Dr. Donna M. Allen
208.467.8431
dmallen@nnu.edu
Department of
Communication, Language, & Literature
Department of Communication, Language, & Literature
At NNU, the Department of Communication, Language, & Literature is where the power of words meets the art of expression. Whether you’re exploring the beauty of literature, developing your writing voice or studying the science of communication, our programs equip students to think critically, communicate clearly and make a meaningful impact in their communities and careers.
Why Study Communication, Language, & Literature?
Communication is at the heart of everything we do as humans—from stories that shape our cultures to the ways we connect with others through speech, writing, media and art. In this department, you’ll explore how language, literature and communication shape our understanding of the world and each other.
Since ancient times, scholars have turned to texts—oral, written and lived—to make sense of human experience. Whether it’s the Iliad, the Torah or the stories of indigenous peoples, language and literature help us connect across time and culture. At NNU, we continue that tradition, encouraging students to think deeply, write clearly, speak confidently and listen with empathy.
You’ll become part of a vibrant academic community where readers, writers, performers and communicators come together to explore what it means to live thoughtfully and creatively. Whether you’re interested in public speaking, poetry, Spanish language immersion or crafting compelling stories, you’ll be supported by faculty who challenge and nurture your growth.
If you love to read, write, listen, speak, create and connect—this is your place.
Bachelor’s Degree Options
Programs of Study
Majors
- Communication
- English
- English Education
- Spanish Education
- Health Communication
- Pre-Counseling
- Public Relations
- Sports Communication
- World Languages
Co-Majors
- Creative Writing
- Communication
Minors
- Communication
- Creative Writing
- Drama
- Literature
- Professional Writing
- Spanish
Endorsements
- Communication Second Endorsement
Experiential Learning Opportunities
- PRSSA (Public Relations Student Society of America): One of only two Idaho universities with a chapter—connect with professionals and apply classroom learning in real-world settings
- Lambda Pi Eta Honor Society: Take on leadership roles and plan events through NNU’s chapter of the National Communication Association
- Internships: Apply your communication or writing skills in non-profits, media, ministry, public relations and more
- Creative Community: Engage with fellow readers, writers and thinkers in a vibrant, supportive academic culture
Forensics
NNU’s nationally recognized speech and debate team competes in several tournaments a year, including IPDA Nationals.
- Students can compete in multiple individual speaking events such as oral interpretation, informative, persuasive and impromptu speaking (among others), as well as formal debate at levels ranging from novice to expert.
- There is an opportunity to earn academic credit for your involvement with Forensics and there are limited scholarships available.
- Forensics is the oldest competitive team on our campus and boasts the 20-21 National Champion in Interviewing.
- To find out more, contact Professor M. Brooke Adamson (mbadamson@nnu.edu).
Outcomes
Our students in this department will:
- Read and analyze great works of Western and world literature
- Gain concrete knowledge of authors, historical contexts and cultural perspectives
- Develop skills in writing, research, critical thinking and public speaking
- Study theories of interpersonal, group and organizational communication
- Understand how communication builds healthy communities and advances the gospel
- Learn to listen empathetically and communicate with clarity and integrity
- Create original written and oral work with real-world applications
Our graduates excel in fields such as:
- Education
- Ministry
- Public Relations
- Journalism & Media
- Business & Marketing
- Counseling & Social Work
- Law & Politics
- Non-Profit & Advocacy
- Speech Pathology
- Health Communication
- Writing & Editing
- Graduate Studies (100% acceptance rate for communication majors in the last 12 years)
Find Your Place Here
If you love to read, write, speak, think critically and communicate with others—whether in a classroom, a boardroom or on a stage—you’ll find your home here. We’re poets, scholars, performers, debaters, storytellers and bridge-builders.
Meet the Team
