All degree-seeking candidates must complete two written communication courses: English 101 and English 102. For other courses to qualify as written communication courses, there must be a minimum of 2,000 cumulative words written for each course. The writing in such courses will be evaluated for effectiveness, organization, clarity, and coherence, as well as grammar, punctuation, and usage of standard written English. The student will be provided feedback on the written work submitted.

Students will be required to demonstrate oral communication skills as part of their program. The presentation must be specifically assigned as an oral presentation made in a formal setting and must be evaluated not only according to the content criteria of the assignment, but also according to basic speech criteria appropriate for the style of presentation.