University of Tampa

Programme overview

This BA examines how people create, interpret and deliver messages in face-to-face, organizational, legal, health-care and digital settings. The curriculum combines communication theory with practical skill-building in persuasion, presentation and conflict resolution. Faculty mentorship encourages research collaboration, with opportunities to present at conferences or publish work. The University of Tampa also provides the Center for Public Speaking for one-on-one coaching and presentation support.

What you'll study

Coursework develops critical analysis and presentational competence and exposes students to social scientific, interpretive and critical approaches. Sample classes described on the programme page include:

• SPE 300 Storytelling: Voice, Script and Movement — techniques for turning experience into narrative, story-selling and participation in live Story Slam events.
• SPE 310 Interpersonal Communication — theory and applied practice on communication processes that shape personal and professional relationships.
• SPE 315 Freedom of Speech and First Amendment Studies — historical and international perspectives on free speech, covering topics such as commercial speech, hate speech, press freedom and privacy through research and performance.
• SPE 425 Persuasion, Argumentation and Conflict Resolution — advanced public speaking, real-time argument evaluation, mock debates, negotiations and conflict-resolution practice.

Entry requirements

The programme page does not list specific numeric admissions criteria. Prospective students should consult the University of Tampa admissions materials for application steps and any major declaration requirements. The department encourages students to engage with faculty and explore research opportunities once enrolled.

Career prospects

Graduates leave with persuasive presentation skills and critical thinking applicable across sectors. The programme lists potential career areas including business and industry, management, communications and media, government and social services, education, advertising, public relations, politics, health, law, negotiations, human resources and technology.

Scholarships & funding angle

The programme page does not provide specific scholarship listings. Applicants should review The University of Tampa’s central financial aid and scholarship resources and department webpages for major-specific awards; additionally, the Center for Public Speaking offers free coaching to help prepare presentations for scholarship interviews or competitive applications.