101. Human Communication: Perspectives and Problems 4 credits
Beginning study of the nature, problems and theories of
human communication. Examines issues of meaning,
relationship and community within interpersonal, group
and media contexts. Surveys rhetorical, pragmatic and
interpretive perspectives on the communication process.
110. Understanding Mass Communication (3D/AH-4) 4 credits
Introductory study of the major media, industries and
effects of contemporary mass communication. Emphasis
on analyzing the way media technologies affect the
"grammar" of news, advertising and entertainment and the
way media professionals and organizations use media to
influence perception, behavior and identity.
111. Fundamentals of Speech Communication (3D/AH-4) 4 credits
Elements of oral communication in public contexts.
Emphasis on diagnosing rhetorical situations, inventing
and delivering informative and persuasive presentations,
and facilitating public discussion.
123. Communication, Performance and Interpretation (3D/AH-4) 4 credits
Explores the relationship between text, message, self and
culture. Students interpret and perform nonfiction,
personal narratives, poetry and a variety of other literary
and nonliterary texts. (Also listed as THD 123.)
*220. Intercultural Communication (3D/AH-4) 4 credits
Study of interdependent relationship of communication
and culture. Examines conceptual and experiential
problems of effective communication across cultural
boundaries. Focuses on problems of interpreting, and
evaluating different cultural values, worldviews and
patterns of communication.
*301. Interpersonal Communication 4 credits
COM 101 or Permission
Examination of messages, roles, rules and strategies
through which interactions and relationships are initiated,
maintained and dissolved. Emphasis on analysis of
interaction and communication processes in a variety of
interpersonal settings.
*302. Organizational Communication 4 credits
COM 101 or Permission
Overview of research and theory in organizational
communication. Examines internal processes of socialization,
group decision-making and influence as well as
external communication such as public relations, issue
management and corporate advocacy. Emphasis on
analysis of organizational communication problems.
*303. Communication, Technology and Society 4 credits
COM 110 or Permission
Examination of the forms and functions of communication
in technological society. Study of social and cultural
effects of mass media and impact of technology on public
and private communication.
*327. Persuasion and Propaganda (3D) 4 credits
COM 101 or COM 110 or Permission
Theory and practice of social influence and the elements
of propaganda. Emphasis on analysis of persuasion in
film, television, print and oral media.
