Course Descriptions

COM 100 Introduction to Communication (3)

Study and application of basic concepts in communication. Main focus is on learning how to communicate more effectively interpersonally and in small groups. (Offered in fall and spring.)

COM 102 Introduction to Mass Media (3)

An exploration of rhetorical devices and issues in the media. Research emphasized via written and spoken presentations. (Offered online only, fall and spring.)

COM 110 Communication Technology (3)

The planning and production of desktop media, including the use of presentation, pagination and web software. Covers basic design principles and content management issues and also introduces basic video and audio editing techniques. (Offered fall and spring.)

COM 200 Communication Theory and Research (4)

Examination of selected theories of communication and message design, to include models, critical analysis and development of a Christian worldview of communication. Explores strategies and processes involved in selecting, refining and researching a communication topic. Prerequisite: COM 100. (Offered fall and spring.)

COM 212 Rhetoric (4)

Theory, research, organization, preparation and practice of writing and speaking. Explores ethical implications of narrative, informative and persuasive techniques. This course is required for all majors in the Department of Communication and Media and can be substituted for but not replaced by SPE 212. (Offered in the spring.)

COM 324 Web Content and Management (4)

Students explore web-based innovations in media production and distribution. Content quality and management issues are discussed, with opportunities to create and evaluate web media. The social and ethical implications of search and web-based collaboration and marketing are discussed. Prerequisite COM 102 and COM 110. (Offered spring.)

COM 330 Genre (1-3)

Style, form and content of varying communication media. Focuses on a single, limited aspect of the topic being considered. (Limited offering.)

COM 356 Popular Culture (3)

Popular culture is the study of contemporary culture through analysis of popular artifacts, heroes, formulas and rituals. The underlying assumption of the study of popular culture is that the things that are popular are popular because they reflect or affirm core myths, beliefs and values of the larger society. In this course, we will focus on methods of analysis of popular culture with primary emphasis placed on analysis of popular arts such as music, television, literature and film, with focus on popular film. Students will learn theories and methods of analysis that will assist them in better understanding our modern myths and their meanings. (Offered in spring.)

COM 368 Intercultural Communication (3)

Theory, skills and attitudes foundational to effective interpersonal communication with persons of another culture. Focus is on critical analysis of various aspects of culture, as well as on building empathy and coping skills. (Offered in spring of even academic years.)

COM 385 Practicum (3)

Field experience in communication within the student’s area of specialization. A special registration procedure is required for this class. See Office of Registration and Records for details. May be repeated once. (Offered in fall, interim, spring, and summer.)

COM 387 Agency Experience (4)

An in-house practicum, students work on discipline specific projects for clients under the supervision of faculty. Requires 160 clock hours. Assessed by portfolio. Must be taken for two semesters by all bachelor of science majors. Pass/fail. Prerequisite 18 hours in major. (Offered fall and spring.)

COM 460 Senior seminar (2)

Students explore special topics, prepare a professional portfolio and complete a project in their area of specialization. Prerequisite: senior status. (Offered in fall.)