Department of Communication Debate Program

The Debate Program at Central Michigan University has been active and successful for more than 40 years. Students have won numerous awards at the National Forensics Association's National Tournament and the Pi Kappa Delta National Tournament.

Recent CMU debate alumni have gone on to top-tier law schools and management positions in major companies.

The debate squad has traveled to tournaments in New York, Washington, California, Iowa, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Kansas, Kentucky, Minnesota, Georgia, and throughout Michigan.

Numerous academic studies show that competitive debate trains students to think critically on their feet. It gives them confidence in public speaking and teaches them how to do in-depth research.

Although high school experience helps, CMU coaches work closely with beginning students to prepare them for tournament competitions. Team members meet at least weekly to work on speeches and plan for tournaments.

Students with debate experience in high school or who perform at a high level after joining the team may be eligible for scholarships. Students can also receive academic credit for participating on the team.