COMM - Communication
COMM - Communication
COMM 1100 Human Communication (3-0-3)
This course is a broad approach to oral communication skills including intrapersonal, interpersonal, small group, and public speaking. Students in this course will be expected to participate in discussions on a frequent basis, take 12 short online quizzes, complete a variety of unit assignments and take a proctored final exam. Course available through eCore.
COMM 2105 Interpersonal Communication (3-0-3)
A study of the fundamental concepts of person-to-person communication including opportunities to practice skills such as supportive behaviors, active listening, and assertiveness.
COMM 2115 Intercultural Communication (3-0-3)
A study of communication across cultural, racial, and ethnic differences, with emphasis on how identity, power, and social meanings of “difference” are communicated, shaped, and negotiated in diverse interpersonal and societal contexts. Students explore barriers to effective communication across cultures and racial/ethnic groups and practice strategies for improving intercultural and interracial communication competence.
COMM 2136 Group Communication (3-0-3)
A study of communication processes in groups, teams, and organizational settings. This course introduces foundational theories of group dynamics, leadership, power, conflict, and decision-making while examining how communication shapes organizational values, culture, diversity, and change. Through experiential activities and applied analysis, students develop skills for effective participation, problem solving, and communication in small groups and professional organizational contexts. (Course Fee Required)
COMM 2137 Introduction to Mass Communication (3-0-3)
General orientation to the field of mass communication, including a survey of journalism, broadcasting, the Internet, public relations, advertising, photography, film and recording mediums. This course will briefly review the history and basic operation of each major mass medium and introduce critical evaluation of media performance.
COMM 2545 Selected Topics in Communication ((0-6)-(0-20)-(1-6))
The study of a selected topic in communication. May be taken three times for credit.
Repeatability: Repeatable for credit up to 3 times or 20 hours.
COMM 2555 Selected Topics in Film Production ((0-6)-(0-20)-(1-6))
Prerequisite COMM 1115 with B or above. Specialized topics related to Film Production. May be repeated two times for credit with different topics up to 18 credit hours.
COMM 3125 Modern Media and Culture (3-0-3)
Prerequisite(s): COMM 2105 with a minimum grade of C or COMM 2115 with a minimum grade of C or COMM 2136 with a minimum grade of C or COMM 2137 with a minimum grade of C
A broad examination of modern media, digital communication technologies, and their cultural impact. This course explores mass communication and computer-mediated communication theories, media ethics, media effects, online communication practices, and the historical development of digital and traditional media. Students analyze how contemporary media systems shape culture, identity, public discourse, and everyday social interaction through both mass and digital platforms.
COMM 3135 Persuasion (3-0-3)
Prerequisite(s): COMM 2105 with a minimum grade of C or COMM 2115 with a minimum grade of C or COMM 2136 with a minimum grade of C or COMM 2137 with a minimum grade of C
An introductory study of selected theories of persuasion. Students will examine, analyze, and apply persuasive techniques used in today's culture.
COMM 3136 Non-Verbal Communication (3-0-3)
Prerequisite(s): COMM 2105 with a minimum grade of C or COMM 2115 with a minimum grade of C or COMM 2136 with a minimum grade of C or COMM 2137 with a minimum grade of C
A study of body language, paralinguistics, proxemics and the sociological and psychological elements which combine to give meaning and purpose to non-verbal communication.
COMM 3139 Interpersonal Conflict Resolution (3-0-3)
Introduces positive conflict management processes coupled with communication skills and principled negotiation. Discussion of readings, special assignments, basic theoretical foundations of interpersonal conflict, and the practical application of such theories in everyday interaction.
COMM 3141 Introduction to Public Relations (3-0-3)
Prerequisite(s): COMM 2105 with a minimum grade of C or COMM 2115 with a minimum grade of C or COMM 2136 with a minimum grade of C or COMM 2137 with a minimum grade of C
The theory, function and practice of effective explanation and presentation of the nature and activities of an individual or organization to diverse segments of the public, both in terms of its daily operation and in view of its overall objectives.
COMM 3145 Family Communication (3-0-3)
Prerequisite(s): COMM 2105 with a minimum grade of C or COMM 2115 with a minimum grade of C or COMM 2136 with a minimum grade of C or COMM 2137 with a minimum grade of C
Analysis of the communication processes within the family as well as the extent to which they affect and are affected by larger social systems.
COMM 3146 Political Communication (3-0-3)
Prerequisite(s): COMM 2105 with a minimum grade of C or COMM 2115 with a minimum grade of C or COMM 2136 with a minimum grade of C or COMM 2137 with a minimum grade of C
Introduction to theory and practices of political communication, including the conduct of campaigns and providing public services. In addition, the student will participate in a political or voter registration campaign, or work in an elected official's office.
COMM 3148 Community, Dialogue, & Advocacy (3-0-3)
Prerequisite(s): COMM 2105 with a minimum grade of C or COMM 2115 with a minimum grade of C or COMM 2136 with a minimum grade of C or COMM 2137 with a minimum grade of C
This class explores the markings and dynamics of a rhetorical theory addressing the centrality of communication in creating and sustaining community. Students will study theory as both a subject and process of thought as they inquire into the concept of community as a discursive realm that mediates our public and private relationships. During the course, they will identify and participate in projects, such as study circles, to become a more active voice in our community. The course will emphasize concrete ways communication maintains community as we strive to build a theory conducive to application in the real-world interactions of human beings in a physical, living environment.
COMM 3149 Race and Communication (3-0-3)
Prerequisite(s): COMM 2105 with a minimum grade of C or COMM 2115 with a minimum grade of C or COMM 2136 with a minimum grade of C or COMM 2137 with a minimum grade of C
A study of the theoretical and practical issues related to inter-ethnic, interracial, and multicultural communication among residents of the United States. This course introduces students to critical concepts to analyze how culture, identity, and the meanings of "difference" are reflected, shaped, and negotiated in and through our everyday communication practices.
COMM 3235 Interactive Media Production (2-2-3)
Prerequisite(s): COMM 2105 with a minimum grade of C or COMM 2115 with a minimum grade of C or COMM 2136 with a minimum grade of C or COMM 2137 with a minimum grade of C
An introduction to digital media production and communication in the context of comprehensive communication campaigns, focusing on the use of design, production, and delivery of multimedia communication in publishing, broadcasting, public relations and advertising. (Course Fee Required)
Restriction(s):
Freshman, Sophomore or High School Dual Enrollment students may not enroll.
Enrollment is limited to Undergraduate Level level students.
COMM 3236 Video Editing (1-4-3)
Prerequisite(s): COMM 2105 with a minimum grade of C or COMM 2115 with a minimum grade of C or COMM 2136 with a minimum grade of C or COMM 2137 with a minimum grade of C
Fundamental principles of continuity editing. Through practical editing projects students will learn in demand workforce skills such as: how to organize footage, edit dailies, sequences, postproduction workflow management, color correction, color grading, sweetening audio, and rendering exports to multiple formats. Students will learn how to manage various editing projects including social media verticals and horizontals, reels, portfolios, demos, trailers, documentaries, narratives, commercials, and business videos.
COMM 3240 Podcasting 1 (3-0-3)
Prerequisite(s): COMM 2105 with a minimum grade of D or COMM 2115 with a minimum grade of D or COMM 2136 with a minimum grade of D or COMM 2137 with a minimum grade of D
This course is designed to provide students with the industry-standard knowledge and essential entry-level skills required to produce podcasts - from concept to delivery. Additionally, students will be taught standards of effective marketing, podcasting promotion, and audience interaction.
COMM 3242 Writing for Media (2-2-3)
Prerequisite(s): COMM 2105 with a minimum grade of C or COMM 2115 with a minimum grade of C or COMM 2136 with a minimum grade of C or COMM 2137 with a minimum grade of C
This course provides comprehensive training in professional media writing across print, broadcast, digital, and strategic communication contexts. Students learn industry-standard writing conventions, AP style, and methods of information gathering for content development. Assignments include news writing, feature writing, editorial/opinion, public relations writing, social media content, and multimedia scriptwriting. Students revise work through feedback and produce a polished portfolio that reflects strategic writing skills for diverse media industries.
COMM 3256 Communication Theories (3-0-3)
COMM 3259 Communication Research (3-0-3)
An examination of research methods in human communication, emphasizing both qualitative and quantitative approaches. Topics include research design, data collection, analysis, and interpretation of data, with attention to the application of research findings to communication theory and practice.
COMM 3498 Practicum (0-0-(1-6))
Prerequisite(s): COMM 2105 with a minimum grade of C or COMM 2115 with a minimum grade of C or COMM 2136 with a minimum grade of C or COMM 2137 with a minimum grade of C
Practicum is an opportunity to begin applying coursework to hands-on experience for students. Students will coordinate with the department chair to find an on-campus site where they can work a minimum of 50 hours during the semester. The work they do must be relevant to their academic and professional goals in the field of integrated media or public relations and must be supervised by a person qualified and committed to furthering the student’s knowledge and skills. The practicum experience is designed to test student ability to function like a professional while cultivating communication knowledge and skills in preparation for entering an internship.
Repeatability: Repeatable for credit up to 3 times or 6 hours.
COMM 3698 Junior Internship (0-0-(1-6))
Prerequisite(s): COMM 2105 with a minimum grade of C or COMM 2115 with a minimum grade of C or COMM 2136 with a minimum grade of C or COMM 2137 with a minimum grade of C
Application of communication skills in the workplace. (S/U grading)
Restriction(s):
Enrollment limited to Junior students.
Enrollment limited to students major in Communication.
Enrollment limited to students in a Bachelor of Arts degree.
Enrollment limited to students in the College of the Arts college.
COMM 4000 Communication Exit Assessment (0-0-0)
Prerequisite(s): COMM 2105 with a minimum grade of C or COMM 2115 with a minimum grade of C or COMM 2136 with a minimum grade of C or COMM 2137 with a minimum grade of C
Student must be communication major with senior standing and 2.5 GPA in major. The student will prepare a portfolio representing his/her work from at least eight communication or related courses. The portfolio may contain audio and visual materials as well as text. After the portfolio is satisfactorily organized, the student will have an interview with a faculty panel. Satisfactory completion of this course is required for graduation. (S/U grading.)
Restriction(s):
Enrollment limited to Senior, Non-Degree - Undergrad PostBac or Degree - Undergrad PostBac students.
Enrollment limited to students major in Communication or *Communication.
COMM 4107 Communication, Gender, and Sexuality (3-0-3)
Prerequisite(s): COMM 2105 with a minimum grade of C or COMM 2115 with a minimum grade of C or COMM 2136 with a minimum grade of C or COMM 2137 with a minimum grade of C
Examines multiple relationships between communication, gender, and sexuality. Emphasizes how communication creates gender and power roles and how communicative patterns create, sustain, reflect, and alter social conceptions of gender and sexuality.
COMM 4108 Social and Digital Media Writing (3-0-3)
Prerequisite(s): (COMM 3242 with a minimum grade of B and COMM 2105 with a minimum grade of C) or (COMM 3242 with a minimum grade of B and COMM 2115 with a minimum grade of C) or (COMM 3242 with a minimum grade of B and COMM 2136 with a minimum grade of C) or (COMM 3242 with a minimum grade of B and COMM 2137 with a minimum grade of C)
Students will learn to apply the core values of flexibility, critical thinking, and experimentation on new media platforms.
COMM 4115 Rhetorical Criticism (3-0-3)
Prerequisite(s): COMM 2105 with a minimum grade of C or COMM 2115 with a minimum grade of C or COMM 2136 with a minimum grade of C or COMM 2137 with a minimum grade of C
Introduction to the practice of rhetorical criticism. It is designed to develop students' skills in reading texts rhetorically--to understand how specifically tailored messages move people to think and act in particular ways.
COMM 4116 Communication Ethics (3-0-3)
Prerequisite(s): COMM 2105 with a minimum grade of C or COMM 2115 with a minimum grade of C or COMM 2136 with a minimum grade of C or COMM 2137 with a minimum grade of C
This course provides an understanding of the ethical and philosophical framework of decision-making in the field of communication. It explores contemporary and classic case studies in ethics relevant to major communication arenas like interpersonal communication, organizational communication, and mass communication.
COMM 4125 Free Speech and Free Expression (3-0-3)
Prerequisite(s): COMM 2105 with a minimum grade of C or COMM 2115 with a minimum grade of C or COMM 2136 with a minimum grade of C or COMM 2137 with a minimum grade of C
Examines foundational arguments and theories related to free speech and expression including landmark Supreme Court decisions interpreting the First Amendment and the legal limitations and privileges affecting communication professionals.
Restriction(s):
Freshman or Sophomore students may not enroll.
COMM 4135 Crisis Communication (3-0-3)
Prerequisite(s): COMM 2105 with a minimum grade of C or COMM 2115 with a minimum grade of C or COMM 2136 with a minimum grade of C or COMM 2137 with a minimum grade of C
This course is an overview of the crisis communication process. This course focuses on theories of crisis communication and how they can be applied to actual crisis situations. Students will learn the crisis management process: prevention preparation, response, and learning.
Restriction(s):
Enrollment limited to Junior or Senior students.
COMM 4141 Public Relations Management (3-0-3)
Prerequisite(s): (COMM 3141 with a minimum grade of C and COMM 2105 with a minimum grade of C) or (COMM 3141 with a minimum grade of C and COMM 2115 with a minimum grade of C) or (COMM 3141 with a minimum grade of C and COMM 2136 with a minimum grade of C) or (COMM 3141 with a minimum grade of C or COMM 2137 with a minimum grade of C)
This course provides advanced study and application of strategic public relations management. Students identify, analyze, and solve typical public relations problems across industry, nonprofit, educational, governmental, and community contexts. Emphasis is placed on strategic planning, research-based decision making, campaign development, implementation of strategies and tactics, and evaluation of communication outcomes. Using case studies and client-based projects, students design and execute comprehensive public relations campaign plans that integrate professional standards, civic responsibility, and ethical practice.
COMM 4147 Advertising Campaigns (3-0-3)
Prerequisite(s): (COMM 3141 and COMM 2105) or (COMM 3141 and COMM 2115) or (COMM 3141 and COMM 2136) or (COMM 3141 and COMM 2137)
This course is designed for students to apply their collective abilities and knowledge toward the development of a comprehensive advertising campaign for a client as designated by the American Advertising Federation through its National Student Advertising Campaign Competition. (Course Fee Required)
Restriction(s):
Freshman, Sophomore or High School Dual Enrollment students may not enroll.
COMM 4257 Video Production II (1-4-3)
Prerequisite(s): COMM 3257 with a minimum grade of C and (COMM 2105 with a minimum grade of C or COMM 2115 with a minimum grade of C or COMM 2136 with a minimum grade of C or COMM 2137 with a minimum grade of C)
A course in Documentary Web Video Production that is designed to provide students with a framework for production of various documentary styles. The instruction uses readings, screenings, critical analysis, discussion, equipment and process orientation, and supervised and unsupervised field production and editing. We will work with digital video/audio hardware/software to develop advanced media production skills.
COMM 4258 Video Production III (3-0-3)
Prerequisite(s): COMM 3257 with a minimum grade of C and COMM 4257 with a minimum grade of C and (COMM 2105 with a minimum grade of C or COMM 2115 with a minimum grade of C or COMM 2136 with a minimum grade of C or COMM 2137 with a minimum grade of C)
This advanced video production class is designed to emphasize nonfiction field production and qualitative research methods. The course combines theory, research and practical application. Classroom training which consists of hands-on demonstrations, screenings, readings, lectures and discussion will prepare students to produce documentary, commercial, or short-form narrative content. As students research the story-telling processes, they will gain greater production experience both individually and in groups. This course will have a heavy emphasis on research, pre-planning and writing as integral components of video production and distribution. This course will prepare students for future production film opportunities.
COMM 4259 Integrated Web Design (1-4-3)
Prerequisite(s): COMM 2105 with a minimum grade of C or COMM 2115 with a minimum grade of C or COMM 2136 with a minimum grade of C or COMM 2137 with a minimum grade of C
Principles and production of multi-level convergent media where all modes of communication and information, in the context of comprehensive communication campaigns, are integrated into a smaller, portable device. (Course Fee Required)
Restriction(s):
Enrollment limited to Junior or Senior students.
COMM 4555 Selected Topics in Communication ((0-6)-(0-20)-(1-6))
Prerequisite(s): COMM 1115 with a minimum grade of C or COMM 2105 with a minimum grade of C or COMM 2115 with a minimum grade of C or COMM 2136 with a minimum grade of C or COMM 2137 with a minimum grade of C
The purpose of this course is to address communication issues not addressed elsewhere in the curriculum. May be taken three times for credit.
Repeatability: Repeatable for credit up to 3 times or 18 hours.
Restriction(s):
Enrollment limited to Junior, Senior, Non-Degree - Undergrad PostBac or Degree - Undergrad PostBac students.
COMM 4698 Senior Internship (0-0-(1-6))
Senior standing and 2.5 minimum GPA in the major required. Application of communication skills in the work place. (S/U grading.)
Restriction(s):
Enrollment limited to Senior, Non-Degree - Undergrad PostBac or Degree - Undergrad PostBac students.
COMM 5165G Media Management and Economics (3-0-3)
This course introduces the fundamental concepts, principles, and theories in media management and economics including factors that influence the media economy, including regulation, globalization and technology. The course emphasizes the ability to analyze media organizations and report on current economic issues in media industries.
Restriction(s):
Enrollment is limited to Graduate Level level students.
COMM 5555G Special Topics (3-0-3)
Course encourages students to pursue additional experiences with, or a deeper understanding of, specific topics in strategic communication management, creative services management, or film, editing, and design. Course may be taken two times for credit.
Repeatability: Repeatable for credit up to 1 times or 6 hours.
Restriction(s):
Enrollment is limited to Graduate Level level students.
COMM 5555U Special Topics (3-0-3)
Prerequisite(s): COMM 2105 with a minimum grade of C or COMM 2115 with a minimum grade of C or COMM 2136 with a minimum grade of C or COMM 2137 with a minimum grade of C
Course encourages students to pursue additional experiences with, or a deeper understanding of, specific topics in strategic communication management, creative services management or film, editing, and design. Course may be taken two times for credit.
Repeatability: Repeatable for credit up to 1 times or 6 hours.
COMM 6116 Communication Ethics (3-0-3)
This seminar introduces students to the lines of ethical inquiry relevant to communication scholars and practitioners. Students will explore and apply the wide range of ethical decision-making approaches in communication, as well as develop an understanding of the various forces that influence ethical decision-making.
Restriction(s):
Enrollment is limited to Graduate Level level students.
COMM 6135 Strategic Crisis Management (3-0-3)
This seminar provides students with a managerial or executive level understanding of risk, crisis, and disaster communication. Students will explore diverse crisis contexts, consider various theoretical and applied approaches to risk, crisis, and disaster response, and discuss individual and community resilience as well as post-traumatic growth. Students will critically evaluate the success of crisis communication campaigns through case study analyses.
Restriction(s):
Enrollment is limited to Graduate Level level students.
COMM 6145 Strategic Communication Campaign Management (3-0-3)
The course will enable students to put into practice all of the theoretical knowledge, research skills, interpersonal and group skills, writing skills, and creative problem-solving abilities developed throughout strategic communication management studies, while adopting a manager’s approach. This course will help students approach integrated communication strategically so they will be able to apply strategic communications techniques and theories to the creation, execution and management of campaigns.
Restriction(s):
Enrollment is limited to Graduate Level level students.
COMM 6156 Communication Theory (3-0-3)
This seminar provides an introduction to both graduate studies and graduate-level theory. Students will become familiar with theory, communication research, and graduate-level academic writing. Students will also learn to critically evaluate a wide array of communication theories and apply communication theory to their own research interests.
Restriction(s):
Enrollment is limited to Graduate Level level students.
COMM 6157 Communication Research (3-0-3)
This course will introduce students to the structure, process, and logic of both quantitative and qualitative research in communication. Students will learn how to select the appropriate approach and method for their own research questions/hypotheses.
Restriction(s):
Enrollment is limited to Graduate Level level students.
COMM 6235 Client Relations (1-4-3)
This course covers approaches for creative professionals in working with clients to create effective messaging and media products. Students learn how to collaborate with clients to guide production strategy while also creating and maintaining loyal customers and positive working relationships.
Restriction(s):
Enrollment is limited to Graduate Level level students.
COMM 6237 Persuasive Content Production (1-4-3)
This course focuses on production of persuasive content in order to create an effective media product for the client. Students produce original creative content which suits client needs and goals across multiple media formats and styles.
Restriction(s):
Enrollment is limited to Graduate Level level students.
COMM 6257 Persuasive Content Campaigns (1-4-3)
This course focuses on production and delivery of persuasive content in a variety of formats (photo, video, audio, graphics, etc.) across a variety of channels (broadcast, digital, social media, etc.) in order to create an effective media campaign for the client. Students produce original creative content that meets client needs and goals across multiple media delivery modes.
Restriction(s):
Enrollment is limited to Graduate Level level students.
COMM 6258 Advanced Production 1 (1-4-3)
Students write, shoot, and edit original creative productions utilizing advanced production techniques to tell effective stories for the client. Students complete professional-level productions on short-turn around throughout the semester.
Restriction(s):
Enrollment is limited to Graduate Level level students.
COMM 6259 Advanced Production 2 (1-4-3)
Students write, shoot, and edit an original creative production utilizing advanced production techniques to tell an effective story for the client. Students work the entire semester to create a long-form professional-level production.
Restriction(s):
Enrollment is limited to Graduate Level level students.
COMM 6275 Strategic Social Media and Data Analytics (2-2-3)
This course looks at how to build social media campaigns and relationships. Topics include using analytics to measure audience interaction, serial storytelling, and working with diverse clients and/or publics to encourage strong relationships. Students look at content creation across multiple platforms, as well as develop knowledge and skill in leveraging social media analytics to inform production, assess message effectiveness, knowledge building, and attitudinal and behavioral change.
Restriction(s):
Enrollment is limited to Graduate Level level students.
COMM 6765 Graduate Proseminar (1-0-1)
This professional seminar will guide students through the process of developing the first portion of program capstone: either a thesis or project proposal. The course will help students navigate capstone requirements and paperwork, select a chair and committee, and develop a proposal for committee approval.
Restriction(s):
Enrollment is limited to Graduate Level level students.
COMM 6766 Comprehensive Review and Exam (3-0-3)
This course will assess the student’s ability to demonstrate, through scholarly writing, synthesis of graduate-level coursework in three content areas -- Communication Theory, Communication Research, and a chosen course from the student’s Program Track. The instructor will provide individual guidance and advice to prepare students for a comprehensive exam that will be evaluated by the course instructor and a faculty panel.
COMM 6965 Graduate Thesis Research (0-0-(1-5))
Prerequisite(s): COMM 6765
Research topic will have been approved by student’s advisory committee at the end of the Graduate Proseminar. Students write and present a thesis to their advisory committee for review and approval.
Repeatability: Repeatable for credit up to 2 times or 5 hours.
Restriction(s):
Enrollment is limited to Graduate Level level students.
Enrollment limited to students in the Department Prerequisite college.
COMM 6966 Graduate Professional Project (0-0-(1-5))
Prerequisite(s): COMM 6765
Approved communication work experience, either as a volunteer or through employment. Work experience must be approved in advance. Successful completion requires written evaluation from a supervisor, academic paper related to work experience and oral presentation of accompanying academic component to faculty.
Repeatability: Repeatable for credit up to 2 times or 5 hours.
Restriction(s):
Enrollment is limited to Graduate Level level students.
COMM 6967 Thesis or Professional Project Defense (0-0-0)
Degree candidates must be enrolled in this course during the semester of their defense. A satisfactory grade in the course indicates a successful oral defense of the master’s thesis, the completion of edits and approval by the advisor or committee, and submission to the library.
Restriction(s):
Enrollment is limited to Graduate Level level students.