162 courses with the subject COM, each shown exactly as we captured it from the college's catalog, with every element we hold. Where the wording looks broken, that is our reading of the catalog, not the college's text.
COM 110EXPERIENCES IN COMMUNICATION3
An introductory course designed to acquaint students with basic theories in verbal communication, nonverbal communication, and advertising. Students will develop their communication skills through group discussion, oral presentations, and an analysis of ads in print media. A significant portion (at least 50%) is formal oral presentation work. This is a Communications Speech General Education course. (Offered Fall, Spring)
An introductory course designed to acquaint students with basic theories in verbal communication, nonverbal communication, and advertising. Students will develop their communication skills through group discussion, oral presentations, and an analysis of ads in print media. A significant portion (at least 50%) is formal oral presentation work. This is a Communications Speech General Education course.
(formerly NMD 1100) This course introduces students to the history, technology, and critical concepts central to the study of digital literacy. Students will explore skills necessary to participate in digital life and learn what it means to apply digital tools in the context of humanistic inquiry. Students will use digital tools by producing personal and professional projects and interrogate histories of digital tools and their development. Students' work will culminate in an e-portfolio of their own design. A significant portion (at least 50%) is formal oral presentation work.
This course is an introduction to media analysis. Students will learn to ‘read’ media texts (films, television, websites) through the formal elements and language particular to media. Topics for film and television include camera, sound, mise-en-scene and genres. Website analysis focuses on the elements that make up web pages (video, still images, audio, text, graphics). Student assignments emphasize oral presentations. A significant portion (at least 50%) is formal oral presentation work. This is a Communications Speech General Education course. (Offered Fall, Spring)
This course is an introduction to media analysis. Students will learn to interpret media texts (films, television, social media) through the formal elements and language particular to media. Topics for film and television include camera, sound, mise-en-scene and genres. Students will evaluate the spreading of news for accuracy and reliability on social networks and other media platforms. Student assignments emphasize oral speaking skills. A significant portion (at least 50%) is formal oral presentation work. This is a Communications Speech General Education course.
COM 1200Oral Interpretation of Children's Literature3
Study of representative types of literature for children including the picture book, folk literature, modern tales and poetry. Practice in communicating this literature through storytelling and other forms of interpretation. A significant portion (at least 50%) is formal oral presentation work. Meets the Speech Communication General Education requirement for Childhood Education majors. This is a Communications Speech General Education course.
(formerly COM 156) Development of poise and self-confidence through participation in pantomime, improvisation and exercises to expand creativity in expression and movement. A significant portion (at least 50%) is formal oral presentation work. This is a Communications Speech General Education course. (Offered Fall)
The course covers the emerging trend of social media. Students will learn about different forms of social media (Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, etc.), how they are used, the social and ethical issues they raise and the ways they are altering our culture.
Experience in the preparation, design, and delivery of oral presentations, including an understanding of audiences and settings. Attention will be given to techniques of informative and persuasive speeches. Emphasis on the development of professional presentation and speaking skills. A significant portion (at least 50%) is formal oral presentation work. This is a Communications Speech General Education course.
(formerly COM 138 Women and Communication) Study of the complex ways in which communication, gender and culture interact. Exploration of the ways gender is socially constructed and how one’s verbal, nonverbal and 312 mediated communication affirms or challenges prevailing gender standards. Students will participate in research and oral presentations on gender-related topics. A significant portion (at least 50%) is formal oral presentation work. This is a Communications Speech General Education course. (Offered Fall, Spring)
Study of the complex ways in which communication, gender and culture interact. Exploration of the ways gender is socially constructed and how one's verbal, nonverbal and mediated communication affirms or challenges prevailing gender standards. Students will participate in research and oral presentations on gender-related topics. A significant portion (at least 40%) is formal oral presentation work. This is a Communications Speech General Education course.
(formerly COM 314) An exploration of global and national multiculturalism, focusing especially on communication processes. Designed to give students the knowledge to become effective communicators with people from diverse international cultures and American co-cultures. A significant portion (at least 50%) is formal oral presentation work. This is a Communications Speech General Education course. (Offered Fall, Spring)
An exploration of global and national multiculturalism, focusing especially on communication processes. Designed to give students the knowledge to become effective communicators with people from diverse international cultures and American co-cultures. A significant portion (at least 50%) is formal oral presentation work. This is a Communications Speech General Education course.
This course is designed to advance knowledge of health communication theory, research and practice. The major course objective is to provide a solid foundation for evaluating and conducting health communication campaigns including planning, initiation and assessment. The focus will be upon the various contexts of health communication including interpersonal, small group, mass media and organizational templates for message generation. By the course’s culmination, it is hoped a broader appreciation will be cultivated for and understanding of the importance, value and impact of health communication upon patients, families, caregivers, nurses, physicians and health care managers. Specifically, through readings, in-class lecture, discussion, assignments and experiential activities, this class will explore the theory, research and skills associated with communicating in various care contexts.
This course will introduce students to the field of queer studies and emphasizes the potential inherent in queer(y)ing stories/narrative. Students will explore these forms and analyze a range of queer worldbuilding strategies, and their relationship to technology, in theory and practice, including performances, zines/comics, contemporary debates, digital archives, short stories, podcasts, video games, and filmmaking. The course project will allow students to develop a digital storytelling project that explores a queer issue, perspective, activist organization, etc. of their choice. More than 50% of the coursework involves oral presentations.
(formerly Conflict Resolution) This course provides the opportunity for students to examine conflict in everyday life, with a particular focus on the role that communication plays in the development and management of conflict situations. The course covers the primary literature on conflict and communication: definitions and concepts, power, causes and development of conflict in interpersonal, organizational and intercultural settings, with some attention to conflict management strategies. However, the course will primarily focus on the application of theory to conflict in the everyday lives of people. Students will identify a specific area of organizational or other life situation in which they encounter conflict and toward which they would prefer to direct their own research and application.
This course provides the opportunity for students to examine conflict in everyday life, with a particular focus on the role that communication plays in the development and management of conflict situations. The course covers the primary literature on conflict and communication: definitions and concepts, power, causes and development of conflict in interpersonal, organizational and intercultural settings, with some attention to conflict management strategies. However, the course will primarily focus on the application of theory to conflict in the everyday lives of people. Students will identify a specific area of organizational or other life situation in which they encounter conflict and toward which they would prefer to direct their own research and application.
An introduction to communication phenomena in the setting of the family. The goal is to understand how we develop, maintain, enhance or disturb family relationships through communication. The course covers verbal and nonverbal skills as they apply to family communication. (Offered Spring)
An introduction to communication phenomena in the setting of the family. The goal is to understand how we develop, maintain, enhance or disturb family relationships through communication. The course covers various theories and interpersonal skills as they apply to family communication.
(formerly NMD 2260) The course introduces students to the historical development and evolution of media technologies from the advent of literacy to the present. Through a combination of readings, videos, lectures, and digital projects, students will engage a variety of media including the printing press, photography, virtual reality, and more. Social, cultural, and political issues related to media will be central to this course. Ultimately, students will be challenged to extend their knowledge of historical and contemporary media through creative projects and classroom discussions.
This course is designed to introduce the students to standards, practices, and principles of business and management in the context of broadcast & over the top television. Students will have the opportunity to discuss and research current media issues. These issues will include all areas of the broadcast television business with an emphasis on television syndication, programming, and research, and specifically how these areas are evolving with technology.
(also ENG 2280; formerly NMD 2280) This course introduces the processes of writing multimodal compositions for select online platforms. Composition includes the following: short form content for microblogging social media sites, long form content for media outlets, personal blogs, interactive digital platforms, and text-based Adobe platforms. Students will learn to analyze online posts and maintain a multipage blog.
Corporate Communications is a management function responsible for maintaining, developing and protecting corporate identity and brand image via internal and external communications to key constituents. This course focuses on the development of key message delivery in written and oral communications within a company/organization. Students will learn how to address difficult topics and how to disseminate positive news. Focuses will also be on interpersonal, listening and leadership skills. At least 50% of the course will be oral presentations and will meet the Speech Communication General Education requirement for students in the Business programs only.
(also ENG 2300; formerly Scriptwriting for Media) Writing-Intensive Course A course that introduces the process of writing basic scripts for television and film, including public service announcements, TV fiction and short films. The course covers script format, structure, characters, action and dialog.
An introduction to branding that will showcase a student’s skills, expertise and accomplishments through the web. Students will begin creating their “individual brand” by writing a cover letter and resume, developing strategies for their social media sites and organizing content for potential employers. Students work together and independently to promote their “brand” over particular channels. (Offered Fall)
An introduction to personal branding that will showcase a student's skills, expertise and accomplishments through the web. Students will begin creating their "individual brand" by writing a cover letter and resume, developing strategies for their social media sites and organizing content for potential employers. Students work together and independently to promote their "brand" over particular social channels.
A course for students to learn diverse media techniques, tools and platforms. All technologies will be examined to incorporate into professional and organizational projects. Students will create multimedia content and place in a portfolio to distribute over the web to reach potential clients. Procedures into maintaining and administering online products will also be evaluated.
(formerly Serial TV Storytelling) Serial dramas have inaugurated a new golden age of television. Moving away from the traditional episodic structure of primetime TV, they tell on-going stories with ensemble casts and multiple, interweaving plotlines. This class examines long-form storytelling techniques, including beats, arcs, juggling groups of complex characters and developing character change over the course of the season and series. Examples include programming from Netflix and other video streaming services.
This course will develop students’ public speaking and presentation skills for business. The course emphasizes elements of a good speech, key message development and effective communication in a crisis situation. (Offered Fall, Spring)
This course will develop students' public speaking and presentation skills for business. The course emphasizes elements of a good speech, key message development and effective communication in a crisis situation.
(also MUS 240) This course will study how audiences engage with the social, political and business practices of the contemporary recording industries, an increasingly significant aspect of media corporations. Attention will be given not only to major industry giants but also to alternative production and digital distribution models such as iTunes, Spotify and Pandora. (Offered Spring)
An introductory course designed specifically for non- communications majors. An overview of television production combining elements of the studio/control room and location production in the field. Students will become familiar with the entire TV/video process from scripting and shooting through editing.
An introductory course designed specifically for non-communications majors. An overview of television production combining elements of the studio/control room and location production in the field. Students will become familiar with the entire TV/video process from scripting and shooting through editing.
(formerly NMD 2440) This course introduces students to digital media creation, design, and authorship. Students will create visual and multimodal content for the web, including web pages, GIFs, graphics, memes, and thematic social media channels. Students will work independently and collectively to create online digital material and to critique and enhance online projects.
(formerly NMD 2460) This course emphasizes the shifting, context-specific ways in which people persuade, live and make meaning in our democratic society. Students will consider what democratic citizenship means and how to engage productively in civic life, physically and online. In order to foster a rhetorically-informed civic mindset, the course emphasizes rhetorical strategies for meaningful online discourse, considers how digital technologies inform current and historical activism, and challenges students to present and advocate for their own civic ideals. Fundamentally, the course seeks to enable students to think through the ways in which technologies, networks, discourses, and social action are interconnected in individual and communal experiences of civic engagement and democracy. A significant portion (at least 50%) is formal oral presentation. (Satisfies General Education Speech Communication requirement.)
Students will examine the relationship between sports and media (print, online, radio, television and film). Key issues include sports and violence (on and off the field), gender participation and gender neutrality in coverage, as well as economic and political considerations.
Students will examine the relationship between sports and media (print, online, radio, television and film). Key issues include sports and violence (on and off the field), gender participation and gender neutrality in coverage, as well as economic and political considerations. Students who have taken COM 2470 may not take this course.
(also ENG 258) An introduction to the rapidly growing field of online journalism. A hands-on course that utilizes standard journalism techniques for research and storytelling, adapting these for the web while also considering legal and ethical aspects of the profession. Storytelling for the web, online news, web layout and other techniques of the online journalist will be covered. (Offered Spring)
(also ENG 2480) An introduction to the rapidly growing field of online journalism. A hands-on course that utilizes standard journalism techniques for research and storytelling, adapting these for the web while also considering legal and ethical aspects of the profession. Storytelling for the web, online news, web layout and other techniques of the online journalist will be covered. Several news stories will be produced, edited, and posted online.
(also ENG 2500) Popular films and television drama have a profound influence on our individual and cultural identities. This course emphasizes aesthetic, technical and narrative aspects of popular film and dramatic television, focusing especially on how they create meanings. Illustrative examples are screened. A significant portion (at least 50%) is formal oral presentation work. This is a Communications Speech General Education course.
(formerly NMD 2550) This course provides students with a critical introduction to games studies. Students will play and watch games to practice analyzing and assessing them from historical, cultural, and theoretical perspectives. Students will learn about histories of gaming, practices of play, gamer culture, narratives, genre, race, gender, class and violence. Finally, students will be exposed to team-based and solo game design to develop a critical understanding of concepts and skills developed throughout the course.
(formerly NMD 2560) This course teaches students how to use game design elements to communicate and persuade players to make changes in their lives toward greater societal good. As playful systems, games are ideal vehicles to teach varying audiences about how complex societal issues like xenophobia, human trafficking, or sexism arise, exist, or could potentially be solved. Students will choose a cause or organization to design a game on behalf of as they learn gamification techniques that cultivate intrinsic motivation. Individual students or pairs will work on a single game design project over the course of the entire semester with the end goal being a balanced, marketable game for social good. No programming skills are required for this course.
A course in basic television production techniques in the studio and the control room. Hands-on study of TV multi-camera production, studio audio and lighting techniques, "live" editing and creating graphics. Practice in directing and performance.
This is a hands-on audio production course for students to record their own podcast series. Students will record podcasts in the Communications Department's podcast studio and on location using portable audio equipment. Through the evaluation of production techniques, show formatting, interviewing and audio editing, assignments include producing a bi-weekly podcast series to be posted on streaming services.
(formerly COM 118 and 155; formerly Basic Public Relations) Comprehensive study of public relations including identifying and researching internal and external publics, dealing with print and electronic media and direct mail. The course emphasizes the basic skills of the public relations field and analyzes aspects of public opinion. Students design a public relations campaign for an existing company. (Offered Fall)
(also MKT 2550) Public Relations (PR) is a dynamic profession and one of the leading employment needs in today's market. Students will learn how to manage and develop appropriate communication skills across traditional and digital platforms that deliver results. Evaluation of current news through a PR lens and the development of writing and listening skills are important to this field that presents opportunities in corporate, entrepreneurial, government, academia, nonprofit industries and more. Learn how to create and evaluate effective PR campaigns that drive results.
(also ENG 2551) This course introduces students to the various communication tools used by Public Relations (PR) professionals. Students will learn how to develop a content strategy and write press releases, PSAs (Public Service Announcements), fact sheets, mission statements, corporate bios, feature releases, photo captions, crisis communication statements and more. Writing and editing effective copy are learned as PR tactics to achieve goals aimed at addressing the needs of internal and external audiences across a variety of platforms.
Location shooting using portable field equipment. Students will become familiar with digital single-camera techniques, location audio, producing and directing, as well as digital editing processes. Assignments include the completion of several short video projects. (Offered Fall)
Location shooting using portable field equipment. Students will become familiar with digital single-camera techniques, location audio, producing and directing, as well as digital editing processes. Assignments include the completion of several short video projects.
The course will explore the skills needed to successfully create, plan, and implement events as well as learn how to manage staff and staffing problems. Topics will also include risk management, financial control, and successful event evaluation.
From corporate events to nonprofit celebrations, successful event planning incorporates paying impeccable attention to details and successful management. Students will learn how to prepare for events from the financial perspective to the creative outcome. Risk management assessment, evaluation of the proposed event in light of today's surrounding environs and achieving guest goals along with post-event evaluation will be discussed.
An exploration of advertising design in a free-market economy and its effects on society. Students consider the history of advertising, as well as current practices and techniques, from both a theoretical and practical perspective. Students are introduced to the organization of advertising professions and processes from the perspective of consumers, market research, media planning, concept of campaign creation, measuring advertising effectiveness and budgeting. (Offered Fall)
Consumers are exposed to thousands of messages every day. In this course, students will learn the basic advertising principles of how to reach those consumers. Study the role of the advertising in media and society by evaluating current marketplace advertisements ranging from grass-roots to multi-million dollar campaigns. Students will create an advertising campaign inclusive of consumer behavior learned knowledge, advertising and creative strategies, effective research techniques, the latest media buying plans and development of a proposed budget.
An introduction to scholarly research in the field of communications. Students will search for, carefully read and provide detailed written summaries of journal articles. They will also learn how to create a properly formatted works cited page. Assignments include writing research papers, with multiple drafts, based on scholarly articles. (Offered Spring)
This course is a companion to COM 355 History of Media. Media in the twenty-first Century examines the historical background and impact of more recent technologies. Specifically, this course will examine how different types of mass media, such as the television, phone and Internet, have been augmented in ways that were unanticipated fifty years ago. The class will look at the development of recent media and tech industries that are helping shape our mediated world. (Offered Fall)
The course covers the emerging trend of social media. Students will learn about different forms of social media (Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, etc.), how they are used, the social and ethical issues they raise and the ways they are altering our culture. Students are assigned various individual presentation along with team debates. A significant portion (at least 50%) is formal oral presentation work. This is a Communications Speech General Education course. (Offered Fall, Spring)
The course covers the emerging trend of social media. Students will learn about different forms of social media platforms, how they are used, the social and ethical issues they raise and the ways they are altering our culture. Students are assigned individual presentations along with team debates. A significant portion (at least 50%) is formal oral presentation work. This is a Communications Speech General Education course.
Reality television has become one of the most watched forms of entertainment programming with fast-paced storylines, cast reaction and audience interaction with the plot. Students will examine “Crash TV” techniques including situational scriptwriting, confessionals, audience participation and parallel editing. Students will also write, record and edit a pilot episode of an original reality television series.
An introduction to the different types of sports broadcasts distributed on broadcast, cable and streaming platforms. Students will write, produce, record and edit a sports news program with highlight reel packages. Emphasis on how to record a live sporting event, as well as pre and post-game coverage.
An introduction to the process of video editing for all creative and professional industries. Students will explore methods of editing picture and sound that can be applied in an array of ways, including design projects, documentaries, sports highlight reels, music videos, commercials and corporate videos. Assignments guide students through basic techniques using editing software (Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro) in order to develop a story for a particular audience. No previous production or editing experience is required.
This course is designed to improve the ability of students to describe their accomplishments and sell their ideas in situation like professional networking, company meetings and interviews. It teaches professional writing skills and workplace integration for new jobs. Students will learn to create career plans that require them to research career options and potential employers and prepare a development roadmap that will lead them to success within their chosen profession.
(formerly NMD 2700) This course discusses and analyzes memes originating in digital culture as they proliferate into culture, politics and everyday life. Students will learn to differentiate various digital memes from viral concepts to shifts in visual communication. Additionally, students will learn about the business and politics of memes in contemporary life and create memes for multiple distribution outlets.
(formerly NMD 2800) This one-credit course explores the process of creating a social media theme channel. This can be a channel focused on one specific theme, a self-promotion, a parody/satire account, etc. This course requires consistent messaging, persistent use, and active promotion. Students will be required to post daily for 5 straight weeks with an intended goal of growing followers. Students will focus on community management, social media production, post scheduling, analytics, metrics and an understanding of monetization and promotion.
(formerly NMD 2850) This course introduces students to a broad range of theories, concepts and applications of play in media contexts. Looking beyond games and gamification, students will explore use-cases for play in various domains such as business, education and public service. Students will discover histories of multiple forms of playful media ranging from toys and games to puppetry and learn how past and future play practices work within and against our contemporary media landscape. Students will design and implement playful media artifacts and strategies including but not limited to innovative game peripherals, gamified marketing or non-profit incentives, and other play-based projects.
(formerly NMD 2860) Building on themes introduced in the Introduction to Game Studies course, this course examines the relationship between gaming and identity. Identity factors such as race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, age and ability impact the experiences of individual players, their communities and the contexts in which they play. Policies, practices, and community norms will be analyzed and theorized. Students will explore contemporary issues and debates that gaming populations face and hypothesize research-driven solutions. Written, oral, design and research skills will be practiced and honed.
(formerly NMD 3090; History of Digital Media) Writing Intensive Course This course is a focused survey of various academic conversations that inform the study and theory of culture and media technology, with a particular focus on US culture. Throughout this course students will consider culture not simply as something created by people nor as a set of objects that house representations of the world. Rather, students will approach culture as a space in which meaning and the possibilities for understanding reality, technology, and the world are (re)produced. Students will interrogate how culture, through technological forms and media formats, implicates our sense of the world, shapes communicative practices, identities, and performances of everyday life. In particular, students will engage three intersecting topics- technology, politics, and identity- that help illuminate how politics and culture work together, or, how technology enables and informs culture as a site of political struggles.
(also ENG 3101; formerly NMD 3100) This course teaches students about digital production and personal expression through video in online environments with an emphasis on the process of visual storytelling. Students will develop skills necessary to create, edit, and post videos while practicing creativity and innovation. Students are required to produce short form videos (vlogs, site-specific locative media, etc.) on a variety of platforms.
(formerly COM 113) The course focuses on the development of the interpersonal communication skills necessary for building and maintaining positive relationships in both a personal and professional environment. Topics of study include an orientation to interpersonal communication, verbal and non-verbal communication in career and personal relationships, perception of self and others, listening, managing conflict, response skills, cultural and gender considerations, characteristics of leadership and effective work groups and job interviewing. Students will study various theories and practice skill development. A significant portion (at least 50%) is formal oral presentation work. This is a Communications Speech General Education course. (Offered Spring)
The course focuses on the development of the interpersonal communication skills necessary for building and maintaining positive relationships in both a personal and professional environment. Topics of study include an orientation to interpersonal communication, verbal and non-verbal communication in career and personal relationships, perception of self and others, listening, managing conflict, response skills, cultural and gender considerations, characteristics of leadership and effective work groups and job interviewing. Students will study various theories and practice skill development. A significant portion (at least 50%) is formal oral presentation work.
Analysis of how organizations are produced and affected by communication. An in-depth examination and application of theories, contemporary perspectives and research in the fields of organizational communication. Topics include organizational structures and cultures, socialization, decision making, diversity, stress, burnout, technology processes and leadership. Designed for students interested in business, human services, education administration and other professional settings. (Offered Fall)
Analysis of how organizations are produced and affected by communication. An in-depth examination and application of theories, contemporary perspectives and research in the fields of organizational communication. Topics include organizational structures and cultures, socialization, decision making, diversity, stress, burnout, technology processes and leadership. Designed for students interested in business, human services, education administration and other professional settings.
(formerly NMD 3280) This course explores sharpening one's writing and online skills using text, images, audio and video to maximize the impact of web-enabled, customer-facing messages. Students use in-class labs, collaborative exercises, readings, and discussion to examine how to use clear and direct writing, carefully planned structure, appropriate themes and templates with technology that strengthens online voice to effectively deliver a compelling message.
(also ENG 330) Further development of students’ creative writing skills. In contrast to the overview provided in COM 230, students will focus on developing and completing a half-hour television or web series.
(also ENG 3300) Further development of students' creative writing skills. In contrast to the overview provided in COM 2300, students will focus on developing a television series or feature-length film.
An understanding of the many uses of online outlets in the contemporary advertising fields. The course emphasizes the application of advertising concepts and methodology for web-based platforms, including audiences, demographics, layout, media placement, etc. Students design and implement advertising campaigns in an interactive educational format. (Offered Fall)
COM 3320Advanced Online Advertising and Analytics3
This course will provide students with a deeper understanding of advertising and promotional practices in today's marketplace. Overall campaign strategies and creatives will be evaluated for effectiveness and/or recommended follow-up. Campaigns can be designed around continuance of slogans, brand imagery and/or take on social issues and more. Students will be challenged to re-think creative and media strategies against current and applied consumer and audience analytics.
A course in understanding the methods media and professional organizations utilize when producing videos for the web. Students will become familiar with the types of videos public relations and advertising organizations post on their websites. Series developed for internet video on-demand services will also be explored. Assignments will include the completion of several projects including promotional videos and an episodic web series. (Offered Fall)
(formerly NMD 3380) This course delves into the history of the graphic interchange format image (GIF) as well as how to create them, implement them and consider them in a scope of the creativity of the web. The use of the short, infinitely looping animations are a form of artistic expression on sites like Tumblr and BuzzFeed as well as part of our cultural discussion. The course will explain the history and theory of the motion image and educate students on the various methods of GIF creation and distribution.
(formerly NMD 3400) The goal of this course is to provide students with in-depth understanding of qualitative research methods, data collection techniques and their analysis and interpretation. Understanding how to read and interpret academic research is as important as being able to competently perform research methods. Specifically, students will learn how to apply qualitative methods such as observation, interviews and autoethnography to the study of gaming, play, and virtual worlds. Students will analyze extant data provided by the instructor or collect and analyze their own original research projects. Student work will culminate in a pilot study of play and/or virtual worlds.
Students research, develop and implement persuasive and promotional campaign strategies appropriate to corporate, governmental and non-profit organizations. This advanced course is designed for those who desire specialized skills in public relations and promotional communication. Emphasis is placed on tactics such as investor relations and employee communications.
Students taking this course have knowledge about what constitutes an effective PR campaign inclusive of the implementation goals/objectives, strategies, tactics and evaluation. This course presents campaigns ranging from crisis communications to media relations to employee communications and more for student analysis regarding best practices and outcomes. Students research, develop and implement persuasive alternatives to internal and external campaigns designed for various industries and organizations.
(formerly Advanced Field Production) A continuation of COM 2520 and 2560, with emphasis on how high-definition and 4K video sequences are constructed from scripting and shooting through editing and post production. Includes greater stress on audio (audio board, microphones, digital recording and mixing) and lighting techniques for field production. Digital postproduction (editing, graphics) and the roles and responsibilities of the TV/video director and other personnel are also covered.
(formerly COM 139 and 151) An introduction to the major theories influencing contemporary media studies. Media will be explored as multifaceted entities that include texts, industries and audiences.
An introduction to the major theories influencing contemporary media studies. Media will be explored as multifaceted entities that include texts, industries and audiences.
(formerly COM 136 and 251) A survey of the development of media in human communications including newspapers, film and radio. Consideration of technological, industrial, and audience dimensions. Attention to the further development of media research and analysis skills. (Offered Spring)
(also ENG 356; formerly COM 146 and 154) Popular films have a profound influence on our individual and cultural identities. This course emphasizes aesthetic, technical and narrative aspects of popular film focusing especially on how they create meanings. Illustrative examples are screened. A significant portion (at least 50%) is formal oral presentation work. This is a Communications Speech General Education course. (Offered Spring)
(also ENG 3570) This course evaluates existing digital campaign platforms and offers students the hands-on opportunity to redesign them. New strategies and digital platforms are recommended based on extensive research in the marketplace inclusive of audience targets and the usage of the ever-evolving multi-channel digital platform. Students will design and refresh campaigns for local companies and nonprofit agencies and professionally present their findings and recommendations.
(formerly COM 453 Advanced Broadcast Journalism Production) A continuation of COM 248 and COM 366 focusing on the journalistic uses of video and the web. Students gain hands-on experience with various television and digital formats. Covers news formats, interview techniques and digital news packages. Stress on storytelling and writing skills. Several news stories will be produced, edited, and posted online.
COM 248, COM 366 or permission of Chairperson. (Offered Spring, every other year)
COM 3580Advanced Online Journalism3
A continuation of COM 2480 and COM 3660 focusing on the journalistic uses of video and the web. Students gain hands-on experience with various television and digital formats. Covers news formats, interview techniques and digital news packages. Stress on storytelling and writing skills. Several news stories will be produced, edited, and posted online.
An analysis of the origin, development, and cultural meanings of television in the life of Americans from its inception to the present day. Emphasis on how people make meaning of their lives through television and how the narratives of television help to shape society. (Offered Fall)
(formerly COM 3600) An analysis of the origin, development, and cultural meanings of television in the life of Americans from its inception to the present day. Emphasis on how people make meaning of their lives through television and how the narratives of television help to shape society.
This course is designed to introduce the students to standards, practices and principles of business and management in the context of broadcast, cable and streaming television. Students will have the opportunity to discuss and research current media issues. These issues will include all areas of the broadcast television business with an emphasis on television syndication, programming and research, and specifically how these areas are evolving with technology. (Offered Fall) 3 credits 315
This course introduces students to basic editing principles using Final Cut Pro. Students learn to perform techniques such as project settings, audio and picture editing, effects, graphics and final output. The students will develop an understanding of Final Cut Pro editing software through exercises, tutorials and assignments.
This course introduces students to basic editing principles using Final Cut Pro. Students learn to perform techniques such as project settings, audio and picture editing, effects, graphics and final output. The students will develop an understanding of Final Cut Pro editing software through exercises, tutorials and assignments.
This course explores the principles, functions, and elements of media programming with an emphasis on Over The Top (OTT) Television and various streaming services and application. Students will analyze traditional media business models along with emerging programming and distribution models, law and regulation, consumer behavior, and audience research.
(formerly Foundations of Media Theory) Theoretical and empirical literature on human communication and its complex systems. The study of messages, interactions, and meaning in the processes of verbal and nonverbal communication. Topics include language, message flow, organizational culture, power and politics. Theories covered include standpoint theory, agenda setting, uncertainty reduction theory, functionalism and cultural theories.
(formerly 2600) This course introduces students to scholarly research methods in the field of communications. Students will learn about and practice using research methods form quantitative, qualitative, interpretive, and interventionist methodological perspectives. Students will read and be able to summarize and synthesize academic literature in a topic area of their choice. Students will analyze data provided by the instructor or collect and analyze data derived from their own original research projects. Student work will culminate in either a research proposal or IRB proposal.
(formerly Broadcast Journalism Production) An introduction to different types of news broadcasts and the structure of the broadcast news program. Students write, produce, shoot, and edit news stories. The course also covers the history of broadcast, cable and streaming news as well as exploring contemporary electronic news gathering technologies and issues.
An introduction to different types of news broadcasts and the structure of the broadcast news program. Students write, produce, shoot, and edit news stories. The course also covers the history of broadcast, cable and streaming news as well as exploring contemporary electronic news gathering technologies and issues.
An in-depth look at the processes of digital editing and post production, including picture editing, sound editing, music, sound effects, mixing and graphics (titles, credits). Students will explore various aesthetic concepts that contribute to editing creatively and will consider how editing decisions can alter a program’s meanings. Assignments take students through stages of rough cuts to a fine cut.
An in-depth look at the processes of digital editing and post production, including picture editing, sound editing, music, sound effects, mixing and graphics (titles, credits). Students will explore various aesthetic concepts that contribute to editing creatively and will consider how editing decisions can alter a program's meanings. Assignments take students through stages of rough cuts to a fine cut.
(formerly NMD 3600) This course introduces students to 360-degree video acquisition and production. Students will be exposed to various virtual reality and immersive stories; both headset and non-headset based. Students will be tasked with creating a short, non-fiction 360-degree story to be shared on YouTube and Facebook. The goals of this course are to gain an understanding and vocabulary of emerging media practices for the virtual and augmented reality world. Students will gain valuable knowledge of the usage and application of immersive media practices.
(formerly NMD 3810) This course asks students to apply their creativity and critical thinking to objectives-based problem solving by using and making digital tools. Students will develop skills in basic circuitry and beginner programming languages and practice these skills by producing digital products for classroom and/or personal use. Ethical, political, and social issues associated with designing and distributing digital products will also be covered. No prior programming experience is required.
(formerly NMD 3820) This course teaches students to deploy narrative storytelling techniques via the creation of site-specific digital media projects. Students learn basic coding skills (HTML, CSS, & Javascript) as well as basic media production skills (camera work and relevant Adobe platforms) to think critically about location, travel, and narrative storytelling.
(formerly NMD 3920) A continuation of COM 2440 with continued emphasis on digital media creation for multiple platforms. Includes greater stress on creating more advanced visual, audio, and textual content for online distribution. Students will work together and independently to produce a more sophisticated website with more elaborate media content.
(formerly NMD 4350) The ascendancy of gaming as a mainstream, professional endeavor offers opportunities that require new media skill sets and acute awareness of contemporary issues, debates and controversies endemic to this industry. Students will learn media production skills, practices, and ethics related to careers in Esports, live-streaming, machinima, games journalism, game design and more. This course readies students for video game careers outside of production alone through immersive and hands-on learning experiences. Student work will culminate in an e-portfolio of their own design showcasing their skills as a games professional.
(formerly NMD 4440) Critical Making asks students to engage with conceptual exploration through hands-on production activities. Making refers to a broad range of activities; it encompasses modes of physical fabrication like woodworking and fashion design, to modes of digital fabrication like 3D printing and customizing microcontrollers like an Arduino or Raspberry Pi. In this course, the students will conceptualize and create original "maker projects" to explore how processes of physical production can offer new ways of critical reflecting on a range of issues.
(formerly COM 353) This course allows students to build on the field- and studio- production skills learned in COM 252, COM 256 and COM 352. Students will stage, light, shoot, direct, and edit an entire program, providing a more complex understanding of the processes involved in television production.
COM 252 or COM 256, and COM 352 or permission of Chairperson. (Offered Fall, every other year)
COM 4600Communications Internship I3
An opportunity for semester or summer involvement in selected professional and/or business organizations which are designed to place students in settings that best reflect their skills and personal interests and that offer practical assistance in preparing them for success after graduation. Appropriate venues for internships include television networks, public relations departments, positions in media organizations, positions with digital media responsibilities, or other appropriate contexts. Students will be supervised by department personnel and by cooperating personnel in the organization to which they are attached during the internship. Junior status and Chairperson permission needed. Students are required to complete 100 hours at their internship site along with four or more scheduled meetings with their faculty member. COM 4620 may not be requested without Chairperson permission.
An opportunity for semester or summer involvement in selected professional and/or business organizations which are designed to place students in settings that best reflect their skills and personal interests and that offer practical assistance in preparing them for success after graduation. Appropriate venues for internships include television networks, public relations departments, positions in media organizations, positions with digital media responsibilities, or other appropriate contexts. Students will be supervised by department personnel and by cooperating personnel in the organization to which they are attached during the internship. Junior status and Chairperson permission needed. Students are required to complete 100 hours at their internship site along with four or more scheduled meetings with their faculty member. COM 4620 may not be requested without Chairperson permission.
An opportunity for semester or summer involvement in selected professional and/or business organizations which are designed to place students in settings that best reflect their skills and personal interests and that offer practical assistance in preparing them for success after graduation. Appropriate venues for internships include television networks, public relations departments, positions in media organizations, positions with digital media responsibilities, or other appropriate contexts. Students will be supervised by department personnel and by cooperating personnel in the organization to which they are attached during the internship. Junior status and Chairperson permission needed. Students are required to complete 120 hours at their internship site along with four or more scheduled meetings with their faculty member. COM 4620 may not be requested without Chairperson permission.
(formerly COM 291-294, 471-473) Independent study in an area approved by the Chairperson for students with a minimum index of 3.0 in Communications. The student works under the guidance of a member of the Communications faculty. Approval of faculty member and Department Chairperson. (Offered Fall, Spring)
Independent study in an area approved by the Chairperson for students with a minimum index of 3.0 in Communications. The student works under the guidance of a member of the Communications faculty. Approval of faculty member and Department Chairperson.
Independent study in an area approved by the Chairperson for students with a minimum index of 3.0 in Communications. The student works under the guidance of a member of the Communications faculty. Approval of faculty member and Department Chairperson.
Independent study in an area approved by the Chairperson for students with a minimum index of 3.0 in Communications. The student works under the guidance of a member of the Communications faculty. Approval of faculty member and Department Chairperson.
Independent study in an area approved by the Chairperson for students with a minimum index of 3.0 in Communications. The student works under the guidance of a member of the Communications faculty. Approval of faculty member and Department Chairperson.
Independent study in an area approved by the Chairperson for students with a minimum index of 3.0 in Communications. The student works under the guidance of a member of the Communications faculty. Approval of faculty member and Department Chairperson.
Independent study in an area approved by the Chairperson for students with a minimum index of 3.0 in Communications. The student works under the guidance of a member of the Communications faculty. Approval of faculty member and Department Chairperson.
As a self-directed capstone course, students will develop a substantive, critical project that extends the work each student has completed in their individual concentration. Projects may include a film, podcast, social media/ public relations campaign, digital portfolio or research paper. Students, in consultation with their instructor, will set learning outcomes by proposing, developing, and executing a project that challenges their own unique and robust skillset. Building up to this project, students will individually identify the professional trajectory of their portfolios, analyze the state of their professional fields, refine job application material (and grad school), and engage in peer critique throughout the course. A large part of this course will involve in-class critiques and in-class revisions.
(formerly COM 490; COM 270) A continuation of the research project undertaken in COM 4900. Students will implement specific research methods such as surveys, participant observation or textual analysis. They complete their theses by analyzing and writing up their research findings. The finished thesis will be presented orally and in correct written format. (Offered only for students completing degrees from older catalogs.)
