild Mork, Hunter, Klemp, Kuehl, Westwick, Wilburn, Wood; Instructors Carlile, Kleinjan.

Department Overview
The mission of the Department of Communication Studies and Theatre is to provide education in the fields in which communication skills are a primary component and to provide training in universally necessary communication skills.   Additionally students may select courses for self- improvement, take courses to meet humanities requirements, or participate in speech or theatre activities

Programs

Advanced Placement in Speech
All students are required to take a designated oral communication course for graduation; however, those with previous training and experience in speech may apply to the Department to take an advanced course in Speech and earn credit for 101 concurrently. The disposition of the application for advanced placement rests with the departmental administrator. Application must be made by the end of the third semester or prior to the fourth semester of residence.

Student Engagement Opportunities
Being involved in a student organization is a great way to spend time with other students in the department, promote activities on campus and gain leadership skills. The departments has three organizations for qualified students: Pi Kappa Delta (Forensics), Alpha Psi Omega (Theatre), and Lambda Pi Eta (Communication Studies).  Additionally, while pursuing a degree in any major, students have the opportunity to get involved in Dance, Forensics, and Theatre.

Dance - The holistic program embraces many genres of dance to include: social, multi-cultural, creative movement, dance for the musical theatre and jazz, tap, ballet and modern dance techniques. The variety ensures that all students no matter their history or training will find opportunities for growth and transformation in the program. For more information contact assistant professor Melissa Hauschild-Mork, Coordinator of Dance.

Forensics - Opportunities are provided for participation in SDSU’s nationally recognized intercollegiate Forensics program. Local, regional, and national participation is sponsored. Activities include debate, public speaking, and oral interpretation in contests, workshops, and public performances. Any regularly enrolled undergraduate student is eligible to participate. University credit may be earned regardless of major. For more information contact instructor Andrea Carlile, Director of Forensics.

Theatre - There are several major, experimental and student productions each year. Students may be cast in or assist with a production. University credit may be earned. Summer theatre also offers undergraduate credit through Prairie Repertory Theatre. For more information contact professor J.D. Ackman, Director of Theatre.