Communication Studies Department
- Course Descriptions
COM 111 Public Speaking The course focuses on speech preparation, organization, audience analysis, style, listening, and overcoming speech fright. (Note: Students may take only one of either COM 111, COM 112, or COM 115 for credit. Fall, spring)
COM 112 Contest Public Speaking
Theory and practice of preparing speeches for delivery in formal and contest situations. Students are expected to attend three interscholastic speech tournaments and compete in at least two of the following: informative speaking, persuasive speaking, speaking to entertain, and/or communication analysis. (Note: Students may take only one of either COM 111, COM 112, or COM 115 for credit. Fall)
COM 115 Scientific and Technical Public Speaking
An introduction to public speaking for students majoring in scientific or technical fields. Includes the same foundational material as introduction to public speaking, including: delivery, argumentation, persuasion, and audience analysis. This material is then applied to specific contexts common in technical fields, with special attention to distinguishing expert or lay audiences, and the use of technical vocabulary and notation systems. (Note: Students may take only one of either COM 111, COM 112, or COM 115 for credit.)
COM 247 Documentary
A video production course that integrates lecture and criticism with hands-on experience dealing with non-fiction subjects.
COM 280 Introduction to Communication Studies
An introductory survey course designed to acquaint students with the world of ideas that serves as the foundation for the field of communication studies. (Fall)
COM 321 Business and Professional Speaking
This course explores advanced issues in public address including delivery and performance, vocal control, persuasion, audience adaptation, argument construction, and speaker credibility. The class uses a series of speeches, ranging from impromptu speaking and persuasion to job interviewing and sales presentations, in order to hone students’ speaking skills. (Prereq.: COM 111 or 115)
COM 326 Building Working Relationships
This course explores working relationships in a changing world. Self-assessment tools and applied papers help participants gain a better understanding of the role the individual plays within the context of workplace relationships. Emphasis is placed on interpersonal, group, and organizational relationships. (Prereq.: Junior or senior standing and at least one of the following courses—SOC 121, SWK 260, BUS 242, BUS 252, PSY 102, PSY 105)
COM 329 Intercultural Communication
This course explores cultural differences and their implications for communication, including differences in values, norms, social interaction, and code systems. (Spring: alternate years)
COM 343 Studio Production
Introduction to video production with an emphasis on creative concept development, script-writing, directing, and producing for video. (Fall)
COM 345 Organizational Communication
An examination of communication in organizational settings. Focuses on topics such as superior-subordinate relationships, management styles, motivation of employees, organizational culture, effective use of meetings, and sources of communication problems.
COM 348 Digital Video Production
This course combines studio and field production with special emphasis on post-production editing. Students work in production teams to create and produce a one-hour magazine format news program and music video. (Prereq.: COM 343 or 247)
COM 351 Argumentation
Develops critical thinking skills by study of the theory and practice of argument, evidence, fallacies, and refutation. Includes how to build and analyze public arguments that confront students in their everyday lives. (Prereq.: COM 111 or 115 or consent of instructor. Fall)
COM 352 Persuasion
Examination of the process of influence in a variety of social contexts, paying special attention to the psychological aspects of persuasion. (Prereq.: MPG 3; COM 111 or 115 or consent of instructor. Spring)
COM 354 Interpersonal Communication
A study of the dynamics of human interaction through verbal and non-verbal messages; emphasis on factors that build relationships and help to overcome communication barriers. (Spring)
COM 355 Small Group Communication
A study of group dynamics and leadership with emphasis on decision making, leadership styles, and conflict management. (Spring)
COM 410 Communicating a Self in the Modern Organization
Understanding through dialogue of the functions of communication in organizational settings with particular emphasis on the self-defining aspects of the social contract between the individual and the organization in a changing world. Collateral readings, open dialogue, and individual projects. (WEC only)
COM 480 Public Relations/Promotional Communication
Public relations in the modern world of communication, marketing, and business. An overview of public relations as a career and a survey of basic promotional communication in profit and nonprofit organizations. (WEC only)
COM 490 Communication Studies Keystone: Critical Conversations About Communication and Vocation
A synthesis of communication theories and application of those theories to each student’s sense of vocation. This course satisfies the Keystone requirement.
COM 495 Communication Topics
Selected topics in communication with emphasis on the use of primary sources and methodology of research.
Internships and Independent Study Courses
COM 199 Internship
COM 299 Directed Study
COM 399 Internship
COM 499 Independent Study/Research
