Communication Studies
Information
Jennifer Considine, Chair
Department Office: Arts & Communication S123
Department Telephone: (920) 424-4427
COMM
Faculty
Allred
Brazee
Considine
Heider
Kvam
Palmeri
Rolain-Jacobs
Wilkum
Degrees
- Undergraduate: A major in Communication Studies can lead to the following degrees: Bachelor of Arts; Bachelor of Science; Bachelor of Science in Education.
- Comment: The Communication Studies Department offers a range of programmatic participation opportunities for both majors and non-majors (Communication Club, internships and study abroad). Students are encouraged to become involved in the programs of their choice and may call the department office for more information (920) 424-4427.
Summary of Fields of Study
- Goal(s)
- See the department for a listing of their goal(s).
- The Major(s)
- The Department offers one major: Communication Studies.
- The Minor(s)
- The Communication Studies Department offers three minors: 1) Communication Studies; 2) Organizational Communication; 3) Speech Communication Education.
Admission/Graduation Requirements
- To be eligible for graduation, students must meet all requirements for the degree being sought. Please consult with a department advisor (listed on TitanWeb) before planning a course of study.
- Those students seeking Wisconsin teacher licensure must earn a minimum grade point average of 3.00 in all courses required for their majors and minors in order to meet the admission requirements of the College of Education and Human Services.
Required Core Courses
- See requirements for majors and minors.
The Major(s), with Emphases and/or Options
1. Communication Studies Major
Recommended for students who wish to prepare for professions in the various areas of communication or who wish to pursue graduate study.
- Required Courses:
- Communication: Communication 104, 213 or 213Q1 or 214, 219, 280, 302, 368, 375, 439, 498
- Other Requirements:
- At least nine elective credits must be at the 300/400 level.
- Only Communication 114, 303 or 304 can count towards the 38 credit major.
- A maximum of 6 elective credits from the following courses can count toward the Communication Studies major: Communication 405, 446, 474; Interdisciplinary Studies 399 (Note: students can count a maximum of 3 elective credits towards the major from IS 399.)
- 15 elective credits from the following list of courses: Communication 114, 218, 254, 254Q1, 301, 303, 304, 310, 312, 316, 318, 319, 323, 325, 326, 337, 338, 386, 388, 403, 405, 413, 414, 415, 416, 418, 422, 427, 428, 442, 444, 445, 446, 448, 450, 451, 455, 474, 476, 477, 478; Independent Studies 399.
The Minor(s)
1. Communication Studies Minor
Recommended for students who are seeking a general minor in Communication Studies and who are interested in pursuing work in business, non-profit and public service or the government sector.
- Required Credits: 23 minimum
- Required Courses: Communication 104, 213 or 213Q1 or 214, 219 or 219Q1, 280 or 280Q1, 302, 375, 439.
- Electives: Six credits from any of the 300/400 level Communication Studies courses. Only Communication 303 or 304 can count towards the minor.
2. Organizational Communication Minor
Recommended for students who are interested in business, non-profit and public service or governmental professions where organizational communication is essential.
- Required Credits: 22 minimum
- Required Courses: Communication 104, 280 or 280Q1, 304, 368
- Required Courses: Choose at least two upper division organizational communication electives from the following (six credits): Communication 403, 413, 414, 415, 416, 418, 477
- Two additional Communication Studies electives (6 credits)
3. Speech Communication Education Minor
Recommended for students who wish to teach in the secondary schools (6-12). (Would be taken in addition to a major licensure area such as English or Elementary Education).
- Required Credits: 21 minimum
- Required Courses:
- Communication: Communication 213 or 213Q1 or 214, 219 or 219Q1, 280 or 280Q1 or 380, 303 or 304, 318.
- Radio-TV-Film: RTF 101 or 115.
- Other Requirements: Methods Course Communication 441 required of all Secondary Education Majors and Minors in Speech Communication Education. (Note: Does not count toward credits in the minor.)
- Electives: One course from the following: Communication 301, 302, 310, 312, 316, 319, 323, 325, 326, 337, 338, 368, 375, 386, 388, 405, 413, 414, 415, 416, 418, 422, 427, 428, 444, 445, 446, 448, 450, 451, 455, 476, 477, 478; Interdisciplinary Studies 399.
The Certificate(s)
1. Professional Communication
This certificate is open to all students.
- Required Credits: 12 minimum
- Required Courses:
- Public speaking and presentation skills: COMM 111 OR 112 OR 114
- Communication in Context (Choose one): COMM 213Q1, COMM 214, COMM 216 COMM 219, COMM 219Q1, COMM 228, COMM 280, COMM 280Q1, COMM 380
- Intercultural Communication: COMM 318 OR COMM322
- Advanced Communication Competencies (Choose one): COMM 304, COMM 326, COMM 375, COMM 384, COMM 388
Course Offerings
| Communication 104 | 1 (crs.) |
| Introduction to Communication Studies | |
| This course offers students an orientation to “Communication Studies” including exploration of the three communication focus areas, advising, preview of requirements for the major and minor, student organizations, internships, study abroad opportunities, and a variety of resources and services available to students to support their success in the major and/or minor. | |
| Communication 111 | 3 (crs.) |
| Introduction to Public Speaking | |
| Introduction to theory and practice of communicating in public speaking settings. | |
| Communication 112 | 3 (crs.) |
| Honors: Introduction to Public Speaking | |
| Individual Speech Communication skills through the study of theory and experience in a variety of speeches. Open primarily to university honor scholars. If space permits, students who demonstrate above average oral communication ability and/or potential via a written test and oral performance will be allowed to enroll. Assignments in the course will be more challenging than those in Communication 111, with expectations of higher performance levels. Not open to students who have taken Communication 111. Prerequisites: Enrolled in good standing with The Honors College with prior or concurrent enrollment in HNRS 175. Students cannot earn credit in both an honors course and a non-honors course of the same title. | |
| Communication 114 | 3 (crs.) |
| Introduction to Business and Professional Speaking | |
| This course is an introduction to the principles of effective communication in business and professional settings. Topics include skills identification, organizational culture, diversity, listening, verbal and nonverbal messages, conflict and negotiation, interviewing, teams, and preparing oral presentations. | |
| Communication 213 | 3 (crs.) |
| Interpersonal Communication: Ethnic Studies (ES)(XC) | |
| Examination of the components of interpersonal speech communication. Lectures, discussion, observations and controlled experiences will enable the student to learn and apply relevant concepts and variables of human interaction in dyadic, face to face communication situations. Intercultural Communication focused. Credit cannot be received for both Communication 213 and Communication 214. | |
| Communication 213Q1 | 3 (crs.) |
| Interpersonal Communication: Ethnic Studies (ES)(XC) | |
| Examination of the components of interpersonal speech communication. Lectures, discussion, observations and controlled experiences will enable the student to learn and apply relevant concepts and variables of human interaction in dyadic, face to face communication situations. Intercultural Communication focused. Credit cannot be received for both Communication 213 and Communication 214. | |
| Communication 214 | 3 (crs.) |
| Interpersonal Speech Communication (XC) | |
| Examines how communication works in personal relationships (e.g., friends, romantic relationships, family). Emphasizes mastery and application of basic concepts through extensive discussion of interpersonal goals, needs, and wants in personal affairs to facilitate the development of knowledge, insights, and communicative skills in dyadic, face-to-face interaction. Credit cannot be received for both Communication 213 and Communication 214. | |
| Communication 216 | 3 (crs.) |
| Online Interpersonal Communication for Adult Learners: Ethnic Studies (ES)(XC) | |
| Examination of the components of interpersonal communication, with special attention to building intercultural knowledge and competence. Utilizes online discussions and application of relevant concepts of human interaction in dyadic, face-to-face communication situations. This course is designated for students in the Division of Online and Continuing Education (OCE). Credit can only be earned for one of the following: Communication 213, Communication 214, or Communication 216. Prerequisites: BLS major (all); L&OS major (all); FERM major (all); COllaborative Nursing Prgm; Human SV or Criminal Just Online. | |
| Communication 218 | 3 (crs.) |
| Popular Culture and Communication (XC) | |
| This course uses rhetorical theories and self-reflective strategies to examine Popular Culture as an academic discipline. Students will engage with, analyze, interpret and ultimately argue about the significance of texts that are largely seen as forms of entertainment. The course the persuasion and influence in forms of advertising, print media, film, television, celebrity, music, social media, and, video games. | |
| Communication 219 | 3 (crs.) |
| Intro to Rhetoric and Public Advocacy (XC) | |
| Advocacy explores the nature, function, and consequences of rhetoric. The course includes an introduction to rhetorical theorists and practitioners, a sampling of the major subject areas in the field of rhetoric, and the critical concepts included in these areas. Course assignments are designed to help students think critically about the study of rhetoric and what it offers to us as individuals and to society as a whole. | |
| Communication 219Q1 | 3 (crs.) |
| Intro to Rhetoric and Public Advocacy (XC) | |
| Advocacy explores the nature, function, and consequences of rhetoric. The course includes an introduction to rhetorical theorists and practitioners, a sampling of the major subject areas in the field of rhetoric, and the critical concepts included in these areas. Course assignments are designed to help students think critically about the study of rhetoric and what it offers to us as individuals and to society as a whole. | |
| Communication 228 | 3 (crs.) |
| Communication and Technology: Theory and Practice | |
| This course explores the basic nature of communication and examines ways in which communication skills may be utilized in an everchanging digital era. Students will learn to recognized the effects of channel selection on communication and how these channels, or mediums, can enhance or inhibit communication depending upon the way they are used. Students will use this knowledge to identify and apply best practices for successful computer-mediated-communication (CMC) in relational and professional contexts. | |
| Communication 254 | 3 (crs.) |
| Environmental Communication (XC) | |
| This course focuses on the role that human communication plays in influencing the ways we engage the concept of sustainability and perceive the environment. It also explores how we construct environmental issues and decide what actions to take with regards to those issues. | |
| Communication 254Q1 | 3 (crs.) |
| Environmental Communication (XC) | |
| This course focuses on the role that human communication plays in influencing the ways we engage the concept of sustainability and perceive the environment. It also explores how we construct environmental issues and decide what actions to take with regards to those issues. | |
| Communication 275Q1 | 3 (crs.) |
| Arguing Sustainability (XC) | |
| The fundamentals of argumentation: forms of reasoning, sources of evidence, testing of evidence, brief making, general theory, and case work. Opportunity for analysis of and debate on current problems. Speech Education majors/minors and those wanting to travel with the debate team should not enroll in Communication 275. This course does not meet the Speech Education major/minor requirements. | |
| Communication 280 | 3 (crs.) |
| Introduction to Organizational Communication (XC) | |
| This course presents both historical and current perspectives on the origins and usefulness of organizational communication theory; it provides the knowledge for understanding and improving communication skills in a variety of organizational settings. Topics may include: decision making, organizational change, technology, globalization, emotion, assimilation, and other issues central to organizational communication. | |
| Communication 280Q1 | 3 (crs.) |
| Introduction to Organizational Communication (XC) | |
| This course presents both historical and current perspectives on the origins and usefulness of organizational communication theory; it provides the knowledge for understanding and improving communication skills in a variety of organizational settings. Topics may include: decision making, organizational change, technology, globalization, emotion, assimilation, and other issues central to organizational communication. | |
| Communication 291 | 1 – 3 (crs.) |
| Selected Topics in Communication | |
| Selected topics in communication. | |
| Communication 299 | 1 – 3 (crs.) |
| Intermediate Independent Study | |
| Supervised undergraduate reading and research. See Independent Study under Course and Academic Advisement Policies information for general course description, general prerequisites, and proper contract form requirements. | |
| Communication 301 | 3 (crs.) |
| Small Group Communication | |
| Theory, practice, and instructional methods of face-to-face communication in small groups; emphasizing field, role, conflict resolution, and problem-solving through group communication. Prerequisite or Corequisite: Communication 104 or consent of instructor | |
| Communication 302 | 3 (crs.) |
| Theories of Human Communication | |
| Through this course, students will encounter, deconstruct, and discuss a variety of theories of human communication. The theories addressed in this course are associated with the content areas of interpersonal, organizational, rhetorical, intercultural, gender, and mass mediated communication. This course is designed to address theories that students are likely to encounter in the Communication Studies Major, promoting application of material across courses. Students will identify different assumptions that guide the creation of communication theories, learn about how these assumptions shape the construction of a theory, gain insight into how applying theoretical knowledge can help one become a better communicator, and learn to critique existing theories of human communication. Prerequisites: Communication 104 and one of the following: Communication 213 or 214, 219 and 280. | |
| Communication 303 | 3 (crs.) |
| Advanced Public Speaking | |
| This course focuses on current social/political issues and critical citizenship. Specific emphasis is placed on rhetorical ideas and formats that examine deliberation, reasoning, and public affairs. Public communication competencies are enhanced. Prerequisite: Communication 111 or 112 or consent of instructor. | |
| Communication 304 | 3 (crs.) |
| Business and Professional Speaking | |
| An examination of the unique communication problems and practices in business and industry. Through investigation, case study and practical exercises students should understand and be able to participate effectively in a variety of communication experiences faced by managers in business and the professions. Prerequisite: Communication 111 or 112 or consent of instructor. | |
| Communication 310 | 3 (crs.) |
| Oral Interpretation | |
| A study of the principles and vocal techniques of oral interpretation, and their application to the various forms of literature. Prerequisite or Corequisite: Communication 104 or consent of instructor. | |
| Communication 312 | 3 (crs.) |
| Effective Listening | |
| Analysis of the act of listening: process, types, barriers to, and the improvement of listening skills. Frequent skill building exercises and the testing of listening for comprehension and retention. Prerequisite or Corequisite: Communication 104 or consent of instructor | |
| Communication 316 | 3 (crs.) |
| Gender and Discourse | |
| Explores gender issues through the framework of public discourse and power dynamics. This course analyzes the public vocabularies through which we understand contemporary issues, examines the interests served by such discourses, and invites discussion on alternative language choices. Students can earn credit for only one of the cross-listed courses: Communication 316 or Women’s and Gender Studies 316. Prerequisites: Communication 104; and Prerequisite or Corequisite for Communication Studies Majors/Minors: Communication 219; or consent of instructor. Prerequisite for Women’s and Gender Studies Majors/Minors: Women’s and Gender Studies 201; or consent of instructor. | |
| Communication 318 | 3 (crs.) |
| Intercultural Communication (ES) | |
| In this narrative-based course, students will identify characteristics of their own cultural identity, exploring connections to global citizenry; become increasingly self-reflective regarding their enculturation; apply theoretical constructs that allow for intercultural communication to become transformative; and listen well to personal narratives of those whose cultures differ from their own. As they engage in constructive, ethical dialogue they will explore the concept of intentionality in communication as it relates to identity, prejudice, discrimination, racism, ethnocentrism, hatred, and stereotyping. Prerequisites: Communication 104; Prerequisite or Corequisite: Communication 213 or 214; or consent of instructor. | |
| Communication 319 | 3 (crs.) |
| Persuasion | |
| Study of both classical and contemporary persuasion theories and practices. Assignments involve practical application of the theoretical foundation by analyzing different persuasive messages found in the media and public speeches. Prerequisites: Communication 104 and one of the following: Communication 213 or 214, 219, or 280. | |
| Communication 322 | 3 (crs.) |
| Online Studies of Intercultural Communication for Adult Learners (ES) | |
| This course examines cultural influences on human interaction in a variety of contexts. Theoretical and practical aspects of intercultural communication are explored. This course is designated for students in the Division of Online and Continuing Education (OCE). Credit can only be earned for Communication 318 or Communication 322. Prerequisites or co-requisites: Communication 213, 214 or 216, or consent of instructor. BLS major (all); L&OS major (all); FERM major (all); Collab Nurse Prgm; Human SV or Criminal Just Online. | |
| Communication 323 | 3 (crs.) |
| Inside-Out Prison Exchange | |
| Focuses on how language shapes our understanding of issues and topics related to incarceration. This course brings together equal numbers of UWO students and incarcerated students at a local correctional institution. Ten joint class sessions are held at the correctional institution. The other three class sessions are held on campus for UWO students and at the correctional facility for incarcerated students. Prerequisites: By Instructor Consent Only. To be considered for a seat in this course, students must complete an interview with the instructor. | |
| Communication 325 | 3 (crs.) |
| Nonverbal Communication | |
| An examination of nonverbal communication, the process of one person stimulating meaning in the mind of another person (or persons) by means of nonverbal codes. Both the functions and specific categories of nonverbal behavior will be examined along with their communicative impact in a variety of situations. Theoretical and practical aspects of nonverbal communication are also explored. Prerequisites: Communication 104 and 213 or 214; Prerequisite or Corequisite: Communication 368; or consent of instructor. | |
| Communication 326 | 3 (crs.) |
| Communication and Conflict | |
| An exploration of research and practice regarding human conflict as an ongoing component on interpersonal relationships and community. Communication theories and concepts related to interpersonal conflicts, formal mediation, and social justice advocacy are examined and practiced. Prerequisite: Communication 104; Prerequisite or Corequisite: Communication 213 or 214; or consent of instructor. | |
| Communication 336 | 3 (crs.) |
| Communication & Technology in the Information Age | |
| This course examines the historical development, cultural reception, and social impact of media technologies in the Information Age. Emphasis is placed on critical theories that seek to analyze the relationship between technology and society. Prerequisite: Work at WRST-FM University Station. Auditions required for certain positions. Cumulative 2.5 GPA, Communication 201. | |
| Communication 337 | 3 (crs.) |
| Foundations in Communication Studies | |
| A theoretical and practical course. The course theory centers on the Five Canons of ancient rhetoric: invention, arrangement, style, delivery, and memory (with emphasis on the first three). Using ancient rhetorical theory as a foundation, students will compose and deliver manuscript speeches. The goal is to become a speaker who is not only eloquent, but also wise. Prerequisite: Communication 104; Prerequisite or Corequisite: Communication 219; or consent of instructor. 337/537 | |
| Communication 338 | 3 (crs.) |
| Freedom of Speech in the United States | |
| In the United States, freedom of speech is restricted in a variety of ways. Historically and today, government places legal restrictions on communicators, the content of communication, and the medium of communication. When such restrictions have been challenged in the courts, judges have generally been guided by a very narrow model of communication. This course examines the legal history and contemporary status of the First Amendment from a modern Communication theory perspective. Prerequisite: Communication 104; Prerequisite or Corequisite: Communication 219; or consent of instructor. | |
| Communication 368 | 3 (crs.) |
| Research Methods in Communication Studies | |
| This course introduces students to communication research methodologies. Students critically analyze research data and propose communication research projects. The class combines theoretical understanding and practical research application including both quantitative and qualitative approaches. Emphasis will be placed on exploring the assumptions of each method and understanding when each is appropriate. Prerequisites: Communication 104, and two of the following: Communication 213, 214, 219, or 280; for Organizational Communication Minors: Communication 104 and 280. | |
| Communication 375 | 3 (crs.) |
| Argumentation Analysis | |
| The fundamentals of argumentation: argument theory, forms of reasoning, warrants, sources of evidence, testing evidence, and case construction. Opportunity for debate and analysis on current programs. Prerequisites: Communication 104, 111, or 112 and 219; or consent of instructor. | |
| Communication 380 | 3 (crs.) |
| Introduction to Organizational Communication Studies | |
| The course explores the origins and usefulness of organizational communication theory through the examination and pragmatic application of those theories, concepts, and issues to adult learners’ organizational experiences. A significant focus of the course will be having students gain knowledge for understanding and improving communication skills in a variety of settings by analyzing challenges commonly faced in today’s organizations. Topics may include: decision making, organizational change, technology, globalization, emotion, assimilation, and other issues central to organizational communication. Prerequisites: Communication 111 or Communication 112 or consent of instructor. | |
| Communication 382 | 3 (crs.) |
| Applied Managerial Communication Studies | |
| Organizations need managers that understand how communication shapes the work environment and who are able to apply that understanding to effectively direct and coordinate work processes, build relationships with internal and external stakeholders, and foster cultural values and practices that enhance the experiences and decisions of their members. This course is structured around a series of core communication issues and challenges that managers encounter in performing their organizational roles and responsibilities. Adult students enrolled in this class will learn managerial communication concepts, theories, and issues in order to critically asses their own organizational experience with (or as) managers and to develop strategies that address real-world challenges managers face. | |
| Communication 384 | 3 (crs.) |
| Online Business and Professional Speaking for Adult Learners | |
| This course gives you the opportunity to design, deliver, and critique presentations in your career field. We will also discuss job interview strategies, resume and cover letter preparation, and elevator pitches. The focus of the course allows adult learners to draw upon past experiences in business and the professions. Assignments allow adult learners to focus on their field of interest and require presentations and participation in an online environment. This course is designated for students in the Division of Online and Continuing Education (OCE). Credit can only be earned for Communication 303, Communication 304, or Communication 384. Prerequisites: Communication 111 or 112 or consent of instructor. | |
| Communication 386 | 3 (crs.) |
| Ethnography of Communication | |
| This course emphasizes the dual functionality of the ethnography of communication, approaching EOC as both a theory for explaining human communication and a method for generating and collecting situated cultural discourses. Students will read, discuss, and critique ethnographic accounts that theorize the uses and meanings of various communicative phenomena (terms for address, leave-taking practices, and “ways of speaking”). Students will also put into practice techniques for apprehending and analyzing communication phenomena (participant observation, interviewing, and collection of public documents). Prerequisite: COMM 104 and COMM 213 or COMM 214 or corequisite COMM 368 or ANTHRO 204 or instructor consent. | |
| Communication 388 | 3 (crs.) |
| Rhetoric in Action | |
| One definition of rhetoric calls it “the planned use of symbols to achieve goals.” (Campbell, Huxman, Burkholder, 2015, p.1). In COMM 388 students learn methods of critiquing the discourse of contemporary rhetors actively involved in symbolic exchange. Such rhetors can be found in political campaigns, newspaper editorial pages, social media, and many other areas. By becoming more critical consumers of opinionated “rhetoric in action,” we can and should develop our own ability to use symbols effectively and ethically. Prerequisites: COMM 104 and COMM 219; or consent of instructor. | |
| Communication 390 | 1 – 3 (crs.) |
| Professional Internship in Communication Studies | |
| Supervised professional field experience at a business, non-profit, service or government organization in which the intern applies Communication Studies academic work to a practical situation. Prerequisites: 9 Comm credits; Cumulative 2.5 GPA; and Junior or Senior Standing; or consent of instructor. | |
| Communication 403 | 3 (crs.) |
| Visual Communication | |
| This course examines the role of visual communication in contemporary society. Students will be asked to think critically about how visuals and practices of looking in a variety of media constitute and persuade us as spectators, consumers, and citizens. Over the course of the semester, we will read numerous critical analyses of visual rhetoric, as well as perform such analyses on a variety of visual artifacts. Prerequisites: Communication 104 and 219; Prerequisite or corequisite: Communication 368; or consent of instructor. | |
| Communication 405 | 3 (crs.) |
| Special Topics: Study Abroad | |
| Special Topics designed solely for study abroad. The course may be repeated for up to nine credits with different content. Sometimes specific sections are cross-listed with other departments/programs; students may receive credit for only one of the two cross-listed courses. | |
| Communication 413 | 3 (crs.) |
| Communication and Nonprofit Organizations | |
| This course is designed to provide you with an overview of issues and topics in nonprofit organizational communication. Topics include internal communication issues such as socialization, stress and burnout, and volunteer and board management as well as external communication issues including public relations, fundraising, and advocacy. Prerequisites: Communication 104 and 280; and Prerequisite or Corequisite: Communication 368 or consent of instructor. | |
| Communication 414 | 3 (crs.) |
| Communication Training and Development in Organizations | |
| This course explores the training process and role of employee development in organizations by focusing on adult learning, needs assessment, training process components, training competencies, and learning assessment. Working with an organizational partner, the class will develop, deliver, and evaluate a training package focused on a communication-oriented challenge. Prerequisites: Communication 104 and 280; Prerequisite or Corequisite: Communication 368 or consent of instructor. | |
| Communication 415 | 3 (crs.) |
| Organizational Rhetoric | |
| In this course, we will study organizational communication using a rhetorical approach. We will begin with an investigation of the communication processes through which formal organizations influence popular attitudes and individual identities. We will also study how people in particular organizations us language to “do” things. Students will learn to critique examples of organizational rhetoric and develop communication materials to address challenges and crises in organizational communication. Prerequisites: Communication 104 and 280; Prerequisite or Corequisite: Communication 368; or consent of instructor. | |
| Communication 416 | 3 (crs.) |
| Managerial Communication | |
| This course explores fundamental aspects of managerial communication by focusing on how to ensure the effectiveness of management messages and interactions in a variety of organizational contexts and in terms of typical challenges managers face. Prerequisites: Communication 104 and 280; Prerequisites or Corequisite: Communication 368 or consent of instructor. | |
| Communication 418 | 3 (crs.) |
| Applied Project in Organizational Communication | |
| Leaders from a wide range of industries and a great deal of educational research advocate for the importance of moving student learning into the ‘real’ world. This course employs an action learning strategy to pursue this lofty goal. Action learning projects engage students in partnerships with clients to address real-world challenges through students’ concurrent learning and application of course content. In this class, you will work in groups within a project management structure to carry out an applied project focused on a complex, urgent challenge in a local organization. While working toward the project goal, you will reflect on your group’s experiences related to the core functions, processes, and conditions influencing the effectiveness of your group’s performance & project progress. Prerequisites: COMM 104 and COMM 280; and prerequisite or corequisite COMM 368; or consent of instructor. | |
| Communication 422 | 3 (crs.) |
| History of American Public Address | |
| An analysis of influential speeches delivered between 1640 and modern times. Emphasis is placed on discovering the relationship between the speeches and the historical/rhetorical situations in which they were delivered. At the end of the term, students compose and deliver their own ‘State of the American Union’ speech. Prerequisites: Communication 104 and 219; Prerequisite or Corequisite Communication 368; or consent. | |
| Communication 427 | 3 (crs.) |
| Rhetorical Criticism | |
| Ancient and contemporary approaches to rhetorical criticism with emphasis on the description, analysis and evaluation of public messages. Communication 427/Social Justice 427 Students may receive credit for only one of the two cross-listed courses. Prerequisites: Communication 104 and 219; Prerequisite or Corequisite Communication 368; or consent. 427/627 | |
| Communication 428 | 3 (crs.) |
| The Rhetoric of Rock Music | |
| The course examines the history and rhetorical features of rock music. Rhetoric is concerned with how communicators adapt messages to audiences in a cultural context. When dealing with rock music, who is/are the communicator(s)? What is/are the audience(s)? Is the music a product of a cultural context or does it create that context? Prerequisites: Communication 104 and 219; Prerequisite or Corequisite 368 or consent of instructor. | |
| Communication 436 | 1 – 3 (crs.) |
| Seminar in Speech Communication | |
| Special studies in speech communication theory and public address. The topic to be determined by the instructor. Prerequisite: Communication 118 and 236 and 368 or consent of instructor. This course may be repeated nine times for up to nine units (crs.) provided the topic varies. (1+3) | |
| Communication 439 | 1 (crs.) |
| Communication Career Capstone | |
| The Communication Career Capstone is a one-credit course that presents graduating seniors with an opportunity to reflect on what they have learned in their major and how that relates to their lives after graduation. The course focuses on practical exercises and advice useful for a student soon to enter the workforce. A variety of guest speakers will inform the class about careers, the role of communication in the workplace, and other professionally related topics. Prerequisite: Senior standing; Communication 104, 213 or 214, 219 and 280; a minimum of 9 additional credits in Communication Studies; or consent of instructor. Pass/Fail Course | |
| Communication 441 | 3 (crs.) |
| Teaching of Speech Communication in Secondary Schools | |
| The goals, materials, and methods of teaching speech communication to high school students Prerequisites: Communication 213 or 214, 219, and 215 or 280; or consent of instructor. (Spring-even years) | |
| Communication 442 | 3 (crs.) |
| Advanced Communication Theory | |
| This course examines communication as a vital constitutive force in the social construction of reality. The central focus is upon ways in which reality and the human condition are socially constructed through various interpretive, communication processes, with particular attention to assumptions about the role of communication in interpersonal relations and social change. Prerequisites: Communication 104 and one of the following: Communication 213 or 214, 219, or 280; Prerequisite or Corequisite: 368; or consent of instructor. | |
| Communication 444 | 3 (crs.) |
| Direction of High School Speech Activities | |
| The study of debate, forensics as co-curricular activities with emphasis on directing various programs on the high school level. Prerequisite: Communication 111 or consent of instructor. (Fall-odd years) | |
| Communication 445 | 3 (crs.) |
| African American Civil Rights Rhetoric | |
| This course explores African American civil rights activism through the frameworks of rhetoric and gender. Topics include both the challenges faced by civil rights activists and their contribution to the movement. Integrated throughout the course is an analysis of persuasive documents and events, including speeches, photographs, marches, and slogans. Prerequisites: COMM 214 and COMM 219 or Coreq COMM 368, or WG STDS 201, or SOC JUST 101, or AF AM 100; or instructor consent. | |
| Communication 446 | 1 – 3 (crs.) |
| Independent Study | |
| See Independent Study under course and Academic Advisement Policies information for general course description, general prerequisites, and proper contract form requirements. As outlined in this section, Communication 446 is designed to provide structured research (scholarly or creative) “well beyond that required in established courses.” It may not be used as a substitute for an existing course, not may it be used by a company or organization seeking free labor or free access to Dept. equipment and facilities. | |
| Communication 448 | 3 (crs.) |
| Family Communication | |
| Family Communication studies the important role interpersonal communication plays in relationships and interactions with family members. The course focuses on family roles, rules, stories, metaphors, traditions, power, and conflict from a communication perspective. It also critically examines the narrative scripts that occur between siblings, parents, grandparents while identifying strategies for more effective communication between family members. Prerequisites: COMM 104 and COMM 213 or COMM 214; and prerequisite or corequisite COMM 368; or consent of instructor. | |
| Communication 450 | 3 (crs.) |
| Rhetoric of the US Women’s Rights Movement 1848-1920 | |
| This course introduces students to primary rhetorical texts of the U.S. women’s rights movement, from 1848 to 1920. Emphasis on the analysis of the arguments, appeals, and ideas of the movement. Social Justice 450/Communication 450/Women’s and Gender Studies 450. Students may receive credit for only one of the cross-listed courses. Prerequisites for Majors/Minors: Communication 104 and 219; and Prerequisite or Corequisite for Communication 368 or consent of instructor. Prerequisite for Women’s and Gender Studies Major/Minors: Women’s and Gender Studies 201 or consent of instructor. | |
| Communication 451 | 3 (crs.) |
| Feminist Rhetorics and Social Change | |
| This course explores feminist activism in a variety of forms and contexts. Integrated throughout the course is an analysis of iconic images, speeches, marches, protests, and digital activism. Students can earn credit for only one of the cross-listed courses: Communication 451/ Women’s and Gender Studies 451 /Social Justice 451. Prerequisites for Communication Studies Majors/Minors: Communication 104 and 219; and Prerequisite or Corequisite for Communication Studies Majors/Minors: Communication 368 or consent of instructor. Prerequisite for Women’s and Gender Studies Majors/Minors: Women’s and Gender Studies 201; or consent of instructor. | |
| Communication 455 | 3 (crs.) |
| Environmental Rhetoric | |
| This course is an exploration into the ways we define the environment and how language use influences our interactions with the environment. Cross-listed with Communication 455/Environmental Studies 455. Students may receive credit for only one of the two cross-listed courses. Prerequisites: Communication 104 and 219; Prerequisite or Corequisite 368 or consent of instructor. | |
| Communication 474 | 3 – 6 (crs.) |
| Honors Thesis | |
| The Honors Thesis is one of two options offered to Honors students to meet the senior capstone requirement of The Honors College. Students who choose the thesis engage in research as an independent study over two semesters (fall/spring or spring/fall) with the support of a faculty advisor. They decide on a topic in their major or minor, address recent scholarship, develop a prospectus, and produce a substantial work (e.g., a written thesis, scientific experiment or research project, or creative arts exhibit or production). At the end of the term in which the capstone is completed, students give presentations at the Honors Thesis Symposia. Credits are applied to the respective department or unit. Prerequisites: In good standing with The Honors College, prior enrollment in HNRS 175Q and HNRS 275Q, and senior status. | |
| Communication 476 | 3 (crs.) |
| Special Topics in Rhetoric and Public Advocacy | |
| A course in rhetoric and public advocacy not normally covered in the curriculum. The course may be repeated for up to nine credits with different content. Sometimes specific sections are cross-listed with other departments/programs; students may receive credit for only one of the two cross-listed courses. Prerequisites: Communication 104 and 219; Prerequisite or Corequisite: Communication 368; or consent of instructor. | |
| Communication 477 | 3 (crs.) |
| Special Topics in Organizational Communication | |
| A course in Organizational Communication not normally covered in the curriculum. The course may be repeated for up to nine credits with different content. Sometimes specific sections are cross-listed with other department/programs; students may receive credit for only one of the two cross-listed courses. Prerequisites: Communication 104 and 280; Prerequisite or Corequisite: Communication 368; or consent of instructor. | |
| Communication 478 | 3 (crs.) |
| Special topics in Interpersonal Communication | |
| A course in interpersonal communications not normally covered in the curriculum. The course may be repeated for up to nine credits with different content. Sometimes specific sections are cross-listed with other departments/programs; students may receive credit for only one of the two cross-listed courses. Prerequisites: Communication 104 and 213 or 214; Prerequisite or Corequisite: Communication 368; or consent of instructor. | |
| Communication 498 | 3 (crs.) |
| Capstone in Communication Studies | |
| This course provides the opportunity for integration and synthesis of previous coursework in the major as well as preparation for students’ next steps in their education or careers. Students will be expected to analyze and synthesize past learning and relate it to issues and problems in their chosen area of communication study. Prerequisites: Senior standing and Communication 213 or 214, 219, 280, and 368; Prerequisites or Corequisites: 302 and 375; or consent of instructor. | |