| 253.535.7761 | www.plu.edu/comm-media-designarts | cmda@plu.edu |
| Heather Mathews, Ph.D., Chair |
The Department of Communication, Media, and Design Arts offers majors in the fields of Communication, Studio Arts, and Art History.
Bachelor of Arts in Communication (B.A.C.) Degree
Major in Communication
40 semester hours, plus a minor
Concentrations
Students in this program select a concentration in either Film & Media Studies or Strategic Communication.
Film & Media Studies
40 semester hours, plus a minor
- Communication Core Courses
20 semester hours - COMA 101: Introduction to Communication (4)
- COMA 120: Introduction to Media Studies (4)
- COMA 212: Public Speaking (4)
- COMA 215: Writing in Communication Careers (4)
- COMA 499: Capstone (4)
- Film & Media Studies Cluster
20 semester hours from the following: - Applied Contexts – maximum 8 hours
- COMA 226/426: MediaLab (0-2 , repeatable up to 8)
- COMA 229/429: Student Media (0-2, repeatable up to 8)
- COMA 209: The Public Space
- COMA 248: Innovation, Ethics, and Society (4)
- COMA 301: Media and Cultural Criticism (4)
- COMA 303: Gender & Communication (4)
- COMA 343: Media Writing (4)
- COMA 344: Media Production (4)
- COMA 357: Media Literacy Post-Truth Era (4)
- COMA 401: Contemporary Issues in Media and Visual Culture (4)
- COMA 461: Advertising, PR + Campaigns (4)
- In consultation with advisor, with Communication department chair approval, and based on availability, students may also count the following courses in the Film & Media Studies cluster: ENGL 320: Intermediate Creative Non-Fiction; ENGL 325: Personal Essay; ENGL 327: Intermediate Poetry Writing; THEA 330: Script Analysis; LANG 271: Literature Around the World; and HISP 325: Introduction to Hispanic Literary Studies.
Strategic Communication
40 semester hours, plus a minor
- Communication Core Courses
20 semester hours
- COMA 101: Introduction to Communication (4)
- COMA 120: Introduction to Media Studies (4)
- COMA 212: Public Speaking (4)
- COMA 215: Writing in Communication Careers (4)
- COMA 499: Capstone (4)
- Strategic Communication Cluster
20 semester hours from the following: - Applied Contexts – maximum 8 hours
- COMA 226/426: MediaLab (0-2, repeatable up to 8)
- COMA 229/429: Student Media (0-2, repeatable up to 8)
- COMA 209: The Public Space (4)
- COMA 248: Innovation, Ethics, and Society (4)
- COMA 306: Persuasion (4)
- COMA 343: Media Writing (4)
- COMA 344: Media Production (4)
- COMA 357: Media Literacy Post-Truth Era (4)
- COMA 361: Strategic Communication (4)
- COMA 461: Advertising, PR + Campaigns (4)
Declaration of Major
Students may declare a major in Communication upon enrollment in COMA 101: Introduction to Communication or COMA 120: Introduction to Media Studies.
Minor Requirement for Communication Majors
The Bachelor of Arts in Communication (B.A.C.) requires the completion of a minor.
Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A.) Degree
Major in Studio Arts, Concentration in Graphic Design
70-76 semester hours
- Foundation Courses (16):
- ARTD 101: Drawing 1 (4)
- ARTD 102: 2D Design/Color Theory (4)
- ARTD 201: Drawing 2: Figure Drawing (4)
- ARTD 202: 3D Design (4)
- Technique Courses (24)
- Go to www.plu.edu/comm-media-designarts/documents to view specific courses fulfilling requirements.
- Two-dimensional courses (8)
- Three-dimensional courses (8)
- Photography course (4)
- Technology course (4)
- Understanding Art/Culture Courses (12)
- ARTD 180: History of Western Art I (4)
- ARTD 181: History of Western Art II (4)
- Upper-division Art History (4)
- Artistic Practice Courses (16)
- ARTD 110: Graphic Design 1
- ARTD 210: Graphic Design 2
- ARTD 310: Graphic Design 3
- ARTD 410: Graphic Design 4
- Keystone/Capstone Courses (2 to 8)
- ARTD 499A: Keystone (1 to 4)
- ARTD 499B: Capstone (1 to 4)
Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) Degree
Major in Art History
38-40 semester hours
- ARTD 180: History of Western Art I (4)
- ARTD 181: History of Western Art II (4)
- ARTD 280: Art Methodology and Theory (4)
- ARTD 499B: Capstone (2 to 4)
- Studio Arts Courses (8)
- Art History Courses (16)
Major in Studio Arts
42-44 semester hours
- ARTD 101: Drawing 1 (4)
- ARTD 102: 2D Design/Color Theory (4)
- ARTD 202: 3D Design (4)
- ARTD 499A: Keystone (1 to 4)
- ARTD 499B: Capstone (1 to 4)
- Technique Courses (16):
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- Two-dimensional course (4)
- Three-dimensional courses (8)
- Photography course (4)
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- Understanding Art/Culture Courses (12):
-
- ARTD 180: History of Western Art I (4)
- ARTD 181: History of Western Art II (4)
- Upper-division Art History (4)
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Students may apply independent study ARTD 491: Special Projects on a case-by-case basis subject to approval by the department chair.
Courses in teaching methods may not be applied to the major.
Course Areas
- Studio Courses (All studio courses require a lab fee in addition to tuition): 101, 102, 110, 201, 202, 210, 220, 230, 250, 310, 315, 320, 330, 350, 355, 365, 370, 410, 420, 425, 430, 450, 465, 466, 470, 483; ENGL 313, 314; PPAP 321, 322
- History and Theory Courses: 180, 181, 280, 380, 381, 382, 383, 480, 481, 482, 484, 490
Minors
Art History
24 semester hours, including:
- ARTD 180 and ARTD 181 (8)
- Art history/theory electives (12)
- Studio Arts elective (4)
- Non-concentration courses, practical design courses (ARTD 110, 210, 310), and courses in teaching methods (EDUC 340) may not be applied to the minor.
Communication
16 semester hours
Courses selected in consultation with an advisor. At least 4 of the 16 semester hours must be upper-division (300 or 400-level).
Publishing and Printing Arts
24 semester hours
See the description of the minor under Publishing and Printing Arts.
Studio Arts
20 semester hours, including:
- ARTD 380: Modern Art (4)
- Two-dimensional course, based on concentration area (4)
- Three-dimensional course, based on concentration area (4)
- Studio Arts electives drawn from upper-division courses (8)
- Courses in teaching methods (EDUC 340) may not be applied to the minor.
Students pursuing a B.F.A. or B.A. in studio arts may minor in art history, but not studio arts, which is reserved for non-majors. Students pursuing a B.A. in art history may minor in studio arts.
Art & Design (ARTD) - Undergraduate Courses
ARTD 101 : Drawing I - CX
A course dealing with the basic techniques and media of drawing. (4)
ARTD 102 : 2D Design/Color Theory - CX
This course combines course work in color and composition. Students will develop a better understanding in pictorial composition, color theory, patterning, materials, and methods in the two-dimensional arts, perspective, and a range of conceptual design strategies. Required for all B.A./B.F.A. majors. (4)
ARTD 110 : Graphic Design 1 - CX
An introduction to design through the study of basic techniques, color theory, and composition. (4)
ARTD 180 : History of Western Art I - CX
A survey tracing the development of Western art and architecture from prehistory to the end of the Middle Ages. (4)
ARTD 181 : History of Western Art II - CX
A survey of Western art and architecture from the Renaissance to the 20th century. (4)
ARTD 201 : Drawing 2: Figure Drawing - CX
Drawing taken beyond the basics of 101. Expansion of media forms and solutions to compositional problems. Possibility of pursuing special individual interests, with permission. Prerequisite: ARTD 101 or consent of instructor. (4)
ARTD 202 : 3D Design - CX
Students will develop an understanding in three-dimensional design with an emphasis on spatial awareness, problem-solving, and the many varieties of sculptural form. Required for all B.A. and B.F.A. majors. (4)
ARTD 210 : Graphic Design 2
An investigation of the process of creative problem solving in a methodical and organized manner. Includes projects in a variety of design areas. Prerequisite: ARTD 110 or consent of instructor. (4)
ARTD 220 : Photography I: BW Photography - CX
A studio class in photography as an art form. Primary concentration in basic camera and darkroom techniques. Students produce a portfolio of prints with an emphasis on creative expression and experimentation. (4)
ARTD 230 : Ceramics 1 - CX
Introduction to ceramic materials, tools, and techniques including hand-built and wheel-thrown methods and glaze application. Includes a survey of ceramic art. (4)
ARTD 280 : Art Methodology and Theory - CX
Explores art historical and critical methods used for the analysis of art, including formalism, iconography, iconology, economic/social contexts, psychology, feminism, and structuralism/semiotics. Relates methods to broader cultural theories from Kant to Edward Said. (4)
ARTD 287 : Special Topics in Art
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)
ARTD 288 : Special Topics in Art
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)
ARTD 289 : Special Topics in Art
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)
ARTD 291 : Directed Study
To provide individual undergraduate students with introductory study not available in the regular curriculum. The title will be listed on the student term-based record as DS: followed by the specific title designated by the student. (1 to 4)
ARTD 310 : Graphic Design 3
Design and execution of printed materials; emphasis on technical procedures and problems in mass communication. Prerequisite: ARTD 210 or consent of instructor. (4)
ARTD 315 : The Art of the Book I - CX
This studio course explores the history, aesthetics and creative dimensions of book design and typography. Prerequisite: Declared PPA minor or permission of instructor. Cross-listed with PPAP 321, ENGL 313. (4)
ARTD 320 : Photography 2: Digital Photography - CX
An introduction to computer-assisted photography in which students learn applications, develop aesthetic strategies, and engage the ethical issues of this new technology. Emphasis on creative exploration and problem solving within the Macintosh environment. May be taken twice. (4)
ARTD 330 : Ceramics 2
Advanced techniques in ceramic construction and experiments in glaze formation. Focus on form and craftsmanship. Prerequisite: ARTD 230 or consent of the instructor. (4)
ARTD 355 : 3D Digital Modeling - CX
An introduction to three-dimensional modeling. Students will learn to design and manipulate objects in 3D digital space. (4)
ARTD 365 : Painting I
Media and techniques of painting in oil or acrylics. Prerequisite: ARTD 101. (4)
ARTD 370 : Printmaking 1
Methods and media of fine art printmaking; both hand and photo processes involving lithographics, intaglio, and screen printing. Prerequisite: ARTD 101 or consent of instructor. (4)
ARTD 380 : Modern Art - CX
The development of art from 1900 to the present, with a brief look at European and American antecedents as they apply to contemporary directions. (4)
ARTD 383 : Studies in Art History - CX
A selected area of inquiry, such as a history of American art, Asian art, the work of Picasso, or similar topics. May be repeated for credit. (4)
ARTD 387 : Special Topics in Art
This course in intended for unique opportunities to explore artistic expression, provided by visiting artists or artists in residence who intend to focus on a particular style, element or technique used in creative and artistic expression. (1 to 4)
ARTD 388 : Special Topics in Art
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)
ARTD 389 : Special Topics in Art
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)
ARTD 410 : Graphic Design 4
Design and execution of printed materials; emphasis on technical procedures and problems in mass communication. Explores advanced techniques with multiple color, typography, and other complex problems. Prerequisite: ARTD 310 or consent of instructor. (4)
ARTD 465 : Painting 2
Media and techniques of painting in oil or acrylics. May be taken twice. Prerequisite: ARTD 365 or consent of instructor. (4)
ARTD 466 : Painting 3
Explore and develop student's portfolio of work within the area of painting. Independent project emphasis with instructor's input. Emphasis on student's development of individual style and problem solving. May be taken twice. Prerequisite: ARTD 365 or consent of instructor. (4)
ARTD 470 : Printmaking 2
Methods and media of fine art printmaking; both hand and photo processes involving lithographics, intaglio, and screen printing. May be taken twice. Prerequisite: ARTD 370 or consent of instructor. (4)
ARTD 483 : Studio Practice
This course is focused on the student's individual research towards the capstone exhibition in collaboration with their faculty mentor or advisor. Requires senior standing and may be taken twice for credit. Required for all BFA majors. (1 to 4)
ARTD 484 : Research in Art History - Theory
A tutorial course for major students with research into a particular aspect of art history or theory. May be repeated for credit. Prerequisites: senior status, consent of instructor and program approval by department faculty. (1 to 4)
ARTD 487 : Special Topics in Art
This course is intended for unique opportunities to explore artistic expression provided by visiting artists or artists in residence who intend to focus on a particular style, element, or technique used in creative and artistic expression. (1 to 4)
ARTD 488 : Special Topics in Art
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)
ARTD 489 : Special Topics in Art
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)
ARTD 490 : Gender and Art - CX
Studies the effects of race and class on the construction of femininity and masculinity in art and visual culture in the United States and in Europe, with an emphasis on 19th and 20th century modernism. May not be repeated for credit. (4)
ARTD 491 : Independent Studies: Special Projects
Exploration of the possibilities of selected studio areas, including experimental techniques. Emphasis on development of individual styles, media approaches, and problem solutions. May be repeated for credit. Prerequisites: junior status, minimum of two courses at 200 level or above in affected medium with minimum 2.50 GPA, consent of instructor and department chair. (1 to 4)
ARTD 495 : Internship
To permit undergraduate students to relate theory and practice in a work situation. The title will be listed on the student term-based record as Intern: followed by the specific title designated by the instructor in consultation with the student. (1 to 12)
ARTD 499A : Keystone - SR
This "Keystone" course is intended for upper-division students to develop the process of educational assessment and program competencies. Focus is on integrating student learning objectives with student experience through initial development of portfolio projects and other assignments. Not repeatable. One of two courses required to fulfill the Senior Seminar General Education Element. Recommended as two semester hours. (1 to 4)
ARTD 499B : Capstone - SR
Capstone course for the BA in Studio Arts or Art History and the BFA in Graphic Design. Focus is on integrating student learning objectives with student experience through development and presentation of portfolio projects and other assignments. One of two courses required to fulfill the Senior Seminar General Education Element. Prerequisite: Must have completed and passed ARTD 499A. Recommended as two semester hours. (1 to 4)
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 - CX
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 209 : The Public Space
This course engages a social issue in our community. Students work with community stakeholders to conduct research, determine strategy for problem solving, and advocate with decisionmakers using creative media making. (4)
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. (4)
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 226 : MediaLab
Students engage in all aspects of multimedia products for clients in an agency model and in creative media making. Professional standards of production and ethics will be used to evaluate all productions. May be repeated up to 2 semester hours. (0 to 2)
COMA 229 : Student Media
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 up to 2 semester hours. (0 to 2)
COMA 248 : Innovation, Ethics, & Society
A history of innovation, problem solving, and creativity in the global economy, emphasizing the ethical considerations that arise as a result of new products and initiatives, disruptive technologies, globalization, and cultural change. Draws attention to stages in the innovation process and the importance of teamwork, effective communication, and design. (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 291 : Directed Study
To provide individual undergraduate students with introductory study not available in the regular curriculum. The title will be listed on the student term-based record as DS: followed by the specific title designated by the student. (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 - IT
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 - IT, GE
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 306 : Persuasion & Argumentation
Studies how people use reason-giving in social decision making and how people use persuasion as a means of personal and social influence through rhetoric. Examination of genres, forms, techniques of argument and persuasion, and the social implications of each in political, social, and commercial contexts. (4)
COMA 321 : The Book in Society
A critical study of the history of book culture and the role of books in modern society. Cross-listed with PPAP 301, ENGL 311. (4)
COMA 322 : Publishing Procedures
A workshop introduction to the world of book publishing, involving students in decisions about what to publish and how to produce it. Cross-listed with PPAP 302, ENGL 312. (4)
COMA 343 : Media Writing
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 357 : Media Literacy in a Post-Truth Era
This course will examine the phenomenon of "fake news" - and the misappropriation of that term - within the context of revelations surrounding social media, disinformation campaigns, and U.S. presidential elections. Lectures, discussions, viewings, and workshops will support the objective of developing critical media literacy skills within an emerging media landscape where expertise is shunned, facts are disputed, and a "post-truth" era invites controversies about the basic premises of reality. (4)
COMA 361 : Strategic Communication
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 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 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 426 : Advanced MediaLab
Students engage in all aspects of multimedia products for clients in an agency model and in creative media making. Professional standards of production and ethics will be used to evaluate all productions. May be repeated for up to 6 semester hours. (0 to 2)
COMA 429 : Advanced Student Media
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 6 semester hours. (0 to 2)
COMA 461 : Advertising, PR + 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 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. (4)