courses

The Alexandria Campus Speech & Drama Department offers a variety of communication courses during the day, in the evening and on weekends during both the 16- and 8-week Fall and Spring semesters, and throughout the Summer sessions. In addition to meeting your SPD graduation requirement, please consider taking another SPD class as an elective or making Speech & Drama your major field of study. We invite you to join us for learning and skill development by enrolling in one of the SPD courses outlined below. We also hope you will share this information about our course offerings with friends, family, colleagues and other students.

All SPD courses have no prerequisites and are offered in the day and evening during the 16-week, 8-week and weekend sessions. Students are required to take an SPD course to complete their graduation requirement. For more specific information about a degree in Liberal Arts, Speech and Communication Specialization click here.

To view the Course Content Summary , click on the course.

SPD 100 - Principles of Public Speaking (3 credits)
Theory and principles of speaking before an audience. Good for building confidence that comes from speaking in one-to-many situations. Emphasis on preparation and delivery of speech topics chosen by the speaker.
(Faculty - Vick)

SPD 110 - Introduction to Speech Communication (3 credits)
Study of effective communication with emphasis on speaking and listening in interpersonal, small group and public communication settings. Focuses on the "big picture" in communication.
(Faculty - All)

SPD 126 - Interpersonal Communication(3 credits)
Development of interpersonal skills for building and maintaining positive and productive relationships. Focuses on recognizing communication patterns and choosing effective behaviors in personal, social and professional settings.
(Faculty - Schillig)

SPD 229 - Intercultural Communication (3 credits)
Study of the influence of culture on the communication process. Emphasis on cultural differences in interpersonal relationships and cultural diversity in the workplace. Provides practical experience in a cross-cultural setting.
(Faculty - Vick)

Drama Courses:

SPD 131 - Acting I (3 credits)
Introduction to the study of acting with in-class performances including improvisation, pantomime, solo scenes and group ensemble work. Emphasis on basic techniques and disciplines. Eases beginners into the creative field of acting.
(Faculty - Lewis-Holmes)

SPD 132 - Acting II (3 credits)
Emphasizes intermediate and advanced acting skills. Students work on dramatic monologues and/or scenes, and also attend professional productions. Good for anyone considering acting as a career or a hobby.
(Faculty - Lewis-Holmes, Shetler)

SPD 136 - Theatre Workshop (3 credits)
Provides a hands-on introduction to the production of theatrical works. It introduces the student to lighting, sound, set construction and design, rigging and stage management. After taking this course students will be able to participate in any aspect of putting a play or musical on stage. (Faculty - Shetler)

SPD 141 - Theatre Appreciation I (3 credits)
Increases knowledge and enjoyment of the theatre. Includes trips to local theatre productions.
(Faculty - Shetler)