Catalog 2017-18

Communication

Communication

Bachelor of Arts in Communication (B.A.C.) Degree

Major in Communication

50 semester hours, plus a minor

Concentrations

Students in this program select from the following concentrations: Communication Studies, Conflict and Peacebuilding, Media, Mass Communication, Journalism, and Strategic Communication.

Communication Studies
50 semester hours, plus a minor

  • Communication Core Courses
    22 semester hours (see list above)

    • COMA 101 or 190: Introduction to Communication (4)
    • COMA 120: Introduction to Media Studies (4)
    • COMA 211, 212, and/or 214: Public Speaking (4 total)
    • COMA 215: Writing in Communication Careers (4)
    • COMA 399: Career Exploration (2)
    • COMA 495: Required Internship (2 to 12)
    • COMA 499: Capstone (2)
  • Diversity
    8 semester hours

    • COMA 303: Gender and Communication (4)
    • COMA 304: Intercultural Communication (4)
  • Theory and Analysis
    8 semester hours from the following:

    • COMA 301: Media and Cultural Criticism (4)
    • COMA 305: Argumentation and Advocacy (4)
    • COMA 306: Persuasion (4)
    • COMA 401: Contemporary Issues in Media and Visual Culture (4)
  • Applied Contexts
    4 semester hours from the following:

    • COMA 211: Debate (2)
    • COMA 242: Mediation (4)
    • COMA 343: Multimedia Writing and Reporting (4)
    • COMA 426: Application Seminar: MediaLab (1 to 4)
    • COMA 429: Student Media Participation, Leadership, and Management (1 to 4)
    • COMA 431: Application Seminar: Advanced Forensics (1 to 4)
    • COMA 441: Approaches to Peacebuilding (4)
    • COMA 461: Strategic Communication Campaigns (4)
  • Electives
    8 semester hours
    Students may select any COMA courses to fulfill the elective.

Conflict and Peacebuilding

50 semester hours, plus a minor

  • Communication Core Courses
    22 semester hours (see list above)

    • COMA 101 or 190: Introduction to Communication (4)
    • COMA 120: Introduction to Media Studies (4)
    • COMA 211, 212, and/or 214: Public Speaking (4 total)
    • COMA 215: Writing in Communication Careers (4)
    • COMA 399: Career Exploration (2)
    • COMA 495: Required Internship (2 to 12)
    • COMA 499: Capstone (2)
  • Foundation
    8 semester hours

    • COMA 340: Conflict and Communication (4)
    • COMA 441: Approaches to Peacebuilding (4)
  • Theory and Analysis
    8 semester hours from the following:

    • COMA 303: Gender and Communication (4)
    • COMA 304: Intercultural Communication (4)
    • COMA 305: Argumentation and Advocacy (4)
    • COMA 341: Journalism and Conflict (4)
    • COMA 342: Applied Research (4)
    • COMA 421: Media and Communication Law (4)
  • Applied Contexts
    8 semester hours from the following:

    • COMA 214: Group Communication (2)
    • COMA 242: Mediation (4)
    • COMA 313: Dialogue (2)
    • COMA 315: Facilitation (4)
    • Approved Study Away Experience (4)
  • Elective
    4 semester hours
    Students may select any COMA course to fulfill the elective or a relevant course in another department upon consultation with the student’s communication academic advisor.

Media, Mass Communication and Journalism

50 semester hours, plus a minor

  • Communication Core Courses
    22 semester hours

    • COMA 101 or 190: Introduction to Communication (4)
    • COMA 120: Introduction to Media Studies (4)
    • COMA 211, 212, and/or 214: Public Speaking (4 total)
    • COMA 215: Writing in Communication Careers (4)
    • COMA 399: Career Exploration (2)
    • COMA 495: Required Internship (2 to 12)
    • COMA 499: Capstone (2)
  • Skill Building
    8 semester hours

    • COMA 343: Multimedia Writing and Reporting (4)
    • COMA 344: Multimedia Production (4)
  • Theory and Analysis
    8 semester hours from the following:

    • COMA 303: Gender and Communication (4)
    • COMA 304: Intercultural Communication (4)
    • COMA 305: Argumentation and Advocacy (4)
    • COMA 306: Persuasion (4)
    • COMA 401: Contemporary Issues in Media and Visual Culture (4)
  • Research
    4 semester hours from the following:

    • COMA 342: Applied Research (4)
    • COMA 421: Media and Communication Law (4)
  • Applied Contexts
    8 semester hours from the following:

    • COMA 426: Application Seminar: MediaLab (1 to 4)
    • COMA 429: Student Media Participation, Leadership, and Management (1 to 4)
    • COMA 461: Strategic Communication Campaigns (4)
    • COMA 496: Supplemental Internship (1 to 12)

Strategic Communication

50 semester hours, plus a minor

  • Communication Core Courses
    22 semester hours (see list above)

    • COMA 101 or 190: Introduction to Communication (4)
    • COMA 120: Introduction to Media Studies (4)
    • COMA 211, 212, and/or 214: Public Speaking (4 total)
    • COMA 215: Writing in Communication Careers (4)
    • COMA 399: Career Exploration (2)
    • COMA 495: Required Internship (2 to 12)
    • COMA 499: Capstone (2)
  •  Foundation
    • COMA 360: Public Relations Writing (4)
    • COMA 361: Public Relations Principles and Practices (4)
    • COMA 362: Principles of Advertising (4)
  • Theory and Analysis
    4 semester hours from the following:

    • COMA 303: Gender and Communication (4)
    • COMA 304: Intercultural Communication (4)
    • COMA 305: Argumentation and Advocacy (4)\
    • COMA 306: Persuasion
    • COMA 401: Contemporary Issues in Media and Visual Culture (4)
  • Research
    4 semester hours from the following:

    • COMA 342: Applied Research (4)
    • COMA 421: Media and Communication Law (4)
  • Applied Contexts
    4 semester hours from the following:

    • COMA 426: Application Seminar: MediaLab (1 to 4)
    • COMA 429: Student Media Participation, Leadership, and Management (1 to 4)
    • COMA 461: Strategic Communication Campaigns (4)
    • COMA 496: Supplemental Internship (1 to 12)
  • Elective
    4 semester hours
    Students may select any COMA course to fulfill the elective or a relevant course in another department upon consultation with the student’s communication academic advisor.

Communication (COMA) - Undergraduate Courses

COMA 101 : Introduction to Communication

Introduces the study of human communication. Students will learn and apply a wide array of analytical theory and techniques across diverse human experiences from interpersonal to public communication and mass communication contexts to become more aware and effective communicators. (4)

COMA 120 : Introduction to Media Studies - AR

This course combines the study of visual media theories and analysis with the processes of actual media production. Initially, the class examines contemporary and classical genres of creative media, such as television, narrative and non-narrative film, advertising, PR, marketing and promotional campaigns to explore meanings, values and the ways in which media have become major parts of human existence, experience and expression globally. Reflecting ongoing developments in media, the course also provides an overview of the languages of creative media, exploring topics such as: fundamentals of scriptwriting, cinematography, editing, the soundtrack, directors, and the numerous and varied tasks involved with production, all culminating in student-generated creative works. (4)

COMA 190 : FYEP190: Inquiry Seminar

A four-credit seminar to introduce students to the methods and topics of study within a particular academic discipline or field. Students practice the academic skills that are at the center of the General Education Program. (4)

COMA 211 : Debate

This course introduces the practice of academic and political debate. It introduces principles and theories of argument. Students will have opportunities for in-class and public debates. May be repeated up to 8 semester hours. (0 to 2)

COMA 212 : Public Speaking

Introduces the basic techniques of public speaking. Students complete several speeches and learn the basic skills of speechmaking, including topic selections, research, organization, audience analysis, and delivery. Required of all Design/Tech majors. (2)

COMA 214 : Group Communication

Studies how people interact in groups. Introduces theoretical constructs regarding the role of groups in organizational and social settings. Provides experience in analyzing and improving group performance and interaction. (2)

COMA 215 : Writing in Communication Careers

Introduces students to the fundamental standards and expectations in communication writing. Includes styles and formats routinely used in both academic and professional communication writing and research. Also includes writing for multiple audiences. Reviews basic grammar, sentence and paragraph structures. This course will conclude with an EXIT EXAM (grammar/syntax/clarity) that must be passed to proceed to any major/concentration in the department. (4)

COMA 242 : Mediation

This course focuses on the formal process of mediation. Students learn the concepts, principles, and practices of mediation, and engage in mediation activities so as to learn the key skills. (4)

COMA 287 : Special Topics in Communication

To provide undergraduate students with new, one-time, and developing courses not yet available in the regular curriculum. The title will be listed on the student term-based record as ST: followed by the specific title designated by the academic unit. (1 to 4)

COMA 288 : Special Topics in Communication

To provide undergraduate students with new, one-time, and developing courses not yet available in the regular curriculum. The title will be listed on the student term-based record as ST: followed by the specific title designated by the academic unit. (1 to 4)

COMA 289 : Special Topics in Communication

To provide undergraduate students with new, one-time, and developing courses not yet available in the regular curriculum. The title will be listed on the student term-based record as ST: followed by the specific title designated by the academic unit. (1 to 4)

COMA 301 : Media and Cultural Criticism

This course examines the role of media in producing systems of meanings and artifacts that shape popular culture and ideology. Students learn to use critical perspectives as lenses for studying texts of popular culture and for writing cultural criticism for popular and specialized audiences. (4)

COMA 303 : Gender and Communication - A

This class provides an overview of how gender and communication relate in social and cultural contexts. Focusing on contemporary American culture, we will explore how communication enables and constrains performances of gender and sexuality in everyday life. The course explores vocabulary, media, institutions, and the body. Prerequisites: COMA 101 or consent of instructor. (4)

COMA 304 : Intercultural Communication - C

Studies the nature of communication among people of diverse cultures. The course examines contemporary theory and research and examines a variety of cultural variables including: cultural backgrounds, perception, social organization, language, and nonverbal aspects of messages. Prerequisites: COMA 101 or consent of instructor. (4)

COMA 305 : Argumentation and Advocacy

Studies how people use reason giving in social decision-making. Analysis of genres, forms, and techniques of arguers. Focus is on methods of creating, understanding, and criticizing arguments. (4)

COMA 306 : Persuasion

The study of persuasion as a means of personal and social influence through rhetoric. Examines both rhetorical and social scientific traditions of study, ethical and social implications of contemporary persuasion in political, commercial, and other contexts. Opportunity for original research projects. Prerequisites: COMA 101, 120, or consent of instructor. (4)

COMA 313 : Dialogue

Explores the process of using dialog as a way of facilitating conflict resolution. Focus is on creating supportive communication climates and methods for listening. Prerequisites: COMA 101, 212, or consent of instructor (2)

COMA 315 : Facilitation

This course teaches students how to effectively facilitate meetings, workshops and residential gatherings. Students learn the communication theories, concepts, principles and practices necessary to effective facilitation. Students will learn facilitation styles, formats, and designs. (4)

COMA 340 : Conflict and Communication

Studies the role of communication in the development and management of human and global conflict. Research and theories of prominent conflict and peace scholars along with significant case studies are used to analyze and understand sources of conflict and methods for building peace. Prerequisite: COMA 101 or consent of instructor. (4)

COMA 341 : Journalism and Conflict

Surveys the theories, practices and ethical considerations for reporting on conflicts throughout the world. Conflict-sensitive (sometimes called Peace Journalism) journalism is an alternative journalistic paradigm which seeks to enhance public understanding of conflicts by broadening the coverage of conflict from a war journalism model which emphasizes the roles of governmental decision-makers, and battle-related news reporting to a conflict-sensitive model which emphasizes understanding the roots of conflict; the perspectives of all sides in the dispute; and the need for on-going coverage after the cessation of hostilities. (4)

COMA 342 : Applied Research

An investigation of research methods critical to professional and academic communication. Key methods and constructs include informational interviewing, database search, survey and focus group design and administration, and basic data analysis. Prerequisite: COMA 215 or consent of instructor. (4)

COMA 343 : Multimedia Writing and Reporting

Introduces students to various professional methods of writing across multimedia platforms. Students will engage in research, organization and presentation of non-fiction multimedia stories. In addition, students will learn to evaluate various multimedia products. Prerequisite: COMA 215 or consent of instructor. (4)

COMA 344 : Multimedia Production

Course incorporates contemporary methods, styles and formats used in production and editing for multimedia products. Students will oversee development and design of non-fiction multimedia presentations while adhering to professional standards of media structure. Prerequisite: COMA 101, 215 or consent of instructor. (4)

COMA 360 : Public Relations Writing

Introduces principles and processes involved in writing for an organization's diverse publics. Integrates persuasive techniques and communication theory with writing and production practice. Prerequisites: COMA 101, 212, 215, or consent of instructor. (4)

COMA 361 : Public Relations: Principles and Practices

Introduces the theories, methods, and practice of public relations. Emphasizes technical and analytical skills. Prerequisites: COMA 101, 212, 215, or consent of instructor. (4)

COMA 362 : Principles of Advertising

Introduces advertising theories and principles. Focuses on case studies and skills required in advertising practice. Prerequisites: COMA 101, 212, 215 or consent of instructor (4)

COMA 387 : Topics in Communication

Special topics in communication s intended for unique opportunities to explore communication issues, methods, and viewpoints outside the normal curriculum. (1 to 4)

COMA 388 : Topics in Communication

Special topics in communication is intended for unique opportunities to explore communication issues, methods, and viewpoints outside the normal curriculum. (1 to 4)

COMA 389 : Topics in Communication

Special topics in communication is intended for unique opportunities to explore communication issues, methods, and viewpoints outside the normal curriculum (1 to 4)

COMA 391 : Communication Study Away

Exploration of communication systems and environments beyond the university in international cultural contexts. (1 to 4)

COMA 393 : Communication Study Away

Exploration of communication systems and environments beyond the university in international cultural contexts. (1 to 4)

COMA 399 : Career Exploration

Introduces students through the process of educational planning. Focus is on internship preparedness and initial development of portfolio or other capstone projects. (2)

COMA 401 : Contemporary Issues in Media and Visual Culture

Examines the central role of visual representation in contemporary culture and the ways in which we use, understand and are used by images. Emphasis on photography, film, television, new media, and commemorative art and architecture in the realms of advertising, politics, news, public advocacy and popular culture. Students will conduct research projects that analyze elements of visual culture. Prerequisites: COMA 101, 212, 215, or consent of instruction. (4)

COMA 421 : Media and Communication Law

Focuses on the principles of communication law and its application to various communication practices. Examines court cases, federal and state statutes, and First Amendment theories. Prerequisites: COMA 101, 120, 212, 215, or consent of instructor. (4)

COMA 426 : Application Seminar: MediaLab

Students engage in all aspects of multimedia productions for various student media outlets. Professional standards of production and ethics will be used to evaluate all productions. May be repeated for up to 8 semester hours. (0 to 4)

COMA 429 : Student Media Participation, Leadership, and Management

This course offers students who participate in student media outlets vast opportunities to rigorously reflect on their collective and individual projects. Each student will develop her/his own list of student media products and design deadlines and outcomes for her/his work. Students will routinely discuss the ethical and production issues involved in student media productions. Any student participating in student media is welcome to take this course. May be repeated for up to 8 semester hours. (0 to 4)

COMA 431 : Application Seminar: Advanced Forensics

Students produce multimedia projects for various student media outlets. Professional standards of production and ethics will be used to evaluate all productions. May be repeated for credit. Prerequisites: COMA 211, 212, or consent of instructor. (1 to 4)

COMA 441 : Approaches to Peacebuilding

This course focuses on communication theory central to conflict and peacebuilding. The course presents various case studies of conflict from domestic to global and what peacebuilding entails in those cases. Importantly, the course distinguishes Peacemaking (political agreements) from Peacebuilding (citizen, municipal, NGO efforts). This course focuses on, analyzes, and develops approaches for conflict and peacebuilding in interpersonal, community, and global contexts. Prerequisite: COMA 340 or consent of instructor. (4)

COMA 461 : Strategic Communication Campaigns

Examination of issues such as campaign planning, issue management, crisis communication, global public relations, grassroots mobilization, message strategy, and design. Integrates theoretical foundations and ethics. Focus on measurement and evaluation techniques. Prerequisite: COMA 361. (4)

COMA 487 : Topics in Communication

Special topics in communication is intended for unique opportunities to explore communication issues, methods, and viewpoints outside the normal curriculum. (1 to 4)

COMA 488 : Topics in Communication

Special topics in communication is intended for unique opportunities to explore communication issues, methods, and viewpoints outside the normal curriculum. (1 to 4)

COMA 489 : Topics in Communication

Special topics in communication is intended for unique opportunities to explore communication issues, methods, and viewpoints outside the normal curriculum. (1 to 4)

COMA 491 : Independent Studies

Investigations or research in area of special interest not covered by regular courses; open to qualified junior or senior students. A student should not begin registration for independent study until the specific area for investigation has been approved by a departmental sponsor. May be repeated for credit. (1 to 4)

COMA 495 : Required Internship

Fulfills the internship requirement for Communication majors with concentrations in Media, Mass Communication, and Journalism, Strategic Communications, and Conflict Peacebuilding. The course meets formally to combine communication theory, career development skills and practical application through job-related experiences. Prerequisite: COMA 399. (2 to 12)

COMA 496 : Supplemental Internship

This is for students pursuing additional internships beyond the COMA 495 internship requirement for receiving a B.A.C. degree. This course has a curriculum and requires independent meetings with the faculty internship advisor. Prerequisite: COMA 399. (1 to 12)

COMA 499 : Capstone - SR

The capstone focuses on integrating student-learning objectives with student experience through development and presentation of portfolio or projects. Students will make a public presentation of their capstone. Prerequisite: COMA 399. (2)

COMA 591 : Independent Study

To provide individual graduate students graduate-level study not available in the regular curriculum. The title will be listed on the student term-based record as IS: followed by the specific title designated by the student. (1 to 4)