COM - Communication
COM 1010 Oral Communication: Basic Speech Cr. 3
Satisfies General Education Requirement: Oral Communication Competency
Beginning course emphasizing fundamentals of speech preparation. Development of poise and confidence in speaking. Offered Every Term.
COM 1500 Survey of Mass Communication Cr. 3
Introductory course in understanding communication theory and effects and the communication industry in the United States. Offered Every Term.
COM 1600 Introduction to Audio-Television-Film Production Cr. 3
Foundational course in production principles, techniques, and processes and current industry practices. Through in-class exercises and out-of-class projects, students gain hands-on experience with camera, lighting, sound, and non-linear editing equipment and software in the creation of digital film, video, and audio content. Offered Every Term.
Fees: $90
COM 1610 Fundamentals of New Media Production Cr. 3
Critical introduction to the emerging landscape of producing original digital content for information and communication technology. Students will develop a critical perspective and the skills needed to engage in new media culture. Offered Winter.
Restriction(s): Enrollment is limited to Undergraduate level students.
Fees: $70
COM 1700 Media Literacy Cr. 3
Satisfies General Education Requirement: Social Inquiry
Explores the goals and methods of various media industries, identify the influence media has on us, understand benefits and potential negative consequences of media, while identifying specific techniques for becoming media literate. Offered Every Term.
COM 2000 Introduction to Communication Studies Cr. 3
Introduction to the discipline of communication studies. Survey of theory, research, and practice. Offered Yearly.
COM 2010 Introduction to Film Cr. 4
Satisfies General Education Requirement: Cultural Inquiry, Visual Performing Arts
Examination of film techniques and basic methods of film analysis. Offered Every Term.
Fees: $15
Equivalent: ENG 2450
COM 2020 History of Film Cr. 3
Satisfies General Education Requirement: Cultural Inquiry, Visual Performing Arts
Critical study of the motion picture as a modern visual art; screening and analysis of representative fiction films to illustrate historical periods and genres. Offered Every Term.
Fees: $15
COM 2030 Journalistic Grammar and Style Cr. 3
Grammar use in journalism; Associated Press Style Book. Offered Every Term.
COM 2100 News Reporting Cr. 3
Basic news reporting: gathering the facts and writing them well. Journalism skills course. Offered Every Term.
Prerequisites: (COM 1500 with a minimum grade of C or COM 1700 with a minimum grade of C) and COM 2030 with a minimum grade of C
Fees: $30
COM 2110 Argumentation and Debate Cr. 3
Satisfies General Education Requirement: Critical Thinking Competency
Logical and legal foundation of the argumentation process; practical experience in analysis, reasoning, case-building, evaluation of evidence, refutation and cross-examination. Offered Every Term.
COM 2160 Campaigns and Social Movements Cr. 3
Satisfies General Education Requirement: Cultural Inquiry, Philosophy Letters
Critical discussion of the social foundations and values underlying human persuasion. Analysis of persuasive strategies and techniques used in contemporary society: political campaigns, social movements, advertising and consumerism in the U.S. Offered Every Term.
COM 2170 Persuasive Speaking Cr. 3
Advanced public speaking; emphasis on persuasive speeches. Application of social psychology to audience analysis, to speech construction and presentation, and to critical analysis of persuasive public discourse. Offered Every Term.
Prerequisites: COM 1010 with a minimum grade of C or Oral Communication P=100/F=000 with a test score minimum of 100
COM 2200 Interpersonal Communication Cr. 3
Satisfies General Education Requirement: Social Inquiry
Introduction to theory and research on interpersonal communication; analysis of everyday communication situations. Offered Yearly.
COM 2210 Media Writing and Storytelling Cr. 3
Application of writing principles to various forms of copy; continuity, commercials, public service announcements, features, documentary, drama. Offered Every Term.
Prerequisites: ENG 1020 with a minimum grade of C, ENG 1020 with a minimum grade of P, ENG 1050 with a minimum grade of C, College Level Exam Program with a test score minimum of BC-BD, (AA) Exempt from Gen Ed MACRAO with a test score minimum of 100, Michigan Transfer Agreement with a test score minimum of 100, or (BA) Competencies Waiver with a test score minimum of 100
COM 2230 Broadcast News Writing and Digital Editing Cr. 3
Satisfies General Education Requirement: Writing Intensive Competency
Theory and practice in broadcast news-writing, reporting, performing and editing. Writing Intensive course for broadcasting sequence in Journalism major. Offered Fall, Winter.
Prerequisites: COM 1500 with a minimum grade of C or COM 1700 with a minimum grade of C
Fees: $50
COM 2240 Forensics Practicum Cr. 1-2
Training and participation in debate and contest speaking. Offered Every Term.
Repeatable for 6 Credits
COM 2250 South End Workshop Cr. 3
Students work in various editing, reporting, and photographic positions at student newspaper. Offered Every Term.
Prerequisites: COM 2100 with a minimum grade of C
COM 2260 Digital Writing and Research Methods Cr. 3
This course prepares students to participate intelligently and critically in the production and consumption of digital media. The course emphasizes fundamental writing and research skills. Offered Fall.
Restriction(s): Enrollment is limited to Undergraduate level students.
COM 2280 Digital Photojournalism Cr. 3
Theory and practical application of photojournalism. Emphasis on journalistic visual storytelling, use of digital camera equipment, theory of photography, and presentation through social media. Students must have access to either a smart phone with camera or a 35mm DSLR or mirrorless camera with manual capabilities. Offered Fall, Winter.
Fees: $50
COM 2290 Fundamentals of New Media Communication Cr. 3
Interdisciplinary introduction to the study of new media by way of an investigation of both theories and applications of emerging forms of communication. Offered Fall.
Restriction(s): Enrollment is limited to Undergraduate level students.
COM 2300 Intercultural Communication Cr. 3
Satisfies General Education Requirement: Diversity Equity Incl Inquiry
The purpose of this course is to engage students in an in-depth exploration of culture within and among different social groups, from a communicative perspective. Discussions and readings will include communication as an element of culture, key concepts and terms that ground our understandings of cross-cultural interactions, a history of the discipline and relevant theories and research in this area. Offered Yearly.
COM 2310 Introduction to Web Design Cr. 3
Introduces students to the current methods and procedures utilized to effectively design and maintain web pages and websites using various CMS (content management system) platforms. Offered Fall.
Fees: $35
COM 3010 Media Analysis and Criticism Cr. 3
Satisfies General Education Requirement: Writing Intensive Competency
Through a focus on the analysis of media texts (from movies to memes and everything in between and beyond) students are introduced to the techniques and methods necessary for the comprehension and practice of media criticism. By thinking and writing critically, evaluation of media texts will draw from aspects of both reception and production practices; case studies will be made of a broad-based spectrum of styles, genres, and periods. Offered Every Term.
Prerequisites: COM 1500 with a minimum grade of C
Restriction(s): Enrollment is limited to students in the Department of Communication.
Fees: $10
COM 3100 Public Affairs Reporting Cr. 3
Advanced news reporting, focusing on governmental stories. Offered Fall, Winter.
Prerequisites: COM 2100 with a minimum grade of C
Fees: $30
COM 3150 Science Communication Cr. 3
Satisfies General Education Requirement: Quantitative Experience Comp
Students will have have an opportunity to become familiar with the theory, research, and practice of science communication. They will develop an understanding of quantitative research methods in science and engage with the meaning of both science and scientific practice, so that they may critique and help shape broader public interpretation of socially relevant scientific topics (e.g., vaccines, evolution, climate change). Various channels to communicate science with diverse audiences will be examined and students are encouraged to examine how multiple media shape scientific understanding in different ways. Offered Every Other Winter.
COM 3170 Fundamentals of Public Relations Cr. 3
Historical background of the profession of public relations; communication variables in public relations; emphasis on presentational techniques, publicity preparation and development of special events. Offered Fall, Spring/Summer.
Prerequisites: COM 1010 with a minimum grade of C, COM 2170 with a minimum grade of C, or Oral Communication P=100/F=000 with a test score minimum of 100
COM 3210 News Editing Cr. 3
Copy editing, headline writing, AP style, online and print news presentation, preparation for different news platforms. Journalism skills course. Offered Every Term.
Prerequisites: COM 2100 with a minimum grade of C
Fees: $15
COM 3230 The African-American Film Experience Cr. 4
Historical and contemporary portrayals of African American people in narrative and documentary film. Emphasis on filmic approaches to race relations, cinematic elaboration of racial stereotypes, and legitimation functions of film. Offered Yearly.
Restriction(s): Enrollment is limited to Undergraduate level students.
Equivalent: AFS 3200
COM 3240 Queer Film and Media Cr. 3
Queer voices have been an integral part of cinema since its inception in the late nineteenth century. Students in this course will study the intersections of queer lives with the industry and artistry of film and media. To do this, we will revisit film history with an eye for the queer experience, identify landmark works and key pioneers of queer cinema, consider how queer representations have shifted across decades, and analyze the integral themes and styles of queer media. Offered Yearly.
Equivalent: GSW 3240
COM 3250 Introduction to Organizational Communication Cr. 3
Introduction to major theories and principles used to guide the effective practice of communication within organizations. Offered Fall, Winter.
COM 3300 Business and Professional Presentations Cr. 3
Satisfies General Education Requirement: Writing Intensive Competency
Review and practice of various oral communication forms used in modern organizations. Topics include persuasive speaking, informative speaking, speech writing, multi-media presentations and business and report writing. Offered Every Term.
Prerequisites: (COM 1010 with a minimum grade of C, ENG 3060 with a minimum grade of C, or Oral Communication P=100/F=000 with a test score minimum of 100) and (AFS 2390 with a minimum grade of C, ENG 2390 with a minimum grade of C, ENG 3010 with a minimum grade of C, ENG 3020 with a minimum grade of C, or ENG 3050 with a minimum grade of C)
COM 3380 Editing and Field Production Cr. 3
Theoretical, technical and creative storytelling processes of editing; development of technical competency in skills required for location production (camera, lighting, and sound). Offered Every Term.
Prerequisites: COM 1600 with a minimum grade of C
Restriction(s): Enrollment is limited to students with a major, minor, or concentration in Film, Film Honors, Film Studies, Journalism, Journalism Honors, Media Arts and Studies or Media Arts and Studies Honors.
Fees: $130
COM 3400 Theories of Communication Cr. 3
Satisfies General Education Requirement: Writing Intensive Competency
Exploration of the role of theory in describing, explaining and predicting human communication behavior in face-to-face and mediated contexts. Offered Every Term.
COM 3990 Directed Study Cr. 1-4
Offered Every Term.
Repeatable for 4 Credits
COM 4041 Rhetoric and the Body Cr. 3
Humanistic analysis, research, and theory in how rhetoric of/about the human body intersects with broader social concerns (e.g., consumerism, gender, disease and health, and race). Offered Every Other Year.
COM 4100 Feature Writing Cr. 3
Satisfies General Education Requirement: Writing Intensive Competency
Advanced news reporting, focusing on feature writing. Offered Fall, Winter.
Prerequisites: COM 2100 with a minimum grade of C
Fees: $30
COM 4110 Studies of Legal Argument Cr. 3
Uses of legal argument in a variety of fields and contexts. Different methods of studying argument will be examined. Offered Every Other Year.
Restriction(s): Enrollment limited to students with a class of Junior or Senior.
COM 4130 Communication Ethics Cr. 3
Issues of responsible communication in a variety of contexts including public relations, organizational, and interpersonal communication. Offered Yearly.
Restriction(s): Enrollment limited to students with a class of Junior or Senior.
COM 4140 Popular and Celebrity Culture Cr. 3
Increasing significance of pop and celebrity culture in shaping cultural and political affairs. Modes of production and consumption of pop culture; understanding pop culture and its effects. Offered Every Other Year.
Restriction(s): Enrollment limited to students with a class of Junior or Senior.
COM 4150 Communication and Conflict Cr. 3
Examination of the dynamics and processes of conflict across contexts with a focus on communicative theories and practices. Focus on developing and applying assessment and management knowledge and skills to real-world situations. Offered Every Other Year.
Restriction(s): Enrollment limited to students with a class of Junior or Senior.
COM 4170 Public Relations Writing Cr. 3
Satisfies General Education Requirement: Writing Intensive Competency
Writing for public relations purposes: backgrounders, fact sheets, press releases; brochures and newsletters. Offered Fall, Winter.
Prerequisites: COM 2030 with a minimum grade of C and COM 3170 with a minimum grade of C
COM 4190 Rhetorical Criticism Cr. 3
An introduction to various methods of rhetorical criticism through analysis of texts and artifacts in terms of persuasion and adaptation to audiences. Offered Fall.
Prerequisites: COM 2000 with a minimum grade of C or COM 3400 with a minimum grade of C
Restriction(s): Enrollment is limited to Undergraduate level students.
COM 4200 Nonverbal Communication Cr. 3
Channels and functions of nonverbal communication; contexts include: gender, culture, adult-infant interaction, therapy. Methods of study. Offered Every Other Year.
Restriction(s): Enrollment limited to students with a class of Junior or Senior.
COM 4210 Research Methods in Communication Cr. 3
Quantitative and qualitative research methods designed to advance knowledge about human communication across applied settings and diverse contexts. Offered Every Term.
Prerequisites: COM 1500 with a minimum grade of C or COM 2000 with a minimum grade of C
Repeatable for 9 Credits
COM 4240 African Americans in Television Cr. 4
Historical overview of African Americans in radio and television with emphasis on three areas of study: news and documentary; entertainment and advertising; and ownership, employment and access. Offered Yearly.
Equivalent: AFS 4240
COM 4250 Reporting Race, Gender, and Culture Cr. 3
Issues of gender, culture and race in media coverage with emphasis on neutral writing and some content analysis. Preparation for students to report on this content with sensitivity and accuracy. Offered Fall, Winter.
Prerequisites: COM 2100 with a minimum grade of C
COM 4270 Group Communication Cr. 3
Theory, research, and practice in group processes and problem-solving in small groups within professional contexts. Offered Every Other Year.
Restriction(s): Enrollment limited to students with a class of Junior or Senior.
COM 4310 Audio Production Cr. 3
Theory and practice in sound production techniques and experimentation with creative audio production. Offered Every Term.
Prerequisites: COM 1600 with a minimum grade of C and (COM 2210 with a minimum grade of C or COM 2230 with a minimum grade of C)
Restriction(s): Enrollment is limited to students in the Department of Communication.
Fees: $90
COM 4410 Television Production Cr. 4
Theory and practical application of techniques used in television production; use of graphic materials, design and staging concepts, lighting techniques and studio operation; the role of the television producer-director. Offered Every Term.
Prerequisites: COM 1600 with a minimum grade of C and (COM 2210 with a minimum grade of C or COM 2230 with a minimum grade of C)
Restriction(s): Enrollment is limited to students in the Department of Communication.
Fees: $90
COM 4500 Leadership Communication Cr. 3
Theory and application of leadership processes in for-profit and nonprofit organizations. Offered Every Other Year.
Restriction(s): Enrollment limited to students with a class of Junior or Senior.
COM 4510 Immersive Media Production Cr. 3
Foundations of storytelling through the use of immersive technology. This course incorporates techniques and project development in 360/VR still photography, ambisonic sound and 360/VR video production. Emphasis is also placed on group moderating, immersive storytelling, concept development, historical and theoretical analysis of simulation technologies. Offered Winter.
Prerequisites: COM 1600 with a minimum grade of C and (COM 2210 with a minimum grade of C or COM 2230 with a minimum grade of C)
Restriction(s): Enrollment is limited to Undergraduate level students.
COM 4560 Telecommunications Policy: A Political Economy Approach Cr. 3
Satisfies General Education Requirement: Writing Intensive Competency
Introduction to government and corporate policies that govern telecommunication networks. Critical approaches to the study of emerging legal and policy issues pertaining to the dynamic and evolving communication networks and technologies, including surveillance practices and privacy issues. Offered Winter.
Prerequisites: COM 1500 with a minimum grade of C or COM 1700 with a minimum grade of C
Restriction(s): Enrollment is limited to Undergraduate level students.
COM 4680 WAYN Radio Cr. 2
Participation in WAYN on-line radio. Offered Fall, Winter.
Restriction(s): Enrollment is limited to Undergraduate level students.
COM 4990 Directed Study Cr. 1-3
Supervised individual research. Offered Every Term.
Prerequisite: COM 2100 with a minimum grade of C
Repeatable for 4 Credits
COM 4996 Senior Honors Thesis Cr. 3
Overview of theory and research in communication; closely supervised research project that results in a paper of approximately twenty pages. Offered Yearly.
Restriction(s): Enrollment limited to students with a class of Senior.
COM 5010 History of Communication Technologies Cr. 3
Traces the historical development of communication technologies, industry players and government policies, and assesses impact of the technologies in their historical context. Offered Yearly.
Prerequisites: COM 1500 with a minimum grade of C
Restriction(s): Enrollment is limited to students with a major in Communication Studies, Communication, Film, Film Honors, Journalism, Journalism Honors, Media Arts and Studies, Media Arts and Studies Honors, Public Relations, Public Relations Honors or Radio and Television.
COM 5020 Studies in Film History Cr. 3
Analysis of the development of a specific film genre, a director, or other historical aspect of the motion picture. Topics to be announced in Schedule of Classes. Offered Yearly.
Prerequisites: COM 2010 with a minimum grade of C or ENG 2450 with a minimum grade of C
Restriction(s): Enrollment is limited to students with a major in Communication Studies, Communication, Film, Film Honors, Journalism, Journalism Honors, Media Arts and Studies, Media Arts and Studies Honors, Public Relations, Public Relations Honors or Radio and Television.
Fees: $20
Repeatable for 12 Credits
COM 5050 Special Topics Cr. 3
Selected topics in communication to be announced in the Schedule of Classes. No more than six credits may be elected in this special topics course in any graduate degree program Offered Intermittently.
Repeatable for 9 Credits
COM 5060 Documentary and Non-Fiction Film and Television Cr. 4
Study of the history and contemporary global landscape documentary film, video and digital media. Through screenings, readings and discussions, the course explores approaches to the analysis of documentary form and content including cinematic modes, social impact, ethical considerations and the processes of production, financing and distribution. Offered Yearly.
Prerequisites: COM 2010 with a minimum grade of C or COM 2450 with a minimum grade of C
Fees: $20
COM 5070 Culture, Communication, and Media Cr. 3
The purpose of this course is to engage students in an in-depth exploration of culture, communication, and media technologies and practices in everyday life. In essence, we will study how understandings of culture shape the world around us, even as it is shaped and mediated by everyday communication, often taken for granted. The course challenges students to rethink everyday representations of culture and social groups, unpack how power relations permeate cultural contexts, and identify alternative frames and openings through emerging media technologies. Offered Every Other Fall.
Restriction(s): Enrollment limited to students with a class of Senior.
COM 5080 History of Journalism and Mass Media Cr. 3
A historical examination of the changing role of the media professional and forms of media and communication as they have developed in relation to particular social, political, economic, and technological conditions. Offered Fall, Winter.
COM 5120 Public Address Cr. 3
Landmark moments of public address. What constitutes public address; relevance of public address studies. Offered Every Other Year.
Restriction(s): Enrollment limited to students with a class of Junior or Senior.
COM 5130 Communication and Social Marketing Cr. 3
Principles of social marketing; student-driven group project. Offered Fall, Spring/Summer.
Prerequisites: COM 4210 with a minimum grade of C
COM 5140 Public Relations and Social Media Cr. 3
Examines social media strategies and how they can be constructed, implemented and evaluated in the context of public relations planning. Offered for undergraduate credit only. Offered Winter.
Prerequisites: COM 3170 with a minimum grade of C and COM 4210 with a minimum grade of C
COM 5160 Public Relations Campaigns and Issues Management Cr. 3
Capstone course for public relations majors. Management functions of public campaigns: developing objectives, strategic planning, issues management, budgeting. Blends theoretical concepts with their professional and practical applications; emphasis on public relations planning and evaluation. Offered for undergraduate credit only. Offered Winter.
Prerequisite: COM 4170 with a minimum grade of C
Restriction(s): Enrollment limited to students with a class of Senior.
COM 5190 Special Topics in Communication Studies Cr. 3
Advanced study of theory and research in communication studies. Topics to be announced in schedule of classes. Offered Winter.
Prerequisite: COM 2000 with a minimum grade of C or COM 3400 with a minimum grade of C
Restriction(s): Enrollment limited to students with a class of Senior; enrollment is limited to students in the Department of Communication.
Repeatable for 6 Credits
COM 5200 Special Topics in Advanced Reporting Cr. 3
Special areas of interest, such as sports writing, business writing, columns and editorials. Offered Yearly.
Prerequisites: COM 2100 with a minimum grade of C-
Repeatable for 9 Credits
COM 5250 Professional Issues in Journalism and Mass Media Cr. 3
Capstone course for journalism majors; must be taken in the last year of study. This course explores the issues and skill-set required to successfully enter the news media/media career field – either on staff or on your own. Media organizations and entrepreneurial opportunities are covered. Offered Fall, Winter.
Prerequisite: COM 2230 with a minimum grade of C or COM 4100 with a minimum grade of C
COM 5270 Screenwriting Cr. 4
Satisfies General Education Requirement: Writing Intensive Competency
Principles and techniques of writing for motion pictures. Analysis and study of professionally written scripts. Exercises in writing dramatic and non-fiction screenplays. This course fulfills the Writing Intensive Requirement for the Film major. Offered Every Term.
Prerequisites: COM 2210 with a minimum grade of C
Restriction(s): Enrollment is limited to students in the Department of Communication.
Fees: $10
Repeatable for 8 Credits
COM 5300 Layout and Design Cr. 3
Practical skills course in publishing newsletters, magazines, newspapers and books; emphasis on new computer technology, desktop publishing; business aspects of publishing, including printing, promotion and marketing; skills in use of personal computer for publishing. Offered Intermittently.
Fees: $30
COM 5310 Investigative Reporting Cr. 3
Advanced reporting techniques involving use of Freedom of Information Act and computer-assisted data base searches; accessing public records. Offered Intermittently.
Prerequisites: COM 2100 with a minimum grade of C
COM 5320 Health Communication Cr. 3
Communication demands of health care and health promotion; current communication issues and problems in modern health care systems; identification of communication strategies for health care consumers and providers. Offered for undergraduate credit only. Offered Every Other Year.
Prerequisites: COM 2000 with a minimum grade of C or COM 3400 with a minimum grade of C
COM 5330 Rhetoric of Visual Culture Cr. 3
Influence that vision and visual texts have in our culture. Critical examination of such texts, including photography, museums, monuments, the fashion industry, tattoos and body marking. Offered for undergraduate credit only. Offered Every Other Year.
Prerequisites: COM 2000 with a minimum grade of C or COM 3400 with a minimum grade of C
COM 5350 Media Arts Production Cr. 3
Key components of production for electronic media (field, audio, and television production). Production techniques, aesthetic understanding, directing skills. No credit after COM 5380 or COM 5400. Offered for graduate credit only. Offered Fall.
Fees: $100
COM 5360 Gender and Communication Cr. 3
Analysis of gender communication issues within interpersonal, group, organizational, intercultural, public, and mass mediated contexts. Offered for undergraduate credit only. Offered Every Other Year.
Prerequisite: COM 2000 with a minimum grade of C
COM 5380 Video Field Production and Editing Cr. 3
Theory and practical application of digital film/video location production and post-production techniques. Non-linear editing and post-production software as used in creative development of original content. Offered Winter.
Prerequisites: COM 5350 with a minimum grade of B
Restriction(s): Enrollment is limited to Graduate level students; enrollment is limited to students in the Department of Communication.
Fees: $100
COM 5381 TV News Reporting and Digital Editing Cr. 3
Theory and practical application of aesthetics and journalistic values of TV news and feature storytelling. Emphasis on planning, location video and sound protection, editing, interviewing, writing skills, on-camera presentation. Offered Fall, Winter.
Prerequisite: COM 2230 with a minimum grade of C
Restriction(s): Enrollment is limited to students with a major in Journalism, Journalism Honors, Media Arts and Studies or Media Arts and Studies Honors.
Fees: $125
COM 5390 Digital Animation Cr. 3
Introduction to animation techniques, 2D to 2-1/2D to 3D; includes use of Adobe products such as After Effects. Discussion of alpha channels, masks, rotoscoping, layering, keyframe and behavioral-based animation. Offered Winter.
Prerequisites: COM 1600 with a minimum grade of C or COM 5350 with a minimum grade of C
COM 5400 Techniques of Film and Video Production Cr. 4
Capstone course option for majors in Media Arts and Studies; should be taken in last 21 credits of program. Experience with the preparation, shooting and editing of video projects in film-style production. Offered Fall, Winter.
Prerequisite: COM 3380 with a minimum grade of C or COM 5380 with a minimum grade of C
Restriction(s): Enrollment is limited to students in the Department of Communication.
Fees: $150
COM 5410 Producer's Workshop Cr. 3
Examination of the business, managerial, and creative considerations and process of producing media programming from conception through distribution. Offered Yearly.
Prerequisites: COM 3380 with a minimum grade of C, COM 3390 with a minimum grade of C, COM 5380 with a minimum grade of C, COM 5381 with a minimum grade of C, or AIN 3220 with a minimum grade of C
Restriction(s): Enrollment is limited to students with a major in Communication Studies, Communication, Film, Film Honors, Journalism, Journalism Honors, Media Arts and Studies, Media Arts and Studies Honors, Public Relations, Public Relations Honors or Radio and Television.
Fees: $35
COM 5420 Director's Workshop Cr. 3
Organization and execution of the film and video director's tasks through production of a major creative project. Offered Yearly.
Prerequisite: COM 5400 with a minimum grade of C
Fees: $125
Repeatable for 6 Credits
COM 5440 Film, Cinematography and Lighting Cr. 4
An immersion into the cinematic practices and applied theory of film and digital cinema including the art and technology of cinematography, lighting design, and non-linear post-production. Students will apply an understanding of exposure and color temperature control, workflow management, NLE systems and color grading to the creation of short cinematic works designed for their portfolios and for exhibition. Offered Every Other Year.
Prerequisite: COM 5400 with a minimum grade of C
Restriction(s): Enrollment is limited to students with a major in Communication Studies, Communication, Film, Film Honors, Journalism, Journalism Honors, Media Arts and Studies, Media Arts and Studies Honors, Public Relations, Public Relations Honors or Radio and Television.
Fees: $125
COM 5460 Magazine Writing Cr. 3
Advanced feature writing: preparation of magazine features. Students focus on limited number of in-depth articles. Research, structure and writing techniques to produce publishable magazine-length articles. Offered Yearly.
Prerequisite: COM 4100 with a minimum grade of C
COM 5500 Journalism and New Media Cr. 3
Theory and practical application of publishing journalistic works via new media. Emphasis on best practices and techniques of using social media for news coverage. Offered Fall, Winter.
Prerequisite: COM 2100 with a minimum grade of C
Fees: $30
COM 5510 Societal Effects of New Technologies Cr. 3
Capstone course; must elect in last 21 credits prior to graduation. Discusses the societal impact of traditional mass media and the evolving interactive technologies of computers and mobile networks as well as emerging technologies such as robotics. Offered Yearly.
Prerequisite: COM 1500 with a minimum grade of C
Restriction(s): Enrollment is limited to students with a major in Communication, Journalism, Journalism Honors, Media Arts and Studies, Media Arts and Studies Honors or Radio and Television.
COM 5520 International Communications Cr. 3
Examination of the complex issues pertaining to international telecommunication, broadcasting and satellite systems within the broader political, economic and sociocultural contexts of globalization. Offered Yearly.
COM 5540 Film Criticism and Theory Cr. 3
Introduction to the major classical and contemporary theoretical and critical approaches to the study of film and screen arts, inclusive of Third Cinema theory, in a globalized, multi-screen media environment. Offered Fall.
Prerequisites: 2 of (COM 2010 with a minimum grade of C, COM 2020 with a minimum grade of C, COM 3010 with a minimum grade of C, COM 3230 with a minimum grade of C, AFS 3200 with a minimum grade of C, or COM 3400 with a minimum grade of C)
COM 5610 Advanced TV Production Cr. 3
Students work on producing live, recorded TV programs and work on a professional-style TV production crew. Positions include technical director, teleprompter operator, producers, audio, lighting, staging/set construction personnel, camera operators, editors. Offered Fall, Winter.
Prerequisite: COM 4410 with a minimum grade of C or COM 5381 with a minimum grade of C
Fees: $135
Repeatable for 6 Credits
COM 5710 Law and Ethics in Journalism and Mass Media Cr. 3
Covers legal and ethical issues in Journalism and Mass Media. It is designed to help students in journalism, public relations, advertising, and other media professions understand the practical application of law and ethics in their working lives. Offered Fall, Winter.
COM 5900 Senior Project in Communication Studies Cr. 3
Combination of lectures and workshops to assist students in carrying out a service learning or individual research project. Offered for undergraduate credit only. Offered Fall, Winter.
Restriction(s): Enrollment limited to students with a class of Senior; enrollment is limited to students with a major in Communication Studies or Communication Studies Honors.
COM 5993 Writing Intensive Course Cr. 0
Satisfies General Education Requirement: Writing Intensive Competency
Disciplinary writing assignments under the direction of a faculty member. Must be selected in conjunction with a designated corequisite; see section listing in Schedule of Classes for corequisites available each term. Satisfies the University General Education Writing Intensive Course in the Major requirement. No degree credit. Required for all Film Studies majors. Offered Every Term.
Prerequisites: AFS 2390 with a minimum grade of C, ENG 2390 with a minimum grade of C, ENG 3010 with a minimum grade of C, ENG 3020 with a minimum grade of C, or ENG 3050 with a minimum grade of C
Restriction(s): Enrollment is limited to Undergraduate level students.
COM 6050 New Media Practices Cr. 3
Examination of principles of emerging communication practices — including mobile, social, AR, VR, MR, and AI — across personal, cultural, and institutional settings. Offered Fall.
COM 6090 Digital Screen Media Cr. 3
Foundational techniques of creating transmedia content. Students explore basic interactivity, and gain experience designing and implementing sites for multimedia platforms. Offered Winter.
Restriction(s): Enrollment is limited to Graduate level students.
Fees: $85
COM 6100 Speech Writing Cr. 3
Preparation and presentation of speech manuscripts. Emphasis on style of writing, use of supporting materials and factors of interest. Special problems of ghost-writing considered. Offered Every Other Year.
COM 6140 Public Relations Theory Cr. 3
This course provides a foundational grounding in public relations theories and examines them in different communication contexts, including mediated, crisis, and international. Offered Fall.
Restriction(s): Enrollment is limited to Graduate level students.
COM 6180 Principles of Health Communication Cr. 3
Graduate survey of theory, research and practice in communication; emphasis on collaborative patient-provider interactions and health campaigns. Offered for graduate credit only. Offered Fall.
Restriction(s): Enrollment is limited to Graduate level students.
COM 6190 Internship Cr. 1-3
On-the-job observations and work experience in business, service, social, governmental, and industrial organizations. Emphasis on journalism, public relations, and organizational communication. Offered Every Term.
Repeatable for 6 Credits
COM 6220 Dispute Resolution and Communication Technology Cr. 3
Conflict in online environments; development of Online Dispute Resolution (ODR). Hands-on work with state-of-the-art ODR technologies via several simulations. Offered Every Other Year.
COM 6250 Organizational Communication Cr. 3
Theoretical review of the structure process and function of communication within and between organizations. Analysis of current and emerging issues in the theory and research of organizational communication. Offered Fall.
COM 6270 New Media Theory Cr. 3
Exploration of a wide range of theoretical approaches central to the study of new media, including media ecology, computational approaches, cultural studies, media convergence, posthumanism, and ethical considerations. Offered Yearly.
COM 6280 Reporting on Diversity Cr. 3
Focus on journalistic writing with sensitivity on the language and framing used when reporting on race, ethnicity, culture, gender identity or gender expression. For students intending careers in fields that require writing that can reach diverse public audiences, such as news media, public relations, and strategic communications. Offered for graduate credit only. Offered Fall, Winter.
COM 6310 Allesee Lectures in Media Cr. 1
Through public lectures, screenings and discussion sessions, this course provides critical and analytical approaches to the study of work by leading artists, professionals and/or scholars in the fields of film, media arts, or broadcast journalism. Offered Yearly.
Restriction(s): Enrollment limited to students with a class of Unranked Grad, Junior or Senior; enrollment limited to students in the Fine, Performing & Comm. Arts.
Repeatable for 3 Credits
COM 6350 Communication, Culture, and Conflict Cr. 3
Overview of communication theory and practice as it relates to issues of culture, conflict and dispute resolution. Offered Fall.
COM 6390 Documentary Storytelling I Cr. 3
Research practices, production techniques and ethical considerations vital to documentary storytelling; camera, sound recording and digital workflow techniques employed in small-crew documentary production; interview and narrative construction techniques. Emphasis on the development of research, conceptualization, visualization, and preproduction skills required for documentary filmmaking. For graduate students, this is the first of a two-semester sequence in documentary filmmaking. Graduate students should plan to register for COM 7390 upon successful completion of this course. Offered Winter.
Prerequisites: COM 5060 with a minimum grade of C (may be taken concurrently) and (COM 3380 with a minimum grade of B+, COM 5380 with a minimum grade of B+, COM 5381 with a minimum grade of B+, or COM 6090 with a minimum grade of B+)
Fees: $125
COM 6410 Allesee Master Class Cr. 1-3
The Allesee Master Class provides students the opportunity to work with leading artists, professionals, and/or scholars in the fields of film, media arts, or broadcast journalism develop and refine professional and creative skills in a production environment. Offered Yearly.
Repeatable for 6 Credits
COM 6530 Audience Measurement and Survey Techniques Cr. 3
Theory and application of quantitative and qualitative research techniques in surveying audiences for electronic media. Offered for graduate credit only. Offered Yearly.
Restriction(s): Enrollment is limited to Graduate level students.
COM 6680 Directed Projects in Film and Media Cr. 1-3
Advanced individual projects. Offered Every Term.
Prerequisite: COM 5400 with a minimum grade of C
Repeatable for 3 Credits
COM 7000 Introduction to MA Studies in Communication Cr. 3
The foundational course providing a comprehensive overview of the field of communication, including: key theories, themes, subdisciplines, and research methodologies commonly used within the discipline. Offered Fall.
Restriction(s): Enrollment is limited to Graduate level students.
COM 7010 Special Topics Cr. 1-3
Selected topics in communication to be announced in the Schedule of Classes. Offered Intermittently.
Restriction(s): Enrollment is limited to Graduate level students.
Repeatable for 9 Credits
COM 7040 Language and Power Cr. 3
Ways in which language is used as a device of oppression and liberation. Offered Every Other Year.
Restriction(s): Enrollment is limited to Graduate level students.
COM 7140 Public Relations Campaigns and Issues Management Cr. 3
Management functions of public relations campaigns: developing objectives, strategic planning, issues management, budgeting. Blends theoretical concepts with their professional and practical applications; emphasis on prominent critical rhetorical approaches to public relations planning and evaluations. Offered Winter.
Restriction(s): Enrollment is limited to Graduate level students.
COM 7150 Micro-level Organizational Communication Cr. 3
Communicative processes, behaviors and relationships that affect individuals, dyads and small groups at the workplace. Topics covered include leadership, small group communication, mentorship, co-worker relationships, identity management, civility and workplace bullying. Offered Every Other Year.
Restriction(s): Enrollment is limited to Graduate level students.
COM 7160 Crisis Communication Cr. 3
Theoretical and case-study approach to communicative aspects of organizational crisis management. Topics include post-crisis response, crisis sensing, crisis planning. Offered Every Other Year.
Restriction(s): Enrollment is limited to Graduate level students.
COM 7162 Risk Communication: Theoretical and Practical Approaches Cr. 3
Introduces students to the theoretical approaches to risk communication. In addition, students will be introduced to research methods that may be used to conduct evaluation research on the impact of mediated risk communication. Offered Fall.
Restriction(s): Enrollment is limited to Graduate level students.
COM 7170 Health and Risk Communication Cr. 3
Theory and research in health and risk communication. Role of communication in hindering and promoting health under situations of health risk such as disasters and other public health emergencies. Offered Winter.
Restriction(s): Enrollment is limited to Graduate level students.
COM 7172 Risk Communication: Disasters, Hazards, and the Media Cr. 3
Introduces students to the role of mass media in communicating about disasters and hazards, public opinion and cultural understanding of risk as expressed through popular culture, individual and public policy response to risk messages, and some introduction to the ethical issues embedded in the concept of risk. Offered Fall.
Restriction(s): Enrollment is limited to Graduate level students.
COM 7200 Visual Communication Cr. 3
Analysis of symbolic and performative dimensions of visual communication from a variety of perspectives (rhetorical, social scientific, critical/cultural), reflective of the instructor’s expertise. Students may analyze political communications, data visualizations, films, ad campaigns, or other types of media across various modes of conveyance (i.e. print, television, and/or digital platforms). Offered Every Other Year.
Restriction(s): Enrollment is limited to Graduate level students.
COM 7210 New Media and Strategic Communication Cr. 3
Fundamental theories and practical applications of social media, and its strategic use in public relations and professional communication. Offered Every Other Year.
Restriction(s): Enrollment is limited to Graduate level students.
COM 7220 Professional Issues in Applied Communication Cr. 3
Offered Winter.
Restriction(s): Enrollment is limited to Graduate level students.
COM 7250 Rhetorical Criticism Cr. 3
Principles of criticism as applied to public address; analysis of standards and methods of evaluation; readings in modern criticism of public address. Research project. Offered Fall.
Restriction(s): Enrollment is limited to Graduate level students.
COM 7260 Quantitative Research Methods in Communication Cr. 3
Methods of quantitative research in communication such as experimental design, surveys, content analysis, measurement, descriptive and inferential statistical analysis. Offered Fall.
Restriction(s): Enrollment is limited to Graduate level students.
COM 7270 Advanced Screenwriting Cr. 4
Research and writing for creation of full-length dramatic or documentary film and television scripts. Offered Every Term.
Prerequisite: COM 5270 with a minimum grade of C
Restriction(s): Enrollment is limited to Graduate level students.
Fees: $10
COM 7290 Contemporary Rhetorical Theory Cr. 3
Exploratory analysis of a broad spectrum of recent works relevant to the art of discourse. Offered Every Other Year.
Restriction(s): Enrollment is limited to Graduate level students.
COM 7340 Interviewing Cr. 3
Theory and research on interviewing across a range of contexts. Topics include: constructing questions and protocols, listening, role, self-presentation, social understanding. Contexts may include screening, counseling, legal, journalism and research. Offered Every Other Year.
Restriction(s): Enrollment is limited to Graduate level students.
COM 7360 Qualitative Research Methods in Communication Cr. 3
Methods of qualitative research in communication such as participant interviews, focus groups, ethnography and analysis. Offered Yearly.
Restriction(s): Enrollment is limited to Graduate level students.
COM 7365 Ethnographic Methods for Communication Research Cr. 3
Design, implementation and evaluation of ethnographic and participant/observation research studies in communication. Offered Every Other Year.
Restriction(s): Enrollment is limited to Graduate level students.
COM 7380 Advanced Media Editing Cr. 3
Principles of video and film editing; exercises and assignments covering pace, meaning, special effects; styles of editing related to genres; non-linear editing software programs. Offered Fall, Winter.
Restriction(s): Enrollment is limited to Graduate level students.
Fees: $30
COM 7390 Documentary Storytelling II Cr. 3
Second-semester of a two-semester graduate sequence on documentary storytelling. Advanced principles of writing, producing, directing and editing the documentary. Special emphasis on advanced location production and post-production visual storytelling techniques including character development, continuity, and narrative story structure. Graduate students should plan to enroll in this course in the regular semester immediately following their completion of COM 6390. Offered Fall.
Prerequisite: COM 6390 with a minimum grade of C
Restriction(s): Enrollment is limited to Graduate level students.
Fees: $125
COM 7410 Communication Theory Cr. 3
Systematic analysis of major theories of communication including historical/philosophical foundations, current applications, and recent developments. Offered Yearly.
Restriction(s): Enrollment is limited to Graduate level students.
COM 7420 Seminar in Directing Cr. 3
Provides the advanced media production student the opportunity to devote an entire semester to producing, directing, and editing a significant cinematic or interactive work. It focuses on creative approaches to cinematic visualization, character development, dramatic structure, scene construction, sound design and the direction of performances (actors, talent and production teams) in the crafting of compelling motion picture stories. Students work to establish their artistic voices as they create significant films or interactive digital media projects for professional exhibition and distribution. A completed script or detailed treatment is required prior to registration. Offered Yearly.
Restriction(s): Enrollment is limited to Graduate level students.
Fees: $125
Repeatable for 6 Credits
COM 7500 Seminar in Mass Media Cr. 3
Advanced topics in mass communication theory and research. Offered Yearly.
Restriction(s): Enrollment is limited to Graduate level students.
Repeatable for 9 Credits
COM 7520 Theories of Media Effects Cr. 3
Survey of research and theory regarding cognitive, emotional, and behavioral effects of mass media on individuals and society. Offered Yearly.
Restriction(s): Enrollment is limited to Graduate level students.
Repeatable for 998.99 Credits
COM 7530 Critical Mass Communication Theory Cr. 3
Foundational readings and concepts; theoretical perspectives of critical theory and cultural studies. Offered Every Other Year.
Restriction(s): Enrollment is limited to Graduate level students.
COM 7580 Content Analysis Cr. 3
Theory and practice in quantitative techniques for analyzing texts. Offered Every Other Year.
Restriction(s): Enrollment is limited to Graduate level students.
COM 7610 Feminist Media Theory Cr. 3
Overview and discussion of feminist theories, women studies theories, and gender studies theories and their intersections with and applications to theories in communication studies, journalism studies, and media studies. Offered Every Other Year.
Restriction(s): Enrollment is limited to Graduate level students.
COM 7700 Political Communication Cr. 3
Theory and methods of political communication. Studied and applied topics such as campaigns, messages, public opinion, news coverage will be analyzed from a variety of perspectives (rhetorical, social scientific, critical/cultural), reflective of the instructor’s expertise. Offered Every Other Year.
Restriction(s): Enrollment is limited to Graduate level students.
COM 7810 Seminar in Communication Education Cr. 3
Philosophy and approaches to teaching communication on the college level. Topics include objectives, evaluation, motivation and teaching strategies. Offered Fall.
Restriction(s): Enrollment is limited to Graduate level students.
COM 7990 Directed Study: MA Cr. 1-4
Offered Every Term.
Restriction(s): Enrollment is limited to Graduate level students.
Repeatable for 6 Credits
COM 7991 Directed Study: PhD Cr. 1-4
Research in major field for advanced graduate students. Offered Every Term.
Restriction(s): Enrollment is limited to Graduate level students.
Repeatable for 6 Credits
COM 7999 Master's Essay Direction Cr. 1-3
Offered Every Term.
Restriction(s): Enrollment is limited to Graduate level students.
COM 8000 Introduction to PhD Studies Cr. 3
Introduction to perspectives, approaches and methods of communication research. Required during first term of Ph.D. study in the Communication Department. Offered Yearly.
Restriction(s): Enrollment is limited to Graduate level students.
COM 8140 Public Relations Theory Cr. 3
This course provides a foundational grounding in public relations theories and examines them in different communication contexts, including mediated, crisis, and international. Offered Fall.
Restriction(s): Enrollment is limited to Graduate level students.
COM 8250 Organizational Communication Cr. 3
Theoretical review of the structure process and function of communication within and between organizations. Analysis of current and emerging issues in the theory and research of organizational communication. Offered Every Other Year.
Restriction(s): Enrollment is limited to Graduate level students; enrollment limited to students in a Doctor of Philosophy degree.
COM 8340 Communication, Culture, and Conflict Cr. 3
Overview of communication theory and practice as it relates to issues of culture, conflict and dispute resolution. Offered Fall.
Restriction(s): Enrollment is limited to Graduate level students; enrollment limited to students in a Doctor of Philosophy degree.
COM 8350 Advanced Study in Rhetorical Criticism Cr. 3
Study of important decisions in rhetorical criticism; two critical projects refined throughout the term in context of critical process, perspectives and approaches. Offered Every Other Year.
Prerequisite: COM 7250 with a minimum grade of C
Restriction(s): Enrollment is limited to Graduate level students.
COM 8530 Audience Measurement and Survey Techniques Cr. 3
Theory and application of quantitative and qualitative research techniques in surveying audiences for electronic media. Offered Winter.
Restriction(s): Enrollment is limited to Graduate level students; enrollment limited to students in a Doctor of Philosophy degree.
COM 8999 Master's Thesis Research and Direction Cr. 1-8
Offered Every Term.
Restriction(s): Enrollment is limited to Graduate level students.
Repeatable for 8 Credits
COM 9990 Pre-Doctoral Candidacy Research Cr. 1-8
Research in preparation for doctoral dissertation. Offered Yearly.
Restriction(s): Enrollment is limited to Graduate level students.
Repeatable for 12 Credits
COM 9991 Doctoral Candidate Status I: Dissertation Research and Direction Cr. 7.5
Offered Yearly.
Restriction(s): Enrollment is limited to Graduate level students.
COM 9992 Doctoral Candidate Status II: Dissertation Research and Direction Cr. 7.5
Offered Yearly.
Prerequisite: COM 9991 with a minimum grade of S
Restriction(s): Enrollment is limited to Graduate level students.
COM 9993 Doctoral Candidate Status III: Dissertation Research and Direction Cr. 7.5
Offered Yearly.
Prerequisite: COM 9992 with a minimum grade of S
Restriction(s): Enrollment is limited to Graduate level students.
COM 9994 Doctoral Candidate Status IV: Dissertation Research and Direction Cr. 7.5
Offered Yearly.
Prerequisite: COM 9993 with a minimum grade of S
Restriction(s): Enrollment is limited to Graduate level students.
COM 9995 Candidate Maintenance Status: Doctoral Dissertation Research and Direction Cr. 0
Offered Yearly.
Restriction(s): Enrollment is limited to Graduate level students.
Fees: $434.8
Repeatable for 0 Credits