• Students develop proficiency in analysis and criticism, preparing them for rewarding and useful lives beyond Vanderbilt. Courses offered include surveys of the rhetorical tradition, studies of the history of oratory, analytical courses designed to improve students’ critical skills and appreciation of mediated communication, and courses that seek to develop an understanding of contemporary theories of communication and culture.
  • Undergraduate students often have the opportunity to work closely with faculty on a variety of research projects. Recently, CMST major Caroline Hatfield (class of 2015) completed a Littlejohn Undergraduate Research fellowship under the direction of Professor Claire Sisco King. Entitled “The Cultural and Rhetorical Significance of Celebrity and Stardom in the Contemporary United States,” the project looked closely at the challenges female comedians face on and off screen. Because of their collaboration, Caroline and Professor King were featured prominently by Vanderbilt News and Communications.