60 Credits AA3555/AA2455, Academic Catalog 2025-2026
Resources
The Communication Studies Transfer Pathway AA offers students a powerful option: the opportunity to complete an Associate of Arts degree with course credits that directly transfer to designated Communication Studies bachelor’s degree programs at Minnesota State universities.* The curriculum has been specifically designed so that students completing this pathway degree and transferring to one of the seven Minnesota State universities enter the university with junior-year status. All courses in the Transfer Pathway associate degree will directly transfer and apply to the designated bachelor’s degree programs in a related field. *Universities within the Minnesota State system include Bemidji State University; Metropolitan State University; Minnesota State University, Mankato; Minnesota State University Moorhead; Southwest Minnesota State University; St. Cloud State University; and Winona State University.
Campuses: Faribault and North Mankato
Program Start Semesters: Fall and Spring
Base estimate for 60 credit program
Tuition is paid on a semester by semester basis and will vary depending on the courses and total credits you take.
Tuition and Fees: $12,867
Tools and Equipment: $ n/a
Total Estimated Cost: $12,867 *
Compare the costs and you'll see that tuition at South Central College is much more affordable than other institutions.
*Based on 2025-2026 tuition and fees rates. Does not include extra expenses for online delivery, course fees, or course differential. Books, transportation, and living expenses also not included.
The course requirements listed below are specific to the current school year (noted above). If you need to view the program from previous years view our Catalog Archive.
Required Courses (4 Courses)
Complete the following courses:
COMM110 Public Speaking (3 credits)
Learners in this class develop (or improve) skills in creating, organizing, supporting, and delivering both informative and persuasive messages to peer audiences. Through this course, students will develop arguments and practice academic research skills in order to adequately support their messages and develop credibility and professionalism. Learners will practice critical thinking and listening skills, support fellow students while delivering impromptu and extemporaneous speeches, and provide peer feedback to ideas and speech development. This course stresses building confidence as public communicators so students may speak effectively at work, in their communities, and as citizens in a democracy. (Prerequisites: Must have a Next-Generation Accuplacer Reading score of 250 or higher, or Classic Accuplacer Reading score of 78 or higher, or ACT Reading score of 21 or higher or MCA Reading score of 1047 or higher or completion of either READ 0090 or EAP 0090 or READ 0095 with a grade of C (2.0) or higher) (MNTC: Goal areas 1 and 9).
COMM120 Small Group Communication (3 credits)
This course helps students develop or improve their participation in small groups and teams using effective communication and critical thinking. Content of the course includes both knowledge and skills components. Students can develop an understanding of communication and group theory while applying their knowledge in small group discussions, cooperative projects, and other activities. The course curriculum emphasizes reflection and growth. (Prerequisites: Must have a Next-Generation Accuplacer Reading score of 250 or higher, or Classic Accuplacer Reading score of 78 or higher, or completion of either READ 0090 or EAP 0090 or READ 0095 with a grade of C (2.0) or higher, or ACT Reading score of 21 or higher or MCA Reading score of 1047 or higher.) (MNTC: Goals 1 and 2).
COMM130 Intercultural Communication (3 credits)
The focus of intercultural communication is to develop and improve the knowledge needed to understand culture, communication, how culture influences communication, and the process of communication between people from different cultures or co-cultures. The course also focuses on practicing the skills needed for effective intercultural interactions. (Prerequisites: Must have a Next-Generation Accuplacer Reading score of 250 or higher, or Classic Accuplacer Reading score of 78 or higher, or completion of either READ 0090 or EAP 0090 or READ 0095 with a grade of C (2.0) or higher, or ACT Reading score of 21 or higher or MCA Reading score of 1047 or higher.) (MNTC Goal Areas 7a - Human Diversity, Goal Area 8 - Global Perspectives)
COMM140 Interpersonal Communication (3 credits)
In this class, participants will examine key components of interpersonal communication theory, identify the interpersonal communication skills necessary for healthy relationships, assess their own interpersonal communication effectiveness, and practice and hone interpersonal communication skills necessary for healthy home and work relationships. This course will also address relevant issues of social interaction, including how human diversity/culture (age, race, gender, etc.) affects our interpersonal communication. (Prerequisites: Must have a Next-Generation Accuplacer Reading score of 250 or higher, or Classic Accuplacer Reading score of 78 or higher, or completion of either READ 0090 or EAP 0090 or READ 0095 with a grade of C (2.0) or higher, or ACT Reading score of 21 or higher or MCA Reading score of 1047 or higher.) (MNTC 1: Communication)
MnTC (Minnesota Transfer Curriculum) Goal Areas to fulfill (33-44 Credits):
Complete the following goal areas (options for the MNTC goal areas are included on the MNTC page):
Goal Area 1 - Communication
English - ENGL100 is required
ENGL100 Composition (4 credits)
Composition is concerned with developing, through theory and practice, the ability to communicate in written form for personal and professional reasons. Students will develop writing skills, analytic skills, and critical thinking skills. Students will complete readings, papers, grammar exercises, and in-class activities. Students will complete research and write a research paper. Students will learn methods of writing informatively and persuasively. (Prerequisites: Must have one of the following: (MCA Reading score of 1047 or higher, or ACT Reading score of 21 or higher or Next-Generation Accuplacer Reading score of 250 or higher, or Classic Accuplacer Reading score of 78 or higher) OR (READ 0095 with a grade of C (2.0) or higher) OR (completion of either READ 0090 or EAP 0090 with a grade of C (2.0) or higher) AND (completion of either ENGL 0090 or EAP 0095 with a grade of C [2.0] or higher) (MNTC 1: Communication)
Communication Studies - satisfied by award's required courses
COMM100 Introduction to Human Communication (3 credits)
This course is an introductory survey course of the communication discipline. It provides a sample of topics from interpersonal communication, intercultural communication, public speaking, small group communication, media, organizational communication, and interviewing. This course will offer students knowledge about communication and offer the opportunity to improve their skills. (Prerequisites: Must have a Next-Generation Accuplacer Reading score of 250 or higher, or Classic Accuplacer Reading score of 78 or higher, or completion of either READ 0090 or EAP 0090 or READ 0095 with a grade of C (2.0) or higher, or ACT Reading score of 21 or higher or MCA Reading score of 1047 or higher.) (MNTC 1: Communication)
COMM110 Public Speaking (3 credits)
Learners in this class develop (or improve) skills in creating, organizing, supporting, and delivering both informative and persuasive messages to peer audiences. Through this course, students will develop arguments and practice academic research skills in order to adequately support their messages and develop credibility and professionalism. Learners will practice critical thinking and listening skills, support fellow students while delivering impromptu and extemporaneous speeches, and provide peer feedback to ideas and speech development. This course stresses building confidence as public communicators so students may speak effectively at work, in their communities, and as citizens in a democracy. (Prerequisites: Must have a Next-Generation Accuplacer Reading score of 250 or higher, or Classic Accuplacer Reading score of 78 or higher, or ACT Reading score of 21 or higher or MCA Reading score of 1047 or higher or completion of either READ 0090 or EAP 0090 or READ 0095 with a grade of C (2.0) or higher) (MNTC: Goal areas 1 and 9).
COMM120 Small Group Communication (3 credits)
This course helps students develop or improve their participation in small groups and teams using effective communication and critical thinking. Content of the course includes both knowledge and skills components. Students can develop an understanding of communication and group theory while applying their knowledge in small group discussions, cooperative projects, and other activities. The course curriculum emphasizes reflection and growth. (Prerequisites: Must have a Next-Generation Accuplacer Reading score of 250 or higher, or Classic Accuplacer Reading score of 78 or higher, or completion of either READ 0090 or EAP 0090 or READ 0095 with a grade of C (2.0) or higher, or ACT Reading score of 21 or higher or MCA Reading score of 1047 or higher.) (MNTC: Goals 1 and 2).
COMM140 Interpersonal Communication (3 credits)
In this class, participants will examine key components of interpersonal communication theory, identify the interpersonal communication skills necessary for healthy relationships, assess their own interpersonal communication effectiveness, and practice and hone interpersonal communication skills necessary for healthy home and work relationships. This course will also address relevant issues of social interaction, including how human diversity/culture (age, race, gender, etc.) affects our interpersonal communication. (Prerequisites: Must have a Next-Generation Accuplacer Reading score of 250 or higher, or Classic Accuplacer Reading score of 78 or higher, or completion of either READ 0090 or EAP 0090 or READ 0095 with a grade of C (2.0) or higher, or ACT Reading score of 21 or higher or MCA Reading score of 1047 or higher.) (MNTC 1: Communication)
Goal Area 2 - Critical Thinking
Completion of the full 40 credit MnTC satisfies this requirement OR you may choose one course from Goal Area 2.
Goal Area 3 - Natural Sciences
Select at least two courses from two different disciplines
Goal Area 4 - Mathematical/Logical Reasoning
Choose one course
Goal Area 5 - History and the Social and Behavioral Sciences
Select two courses from a minimum of two disciplines.
Goal Area 6 - Humanities and Fine Arts
Select two courses from two disciplines
Goal Area 7 - Human Diversity, Race, Power and Justice
Select one course from either Goal Area 7, Option A or Goal Area 7, Option B. Some courses may appear in both A and B options but the credits will only count once.
Goal Area 8 - Global Perspective
Choose one course.
Goal Area 9 - Ethical and Civic Responsibility
Choose one course
Goal Area 10 - People and the Environment
Choose one course
Additional Required Courses: (2 Courses)
Complete the following courses:
First Year Esperience
All AA Degree seeking students must complete FYE100 within the first three semesters they attend SCC
FYE100 First Year Experience (1 credits)
First Year Experience is a course created to support students making the transition to college, to empower students to take control of their educational lives, and to help students be successful. The course will promote the development of critical thinking skills and positive educational values. Students will enhance their understanding of communication and learning styles, and lifestyle risks; learn to identify and use appropriate resources both on campus and within the community; acquire skills needed to promote study, personal wellness, goal setting and achievement; develop strategies to manage money, time and stress wisely; and in general develop the necessary skills to be a successful college student. (Prerequisite: None)
Health and Wellness
Select at least one course from the following:
HHP101 Health and the Environment (3 credits)
This course will examine the impact of complex environmental challenges on human health. This course focuses on the ecological model of health and wellness, a framework that addresses the interrelationships between individuals and their environment, and how these relationships influence the choices that affect health. The course will address the impact of the environment on human risk for common health concerns, to include cancer, heart disease, mental health, infectious disease, and nutrition/fitness. (Prerequisites: Must have a Next-Generation Accuplacer Reading score of 250 or higher, or Classic Accuplacer Reading score of 78 or higher, or completion of either READ 0090 or EAP 0090 or READ 0095 with a grade of C (2.0) or higher, or ACT Reading score of 21 or higher or MCA Reading score of 1047 or higher.) (MNTC 10: People and the Environment)
HHP122 Topics in Mind/Body Fitness: (1 credits)
Students will participate in mind body fitness activities that promote increased flexibility, core strength as well as mental focus and relaxation. Topics may include but are not limited to: different styles of yoga, Pilates, tai chi, dance-based activities and/or a combination of these activities. Students will study and understand basic health and fitness concepts as well as concepts related to mind body fitness. Students will be able to recognize behaviors that lead to a healthy lifestyle and prevent disease, illness and disability. Students will monitor and track their own core strength and flexibility fitness levels. Students will incorporate a sense of appreciation for and a commitment to fitness and wellness in everyday life and create a personalized plan of action for continuing fitness activities that promote a healthy lifestyle. This class can be repeated for credit. (Prerequisite: None)
HHP128 Topics in Mind/Body Fitness Yoga (1 credits)
Students will participate in mind body fitness activities that promote self-awareness, flexibility, strength, mental focus, and relaxation. Topics may include but are not limited to: different styles of yoga, Pilates, tai chi, and other mind/body activities. Students will understand basic health and fitness concepts related to mind body fitness. Students will be able to recognize behaviors that lead to a healthy lifestyle and prevent disease, illness, and disability. Students will monitor and track their own fitness and wellness levels. Students will incorporate a sense of appreciation for and a commitment to fitness and wellness in everyday life and create a personalized plan of action for continuing mind/body fitness activities that promote a healthy lifestyle. This class can be repeated for credit. Supplies needed for class include a yoga mat. (Prerequisite: None)
HHP205 Drug Education (3 credits)
This course provides an overview of drugs and drug use, as well as current issues and themes regarding both individual health and social function. Topics include drug use from a psychological, emotional, behavioral, pharmacological, legal, and medical perspective. This course also includes an analysis of the personal decisions regarding use/non-use of drugs to the topics of social norms, politics, economics, crime, prevention and treatment. (Prerequisites: Must have a Next-Generation Accuplacer Reading score of 250 or higher, or Classic Accuplacer Reading score of 78 or higher, or completion of either READ 0090 or EAP 0090 or READ 0095 with a grade of C (2.0) or higher, or ACT Reading score of 21 or higher or MCA Reading score of 1047 or higher.)
HHP210 Stress Management (3 credits)
This course exposes students to a holistic approach to stress management. Students will learn the basic principles, theories, coping skills and relaxation techniques to effectively manage personal stress. Topics include: the effects of the stress response, the relationship between stress and health/disease, the identification of personal stress levels, the application of coping skills and relaxation techniques, and the understanding of the importance of personal responsibility for health. (Prerequisites: Must have a Next-Generation Accuplacer Reading score of 250 or higher, or Classic Accuplacer Reading score of 78 or higher, or completion of either READ 0090 or EAP 0090 or READ 0095 with a grade of C (2.0) or higher, or ACT Reading score of 21 or higher or MCA Reading score of 1047 or higher.)
HLTH1950 CPR (1 credits)
This course covers the skills of infant, child and adult single and two rescue CPR as well as relief of foreign body airway obstruction procedures for infant, child and adult. Automated external defibrillators, bag-valve-masks and pocket masks are also used. Signs and symptoms of vascular disease are discussed. This meets the current criteria of the American Heart Association guidelines. (Prerequisites: None)
HLTH1952 First Aid (1 credits)
This course includes emergency care training for initial treatment of illness and injury. Patient assessment, bleeding control, shock management, soft tissue injury, orthopedic injury, diabetic problems, seizures, poisons, heat exposure and cold exposure are some of the topics covered in the course. This course is appropriate for anyone who may need to render immediate care. The topics covered do meet the course requirements for OSHA and MSHA first aid training.
HLTH1954 Safety (1 credits)
This course includes basic OSHA safety standards. Hearing protection, eye protection, back injuries, lockout/tagout procedures, Hazard Communication Standard, bloodborne pathogens and substance use and abuse in the workplace are examples of topics covered in the course. The consequences of disregarding safety practices are explored. (Prerequisites: None)
PLEASE NOTE: All program plans are preliminary and curriculum may change without notice. Your catalog of record may have different requirements.
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