Communication Studies Courses
The impact of public discourse on the ideas and issues of culture and history. Offered in the fall semester. HU designation for university core curriculum.
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. Offered in the spring semester. SB designation for university core curriculum.
per semester (may earn up to 6 hours toward COM major). 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Freshman exploratory-application of readings and discussion to specific activity. Topics may vary.
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.
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.
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.
Study of verbal and nonverbal communication in the evolution of human relationships. SB designation for university core curriculum.
Survey and application of basic group communication principles as related to task-oriented interpersonal, small-group, and large-group dynamics, within the context of complex organizations.
This course introduces the basic concepts related to the study of nonverbal communication and explores the application of nonverbal code information to specific communication contexts.
Introduces students to the major concepts, theories, and methodological perspectives that Communication Studies scholars bring to the study of sport.
Reading and discussion in various areas of significance in communication studies. Topics will vary, but the course may be attempted only once.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Theory and practice of argumentation, applying basic principles to both oral and written discourse.
Practical experience in establishing and administering forensic programs, preparing students for competitive forensics events, rendering critical judgments, and conducting forensics tournaments.
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.
Junior or Senior Standing. 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.
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.
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.
Reading, research, and discussion in areas of significance. Topics vary. May count as an elective in the major only once.
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.
A historical-critical investigation of African American public discourse from the Revolutionary era to the present, exploring rhetorical strategies for social change and building community. 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Advanced course focusing on current trends and issues in organizational communication. Course content will center on a variety of topics designated important to the conceptualization and successful operation of organizations. 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.
This course focuses on the methodology and development of skills essential to leadership and strategic communication. It examines personal qualities that guide the most effective leaders and covers foundational principles of leadership communication.
This course introduces several theoretical and applied leadership perspectives for developing effective communication in leading and working with diverse groups. The course is designed to help students critically examine how leadership theory and practice work across a multitude of organizational contexts. Students are exposed to contemporary professionals across various career sectors to examine how everyday leaders approach influencing individuals, groups and organizations.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.).
Introduction to the fields of communication, including theory, law and regulation, history, social implications, and mass media operations.
Study of laws and regulations affecting the mass media and the fields of mass communication. May be taken for graduate credit.
Overview and application of the methods used in quantitative and qualitative mass communication research.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Special topics in mass communication theory and research. May be taken for graduate credit.