Communication Studies
Rhetoric, Minor
The rhetoric minor offers students the opportunity to acquire competence in the history, theory, and criticism of civic discourse and cultural practices.
It brings together courses from both the communication studies and English departments, from which students may learn about the nature and function of rhetoric in politics, the professions, and the media. As in most universities, rhetoric has a home in two departments at Northeastern: in Communication Studies and in English. The rhetoricians in both departments have designed this interdisciplinary minor to offer students a way of exploring their interest in the field across departmental boundaries. The ancients theorized and taught rhetoric as the art of speaking and as a necessity for the participation throughout diverse forums in democratic societies. Contemporary rhetorical education extends this investigation beyond the spoken to include exploration of any form of human discourse that persuades others to change their minds or to take action; creates knowledge; and/or shapes identity and culture. The minor gives students a foundation in the classical tradition as well as vast opportunities to consider theories and critical practices The minor in rhetoric is appropriate for any student interested in the ways that symbols work to influence thought and action. Students from any major are welcome, although it is typically most attractive to students majoring in communication studies, English, history, political science, philosophy, and psychology. The minor consists of five courses. To ensure an interdisciplinary experience, at least two courses must come from Communication and two from English.
Co-op Opportunities
Zipcar
Boston, MA
Wayfair
Boston, MA
TJMaxx and HomeGoods
Framingham, MA
Strong Women Strong Girls
Boston, MA
Southwest Airlines
Dallas, TX
Liberty Mutual
Boston, MA
Johnson & Johnson
Boston, MA
John Hancock
Massachusetts, US
Institute of Contemporary Art
Boston, MA
Eaton Vance Management
Boston, MA
Donna Karan International
Boston, MA
Dana Farber Cancer Institute
Boston, MA
Constant Contact
Waltham, MA
Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
Boston, MA
Arnold Worldwide
Boston, MA
Amazon
Seattle, WA
Career Opportunities
Account Executive
Brand Manager
Campaign Manager
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Creative Director
Development Officer
Human Resources Professional
Legislative Assistant
Lawyer
Lobbyist
Media Planner
Meeting/Event Planner
Personnel Recruiter
Public Information Officer
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Sales Representative
Social Media Manager
Speech Writer
Researcher
Health Educator
Writer
Multidisciplinary Skills
ability to work under pressure
creative problem-solving skills
critical thinking
leadership skills
listening
performance and presentation skills
project management skills
verbal and written communication skills