Communication Studies Courses

COM
100
HU
Hours
3
Rhetoric And Society

The impact of public discourse on the ideas and issues of culture and history. HU designation for university core curriculum.

Humanities
COM
101
SB
Hours
3
Principles Human Communication

General introduction to communication studies as a way of understanding how humans coordinate social meaning and achieve communicative goals. The focus is on identifying the foundation of human communication and the functions of communication in everyday situations. SB designation for university core curriculum.

Social and Behavioral Sciences
COM
104
Hours
1
Forensics

The individual events program focuses on the preparation and presentation of various kinds of speeches and on the oral interpretation of literature. The debate program focuses on the research and practice of oral argument. 1 credit hour per semester (may earn up to 8 hours toward COM major).

COM
121
HU, UH
Hours
3
Crit Decisn Makng Honors

Introductory course in thinking critically for the purpose of participating in the process of public decision making and understanding how discussion, argumentation, and persuasion function as communication forms for that process. HU designation for university core curriculum.

Humanities, University Honors
COM
122
HU
Hours
3
Critical Decision Making

Introductory course in thinking critically and speaking credibly for the purpose of participating in the process of public decision making and for responsible civic engagement. HU designation for university core curriculum.

Humanities
COM
123
HU
Hours
3
Public Speaking

Theory and practice of basic principles of public speaking, with emphasis on the compositional and presentational aspects of communication in formal speaking situations. This course may be offered as a lecture course with a performance lab. HU designation for university core curriculum.

Humanities
COM
124
HU, UH
Hours
3
Honors Public Speaking

This course is designed for students in the Honors College and is themed to emphasize a connection between leadership development and public speaking. Theory and practice of basic principles of public speaking are covered, while focusing on mastery of speech composition and performance in formal speaking situations.

Humanities, University Honors
COM
195
SP
Hours
1-3
Special Topics for Freshmen

Freshman exploratory-application of readings and discussion to specific activity. Topics may vary.

Special Topics Course
COM
200
Hours
3
Foundations in Communication Studies

This course will provide an overview of the discipline of communication as well as foundational skills in writing and research. Students will explore theoretical and methodological traditions and approaches to communication research, identify and reflect on the practical applications of the discipline, and develop skills in academic and professional research and writing. This course will emphasize the academic and professional value of locating, reading, discerning, explaining, and evaluating the content of research.

Prerequisite(s): COM 100 or 101
COM
210
HU
Hours
3
Oral Interpretn Literatr

Beginning course in the oral interpretation of literature. The course covers principles and techniques of analyzing and presenting poetry, prose, and dramatic literature orally. HU designation for university core curriculum.

Humanities
COM
219
SB, UH
Hours
3
Honors Interpersonal Communication

This course offers a focused investigation of interpersonal communication in the evolution in close relationships. Firmly rooted in communication research and theory, this course examines the overlapping influences of the self, perception, emotion, verbal and nonverbal messages, and listening. Furthermore, the course examines positive and problematic communication in various types of relationships (romantic, family, friend, and workplace) in a diverse society. Students will be challenged to learn through engaged discussions, reflective writing, and systematic application of course concepts and theories to everyday life.

Social and Behavioral Sciences, University Honors
COM
220
SB
Hours
3
Interpersonal Communication

Study of verbal and nonverbal communication in the evolution of human relationships. SB designation for university core curriculum.

Social and Behavioral Sciences
COM
225
Hours
3
Small Group Communicatn

Survey and application of communication principles as related to task-oriented interpersonal, small group and team communication in social and organizational contexts.

COM
250
Hours
3
Nonverbal Communication

This course introduces foundational concepts related to the study of nonverbal communication and explores the application of nonverbal code information to specific communication contexts.

COM
270
Hours
3
Discourse of Sport: Theory and Practice

Introduces students to the major concepts, theories, and methodological perspectives that Communication Studies scholars bring to the study of sport.

COM
295
SP
Hours
3
Special Topics

Reading and discussion in various areas of significance in communication studies. Topics will vary, but the course may be attempted only once.

Special Topics Course
COM
300
W
Hours
3
Human Communication Research

Focus on how communication research can be used to answer practical questions related to human communication and the media. Emphasis is given to critical analysis and empirical research. Writing proficiency is required for a passing grade in this course. A student who does not write with the skill normally required of an upper-division student will not earn a passing grade, no matter how well the student performs in other areas of the course.

Prerequisite(s): COM 101
Writing
COM
302
Hours
3
Human Communication Theory

This course explores contemporary theories, ideas, and research in the discipline of communication studies. Students will learn to explain, apply, and critique theories, identify various assumptions about knowledge, and enhance their written communication skills.

COM
310
W
Hours
3
Rhetorical Criticism

Survey of critical approaches to rhetorical analysis of discourse. Writing proficiency is required for a passing grade in this course. A student who does not write with the skill normally required of an upper-division student will not earn a passing grade, no matter how well the student performs in other areas of the course.

Prerequisite(s): COM 100
Writing
COM
320
Hours
3
Truth, Ethics, and Deception

An introduction to the major concepts, theories, and issues related to deceptive communication in a variety of arenas, such as relationships, the law, and the media. Students will learn about flaws in research on deception, how effective studies can be conducted, and will develop an enhanced ability to detect deception in everyday life.

Prerequisite(s): COM 100 or COM 101 or COM 219 or COM 220
COM
323
Hours
3
Advanced Public Speaking

Advanced exploration of principles and models of contemporary public address.

Prerequisite(s): COM 104 or COM 121 or COM 122 or COM 123 or COM 124
COM
330
Hours
3
Family Communication: Strategies & Patterns of Interaction

This course examines communication strategies and patterns of interaction in intimate and enduring family relationships, including marital, sibling, parent-child, grandparent, and in-law relationships.

COM
340
Hours
3
Rhetoric & Popular Culture

An investigation of rhetorical constructions of social identities through cases of popular culture. Emphasis is on how mediated constructions come to reflect and reify dimensions of race/ethnicity, gender, class, sexualities, education, religion, abilities, and other subject positions.

COM
341
W
Hours
3
Rhetoric & Amer Politics

Introduction to the structures and functions of written, spoken, and electronically mass-mediated political discourse in contemporary society. Writing proficiency is required for a passing grade in this course. A student who does not write with the skill normally required of an upper-division student will not earn a passing grade, no matter how well the student performs in other areas of the course.

Writing
COM
342
W
Hours
3
Rhetoric Social Protest

Study of social protest discourse and how it functions rhetorically. Writing proficiency is required for a passing grade in this course. A student who does not write with the skill normally required of an upper-division student will not earn a passing grade, no matter how well the student performs in other areas of the course.

Writing
COM
348
Hours
3
Argumentation

Theory and practice of argumentation, applying basic principles to both oral and written discourse.

COM
349
Hours
3
Practicum In Forensics

Practical experience in establishing and administering forensic programs, preparing students for competitive forensics events, rendering critical judgments, and conducting forensics tournaments.

COM
350
Hours
3
Organizatnl Communicatn

Theoretical approach to the study of human communication in the organization context. Emphasis is on predominant organizational communication theories and communication networks, as well as dyadic, small group, and public communication processes.

COM
352
Hours
3
Business Prof Communication

Application of self-presentation and interaction concepts and skills to the transition from undergraduate studies to professional life, including resume preparation and presentation, interviewing, and interaction management in business and professional settings.

COM
366
Hours
3
Visual Culture & Communication

Provides an introduction to the critical understanding of visual images and their uses in a variety of rhetorical actions that humans perform in persuasion, informing, governing, remembering and authorizing public life and culture.

COM
380
W
Hours
3
Influence

This course explores contemporary theories of influence and their implications for communication practice. Topics include power and influence, logical theory, rhetorical theory, cognitive persuasion theory, framing theory, social influence theory, and socially mediated influence dissemination. Writing proficiency is required for a passing grade in this course. A student who does not write with the skill normally required of an upper-division student will not earn a passing grade, no matter how well the student performs in other areas of the course.

Writing
COM
395
SP
Hours
3
Special Topics

Reading, research, and discussion in areas of significance. Topics vary. May count as an elective in the major only once.

Special Topics Course
COM
413
W
Hours
3
Communication & Diversity

Study and analysis of issues of diversity as they relate to groups in society and in communication fields. Emphasis is on the media's treatment of various groups in society. Writing proficiency is required for a passing grade in this course. A student who does not write with the skill normally required of an upper-division student will not earn a passing grade, no matter how well the student performs in other areas of the course. W designation for University core curriculum.

Prerequisite(s): COM 100 or COM 101
Writing
COM
421
Hours
3
Political Communication

This course examines the content, processes, and effects of communication within the American political system. The course emphasizes the foundational theories and concepts central to political communication, as well as the complicated relationship between politics and media.

Prerequisite(s): COM 100 or COM 101
COM
422
Hours
3
Communication and the Law

This course introduces ancient rhetorical origins shared by communication and the practice of law and examines how contemporary communication theory informs the way legal systems work today. Students are given the opportunity to investigate a specific legal practice or phenomenon through the application of communication theory.

Prerequisite(s): COM 100 or COM 101
COM
423
Hours
3
Practicum in Public Speaking Training

Practical experience in public speaking consulting, helping clients clarify and craft effective messages, facilitate the recording and immediate feedback to cultivate dynamic delivery, and develop strategies to calm public speaking anxiety.

Prerequisite(s): COM 123, completion of 60 or more university credits, and the approval of The Speaking Studio director.
COM
424
Hours
3
Communication & Forensics Pedagogy

This class explores the relationship between forensics and academia, investigating the placement of competitive forensic activities within specific academic departments, the development of strong, competitive programs through responsible coaching, and the application of forensics experience beyond the competitive environment.

COM
425
Hours
3
Gender & Political Communctn

Study of the impact of gender on political communication activities. Topics include gender differences in political messages and voter orientation, masculine ideals of leadership, women's roles and advancement in the political sphere, and media representations.

Prerequisite(s): COM 100 or COM 101
COM
430
Hours
3
The Dark Side of Interpersonal Communication

This course explores what happens in negative communicative interactions, including such "dark side" behaviors as secrets, deception, infidelity, narcissism, bullying, and relational violence, and what we can do to shield against them.

Prerequisite(s): COM 220 or COM 320
COM
436
SP
Hours
1-3
Independent Study

This course is designed to allow eligible students to pursue independent projects or research under the direction of a faculty member. Students will be required to make a formal presentation of their work, as necessary to earning academic credit. If eligible, students may secure permission for this type of work only once.

Special Topics Course
COM
440
SP, UH
Hours
3
Honors Seminar in Communication Studies

A seminar-style course designed for Honors College students to investigate issues in communication studies theory and research. Students who are majors are encouraged to produce original research and to share their work to professional or community audiences.

Prerequisite(s): COM 100 or COM 101
Special Topics Course, University Honors
COM
455
Hours
3
Leadership & Strategic Communication

This course explores the theories, models, and strategies that equip leaders to communicate effectively. Students will learn to critically analyze and evaluate their own leadership and communication effectiveness as well as the communication effectiveness of organizational leaders.

COM
460
Hours
3
Group Leadership

An advanced study of small group behavior, examining theories of leadership as they relate to problem solving in group situations.

COM
462
Hours
3
Theories Of Persuasion

Critical review of social influence theories and practice in the area of persuasion and human action. Special emphasis is given to the application of the theories in interpersonal and organizational communication contexts.

COM
463
W
Hours
3
Relational Communication

Focused investigation of communication in close personal relationships, with primary emphasis on contemporary concepts and theories of romantic relationships and friendships. Writing proficiency is required for a passing grade in this course. A student who does not write with the skill normally required of an upper-division student will not earn a passing grade, no matter how well the student performs in other areas of the course. W designation for university core curriculum.

Prerequisite(s): COM 219 or COM 220
Writing
COM
465
W
Hours
3
Intercultural Communication

Survey and analysis of major concepts, theories, and research dealing with communication between people of different cultural backgrounds in multicultural and international settings. Writing proficiency is required for a passing grade in this course. A student who does not write with the skill normally required of an upper-division student will not earn a passing grade, no matter how well the student performs in other areas of the course.

Prerequisite(s): COM 100 or COM 101
Writing
COM
467
SP
Hours
3
Seminar in Public Address

A topical consideration of individual case studies from public discourse, designed to probe problems of the nature of the audience, the ethics of persuasion, and the power of public advocacy in mass society. Topics will vary, but the course may be attempted only once.

Special Topics Course
COM
468
Hours
3
Black Women's Stories

This course will focus on defining the myriad representations of black womanhood and how the raced, gendered, classed and situated experiences of black women are communicated and translated through their stories and silences. This class looks at stories as theories about lived experiences and suggests black women (when speaking as/for/with black women) have unique communication practices connected to their shared oppressions.

Prerequisite(s): COM 100 or COM 101 or permission of instructor
COM
469
Hours
3
Communication & Gender

Explores the role of communication in the construction of gender. Covers theories of gender construction, as well as the roles of gender and communication in various relational contexts. (This is an approved course for the minor in women's studies.).

COM
480
Hours
3
Propaganda

This course explores contemporary theories and techniques of propaganda and their implications for communication practice.

Prerequisite(s): COM 100 or COM 101
COM
490
Hours
3
Field Exp. in Comm. Studies

Supervised field experience in communication studies. Must meet departmental requirements for eligibility to be approved for this course.

Prerequisite(s): COM 100 or COM 101
COM
495
SP
Hours
3
Special Topics

Reading, research, and discussion in areas of significance. Topics vary. May count as an elective in the major only once.

Prerequisite(s): COM 100 or COM 101
Special Topics Course
COM
499
Hours
3
Capstone Seminar

This course is for majors only. It gives advanced students an opportunity to integrate and synthesize knowledge, reflect on the value of the major, and apply coursework to career and life goals.

Prerequisite(s): COM 100 and COM 310; or COM 101 and COM 300
MC
101
SB
Hours
3
Intro To Mass Communic

Introduction to the fields of communication, including theory, law and regulation, history, social implications, and mass media operations.

Social and Behavioral Sciences
MC
401
Hours
3
Mass Comm Law & Regultn

Study of laws and regulations affecting the mass media and the fields of mass communication. May be taken for graduate credit.

Prerequisite(s): MC 101 with minimum C-; 61 or more hours; GPA 2.0 or better
MC
407
Hours
3
Mass Communic Research

Overview and application of the methods used in quantitative and qualitative mass communication research.

Prerequisite(s): MC 101
MC
409
W
Hours
3
History Mass Communctn

Study of the historical development of mass communication. May be taken for graduate credit. Writing proficiency is required for a passing grade in this course. A student who does not write with the skill normally required of an upper-division student will not earn a passing grade, no matter how well the student performs in other areas of the course.

Prerequisite(s): MC 101
Writing
MC
413
W
Hours
3
Mass Communication, Service & Diversity

In this service-learning designated class, students study and analyze mass communication issues of diversity as they relate to groups in society. Students work with area partners on projects related to reaching diverse, mass audiences. Writing proficiency is required for a passing grade in this course. A student who does not write with the skill normally required of an upper-division student will not earn a passing grade, no matter how well the student performs in other areas of the course.

Prerequisite(s): MC 101
Writing
MC
421
W
Hours
3
Political Communication

The purpose of this course is to explore the general character and dimensions of the cross-disciplinary field of political communication. The principal aim is to familiarize each participant with the literature and propositions surrounding key approaches, methods, and substantive areas of inquiry in political communications. Writing proficiency is required for a passing grade in this course. A student who does not write with the skill normally required of an upper-division student will not earn a passing grade, no matter how well the student performs in other areas of the course.

Prerequisite(s): MC 101
Writing
MC
425
W
Hours
3
Media Management

The structure and function of media organizations. The decision-making processes inherent in running complex media businesses. Effective leadership styles. Traditional marketing perspectives applied to media. Laws and regulations that affect media management. Writing proficiency is required for a passing grade in this course. A student who does not write with the skill normally required of an upper-division student will not earn a passing grade, no matter how well the student performs in other areas of the course.

Prerequisite(s): MC 101
Writing
MC
426
Hours
3
Race, Gender and Media

This discussion-oriented class examines the mass media through the lenses of race, ethnicity and gender. The course helps future media practitioners be aware of their roles in creating content that reflects increasingly multicultural audiences. Using current, contemporary and classic media texts, students critically analyze media messages and understand the importance of a diverse workforce.

Prerequisite(s): MC 101 and 61 hours
MC
430
Hours
3
Video Games and Media

This course provides a comprehensive overview of video game media as it pertains to students preparing for careers in the entertainment industry, news, creative media, computer programming and related careers. Video games are a globally relevant medium that entertain, educate, inform us; define and are defined by contemporary culture. The course will prepare students for developing projects that can be used as part of their professional portfolios as they prepare for their careers.

Prerequisite(s): MC 101
MC
431
Hours
3
Sports & Social Media

This course will focus on the connections and engagement of social media within sports communication. This will include topics such as personal/professional branding, audience analytics, media campaigns and messaging.

Prerequisite(s): MC 101 or JCM 146
MC
446
SP
Hours
3
Contemporary Issues in Sports Media

This course is designed to synthesize work in mass communication to be able to construct and critique arguments about modern sports media issues and controversies.

Prerequisite(s): MC 101 or JCM 146
Special Topics Course
MC
464
Hours
3
Sports Media Research

The purpose of this course is to introduce core sports media research scholarship to make students literate on this research. By the end of the class, students should be able to interpret, critique, and advance knowledge that can be gleaned from sports media researchers.

Prerequisite(s): MC 101 or JCM 146
MC
495
SP
Hours
3
Special Topics

Special topics in mass communication theory and research. May be taken for graduate credit.

Prerequisite(s): MC 101
Special Topics Course