Center for Communication Studies

Welcome to the Center for Communication Studies

We are dedicated to fostering excellence in communication through dynamic learning, research, and professional growth. Whether you're a student, researcher, industry professional, or simply fascinated by effective communication, you're in the right place. Explore our programs, research initiatives, and resources to navigate and excel in the ever-changing communication landscape. Join us in shaping the future of communication and unlocking its limitless potential. Embark on an enriching journey with us at the Centre for Communication Studies.

The Centre for Communication Studies (CCS) started as a Communication Skills Unit (CSU) in 1978. The Unit was established by the University of Dar es Salaam to help students improve their study skills. It was hosted by the Department of Foreign Languages and Linguistics, in the former College of Arts and Social Sciences (CASS). In 2013, CASS was split into two colleges: College of Humanities (CoHU) and College of Social Sciences (CoSS). In this new framework, what was formerly the Communication Skills Unit was elevated into the Centre for Communication Studies, under the College of Humanities.

The center offers comprehensive academic programs at undergraduate (since 2019), graduate (underway), and doctoral levels. These programs provide students with a strong foundation in communication theories, research methodologies, and practical skills, preparing them for successful careers in diverse professional fields. Our goal is to train and produce graduates and trainees capable of working in various communication areas such as public relations, corporate and strategic communication, business communication, health communication and others. In addition to focusing on academic excellence, the Center also offers several programmes to the general public through different institutions, organisations, and companies to ensure communication is at its best in our workplaces and in the society at large. Our programmes are geared to produce competent professionals who can compete in the marketplace and demonstrate professionalism in preparation, packaging and dissemination of information.

Programmes offered by the Department

Activities of the Centre

Consultancy Services
The Center provides communication consultancy services to organizations and businesses. This includes offering strategic guidance, conducting communication audits, developing effective communication strategies, and providing expertise in areas such as crisis communication, public relations, document translation, editing, ghost writing, report writing and internal communication. The consultancy services aim to enhance organizational communication effectiveness and achieve specific communication goals.

Workshops & Short Trainings
The Center organizes workshops, training programs, and professional development sessions to enhance the communication skills and competencies of individuals in various sectors. These activities cover topics such as public speaking, presentation skills, customer care, interpersonal communication, and media relations. The goal is to equip participants with practical communication techniques applicable to their professional contexts.

Other areas of focus include trainings on writing skills (e.g., writing reports, speeches, academic papers, project and research proposals, minutes, memoranda etc.), reading skills, listening and note-taking skills, public speaking and presentation skills. Other trainings offered to the general public (employers, employees and job seekers) include professional interviewing and employability skills.

Communication Research & Publications
The Center conducts cutting-edge research projects exploring various areas of communication, such as health communication, interpersonal communication, organizational communication, and digital communication. Researchers within the Center investigate emerging trends, analyze communication dynamics, and contribute to the advancement of knowledge.

Industry Collaborations & Partnership
The center actively engages in partnerships and collaborations with industry professionals, organizations, and stakeholders. These collaborations provide opportunities for students to gain practical experience through internships, cooperative education programs, and industry projects. It also allows the center to stay connected with the latest industry trends and challenges, ensuring that academic programs remain relevant and responsive to industry needs.

Conferences & Events
The Center organizes conferences, symposiums, and academic events that bring together scholars, researchers, and practitioners from the field of communication. These gatherings serve as platforms for knowledge exchange, networking, and collaborative discussions, fostering intellectual growth and promoting the advancement of the field.

Community Engagement
The Center actively engages with the community through initiatives such as public lectures, seminars, and community outreach programs. These activities aim to promote awareness of the importance of effective communication, facilitate dialogue on communication-related issues, and contribute to the well-being of society.

Facilities Available at the Centre

The Centre for Communication Studies offers facilities designed to enhance the learning and research experience for students and faculty. Our Centre is equipped with modern classrooms and lecture halls that are equipped with projectors and audiovisual capabilities, providing an optimal environment for interactive and engaging learning. We also provide access to an extensive university library with a wide range of resources, including books, journals, and digital databases, to support research and academic pursuits. With our well-equipped facilities, students and researchers have the necessary tools and resources to excel in their studies and contribute to the field of communication.