Career-focused program combines communication skills and experiential learning to prepare students for workplace success
Scottsdale Community College (SCC) is launching its new Communication Competence in the Workplace Academic Certificate for the Fall 2026 semester. This new workforce-focused program is designed to help students develop the communication, collaboration, critical thinking, and leadership competencies that employers consistently identify as essential for workplace success across industries.
The certificate prepares students to thrive in today's dynamic workplace through applied learning experiences that mirror real-world professional challenges. Rather than focusing solely on communication theory, the program emphasizes practical skill development in interpersonal communication, team collaboration, public speaking, problem-solving, conflict resolution, leadership, and professional relationship-building.
"Employers across every industry tell us they need professionals who can communicate effectively, collaborate with diverse teams, solve problems, and lead with confidence," said Dr. Eric Leshinskie, President of Scottsdale Community College. "This certificate gives students the opportunity to develop those essential workplace competencies through hands-on, experiential learning. By combining classroom instruction with real-world application, we're helping students build the skills that lead to career success and strengthen Arizona's workforce."
The interdisciplinary certificate combines coursework in written and oral communication with experiential learning opportunities that allow students to practice and refine their skills in authentic settings. Students learn to communicate effectively in one-on-one conversations, small-group environments, presentations, and team-based projects while developing the adaptability and professionalism required in today's workplace.
A distinguishing feature of the program is its service-learning field experience, which enables students to apply classroom concepts through work with private and public agencies, educational institutions, and community organizations. Carole Redden, a Communication professor at SCC says, “This experiential component provides valuable opportunities for students to navigate real workplace communication challenges, gain professional experience, and build meaningful connections within the community.”
Upon completion of the certificate, students will be able to:
- Communicate effectively in professional and organizational settings
- Collaborate productively as members and leaders of teams
- Deliver clear and persuasive presentations
- Navigate interpersonal and workplace communication challenges
- Apply critical thinking and problem-solving skills to real-world situations
- Build professional relationships that support career growth and organizational success
The certificate reflects SCC's commitment to preparing students not only with academic knowledge, but also with the durable, transferable skills that employers value most. Because effective communication is essential across industries – from business and healthcare to education, technology, nonprofit organizations, and public service – the program provides students with competencies that can enhance career opportunities in virtually any field.
For more information about the certificate, visit Communication Competence in the Workplace.
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