Communication Studies

Dr. Zach Justus

Program Coordinator
Professor, & CMST 131 Course Coordinator
  • PhD (2009) - Communication, Arizona State University
  • MA (2005) - Human Communication, California State University, Chico
  • BA (2003) - Speech Communication, California State University, Chico

"Mutability is our tragedy, but it's also our hope.” –Boethius from The Consolation of Philosophy 

Human beings have a co-dependent relationship with language—language shapes us and we shape language. My life as a researcher and as an instructor is dedicated to understanding the nuances of this relationship. My first exposure to language theory was as an undergraduate and debater at CSU Chico. I continued to pursue the complications of humans and language as a Master’s student at Chico, where my interests became more narrowly focused on terrorism, national security, and politics. As a PhD student at Arizona State University I joined the Consortium for Strategic Communication and co-authored two book chapters in Weapons of Mass Persuasion concerning language and terrorism. The same issues fascinate me today as I continue to explore politics and security through the study of conservativism in the United States.

Professional Affiliations

  • Western States Communication Association (WSCA)
  • National Communication Association

Courses Frequently Taught

  • CMST 131 - Speech Communication Fundamentals
  • CMST 350 - Foundations of Rhetorical Communication Theories and Practice
  • CMST 354 - Persuasion
  • CMST 452 - Freedom of Speech
  • CMST 620 - Teaching Strategies for Communication Studies Teaching Associates

Current Interests

The language of terrorism. The rhetoric of conservative activism in the United States. The rhetoric of immigration.

Portrait of Dr. Zach Justus
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