89 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 101Public Speaking3
Preparation and delivery of public presentations, with emphasis on creativity, reasoning, evidence, organization, and delivery. Course content will also be applied to analysis of speeches by self and others.
Introduction to communication concepts central to interpersonal relationships, organizations, mass media and other contexts of communication. Focus on concepts and skills that have a practical impact on the student’s understanding and practice of communication. Designed specifically for students not intending to become communication studies majors.
Designed specifically for potential communication studies majors. Deeper overview of the discipline and our department. Emphasis on foundational concepts for practicing, describing, and evaluating communication; and on skills necessary to understand, evaluate, and apply research in the discipline as a communication specialist. Non majors see COM 104: Concepts in Communication Studies .
Analysis of poetry, prose, and ethnographic texts through the medium of oral performance. Emphasis is on literary selection, textual analysis, performance analysis and characterization, and other strategies and skills.
Exploration of the structures, systems, effects, conventions, and genres of contemporary media. Emphasis on improving media literacy to foster informed, critical, and discerning interaction with media.
Introduction to critical thinking and overview of research methods in communication studies. Students will develop a research mindset and learn how research is used to answer questions and support claims. Methods include secondary, quantitative, qualitative, textual, and critical research.
Surveys the aesthetics, structure, and content of persuasive cultural and personal storytelling in communication studies. Students learn what makes a story accessible, meaningful, and impactful to target cultural audiences and apply this understanding to craft narratives throughout the semester.
Storytelling in real-life contexts with an emphasis on performing for elementary school children; theoretical foundations of performance strategies for participatory storytelling; audience-adaptation storytelling techniques for literary and personal stories. (A maximum of three hours may be used toward major degree requirements.)
Introduction to the theory and practice of relational communication in face-to-face and social media situations and contexts. Focus is on improving interpersonal communication skills through understanding verbal, nonverbal, and relational processes.
Introduction to the principles of conflict management and alternative dispute resolution with an emphasis on mediation and conflict theory. Other topics include negotiation, arbitration and litigation.
Application of communication theory and principles to context of health communication, including intrapersonal and interpersonal health across the lifespan, and how politics, institutions, and culture inform and constrain health communication choices.
COM 231Essentials of Integrated Marketing Communication3
Exploration of advertising, public relations, promotions, events and experiential marketing, word of mouth marketing, and social media campaigns through an IMC framework. Considers audience, research, messages, and ethics to provide the foundations of sound practice. Examination of historical perspective and practices of advertising and marketing while critically engaging with current social and cultural events that impact the IMC landscape. Includes career exploration.
COM 232Strategic Writing in Integrated Marketing Communication3
Writing in the field of integrated marketing communication, including public relations writing, advertising planning and copywriting, social media writing, and other forms of strategic communication designed for markets, target audiences, and publics. Students research and produce multiple written artifacts, learn to edit and proofread, and package these communication artifacts professionally.
COM 246Communication with Deaf and Hearing-Impaired Persons3
Exploration of communication challenges faced by deaf and hearing-impaired populations and those who seek to communicate with them. Introduction to (ASL) sign language.
Examination of political communication theory and research. Content includes approaches to and history of political communication, roles of the media and public opinion, and the analysis of political messages. Application of course content to past and current political events.
COM 257Arguing Well: Exploring Argumentation and Debate3
Explores principles, practices and ethical dimensions of argumentation and their application to debates and decision-making. Students will engage in research and critical thinking in order to construct cases and participate in debates about issues of interest.
Focus is on understanding various persuasive influences inherent in popular culture. Includes analysis of persuasive dimensions of advertising, music, art, movies, theatre, social movements, politics, literature, and sports.
Explores the practical and theoretical considerations of central issues in new and converging media. Emphasis on the impact of new media on the economy, culture, journalism, politics, citizenship, relationship practices, globalization, and everyday life.
Concepts, principles and basic skills in writing and producing news content for multiple media platforms; including radio, television, and internet-based outlets. Emphasis on news gathering, story construction and effective storytelling, proper formatting and scriptwriting techniques, and responding effectively to news problems and potentials.
COM 271Communication, Collaboration and Effective Groups3
Theory and practice of collaborative communication. Emphasis on learning to work effectively in face-to-face and virtual groups. Focus on managing social and task dimensions of collaborative decision-making for problem solving and creative projects.
COM 272Introduction to Organizational Communication3
Study of organizations and virtual organizations as systems created and sustained by communication processes. Topics include organizational analysis and development, diversity, leadership, culture, HR and issues relevant to the global and international marketplace.
Introduction to the process, technologies, and aesthetics of digital video and audio production. Topics include field and studio TV production, editing, lighting, sound acquisition, project planning and writing, emerging technologies, and career preparation.
COM 105 , or consent of instructor. Additional Restrictions/Requirements: Sophomore standing or higher. Course Repeatability: Course may not be repeated.
COM 283Digital Audio I3
Audio production experience including project analysis, planning, script writing, recording, and editing. Emphasis on audio acquisition and digital editing. Students complete a variety of short productions working individually and in small teams.
Introduction to digital editing technologies, processes, and techniques, for video and audio using relevant digital creativity and editing software applications. Students will independently work through appropriate training and complete additional independent editing projects. Intended for novice editors. .
Essentials of digital multimedia such as graphics, illustrations, and design using various graphic software packages. Hands-on learning approach while using related computer applications.
Technical and artistic dimensions of 3D animation using high-end computer applications. Hands-on learning in 3D modeling, surfacing, rendering, as well as cameras, lights and motion.
Application of fundamental quantitative research approaches to topics of interest to the students. Emphasis on theory-based research as a means of answering questions and solving problems.
Introduction to classical and contemporary theories of rhetoric from Plato to the present. Emphasis on applying such theories for greater description, analysis, and evaluation of rhetorical process and outcomes.
Focus on applying qualitative methods in communication studies to real-life contexts. Student select topics to explore through the various methods and techniques presented in class. Students present findings in a variety of formats that are easily adaptable to inclusion in portfolios or future goals.
Theoretical perspectives concerning how and why people communicate. Emphasis on applying theories for greater description, analysis, and evaluation of the human communication processes and outcomes.
Analysis of literature through advanced performance theory and skills; ways in which the expressive capacities of the performer’s body, voice, and imagination are engaged with the aesthetic experience of contemporary literature; emphasis on contemporary performance theory, creative dramatics, character analysis, and biography. A one-person show is required.
Storytelling for audiences outside the university classroom with emphasis on performing for young children. Apply performance theories, cultural analysis, and adaptations to performer/audience dynamics across contexts. (A maximum of three hours may be used toward major degree requirements.)
Theoretical foundations and applied techniques related to on-camera presentation for broadcast journalists, television spokespersons, and camera performers. Includes critiquing the work of industry professionals and composing original journalistic texts. Extemporaneous as well as memorized camera performances.
In-depth analyses and discussions of interpersonal communication theories and research as they apply to topics such as developing closeness with others, communication processes in established relationships, and serious challenges in relationships. Theory application and research designs will be critiqued.
Explores communication dynamics within family systems including family contexts, roles, structures, and stages. Analysis of media portrayals of family.
COM 334Integrated Marketing Communication: Message Design3
Focuses on design, construction, and analysis of persuasive strategic messages in integrated marketing communication (IMC) contexts using communication and rhetorical theory. Types of messages include written, verbal, and multimedia.
COM 338Integrated Marketing Communication: Campaign Design3
Design, construction, analysis and evaluation of campaigns that include advertising, public relations, promotions, word-of-mouth and social media elements in integrated marketing communication (IMC) contexts using communication and rhetorical theory.
COM 343Culture and Communication of Deaf and Hearing-Impaired Persons3
Communication techniques used by D/deaf and hearing-impaired and their impact on relationships with hearing people. Students will learn additional ASL skills and concepts.
Theoretical and practical perspectives on communication effectiveness in dealing with people, groups, or organizations that are culturally different within and across national boundaries.
Explores communicative behaviors between individuals from various racial and ethnic groups and contextual dynamics unique to such interactions. Approaches to enhancing the content and quality of interracial relationships are also examined.
Communicative behavior of the elderly within the contexts of friendship networks, health care systems, the work place, and the family. Social forces that influence society’s perceptions of the aging communicator.
Explores how the medium of film uses narrative and rhetorical devices such as stock plots, characters, and situations to communicate political ideas and shape audience perceptions. The films chosen for analysis and discussion cover a wide variety of historical and contemporary political issues.
History and theory of the relationships among the mass media, government, and the American public, and their implications for American democracy. Portrayal and effects of various media. Addresses the media’s independence from government, the structure of media organizations, media bias, news practices, political campaigns, and effects on public opinion.
Application-based examination of management, strategy, and tactics within political campaigns and the media coverage of modern politics. Students will survey historical and contemporary politics at both the local and national levels.
Application of methodologies to analyze and critique the rhetorical features and dimensions of a wide range of cultural artifacts including songs, visual media, speeches, architecture, paintings, and others.
Survey of laws and ethical principles that inform and regulate mediated communication including: freedom of speech and expression, defamation, invasion of privacy, intellectual property, the rights and responsibilities of journalists/reporters, and the regulation of journalism, advertising, public relations and multimedia industries.
Theories and principles to assist students in the identification, analysis, and evaluation of ethical issues and cases in variety of contexts including interpersonal, professional, and mediated contexts.
Examines representations of difference (of ability, socioeconomic class, gender, race, ethnicity, sexuality, etc.) and identity in media. Key debates regarding media representations of minorities as well as strategies to promote and create more diverse and inclusive representations will be explored. Students will engage in critique of media artifacts through writing and primary research.
Emphasis on long-form/feature reporting. Technical training in the operation of news gathering equipment; refinement of news gathering techniques; presentation and delivery skills; and producing news content for multiple broadcast and digital platforms.
Examination of relationships between organizations and issues of identity, culture, ethical practice, and related global processes and forces. Course concepts will be explored through case studies, critical incident analysis, and field research of organization.
Application of course concepts and communication skills to manage solutions-focused conversations with clients and organizations that identify needs and facilitate change.
Develop and refine communication skills in business environments and other professional settings. Topics include written correspondence, selection and use of communication technologies, delivery of mediated messages, and the design and delivery of professional presentations.
Hands-on field video production including project planning, script writing, filming, recording, and editing. Emphasis on mastery of digital camera operation, audio acquisition, lighting, and digital editing. Students complete a variety of short productions working individually and in small teams.
Introduction to multi-camera studio video production in a variety of genres. Skills developed include fundamental directing, studio camera operation, audio gathering and mixing, lighting and set design, and producing skills through the completion of group projects.
Creation of audio-based projects in a variety of genres including IMC, news, sports, entertainment, and social media content. Topics include: voice development, project planning, scriptwriting, recording, editing, and promotion. Emphasis on proper audio acquisition, digital editing skills, and quality programming. Students complete a variety of productions working individually and in small groups.
COM 387Visual Communication: Digital and Print Design and Production3
Learn the fundamental rhetorical principles and theories of graphic and layout design for effective communication. Students create artifacts using current technologies and available materials to meet diverse creative and rhetorical goals. Projects include technical documents, posters, magazines, and newsletters and other digital and print deliverables.
Continued development of essential skills in both technical and artistic dimensions of 3D animation while using a high-end computer application. Through such skills, a short commercial or movie will be created.
Explorations of special topics in communication that are not dealt with in other courses. This course may be repeated under different subtitles. Additional restrictions may be required based on subtitle.
Reflection and synthesis of philosophical, theoretical, and applied dimensions of curriculum and other experiences as they apply to personal and professional aspirations. Students engage in a variety of assignments that demonstrate senior-level competence in the discipline and the student’s chosen sub-disciplines of study.
Emphasis on adapting real-life stories into interactive performances for audiences outside of the university classroom. Students develop skills in interviewing, observation, and understanding cultural contexts and diversity in order to develop scripts and performances.
Explores aesthetic research and creative methods in communication studies through applied experiences that create accessible storytelling productions for general audiences. Students draw on diverse communication skills to develop skills in public speaking, audience analysis, and/or the marketing of original content.
COM 420Critical Issues in Interpersonal Communication3
A collaborative application of research skills to significant interpersonal relationship issues and contexts. Students will complete projects suitable for presentation at an undergraduate conference.
Study of messages conveyed through means other than words. Exploration of meaning constructed by touch, gesture, vocal qualities, posture, artifacts (clothing, jewelry, etc.), the built environment, space, and other modalities.
COM 424Understanding and Managing Communication Patterns3
Emphasis on learning how to act into communication patterns as participants and interviewers with the goal of opening possibilities for creative action. Application to contexts including work, committees, social and personal relationships, and community action. Attention is given to emotional and cultural aspects of communication. Students will contribute situations for examination.
Theoretical and practical perspectives of negotiation. Emphasis on negotiating techniques for use in business and interpersonal relationships. Explores differences between integrative and distributive bargaining.
COM 431Integrated Marketing Communication: Brand Strategy and Research3
Examines the role of research, branding, and strategic thinking in integrated marketing communication activities for clients in an applied learning environment. Uses qualitative, quantitative, interpretive and historical research methods to complete projects such as identity and naming, social media management, and visual brand identity.
COM 436Contemporary Issues in Integrated Marketing Communication3
Apply rhetorical and integrated marketing communications (IMC) vocabulary and theories to more deeply understand and evaluate contemporary issues and artifacts related to cases of branding, advertising, campaigns, and events.
COM 438Integrated Marketing Communication: Event Design3
Apply integrated marketing communication (IMC) strategies to event design in specific contexts such as conferences, professional meetings, celebratory events, and programs for community outreach. Students work with clients to research, plan, execute, and evaluate events and their communicative impact in an applied learning environment.
COM 439Integrated Marketing Communication Practicum: Pier6013
Applied learning experience in a student-run integrated marketing communication (IMC) firm. Students research, plan, create, and execute IMC and media production projects and are responsible for promoting the Pier601 brand, meeting client needs, and identifying new clients. Emphasizes collaboration, responsibility, cross-functional teams, professional and ethical standards and norms.
Continued mastery of the five canons, public-address criticism, composition, and presentation skills across delivery modes (impromptu, extemporaneous, manuscript/memorized) and genres (informative, persuasive, ceremonial). Inspiration, humor and other topics.
Application of rhetorical concepts and theories to artifacts from and about World War II. The historical and contemporary popular culture surrounding World War II is also explored and critiqued through multimedia projects.
Exploration of the intersection between mass and social media and popular culture. Topics include media effects, cultural difference, fan experience and more. Students use media theories and rhetorical tools to conduct critical analysis of media artifacts. Students complete projects suitable for presentation at an undergraduate conference.
Study and application of key principles for design and delivery of communication training. Focus is on needs assessment, creation and facilitation of instruction, and basic evaluation of training results.
COM 474Contemporary issues in Organizational Communication3
Exploration of emerging challenges and cases that influence or are affected by organizations and organizational communication. Connections between intra-organizational communication, organizational cultural, and external communication choices will be examined from a variety of perspectives.
Application of advanced field video and editing techniques in the completion of substantial video projects in two or more of these areas: artistic/experimental, documentary, informational, promotional, news, or sports. Emphasis on development of creativity, and video storytelling, planning and technical skills. All projects are intended for festival submission, regional telecast, or produced for campus and regional clients.
Follow-up course in studio production offering students the opportunity to produce original content for a variety of outlets, including online and digital platforms. Student teams develop, plan, and produce professional quality programming in a variety of genres.
Cumulative course combining field and studio television production techniques with the goal of creating unique programs intended for telecast on UNCW-TV. Student teams develop, plan, and produce professional quality television programs in a variety of genres.
Providing students with the opportunity to gain in-depth knowledge about digital multimedia while using Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, and Adobe InDesign. Emphasis on developing skills in digital multimedia for use in advertising, print, media, and electronic media.
Involves investigation under faculty supervision beyond what is offered in existing upper-division courses. For further information, consult the Directed Individual Studies section in this catalogue.
Practical field experience within an organization, emphasizes reflection and application of communication theories, concepts and skills. May be repeated up to 3 times for 12 credit hours total, but only 3 credit hours count toward major. Does not fulfill COM 400-level additional course requirement.