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.

View Course Catalog
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

Campaign Worker

Creative Director

Development Officer

Human Resources Professional

Legislative Assistant

Lawyer

Lobbyist

Media Planner

Meeting/Event Planner

Personnel Recruiter

Public Information Officer

Public Relations Specialist

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