Do You Have to Take Public Speaking in College?
Updated July 24, 2026
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You may have to take public speaking in college, especially if your degree program requires it. For example, a BS in education requires a university course in public speaking. Across American universities, public speaking is often suggested as a single mandatory course for undergraduates. This article will help you understand when this requirement applies and what alternatives might be available.
Is Public Speaking a Required Course in College Programs?
Some colleges and universities require a public speaking course. Whether you need to take one often depends on your specific degree program or the institution's general education requirements. Public speaking often counts as a general education course.
For example, a university course in public speaking is a requirement for a Bachelor of Science in education. Many undergraduate programs at Penn State include public speaking courses in their basic degree completion requirements. Public Speaking can be a General Education skill requirement, and COMMRC 0520: Public Speaking is one course option for the Oral and Professional Communication General Education Requirement. Public Speaking is also an approved course for General Education credit at some institutions. For example, students admitted to CGS for the fall term 2008 and later must take Public Speaking. Ultimately, you should consult your institution to determine how public speaking credits will apply to your degree.
Which Degrees or Colleges Do Not Require Public Speaking?
Some degree programs and institutions do not require public speaking. For example, Excelsior degree programs do not require a speech class. You also typically won't find public speaking as a requirement for a Masters degree in math.
While public speaking can be a general education requirement at some colleges, Public Speaking courses are not universally required for General Education. This means you might find degrees or colleges where this specific course is optional or not part of your core curriculum. To understand your specific situation, check your academic program’s requirements or visit our site for more guidance.
Alternatives and Substitutions for Public Speaking Requirements
You might find alternatives or substitutions for public speaking requirements, depending on your college and degree program. These options vary significantly by institution. To understand if you have to take public speaking in college, or if you can substitute it, check your specific academic department or registrar's office. They can provide details on which courses or experiences might fulfill the requirement.
Accommodations for Students with Anxiety or Special Needs in Public Speaking Classes
Students with anxiety or special needs can receive various accommodations in public speaking classes. Written assignments can replace oral presentations for students with social anxiety. Recorded presentations or online participation are other options to help reduce anxiety during presentations.
You might also find that students with social anxiety may receive alternative assignments or submit previously taped presentations. Smaller group discussions can also help reduce anxiety during class participation. Allowing students to record presentations is an accommodation in 504 plans for social anxiety, which helps prevent students from falling behind. For children who stutter, classroom accommodations are important if they feel anxious about speaking or reading in front of class. Academic accommodations for students with anxiety or OCD may be detailed in an Individualized Education Plan (IEP). Professors in Public Speaking classes are usually understanding of student nervousness, and language arts teachers acknowledge and help public speaking students with anxiety. A gradual implementation of supportive public speaking exercises is recommended to assist these students.
Can Public Speaking Requirements Be Completed Online or Through Exams?
You can fulfill a public speaking requirement through an online course. Public speaking courses are available online, and classes are offered in this format. For example, some online courses allow you to record and upload your speeches. Learning public speaking online requires opportunities to practice your skills. While public speaking skills can be learned through online courses, the provided information does not specify if requirements can be completed through exams.
Why Is Public Speaking Important in College?
Public speaking is a crucial part of your educational experience. It prepares you for higher education and future careers. These skills are essential for building confidence, improving academic performance, and preparing for future opportunities.
Public speaking is a crucial life skill. Public speaking skills learned in college are helpful in any career path. A university course in public speaking enhances performance in any profession. It equips you with skills that transcend any professional field. Studying public speaking is important for progressing in the working world. Public speaking education helps you succeed in the workplace by communicating with confidence and articulating information clearly. Studying public speaking allows you to apply skills from the class to your life after college. These skills are applicable to life after college.
How to Check Your College or Degree Public Speaking Requirements
To check your college or degree public speaking requirements, you should consult your institution to understand how public speaking credits apply to your degree. Always check with an academic advisor before you register for a public speaking class. This ensures the course fulfills your specific program needs.
If you are a transfer student, you can check your degree audit or advisor review to see if your public speaking class counts as a general education requirement. Transfer students can also research the general education requirements for the school they plan to attend. This helps confirm credit applicability before you enroll.
What Subject Is Public Speaking in College?
Public speaking in college is typically a general education course or a skill requirement. These courses explore major concerns, issues, and material related to public speaking. For example, you might study public speaking through specific courses like COM 220, COM 320, or Introduction to Public Speaking (COMM 1101). An introductory, freshmen-level course covers the fundamentals of effective communication. You can find more details about specific course content on your college's website.
Do All Colleges Require Public Speaking?
Not all colleges require a public speaking course, but many institutions do include it as a general education or degree-specific requirement. Whether you need to take public speaking depends on your specific program or the college's curriculum. For example, California State Universities have a general education requirement for oral communications.
Many schools do not exempt students from a public speaking requirement. Your community college might require a speech class, and a university course in public speaking is a requirement for a BS in education. Undergraduates must tackle tasks demanding public-speaking skills, and a mandatory public speaking class allows students to gain exposure beyond occasional class projects. You can compare products at our site.
Frequently asked questions
Do All Colleges Require Public Speaking Classes?+
No, not every college requires you to take a public speaking class for graduation. Some universities do mandate a public speaking course for all their graduates. Many colleges also include these classes as part of specific degree programs. For instance, the California State University (CSU) system requires a speech course. Beyond a dedicated class, individual college courses often require public speaking presentations. Most colleges, however, don't focus broadly on developing these skills for all students.
Can Public Speaking Skills Be Learned Without Taking a Class?+
You absolutely can learn public speaking skills without taking a formal class. Public speaking is a learnable skill, not an innate talent. Anyone can improve their speaking with consistent effort. Study effective techniques through books, videos, or other online resources. Joining a practice group or a debate club also helps. Regular practice and guidance will build your confidence. These methods let you master speaking skills with dedication.
How Often Do Students Practice Speaking in Public Speaking Classes?+
Students in public speaking classes practice speaking multiple times throughout a course. For example, a college class often offers opportunities to deliver speeches about three times over 12 weeks. These classes use a hands-on active learning approach, giving you many chances to speak in front of others. You'll present speeches to peers and get constructive criticism. This regular practice helps reduce nervousness and makes speaking easier each time. You can also practice through debates or class discussions.
What Are the Typical Prerequisites for Public Speaking Courses?+
Many college public speaking courses, like COM225, require you to pass foundational English classes first. You often need a grade of C or better in courses such as ENG101 or ENG107, or an equivalent. Some public speaking classes, especially introductory ones, have no prerequisites at all. For advanced courses, you might need prior public speaking experience. An instructor's permission can sometimes waive these requirements. You must complete any listed prerequisites before enrolling in a course.
How Does Public Speaking Help in Career Preparation?+
Public speaking skills significantly boost your career preparation. You'll find these skills open doors for career advancement and promotion opportunities. Being a good speaker helps you stand out in job interviews, team meetings, and important presentations. It also builds your credibility and leadership abilities in the workplace. You'll convey ideas clearly, influence colleagues, and lead with conviction. This helps accelerate your professional growth and makes you a more effective communicator.
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