Speech
13 courses · Palomar College · 2026-2027 Catalog
Classes: Fall 2026 · Spring 2027
SPCH 100* Oral Communication
See COMM C1000 Introduction to Public Speaking
SPCH 105 Beginning Argumentation and Critical Thinking
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 3.00 hours lecture
- Prerequisite
- ENGL C1000 or ENGL C1000E or ESL 110
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
- C-ID
- COMM 120
Argumentative theory and practice including burden of proof, logical analysis, research, types and uses of evidence, deductive and inductive reasoning, logical fallacies, written argumentative essay construction, refutation, rebuttal, and argument evaluation paradigms. Advanced written communication skills are developed through composing, drafting, reviewing, and rewriting (1) analytical topic area essays, (2) affirmative and negative critical analysis, and (3) substantive and sequential written essays. Oral communication skills are developed through the agency of public argument and critical thinking exercises. Critical perspectives on values and public policy, including examinations of diverse paradigms are emphasized.
SPCH 115* Interpersonal Communication
See COMM C1004 Interpersonal Communication
SPCH 120 Human Communication
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 3.00 hours lecture
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
- C-ID
- COMM 180
A comprehensive introduction to the study of human communication processes including verbal and nonverbal modalities. Human abilities are compared to the communication systems of other species. Key definitions and concepts in communication theory are reviewed. Communication processes in personal, public, and mass-mediated contexts are analyzed.
SPCH 125 Beginning Oral Interpretation
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 3.00 hours lecture
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
- C-ID
- COMM 170
An introduction to the oral reading of prose, poetry, and drama in distinct and intertextual formats. Models of critical analysis will be applied to written literature and reading will be performed and evaluated by applying principles of effective delivery.
SPCH 131 Intercultural Communication
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 3.00 hours lecture
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
- C-ID
- COMM 150
Introduction to the fundamental principles and terms of communication study in intercultural or cross-cultural contexts. Analysis of the opportunities and problems presented by national, ethnic, linguistic, and gender-based variation in verbal and nonverbal behaviors.
SPCH 145 Management of Speech Activities
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- 3.00 hours lab
- Transfers to
- CSU
Planning, preparation, management, and supervision of speech tournaments and other interscholastic speech activities.
SPCH 150 Debate Research
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- 3.00 hours lab
- Transfers to
- CSU
Advanced debate training including investigation and research of the national intercollegiate debate resolution.
SPCH 160 Practical Public Speaking
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- 3.00 hours lab
- Transfers to
- CSU
Thorough individual preparation for effective oral communication in a variety of speech situations. This class will make up the college forensics team and the student speaker's bureau; students will be selected from classes in the speech curricula. Required of all students participating in intercollegiate competitive speech activities.
SPCH 170 Small Group Communication
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 3.00 hours lecture
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
- C-ID
- COMM 140
This course is a study of the concepts, theories, and practices related to group formation, development, and basic group communication dynamics. Students lead and participate in various forms of group interaction, evaluation, and practice. This course is designed for communication studies and business majors as well as for anyone interested in working effectively in small group settings.
SPCH 197A Topics in Speech Communication
- Units
- 1-3
- Hours
- 1.00-3.00 hours lecture, 3.00-9.00 hours lab
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
Topics in Speech Communication. See Class Schedule for specific topic offered. Course title will designate subject covered.
SPCH 290 Competitive Intercollegiate Forensics
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 9.00 hours lab
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
- C-ID
- COMM 160 B
Advanced projects including individual research. Tutoring and performance for college classes and community including reader's theatre; informative, persuasive, entertaining, extemporaneous, and impromptu speaking; communication analysis, prose, poetry, duo-interpretation, programmed reading, and debate.
SPCH 300 Dynamic Communication
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 3.00 hours lecture
- Prerequisite
- COMM C1000 or the equivalent Limitation on Enrollment: Must be admitted to a baccalaureate program at a California Community College
- Transfers to
- CSU
Using practical exercises, this class will ensure the students are effective communicators in written, oral, presentation, and video formats. In addition, the class will focus on understanding sources in the misinformation age, on using economic tools to understand the realities of the building industry, and on creating persuasive arguments.