51 courses with the subject COMM, 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.
COMM 111Media Literacy Credits: 33
This course explores the structure and functions of the mass media in the United States to help students become more critical media consumers and more responsible, informed citizens. The course introduces students to the history and operation of various media industries, as well as the mass media’s roles, ethical responsibilities and First Amendment protections in a democratic society. Students will examine the mass media’s cultural, political and economic influence, including the ways in which they, as media producers and consumers, can use the tools of mass communication to address individual and collective issues.
Introduces the variety of mass communication mediums students may encounter in their professional careers. Focuses on preparation and presentation of various mass communication formats. Examines message construction, framing and interpretation from the perspective of print and electronic media, public relations, and advertising. Study of grammar, spelling, and Associated Press news style also a focus. A proficiency exam will be given during the semester. Students must pass the proficiency test with a C or better to pass the course.
COMM 201Principles of Public Relations Credits: 33
Introductory course dealing with role and function of public relations in society. Emphasizes the application of theory and principles to the practice of public relations.
This is a required Broadcast Media Production concentration course in which students write and design content for radio, television, documentary film and the Internet, including news, commercials/promotions, documentary films, and/or public service announcements. The course provides students with the knowledge and skills necessary to become part of a media production team. Students will learn and apply writing and design skills necessary to successfully participate in upper-division production courses, qualify for internships, and assist in student media productions.
Provides public relations majors with a variety of public relations writing experiences most likely to be encountered in business, government, education, journalism, and community organizations and offers practical exercises in progressive sequence. In addition to helping students develop strong writing skills, the course will review basic public relations principles that practitioners use to reach audiences through mass media.
Focuses on the diverse nature of mass media and the legal and ethical issues raised by race-, class- and gender-related representations of individuals and groups by the media. The course examines media’s influence on various populations within the United States as well as globally. The course develops students’ critical thinking skills in regard to message framing, message interpretation, and message presentation.
This is an intermediate-level course designed for students entering the field of media production and to be exposed to the techniques and purpose of various television studio productions through direct hands-on experience. The course will offer students the opportunity to explore the many facets of television studio production through a variety of projects and exercises.
In this course students will learn to produce compelling stories through various digital mediums, gaining experience and practice using apps in the classroom and in the field. COM 252 will expose students to a suite of tools employed in contemporary media reporting, editing, design and delivery. The course is intended to give students the confidence to tell stories in any digital medium so that students can, in effect, “learn how to learn” any new technology or medium, should they need to use it for journalism or public relations.
Visual literacy is the ability to interpret, negotiate and make meaning from information presented in the form of an image. COM 260 focuses on the theories and concepts of visual literacy and visual communication, two areas of importance for communication professionals. It explores the changing nature of visual content and the impact of visual communication in print, broadcast, web and social media. Readings and class assignments will provide students with the knowledge to effectively communicate the meaning of different types of images in journalism (print, broadcast, Internet and social media), public relations and advertising.
COMM 111 and COMM 112 with minimum grade of C or permission of instructor.
COMM 284Basic Media Production Credits: 33
This course is a required department course in which students learn the key elements of the media production process. The course provides students with the knowledge and skills necessary to become part of a media production team. Students will learn basic production equipment and software that will enable them to work on projects within their own emphasis whether it may be media production, public relations, journalism or visual media.
Introduces students to ways journalists select and process news and information. Introduces students to long-form (print and online) and short-form (broadcast) journalistic writing. Explores different story structures and the various forms of newswriting journalists use in producing content for multiple platforms for print, online, broadcast and social media. Explores newswriting and reporting skills needed in interviewing sources to gather, analyze, synthesize and disseminate information. Provides in- and out-of-class writing experience.
Introduces students to the basic principles and techniques of news editing and design. Students will learn how to select and edit news stories, photos and video for multiple platforms, including print, radio, television, the Internet and social media. Students also will learn the fundamentals of page design and headline writing.
Introduces students to a variety of social media platforms and the ways in which they may be used by communication professionals for information gathering, reporting, publicity, promotion and audience engagement. Examines basic practices and principles of social media planning, content creation and analytics.
In Sports Journalism, students will first explore the history and role of sports journalism and develop a working knowledge of the cultural, legal and ethical issues related to sports journalism. Second, students will use this knowledge to learn and apply the fundamentals of gathering, organizing, evaluating, and writing information to produce effective sports headlines, summaries and stories for publication in various media formats (print, broadcast and online).
COMM 111 with minimum grade of C and COMM 112 with minimum grade of C and COMM 245 with minimum grade of C (may be taken concurrently)
COMM 335Media Advertising and Sales Credits: 33
Examines sales function of advertising in commercial media including newspapers, magazines, radio, television, and the Internet. Theory and practical application in media advertising, sales, and research are explored. Media competitive advantages and disadvantages as well as sales techniques of each mass medium discussed.
COMM 111 with minimum grade of C and COMM 112 with minimum grade of C
COMM 342Public Relations Writing II Credits: 33
This course will help future public relations and corporate communications professionals develop an in-depth understanding of how to interview, write, edit, and pitch story ideas, as well as package information for multimedia platforms. Emphasis will be given to strategic aspects of PR writing and development of writing and editing skills for a wide variety of public relations vehicles. Students will practice work on writing speeches, op-ed articles, white papers, press kits, and special event packages.
Familiarizes students with the laws and regulations governing the mass media in the United States. Deals with fundamental legal topics, including libel, privacy, obscenity, free press/fair trial, copyright, and the regulation of broadcasting and advertising. Explores seminal U.S. Supreme Court and lower court rulings that have had an impact on the application of the First Amendment and the rights and operations of the mass communication professions as well as society at large.
COMM 111 with minimum grade of C and COMM 112 with minimum grade of C and junior standing.
COMM 351Media Field Production Credits: 33
This course is designed to produce visual storytellers, a term that describes single-camera videographers who link pictures, words, and sounds to create stories that communicate a sense of experience to their audience. This course will create, develop, and polish the skills and techniques needed by students to produce video news reporter packages, documentaries, corporate video projects, and/or commercial video productions. These skills and techniques include telling the visual story without words; writing & shooting long-form TV stories, interviews, and features; learning visual grammar; perfecting video editing; and developing on-camera performance abilities.
Introduces principles of digital photography and teaches basic competencies to produce digital photographs in color and black-and-white. Students study history of photography; the camera and its functions; the techniques of photographic composition, exposure, and light; and digital image editing techniques using Adobe Photoshop. Developmental assignments are designed to teach how to take photographs for effective visual communication. Practical application of digital printing techniques also is covered in the course. Students are expected to develop an understanding of the relationship of photography to their professional goals.
For students who have an understanding of basic photographic equipment and photographic techniques. Examines and explores use of visual communication techniques in print media and websites. Covers history of photojournalism, technical aspects of photojournalism, and modern visual communication production techniques in both traditional and digital formats. Assignments designed to teach how to produce and edit visual elements and combine them with text for both print and web-based publications.
Explores the journalistic process of beat reporting for gathering information for dissemination on multiple platforms. Provides instruction in methods of reporting about government and politics; law enforcement and the courts; public and higher education; labor, business, finance, and the economy; arts and entertainment; sports; science and technology; and other “beats.” Students will participate in actual news gathering assignments at government meetings, police briefings, court proceedings, educational meetings and other out-of-class opportunities to explore the process of public affairs reporting.
COMM 381Promotional Publication Design Credits: 33
Offers writers and designers study in print and web-based communication with primary emphasis on desktop publishing (Macintosh) and web-based publishing (DreamWeaver and other web software). Examines practical application of basic contemporary design to printed and web-based materials such as newsletters, booklets, pamphlets, and advertising messages.
COMM 111 with minimum grade of C and COMM 112 with minimum grade of C
COMM 389Internship Communications/Journalism Credits: 33
Internship of three credit hours can be earned for serviced in an approved field. Qualifications include junior or senior class standing; 2.5 or higher QPA overall and 3.0 in the major; completion of at least five courses in the major, including courses necessary for successful work in the internship position; completion of a written analysis of the experience as prescribed by the faculty supervisor; approval of the communication/journalism faculty. Applications must be processed in advance through the Department of Communication/Journalism.
Internship of three credit hours can be earned for serviced in an approved field. Qualifications include junior or senior class standing; 2.5 or higher QPA overall and 3.0 in the major; completion of at least five courses in the major, including courses necessary for successful work in the internship position; completion of a written analysis of the experience as prescribed by the faculty supervisor; approval of the communication/journalism faculty. Applications must be processed in advance through the Department of Communication/Journalism. Requires junior standing and departmental permission to enroll.
Internship of three credit hours can be earned for serviced in an approved field. Qualifications include junior or senior class standing; 2.5 or higher QPA overall and 3.0 in the major; completion of at least five courses in the major, including courses necessary for successful work in the internship position; completion of a written analysis of the experience as prescribed by the faculty supervisor; approval of the communication/journalism faculty. Applications must be processed in advance through the Department of Communication/Journalism. Requires junior standing and departmental permission to enroll.
COMM 399Independent Study in Communication, Journalism & Media Credits: 33
Independent study affords students the opportunity to engage in independent study related to their major field, a supporting area, or specialized interest.
COMM 401Film in the Contemporary World Credits: 33
This course reviews the economic, political and social aspects of the storytelling process in films. Though students are exposed to the various components of the filmmaking process, more importantly, they are taught how to analyze, critique and theorize contemporary narrative, documentary and global films. Students are expected to apply these concepts to discussions and various writings assigned in the course.
More businesses and organizations are becoming media creators, producing original blogs, videos, digital and print magazines, and other content. Brand journalism (also called content marketing) has quickly become a ubiquitous presence on the media landscape. Brands and content strategists frequently hire journalists to create this content, as they have strong news judgment, conduct solid research and reporting, and write what readers want and need. Public relations professionals may work on strategy, research, social media and content creation. In this course, students will learn how to apply journalistic techniques and practices to create original multimedia content and develop strategies for companies, nonprofits and brands. Students can expect to analyze and compare brands and their content, create customer personas and editorial calendars, write original blog and social media posts, design storyboards and more.
Introduces overview of the many and varied contributions of women in mass media. Through slide lectures, documentary videos, and student research presentations, students explore the lives and work of women media professionals, explore some of the notable historical obstacles to women in this once male-dominated field: sexist attitudes, stereotypes, lack of women in management, and conflicts between job and family. Also examines the ethnic diversity of women in this important professional field. Will explore how women’s style and vision differs from their male counterparts.
COMM 111 with minimum grade of C and COMM 112 with minimum grade of C) or permission of instructor. Graduate Credit: This course is available for graduate credit.
COMM 424Media Producing & Performance Credits: 33
This course serves as the culminating experience for students in the Media Production concentration and includes a professional project. Develops skills in both production and on-air performance for television, along with an understanding of how each area affects the other. Students will develop news judgment in selecting information to place before an audience, further develop writing skills introduced in COMM 285 and COMM 224 , learn production formatting and style, learn the specialized professional language of television production, understand and apply legal and ethical obligations and limits of a television producer. Students will produce a live television program during the course.
COMM 224 or COMM 285 and COMM 284 . Seniors only. Graduate Credit: This course is not available for graduate credit.
COMM 425Feature Writing Credits: 33
Deals with specialized writing for newspapers and magazines and offers instruction and practice in developing ideas for articles, using research methods, and writing for mass audiences. Keyboarding skills required.
COMM 111 with minimum grade of C and COMM 112 with minimum grade of C) or permission of instructor. Graduate Credit: This course is available for graduate credit.
COMM 432Public Relations Research and Campaigns Credits: 33
Explores the theory and philosophy of promotion as it pertains to public relations. Examines basic quantitative and qualitative research methods (survey, content analysis, focus group, etc.) that can be used effectively to design a campaign plan. Explores the various components of a public relations campaign plan, which students will draw upon to produce a public relations campaign for a corporation or non-profit organization. This plan will be the assessment vehicle for professional performance in the PR emphasis. Not open to graduate students.
COMM 201 and COMM 241 Graduate Credit: This course is not available for graduate credit.
COMM 445Media Ethics & Professionalism Credits: 33
The Communication, Journalism & Media Department expects every student leaving the undergraduate program to have excellent speaking, writing, listening and reading skills. It also expects every student to have a clear understanding of the ethical principles that guide decision making in the professional world. Additionally, the bachelor’s degree tells others about every graduate’s demonstrated leadership capacity, chosen professional identity and ability to adapt to changes in the communication professions. This course is designed to develop students’ understanding of ethical guidelines through examination of case studies and learn to think critically about the decision-making process in mass communication. The course also gives students the opportunity to showcase the skills acquired during their four years in the program. The course has three primary components: the full appreciation and understanding of media ethics, an understanding of and appreciation for professionalism, and the development of a digital portfolio to showcase their skills to potential employers.
Restricted to undergraduate majors in their senior year. Graduate Credit: This course is not available for graduate credits.
COMM 460Case Studies in Public Relations Credits: 33
Reviews current public relations principles and practices as related to business, governments, institutions, and associations. Examines the application of PR principles and practices in the management of contemporary public issues and problems. Different evaluation criteria applied to graduate/undergraduate students.
COMM 111 with minimum grade of C and COMM 112 with minimum grade of C) or permission of instructor. Graduate Credit: This course is available for graduate credit.
COMM 465Documentary Storytelling Credits: 33
This course introduces students to storytelling in documentary film. Students will learn basic principles of documentary film storytelling with an emphasis on the aesthetic, intellectual and ethical considerations involved in this cinematic form. Traditional writing, form, style and structure in documentary film will be stressed; however, students may explore new creative forms of documentary storytelling for their final project.
Introduces principles of advanced digital photography and teaches competencies in areas such as photographic composition, exposure, and lighting. Students explore practical applications of advanced photographic techniques in RAW and high dynamic range (HDR) photography. Students also learn advanced techniques in photographic lighting for natural and studio applications. Developmental assignments cover techniques in various types of photography, such as portrait; fashion and bridal; still life and product/promotion; nature and wildlife; sports and action; and architectural photography. The course explores advanced digital manipulation techniques through application of Adobe Photoshop. Students are expected to develop an understanding of the relationship of digital photography to their professional goals. Graduate students enrolled in the course must conduct original research on a topic related to visual communication. Different evaluation criteria are applied to graduate/undergraduate students.
COMM 360 or permission of instructor. Graduate Credit: This course is available for graduate credit.
COMM 476Magazine Media & Design Credits: 33
Provides opportunity to examine, discuss, and create periodical publications (magazines) in a variety of specialized formats. Develops skills in understanding and creating periodical publications by focusing on writing and design. Examines a variety of magazines to provide an understanding of content, typography, design, layout, and production. Students learn to create promotional materials necessary to develop audience for periodical publication. Students write and edit several stories for their own publication, which is final course project. Students produce a 32-page magazine as this final project. Graduate students conduct market research analysis and a strategic promotional plan in addition to standard coursework.
COMM 111 with minimum grade of C and COMM 112 with minimum grade of C) or permission of instructor. Graduate Credit: This course is available for graduate credit.
COMM 478Digital Journalism Credits: 33
This course is a senior-level experiential class for students in the Journalism concentration and includes developmental projects as well as a final professional project. It focuses on the changing nature of technology and its use in news organizations to gather, analyze, synthesize and disseminate information. Focuses on developing, researching, and writing specialized stories for newspaper, magazine, television and radio websites and social media. Students learn to approach stories as packages, developing story ideas that can be presented in written, audio, and video formats. Focuses on writing and editing, written narrative, blogging, podcasting, live tweeting, and capturing and editing digital audio and digital video segments, developing accompanying links, and designing a story package to be presented in print, on a website and on social media.
COMM 285 , COMM 293 and COMM 375 . Seniors only; graduate students with approval of instructor Graduate Credit: This course is available for graduate credit.
COMM 481Interactive Media Design Credits: 33
This course primarily deals with digital and interactive design techniques for multiple-platforms with emphasis on web design. It also includes lessons on how to format a web-based publication for mobile and digital pads, how to create basic interactive online advertisements and slideshows; and how to design interactive promotional publications.
This course helps you build foundations for how to create, populate, edit, design, and promote your website. Students will learn about Content Management Systems (CMS) in this course. Students will acquire an understanding of what a CMS is and how it works. Students will create websites and personalize them; work with blocks to understand settings and menu options; learn about illustrations and how to use graphic elements correctly; edit blocks/page content and posts; and learn to promote web content by using the links function to connect with relevant social media sites.
COMM 111 with minimum grade of C and COMM 112 with minimum grade of C) or permission of instructor. Graduate Credit: This course is not available for graduate credit.
COMM 483Issues in Media Management Credits: 33
Many job roles today are facing unique leadership challenges in an increasingly digitized and globalized context. This is especially true of the mass media. From journalism and public relations to advertising and other communication roles - newer technologies, shrinking workforces, and the convergence of multiple media platforms have meant employees have to not just learn new tools, but also get better at social networking, dealing with diversity issues at the workplace, and understanding why employees resist change. At the same time, media professionals at all levels are experiencing more decision-making latitude. As start-ups and smaller organizations become the norm, leadership positions are thrust upon employees at a much earlier stage in their careers. Communication strategies will play a key role in negotiating many of these challenges. This course prepares students for possible decision-making challenges, communicating effectively to address emerging challenges, and team training in a media organizational context.
Provides students with insights into the programming of local TV and radio stations; local cable TV systems; national TV, radio, and cable TV networks; national DBS, DTH, and wireless cable services; and international Internet program providers. Emphasis on issues involving program creation and development, program scheduling, program distribution, and audience evaluation of programs.
