COM 201. Fundamentals of Speech. (3 Credits)

Communication theory and practice for public speaking with emphasis on content, research, organization, delivery, adaptation to the audience as well as listening and speaker evaluation. Prerequisites: minimum English ACT score of 18, or satisfactory completion of EN 099 or higher. (Fall, Spring, Summer)

Course Fees: $75

COM 201H. Fundamental of Speech, Honors. (3 Credits)

Accelerated training in public speaking, with emphasis on the evolution of rhetoric and speaking to a variety of audiences. This course utilizes class discussion and written responses to further encourage critical thinking skills. This course is open to students in the Honors College and other qualified students with prior departmental approval. (Fall, Spring)

Course Fees: $75

COM 205. Communication in a Global Age. (3 Credits)

Foundation course in communication, placing U.S. media in a global perspective and examining both human and technological impact on communication. (Fall, Spring)

Course Fees: $75

COM 211. Business and Professional Speaking. (3 Credits)

Communication and critical thinking skills as applied to presentations, interviews and organizational interactions in business contexts. Emphasis on needs analysis and strategies for effective research, organization, audience adaptation, delivery and use of visual elements to formulate presentations. Prerequisite: minimum English ACT score of 16 or satisfactory completion of EN 099 or higher. (Fall, Spring)

Course Fees: $75

COM 215. Media Writing. (3 Credits)

Writing applications across multiple media platforms and formats. Grammar, language, and Associated Press style are emphasized. Prerequisites: EN 111 and EN 112 or EN 111H and EN 112H. (Fall, Spring)

Course Fees: $75

COM 221. Communication In Everyday Life. (3 Credits)

Students develop effective communication skills by studying how people interact in a variety of situations, including groups settings, interpersonal communication and speaking before the public. Prerequisite: minimum English ACT score of 16 or satisfactory completion of EN 099 or higher. (Fall)

Course Fees: $75

COM 243. Introduction to Media Production. (3 Credits)

Hands on experience in familiarizing students with the foundation of aesthetic values, current professional standards and technical tools of creation. Introduction to individual elements of all three phases of production. (Fall, Spring)

Course Fees: $75

COM 303W. Communications Research Methods. (3 Credits)

A class centering on understanding the relationships between philosophy, theory, and research methods used in the study of communication. The class focuses on experimental, survey, textual analyses, and naturalistic inquiries. Students will develop a working knowledge of both quantitative and qualita- tive data analyses procedures as well as being able to critically appraise communication research. (Fall, Spring)

Course Fees: $75

COM 306. Communicating to Improve Relationships. (3 Credits)

Provides a functional interpretation of interpersonal communication in societal, educational, and vocational relationships. Appropriate readings and research regarding the influence of communication between two individuals is a primary focus of the course. (Spring)

Course Fees: $75

COM 308. Nonverbal Communication. (3 Credits)

This course studies the use of symbolic transmissions outside verbal contexts. Specific topics include the influences of gestures, dress, posture, and facial expressions on both senders and receivers. (Spring)

Course Fees: $75

COM 314. Communication Theory and the Public Interest. (3 Credits)

An introduction to modern communication theories, communication effects and ethical issues associated with communication in a contemporary mediated environment. (Fall, Spring)

Course Fees: $75

COM 317. Digital and Social Media. (3 Credits)

The usage of text, sounds and images in a media environment. Basic computer literacy is required. Students learn web content production. (Fall, Spring)

Course Fees: $75

COM 326. Broadcast News Writing and Producing. (3 Credits)

Techniques of news gathering, writing and producing for television, radio and digital media. Prerequisite: COM 243. (Fall, Spring)

Course Fees: $75

COM 330. Group Communication. (3 Credits)

Deals with communication theory and its applications to small groups within a variety of settings. Attention is given to the roles of the discussants and the emergence of group leaders as well as the influence communication variables have on each. (Fall)

Course Fees: $75

COM 341. Radio Prod & Performance. (3 Credits)

The techniques of operation, production, and performance of radio and audio media. (Fall)

Course Fees: $75

COM 342. Television Production and Performance. (3 Credits)

Studio and field television production techniques including production, equipment operation and on-camera performance. Prerequisite: COM 243. (Fall, Spring)

Course Fees: $75

COM 356. Advanced Reporting. (3 Credits)

An emphasis on the development of advanced reporting skills. Prerequisite: COM 215. (Fall, Spring)

Course Fees: $75

COM 370. Feature Writing. (3 Credits)

Theories, techniques, and practice in writing feature articles for media. Prerequisite: COM 215. (Fall)

Course Fees: $75

COM 374. Public Relations Principles and Practices. (3 Credits)

This course provides a comprehensive overview of public relations by blending foundational theories with practical, real-world case studies. Students will explore the history, key functions, PR process, and ethical considerations of public relations within various sectors such as corporate, nonprofit, and governmental organizations. Through critical analysis of successful and unsuccessful PR campaigns, students will gain insights into strategic communication, crisis management, media relations, and decision making processes. The course aims to enhance students’ problem-solving skills, strategic thinking, and ability to develop effective public relations strategies that shape public perception and support organizational success. (Fall, Spring)

Course Fees: $75

COM 386. Communication and Gender. (3 Credits)

Gender Communication focuses on interactive relationships between gender and communication in contemporary American society. This implies three priorities for this class. First, we’ll explore multiple ways communication in families, schools, media, and society in general creates and perpetuates gender roles. Second, we’ll consider how we enact socially created gender differences in public and private settings and how this affects success, satisfaction, and self-esteem. Third, and perhaps most important, we’ll connect theory and research to our personal lives. Your experiences, insights, questions, and ideas are a key part of this course. Throughout the term we’ll consider not only what is in terms of gender roles, but also what might be and how we, as change agents, may act to improve our individual and collective lives. Also listed as WS 386 but creditable only in field for which registered. (Fall, Odd-numbered years)

Course Fees: $75

COM 390. Public Relations & Integrated Communications Writing. (3 Credits)

This course explores the art and science of writing for Public Relations (PR) and Integrated Marketing Communications (IMC). Students will learn how to craft compelling, strategic messages for a variety of platforms, including press releases, media kits, social media posts, advertising copy, and promotional materials. Emphasis will be placed on understanding the synergy between PR and IMC efforts to create cohesive, brand-aligned messaging. The course will also cover best practices in utilizing AI tools, audience targeting, storytelling, crisis communications, and ethics. Students will learn how to use AI for tasks such as content generation, editing, keyword optimization, and audience analysis, while maintaining ethical standards and ensuring the authenticity of their messaging. Through hands-on writing assignments, case studies, and realworld scenarios, students will build the skills necessary to effectively communicate with diverse audiences, drive brand awareness and engagement, and support organizational objectives. Prerequisite: COM 215. (Fall, Spring)

Course Fees: $75

COM 400W. Communication Law and Ethics. (3 Credits)

An introduction to legal and ethical responsibilities related to communication in the United States. This course distinguishes between forms of communication that have constitutional protection and those which have limits (libel, privacy, copyright, intellectual property, censorship, commercial speech, broadcast licensing, access to information) on freedom of expression. (Fall, Spring)

Course Fees: $75

COM 401. Communication and Health. (3 Credits)

This course introduces students to basic health communication concepts. It includes an examination of relevant research and theories associated with health communication including interpersonal, social, organizational, and mass communication approaches. (Fall, Even-numbered years)

Course Fees: $75

COM 402. Persuasion. (3 Credits)

An analysis of the principles and techniques used in all forms of persuasive communication. The course includes both theoretical and applied work concerning the use of communication to produce specific attitudes within receivers. (Spring)

Course Fees: $75

COM 404. Communicating to Resolve Conflict. (3 Credits)

Theories and strategies important for conceptualizing, developing, and managing conflict negotiation, mediation, and third-party intervention (Offered upon sufficient demand)

Course Fees: $75

COM 410. Intro Layout & Design. (3 Credits)

This course introduces students to the principles and techniques of layout and design, with a focus on creating visually compelling and effective communication materials. Students will gain hands-on experience with emphasis on current software trends in the industry. Additionally, the course will explore the integration of AI-assisted tools to enhance messaging and tailor content for specific audiences. Through a combination of theoretical foundations and practical application, students will develop skills in typography, composition, branding, and digital storytelling. By the end of the course, students will be able to design professional-quality layouts and visual assets for print and digital media. (Fall, Spring, Summer)

Course Fees: $75

COM 411. Advanced Layout & Design. (3 Credits)

This course builds on foundational design principles, offering students an advanced exploration of layout and design techniques for print and digital media. Utilizing current software trends in the industry, students will develop expertise in branding, composition, and visual storytelling. Additionally, the course will incorporate AI-assisted tools to refine messaging and create content tailored to specific audiences. Through hands-on projects, critiques, and real-world applications, students will enhance their creative problem-solving skills and produce professional-quality design work suitable for various media platforms. Prerequisite: COM 410. (Fall, Spring)

Course Fees: $75

COM 417. Communicating Across Cultures. (3 Credits)

This course provides an introduction to communication among people from different cultural and co-cultural groups. It focuses on intercultural communication theories and research and their application to multi-cultural contexts. (Spring)

Course Fees: $75

COM 420. Communication Capstone. (3 Credits)

Developing professional skills such as writing a resume, writing a cover letter, participating in an employment interview, and creating a professional portfolio. Should be completed by all departmental majors in their junior or senior year. (Fall, Spring)

Course Fees: $75

COM 440. Organizational Communcation. (3 Credits)

An analysis of communication within complex organizations. Areas covered include communication auditing, interviews, decision-making, communication networks, and problem solving. Three class periods; one 2-hour laboratory period per week. Also listed as MG 440 but creditable only in field for which registered. (Spring, odd years)

Course Fees: $75

COM 441. Podcasting & Creative Audio. (3 Credits)

A comprehensive overview of podcasting, content development and podcast production techniques. Students will produce their own original podcasts, reflecting their individualized interests and skills. Finally, students learn to set-up a viable system for podcast production, distribution, and possible monetization of their creations. Other advanced, creative, audio techniques will be produced. (Spring)

Course Fees: $75

COM 442. Public Relations Campaigns. (3 Credits)

This course provides students with the knowledge and hands-on experience needed to design, implement, and evaluate successful public relations and integrated communications campaigns. Students will learn the strategic planning process behind campaigns, including research, goal-setting, target audience analysis, message development, media relations, and performance measurement. Through case studies, group projects, and real-world client work, students will gain practical skills in crafting and executing campaigns that influence public perception, build brand awareness, and address key organizational challenges. Emphasizing both traditional and digital media, the course will explore AI applications and innovative techniques for creating integrated, multi-platform campaigns that align with organizational goals and values. Prerequisites: COM 215, COM 374. (Fall, Spring)

Course Fees: $75

COM 460. Advanced Media Production. (3 Credits)

Theories and practical application of production in broadcast and digital media. Prerequisites: COM 341 and 342. (Spring)

Course Fees: $75

COM 465. Global Media. (3 Credits)

This course examines international media: history, development, economic and social influence, theories of control, international news agencies and new technologies. (Fall, Offered upon sufficient demand)

Course Fees: $75

COM 470. Media Leadership Innovation and Entrepreneurship. (3 Credits)

This course explores the intersection of leadership, innovation, and entrepreneurship in the media industry. Students will learn the essential principles and practices needed to lead media companies, to evaluate innovative media products, develop entrepreneurial strategies, and effectively navigate the rapidly changing media landscape. Through case studies, practical exercises, and industry insights, students will gain a deeper understanding of how media-related ideas are turned into successful media ventures, from conceptualization to commercialization. (Spring)

Course Fees: $75

COM 475. Crisis Management. (3 Credits)

This course will examine communication principles and the spectrum of forces that are involved in crisis management and community relations. These forces include: internal and external stakeholders, the broad community involved in specific issues, individuals and organizations that can form partnerships with companies, institutions, organizations and foundations, and the various traditional and social media outlets that are available for such. Communicating eTectively, giving spontaneous speeches, critiquing publications, developing a PR/integrated communication plan, dealing with crisis management, assessing company/institution and community needs and working with the media will be examined. Application of essential PR/integrated communications tools to enhance a company's or institution's mission and vision is a major course objective. Case study analysis will be an essential learning strategy instituted during the course. Broad course aims include the implementation of descriptive, analytic, assessment, communications and application skills. Prerequisite: COM 374. (Fall, Spring)

Course Fees: $75

COM 480. Topics in Communication. (3 Credits)

Detailed examination of a specific topic in the field of communication. Topic will be announced prior to scheduling of the class. May include field trip. A $30.00 special fee may be required according to the topic. (Upon Sufficient Demand)

Course Fees: $75

COM 485. Mane Agency. (3 Credits)

As an operational, student-run public relations and integrated marketing communications firm, Mane Agency is an accelerated-training and experiential-learning course where participants develop and execute strategic campaigns designed to achieve their clients' goals. The course focuses on practical applications of professional communications techniques with emphasis on critical thinking, client management, research and strategy, brand building, media relations, integrated marketing and advertising initiatives, professional writing and presenting skills. Prerequisites: COM 374, COM 442. (Fall, Spring)

Course Fees: $75

COM 498. Independent Study. (1-3 Credits)

Independent study and research in an area of communication arts or mass communication under departmental guidance and supervision. The length of time and amount of study will determine credit earned. May be repeated but not to exceed a maximum of three credit hours. Prerequisite: departmental approval required prior to registration. (Upon Sufficient Demand)

Course Fees: $75

COM 499. Internship. (1-3 Credits)

Special field experience under departmental guidance and evaluation. The length of time and amount of study will determine credit earned. May be repeated but not to exceed a maximum of six (6) credit hours. International students must receive approval from the Office of International Affairs prior to course registration. Prerequisite: departmental approval required prior to registration. (Fall, Spring, Summer)

Course Fees: $75