Communication Studies — Communication Courses

COMSTU 100
Introduction to Communication

This course is designed to provide an introductory survey of the study of communication. The course begins with a general history of the evolution of human communication, and goes on to examine such areas as definitions, models, and basic concepts in communication; the range of verbal and non-verbal codes, and their complex interrelations in the message systems of modern electronic media; and various communication contexts, with emphasis on the structure and function of interpersonal communication and mass communication, particularly broadcast and cable television.
Distribution Area: Social and Behavioral Science.
3 Lect Hrs, 3 Credits
Mr Schlesinger and Staff

COMSTU G102
Personal Information and Privacy:

Others Gathering Personal Information About You
For a complete description of this course, see the "First-year and Intermediate Seminars" section of this publication.

COMSTU 105
Oral Communication

This course focuses on improvement of interpersonal, small group, and public communication skills. Through readings, journals, class discussions and activities, we explore the following: self-concept and perception, listening and responding, language and non-verbal behaviors, interviewing, problem-solving and decision-making, formal elements of speech-making, the evaluation of one’s own and others’ public messages.
3 Lect Hrs, 3 Credits
Staff

COMSTU 200
Special Topics in Communication Studies

Selected topics in the field of communication. Course content varies and will be announced prior to registration.

COMSTU 210
Using Internet Communication

Using Internet communications enhances students’ theoretical understanding of electronic communication and their ability to communicate as professionals, scholars, and citizens using the Internet. Participants learn core communication theoretical models and principles, and apply them to electronic communication methodologies that enhance interpersonal, small group, and public interactions. These methodologies include electronic meetings, discussion forums, co-authoring tools, audio, and video.
Distribution II Area: Social and Behavioral Science.
3 Lect Hrs, 3 Credits
Mr Schlesinger and Staff

COMSTU 250
Analyzing Media

Participants intensively examine mass media products, including print media, radio, television, and the visual and musical arts. They develop skills in deconstructing media products and evaluating them to arrive at a sophisticated understanding of how the various mass media are produced and how they interact with society and culture. The course makes use of both theoretical texts and the media products themselves.
Distribution I Area: Social and Behavioral Sciences.
3 Lect Hrs, 3 Credits
Mr Schlesinger and Staff

COMSTU 300
Information Technology and Human Communication

This course examines the relationship between information technology and human communication. Readings, discussion, assignments and projects address IT’s potential to enhance and constrain communication; its role in the promotion or dissolution of community; its implications for social policy; its place among other media; and many more issues for which IT, particularly cyber-technology, is a lightning rod.
Distribution Area: Social and Behavioral Sciences.
Prerequisite: ENGL 101.
3 Lect Hrs, 3 Credits
Mr Schlesinger and Staff

COMSTU 365
News Media and Political Power

This course uses primary and secondary sources to track the news media’s influence on the politician’s ability to gather and exercise power, from Weimar Germany to the present day. Students observe how agenda setting switches back and forth between officials and journalists, analyze circumstances under which independent watchdog journalism can work, and hone their own writing and reporting capabilities.
Prerequisites: ENGL 102 and junior standing. COMSTU 250 strongly recommended.
3 Lect Hrs, 3 Credits
Ms Hume

COMSTU 478, 479
Independent Study

Individual student projects in Communication Studies.
Prerequisite: Permission of instructor.
1-3 Credits
Mr Schlesinger and Staff

COMSTU 480
Communication Seminar

A seminar on a particular problem, issue, or technique in the study of communication, approached from a variety of disciplines and perspectives. The topic of the seminar varies from offering to offering and reflects the research interests of the sponsoring faculty member.
Prerequisite: COMSTU 100 or permission of instructor.
3 Lect Hrs, 3 Credits
Ms Hume, Mr Schlesinger

COMSTU 490, 491
Communication Internship

An independent project undertaken at an off-campus location under the guidance of a faculty advisor and an off-campus supervisor. A written proposal is required and must be approved by the faculty advisor and the director of the Communication Studies Program prior to accepting the internship. Students will submit a written final report and, at the discretion of the faculty advisor, an interim report. Details and an application form may be obtained from the program director. Grading is "Pass/Fail."
Prerequisite: 4 courses in the program and permission of program director.
1-4 Credits
Mr Schlesinger and Staff