Communication and Deaf Studies Minor

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A minor in communication and deaf studies introduces students to the various modes of communication for persons with hearing loss and the deaf, types and degrees of hearing loss, advocacy, and compensatory strategies for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing, deaf culture, and the promotion of deaf awareness. The minor complements other courses of study, including sociology, psychology, human resources, linguistics, and education. It prepares students to work in a variety of settings where basic skill in American Sign Language (ASL) and knowledge of the American Deaf community are necessary, such as education, business, human services (social work, health care, counseling), and government.

Requirements for the liberal arts minor in communication and deaf studies

To earn the communication and deaf studies minor, students must complete a minimum of 20 credits in communication, distributed as follows. At least 12 credits of the minor must be taken at Oakland University.

1. Core courses

COM 1000 - Introduction to Communication Studies (4)
COM 1500 - Introduction to American Sign Language (4)
COM 1501 - American Sign Language (4)
COM 2500 - American Sign Language III (4)

2. Elective courses (select one of the following)

COM 2501 - American Sign Language IV (4)
COM 3300 - Multicultural Communication (4)
COM 3002 - Cultural Theory in Communication (4)

Regression Policy

Students will not receive credit for a lower sequence course taken after successful completion of a more advanced level course. For example, students who have successfully completed 1501 (or transfer course equivalent) cannot enroll in and earn credit for COM 1500 to complete the minor. They must take a different elective.