Courses

Communication Studies

  • COMM-C 104 Voice and Diction (3 cr.) Directed primarily toward the improvement of normal speech patterns, with emphasis on normal production, resonation, and articulation. PUL=1A
  • COMM-C 108 Listening (1 cr.) P: reading placement score of at least 80, and placement in W131. Designed to increase listening efficiency by improving comprehension and listening skills. PUL=1A
  • COMM-C 180 Introduction to Interpersonal Communication (3 cr.) P: reading placement score of at least 80. The study of human dyadic interaction, including topics such as perception processes, verbal/nonverbal communication, theoretical models of communication, conflict, and interpersonal communication in various relationships. Course covers applications of interpersonal communication theory/research, including communication competence. PUL=5
  • COMM-C 223 Business and Professional Communication (3 cr.) P: R110 or equivalent. Preparation and presentation of interviews, speeches, and oral reports appropriate to business and professional organizations; group discussion and parliamentary procedure. This is an intermediate skills course with survey characteristics. PUL=1A
  • COMM-C 228 Discussion and Group Methods (3 cr.) Theory of and practice in effective participation in and leadership of group, committee, conference, and public discussion; application to information-sharing and problem-solving situations. PUL=1C
  • COMM-C 316 Human Communication and the Internet (3 cr.) P: R110, C180 or equivalent. Required for online certificate in Communication Studies - Human Communication in a Mediated World. Students learn how interpersonal, group, mass, public, and organizational communication modes are mediated in Internet environments. Students practice message preparation in different modes and contexts. PUL=1A, 1E, 2
  • COMM-C 322 Advanced Interpersonal Communication (3 cr.) P: C180 or permission of instructor. Covers core components of the study of interpersonal communication: perception, systems, exchange theoretical approaches; methods of research in interpersonal communication; content (topic) areas such as intimate relationships and friendships. Includes applications of interpersonal communication theory/research. PUL=5
  • COMM-C 325 Interviewing Principles and Practices (3 cr.) P: R110 or equivalent. Emphasizes verbal and nonverbal communication in pre-interview back-ground research preparation, interview schedule design, question construction, and post-interview self-analysis in several interviewing contexts. Course includes significant assignments designed to help the student enhance oral performance competencies. PUL=1A
  • COMM-C 328 Advanced Topics in Small Group Communication (3 cr.) P: C228 or permission of instructor. Theories of small group communication processes. Explores group communication across cultures, groups in organizations, group decision making, conflict management in groups, and assessing competence in group communication. PUL=1A
  • COMM-C 345 Restorative Communication (3 cr.) P: COMM C180 The course focuses on healing communication -- healing individuals and relationships. Specific topics include healing communication basics, family, couple, group (e.g. support groups) and community healing (restorative justice; peace building). There is a strong focus on research theory and practice. Some assignments involve community participation. PUL=1A (major), 2 (moderate), and 6 (minor)
  • COMM-C 380 Organizational Communication (3 cr.) The application of communication theory and research to the study of communication in various types of organizations. Explores reciprocal influence between communication and organizational structures and between communication and managerial styles. Discusses communication designs, superior/ subordinate communication, conflict, information management, networks; communication vis-a-vis employee motivation, satisfaction, and productivity; and communication effectiveness in organizations. PUL=1A
  • COMM-C 392 Health Communication (3 cr.) P: 3 credit hours of communication or consent of instructor. Exploration of the communication competencies needed by health care professionals. Emphasizes interviewing; verbal and nonverbal skills; group interaction; and intercultural, interprofessional, therapeutic, and organizational communication. Analyzes communication problems encountered in health care and the development of coping strategies. PUL=2; RISE=R
  • COMM-C 393 Family Communication (3 cr.) P: C180 or permission of instructor. Theory/research on the role of communication in creating and maintaining marriages and families. Topics include communication and family life cycles, different family forms, family race/ethnicity, power, and conflict. Covers applications of family communication theory/research. PUL=2; RISE=R
  • COMM-C 394 Communication and Conflict (3 cr.) Analyzes conflict as a form of interaction. Examines approaches/perspectives to the study of conflict, the nature of power, face saving, and contentious behaviors. Specific contexts include relational, marital, group, and organizational. Special attention to bargaining and mediation. PUL=1A
  • COMM-C 395 Gender and Communication (3 cr.) Examines the meaning of gender in contemporary American culture and its interaction with and relationship to communication. Explores topics such as gender and verbal and nonverbal communication; gender differences in public and private settings; gender and communication in families, schools, organizations, and the media. PUL=5
  • COMM-C 400 Health Provider-Consumer Communication (3 cr.)
  • COMM-C 401 Speech Communication of Technical Information (3 cr.) P: R110 or equivalent. Organization and presentation of information of a practical, technical nature. Emphasis is placed on the study, preparation, and use of audiovisual materials. For nonmajors only. PUL=1C
  • COMM-C 402 Interview and Discussion for Business and Professions (3 cr.) Principles of communication as related to the information-gathering interview, the employment interview, and problem-solving discussion; practice in using these principles. For nonmajors only. PUL=1A
  • COMM-C 481 Current Issues in Organizational Communication (3 cr.) P: C380 or permission of instructor. In-depth exploration of topics and issues at the forefront of research and theory in organizational communication. Topics may include gender issues in organizational communication, sexual harassment, crisis management, organizational culture. Seminar format with research papers and class discussion /presentations. PUL=2; RISE=R
  • COMM-C 482 Intercultural Communication (3 cr.) P: C180 or permission of instructor. Cognitive, affective, and behavioral learning about intercultural and intracultural communication to increase under-standing of the centrality of communication in the social, psychological, and environmental aspects of culture. PUL=5
  • COMM-C 502 Applied Qualitative Research Methods in Communication Studies (3 cr.) P: 6 credits (at any level) of coursework in Communication Studies. Inductive (data-to-theory)approach to knowledge, and associated sequential and non-sequential methods, for studying communication in applied everyday situations; e.g., friendships and other close personal dyads, families, small groups, organizations, and public, media, historical, computer mediated, or health-related contexts.
  • COMM-C 521 Restorative Communication (3 cr.) This interdisciplinary seminar focuses on communication involving families in health care settings, addressing significant issues for graduate and professional students who will work with families, including students in Comm. Studies, Nursing, Psychology, Social Work, Public Health, and Medicine.  Topics include communication with families about health care concerns and family-patient-health provider systems.
  • COMM-G 100 Introduction to Communication Studies (3 cr.) P: reading placement of at least 80, and placement in W131. Survey course of history, theory, and practice in each of six major areas: rhetoric and public address, theatre arts, interpersonal/ organizational communication, small group dynamics, public communication, and mass media studies. For each of the areas examined, students will apply theory to practice, thereby learning to become more effective communicators. PUL=1A
  • COMM-G 125 Topics in Communication Studies (1-3 cr.) Select introductory theory and practice in specialized and/or consolidated areas of communication and theatre not directly covered by current curricular offerings. Topics will vary from one semester to another. A student may register for a total of no more than 6 credit hours under this course number. PUL=1A
  • COMM-G 201 Introduction to Communication Theory (3 cr.) A survey of theories in the field of human communication. Consideration is given to theories that explain communication behavior between pairs of people, within groups, in organizations, and in societies. PUL=2
  • COMM-G 300 Independent Study (1-8 cr.) Research or practical experience in various departmental areas as selected by the student prior to registration, outlined in consultation with the instructor, and approved by the department. If a practicum experience, it must represent a minimum of 45 clock hours of practical application per credit hour. A student shall take no more than a total of 9 credit hours of G300 and G491. PUL=4
  • COMM-G 310 Introduction to Communication Research (3 cr.) Methodologies and types of data analyses for investigating communication phenomena. Students will acquire knowledge and competencies that will allow them to understand and address the process of communication research and relevant communication research issues. PUL=1B
  • COMM-G 375 Nonverbal Communication (1-3 cr.) Course examines the influences of nonverbal communication cues: interpersonal dynamics, media, environmental dimensions, and rhetorical strategies. Cross-cultural and gender differences in nonverbal codes will also be explored. PUL=2
  • COMM-G 390 Honors (1-5 cr.) P: junior standing and departmental approval. Individualized readings and/or project work devised by the student; regular meetings with faculty supervisor. PUL=2
  • COMM-G 391 Seminar (1-3 cr.) P: permission of instructor. Topic announced in prior semester; oriented to current topics in communication and theatre; readings, projects, and papers as indicated by the topic and instructor. May be repeated for a total of 8 credit hours. PUL=3
  • COMM-G 391 Advanced Topics in Communication Studies (1-6 cr.)
  • COMM-G 400 Health Provider-Consumer Communication (3 cr.) This course is designed to teach communication skills and practices related to health care discourse, by examining transactional communication within health care contexts. Topics covered in this course focus directly upon interpersonal dialogue between health care providers and patients. PUL=4
  • COMM-G 491 Internship (3-6 cr.) P: permission of instructor; for seniors and majors only. Internship in rhetoric and public address, theatre arts, interpersonal/organizational communication, media studies permitted under the auspices of a qualified cooperating organization. Periodic meetings with faculty advisors and term paper detailing intern’s professional activities and reactions. Apply during semester prior to desired internship. Total credit applicable to graduation shall not exceed 9 credit hours of G300 and G491. PUL=3
  • COMM-G 499 Research Seminar (3 cr.) P: upper-division standing or permission of instructor. A survey of the methods used by communication researchers for gathering and interpreting information emphasizing the relationship between theory and research, the seminar will explore important issues such as ethics and naturalistic vs. laboratory approaches. PUL=1B
  • COMM-M 150 Mass Media and Contemporary Society (3 cr.) P: reading placement score of at least 80. A critical overview of the role of electronic mass media in contemporary society. Provides an introduction to such issues as industry structure, organization, and economics; regulation, public interest, and media ethics; impact of programming on individuals; media construction of social institutions; media issues in the global village. PUL=2
  • COMM-M 210 Media Message Design (3 cr.) P: W132. Examines the process of message design in the context of institutional media use. Analyses of media messages and communication theory; analyses of the message receiver employ quantitative and qualitative audience research methods. Semester project involves planning and writing of script for use in organizational/institutional media context. PUL=1A
  • COMM-M 215 Media Literacy (3 cr.) Fundamentals and a general understanding of communication technologies are surveyed and discussed in a nontechnical and nonengineering manner. This course will introduce students to basic terminology and to various types of communication technology systems. It will also help students understand new and traditional communication systems and their theories of operation and application (including advantages and limitations). PUL=2
  • COMM-M 220 Electronic Graphic Production (3 cr.) Principles of visual aesthetics and critical visual literacy applied to the production of mediated messages. Basic typographic, graphic, and photographic skills are examined and practical techniques in different media are discussed. Several hands-on projects are used to develop individual competencies. PUL=1C
  • COMM-M 221 Electronic Media Production (3 cr.) Principles of visual and aural aesthetics and critical visual literacy applied to the production of mediated messages. Basic animation, video, and audio skills are examined and practical techniques in different media are discussed. Several hands-on projects are used to develop individual competencies. PUL=1C
  • COMM-M 290 Video Production Workshop (1 cr.) P or C: M221. The practical application of video production techniques. In a production center atmosphere, students are instructed in and practice equipment operation and crew responsibilities creating video productions for outside clients. Students may register for more than one section in one semester. May be repeated to a maximum of 3 credit hours. PUL=1C
  • COMM-M 370 History of Television (3 cr.) The development of television as an industry, technology, and cultural commodity from its roots in other forms of popular culture to the present, paying particular attention to the social and aesthetic contexts within which programs have been viewed. PUL=4
  • COMM-M 373 Film and Video Documentary (3 cr.) P: M150, C190, or permission of instructor. An historical survey of documentary film and video and a consideration of specific problems in documentary theory and practice. PUL=4; RISE=E
  • COMM-M 450 Video Production (3 cr.) For nonmajors only. Television production principles and practices for students in other disciplines. Emphasis on practical studio experiences with special attention to the roles of the writer, producer, and director. No prior knowledge of media required. May not be counted for credit in the media major emphasis. Lab arranged. PUL=1C
  • COMM-M 461 Production Problems in Communication Media (1-3 cr.) P: permission of instructor. Topic announced during preceding semester. Specialized study and application of advanced production techniques in audio, video, photography, or graphics. Readings, research, papers, and project as indicated by the topic and instructor. May be repeated for different topics. PUL=1C
  • COMM-M 462 Television Aesthetics and Criticism (3 cr.) P: M150 or permission of instructor. Aesthetic and critical approaches to modes of television expression. Aesthetics of picture composition, audiovisual relationships, visual narrative, and program content. Analysis of selected television criticism. PUL=4
  • COMM-M 463 Advanced Graphic Technique (3 cr.) P: M220 or permission of instructor.. Analysis of problems, methods, and technology in graphics. Consideration of advanced techniques in digital image and illustration manipulation including compositing, lighting effects, and different compression formats for video, multimedia, and the World Wide Web. PUL=1C
  • COMM-M 464 Advanced Audio Technique (3 cr.) P: M221 or permission of instructor. Analysis of field and studio recording technique with an emphasis on multitrack production. Electronic editing, mixing, and signal processing are considered. Group and individual projects. PUL=1C
  • COMM-M 465 Advanced Video Technique (3 cr.) P: M221 or permission of instructor. Analysis of electronic field production and editing with an emphasis in advanced video editing techniques. Both linear and nonlinear editing systems are considered. Individual and/or group projects. PUL=1C
  • COMM-M 466 Television Direction (3 cr.) P: M221, M290, or permission of instructor. Creative management of production elements to translate a program idea into medium requirements. Advanced course in which the experienced student produced substantive programs combining several formats. Emphasis on design and production from first request by client through program distribution. PUL=1C
  • COMM-R 110 Fundamentals of Speech Communication (3 cr.) P: reading placement score of at least 80. Theory and practice of public speaking; training in thought processes necessary to organize speech content for informative and persuasive situations; application of language and delivery skills to specific audiences. A minimum of six speaking situations. PUL=1A
  • COMM-R 224 Parliamentary Procedure (1 cr.) P: reading placement of at least 80, and placement in W131. Modern concepts of parliamentary forms in legislative assemblies and business meetings; practice in the use of parliamentary procedures PUL=2
  • COMM-R 227 Argumentation and Debate (3 cr.) Analysis, evidence, and argument in logical discourse; study of debate forms; practice in argumentative speaking in class, campus, and intercollegiate debate. PUL=2
  • COMM-R 309 Great Speakers: American Public Address (3 cr.) Course introduces students to historical and contemporary public address. Students will study the speechmaking of notable American speakers. The study will include speeches from a wide range of established genres and will include campaign rhetoric, debates, historical celebrations, lectures, legislative speaking, presidential speaking, public meetings, movement, rhetoric, and sermons. PUL=1A
  • COMM-R 310 Rhetoric and Public Address (3 cr.) P: R110 or equivalent. Development of theory of oral discourse; the influence of public address; historical and current problems in rhetoric of conflict, in freedom of speech, and in propaganda and persuasion. PUL=5
  • COMM-R 320 Advanced Public Communication (3 cr.) P: R110 or equivalent. Development of a marked degree of skill in preparation and delivery of various types of speeches, with emphasis on depth of research, clarity of organization, application of proof, and felicitous style. PUL=5
  • COMM-R 321 Persuasion (3 cr.) P: R110 or equivalent. Motivational appeals in influencing behavior; psychological factors in speaker-audience relation-ship; principles and practice of persuasive speaking. PUL=5
  • COMM-R 330 Communication Criticism (3 cr.) P: G100 or R110 and reading placement of at least 80. Course will introduce students to criticism as a method of studying persuasive messages in speeches, fiction, mass media, music, political campaigns, art, and other modes of communication in contemporary culture. PUL=5
  • COMM-R 350 Women Speak: American Feminist Rhetoric (3 cr.) To understand the ideological development of American feminist rhetoric, we examine: 1) speeches by well known, “Great Women” from the 1600’s to the present; 2) non-traditional rhetorical forms of “ordinary women,” including diaries, fiction, photography, reading groups; 3) intersections among race, class, ethnicity, sexual preference and gender in public discourse. PUL=1C
  • COMM-R 390 Political Communication (3 cr.) Provides an opportunity to study, understand, and participate in political communication. Topics covered include the rhetoric of politics, campaign discourse, political advertising, the role of the media and public opinion, the impact of new technology, and the place of interpersonal communication. PUL=5
  • COMM-T 100 Rehearsal and Performance (3-6 cr.) Emphasizes learning through the preparation and performance of plays and nondramatic literature adapted for performance. Various approaches may include but are not limited to performance studies, the study and preparation of a short play, and an original play for young audiences. The various steps and processes involved in the preparation and rehearsal will be based on appropriate theoretical concepts. A student may enroll in no more than 6 credits under this course number. PUL=1A
  • COMM-T 130 Introduction to Theatre (3 cr.) P: reading placement score of at least 80. An introduction to the study of theatre; the wide range of critical, historical, aesthetic, and practical interests necessary to a well-rounded view; emphasis on theatre as an art form and elements of dramatic construction. PUL=1B
  • COMM-T 133 Introduction to Acting (3 cr.) Acting I, a study of the theories and methods of acting, basic techniques, character analysis, interpretation, and projection. Class scenes. PUL=1A
  • COMM-T 205 Introduction to Oral Interpretation (3 cr.) P: reading placement score of at least 80. Basic principles and practice in analysis and reading of selections from prose, poetry, and drama. Public presentation of programs. PUL=1A
  • COMM-T 305 Advanced Oral Interpretation (3 cr.) P: T205 C: C104 An advanced approach to analysis and oral presentation of literature. Emphasis on group work. Analysis, development, and presentation of readers’ theatre or chamber theatre materials. PUL=1A
  • COMM-T 333 Acting II (3 cr.) P or C: T133 or consent of instructor. Advanced scene study. Laboratory in body movement and vocal techniques; participation in laboratory theatre. PUL=1B
  • COMM-T 336 Children’s Theatre (3 cr.) P: junior standing or consent of instructor. Historical development of children’s theatre, with emphasis on scripts appropriate to young audiences: designed to assist future teachers, parents, librarians, and others in understanding theatre as an art form for children ages 6-12, and in selecting appropriate theatre experiences for various periods of the child’s life. PUL=1C
  • COMM-T 337 History of the Theatre I (3 cr.) Significant factors in primary periods of theatre history through the Renaissance and the effect on contemporary theatre; emphasis on trends and developments; review of representative plays of each period to illustrate the theatrical use of dramatic literature. PUL=5
  • COMM-T 338 History of the Theatre II (3 cr.) Continuation of C337. May be taken separately. PUL=5
  • COMM-T 339 Play Directing (3 cr.) P: T130; T133 or permission of the instructor Introduction to theatre, methodology, and techniques: strong emphasis upon play analysis, actor-director communication, stage compositions. Students will direct scenes. PUL=3; RISE=E
  • COMM-T 430 Theatre Management (3 cr.) P: C130 or C141 or permission of instructor. This course is based on the concept that theatre is a business and must be operated on sound business principles. Students study the business aspects of operating various types of theatres. The study of the theoretical basis of management is augmented by practical projects. PUL=1B
  • COMM-T 431 Playwriting (3 cr.) P: permission of instructor. Introduction to playwriting theories, methodology, and skills; principles of dramatic structure; practice in writing, culminating in a one-act play manuscript; class evaluation and conferences. Credit not given for both T431 and IUB T453. PUL=3
  • COMM-T 437 Creative Dramatics (3 cr.) Laboratory course in informal dramatics, emphasizing the child rather than the production; includes methods of stimulating the child to imaginative creation of drama with the materials of poetry, stories, choral readings, and music. Available for graduate credit in summer sessions. PUL=3, RISE=E
  • COMM-T 440 The Art and Craft of Puppetry (3 cr.) Theory and practice of puppetry as an art form and as an educational tool. Students will create a wide variety of hand puppets, scripts, and stages as well as master basic techniques of puppet performance. PUL=3; RISE=E