COM 100 Media Communication
An introduction to communication and the function of the media therein. Investigation of the historical, legal, theoretical, and ethical dimensions in communication. Lecture material is supplemented with presentations of audio and visual material illustrating how the media function. (3)
COM 101 Public Speaking
Students gain knowledge of principles and theories of oral communication regarding the design, creation, and delivery of several types of speeches; analysis of the audience and public speaking situation; and experiential practice in both public speaking performance and evaluation. (3)
COM 200 Desktop Publishing
An introduction to the fundamentals of desktop publishing using QuarkXPress, Photoshop, and vector graphics software. Students integrate type and images to produce common business publications for print or use on the Internet. (Also listed as GD 200.) (3)
COM 203 Photography: Digital Imaging
An exploration of various photographic techniques and technology for graphic communications. Emphasis is on photographic style and an introduction to digital photography. Prerequisite: GD 101 or prior experience with Photoshop software. (Also listed as GD 203.) (3)
COM 204 Oral Interpretation
A laboratory experience in vocal development and control. The course explores forms of literature and the techniques involved in oral communication of literature. Focus is on the development of interpretative skills and analysis of literary styles. (3)
COM 206 Introduction to Public Relations
This introductory survey course emphasizes the basic concepts and principles of public relations; the theory and history behind the practice; the uses, tools, mthods, and technologies of public relations. Also covered are the general types of public relations practices, including corporate, firm, institutional, nonprofit, government, political, sports, entertainment, and international. (3)
COM 209 Introduction to Journalism
Designed to provide the student with a broad overview of journalism as a communication medium. The emphasis is placed on developing the basic writing skills used by reporters on daily newspapers, wire services, and in broadcasting. The student will learn how to function effectively under deadline pressure using computerized word processing. (3)
COM 211 Principles of Language
An introductory investigation of basic constructs and subsystems of English structure as described by grammarians of various theoretical persuasions. (Also listed as EN 211.) (3)
COM 212 Introduction to the Technique of Acting
The goal of this course is to make a student aware of the transformation process whereby drama is turned into theater through the language of the theater, i.e. sets, lights, costumes, makeup, music, and/or the actor. Secondly, the course aims to make the student aware of the importance of textual analysis, which is the foundation for acting. (Also listed as EN 212.) (3)
COM 300 Report Writing
An advanced course in writing aimed at the logical and orderly presentation of materials, development of ideas, and effective communication of secondary materials from professional fields. Prerequisite: EN 102. (3)
COM 301 Intercultural Communication
Introduces students to the influences and effects of cultural variability on the communication process and its outcomes with regard to family, religious, government, education, health, and business institutions. Particular emphasis will be given to inseparability of culture and communication; intercultural theories; cultural and interpersonal adaptations; and ethnolinguistic, religious, and national identities. Content functions to aid the student in developing successful communication competencies, strategies, and skills necessary for increased contact with diverse cultures, as well as for success in international and multicultural societies. (3)
COM 302 Public Relations Techniques
Focuses on the applications of public relations theory and principles. Students learn the requirements of different media such as newspapers, magazines, radio, television, and cable. They develop basic writing skills in preparing news releases for newspapers, magazines, and newsletters as part of publicity and promotion campaigns, as well as strategic planning and audience identification. Prerequisite: COM 206. (3)
COM 303 Video Production
An exploration of various video techniques, digital technology, and equipment for graphic communications. Students experience hands-on preproduction, production, and postproduction techniques. Students plan and produce digital video presentations. (Also listed as GD 303.) (3)
COM 304 Video Production II
An overview of the history, theory, and equipment of television studio production. Students will learn all phases of studio production through readings and hands-on experience. Students will plan and execute their own studio production. All productions will be taped for portfolio use. Prerequisite: COM/GD 303 or permission of instructor. (Also listed as GD 304.) (3)
COM 305 Journalism II
Building on COM 209, this course provides additional practice in writing news and feature stories for the print media, with a focus on editing, reporting, and interviewing skills. The course focuses on public affairs, special features reporting, and magazine writing. Includes an assessment of career opportunities and responsibilities. Prerequisite: COM 209. (3)
COM 307 Broadcast Delivery
A laboratory experience in writing and delivering copy for radio and television that develops critical thinking skills. The course includes audio and video tapings of students delivering newscasts, commercials, interviews, and public service announcements. Both content and performance are evaluated. (3)
COM 308 Web Design
An introduction to the fundamentals of Web design and technology for graphic communication. Students integrate type and images to produce Web sites for use on the Internet. Prerequisites: GD 101 and GD 104, or prior experience with course software. (Also listed as GD 308.) (3)
COM 309 Web Multimedia Design
An introduction to the fundamentals of multimedia design and technology. Students will develop dynamic, interactive multimedia presentations. Emphasis is placed on management skills; presentation organization and structure; the appropriate use of design principles; and the effective use of typography, photographs, illustration, sound, video, and animation. Prerequisites: GD 103, and COM 308 or GD 308 or equivalent experience. (Also listed as GD 309.) (3)
COM 310 Presentational Communication
Provides guided experiences that develop career-related oral communication skills such as listening, interviewing, communicating in small groups, and persuasion. Students practice these skills in classroom exercises and in videotaped sessions, and they explore how the skills are applicable in professional environments. Prerequisites: COM 100, COM 101, COM 206, and COM 209. (3)
COM 315 Writing for the New Media
Explores writing techniques used in the new media, including the Internet and multimedia. The class will examine styles and techniques of writing for different audiences in various formats and contexts. The differences between linear and nonlinear writing will be studied, as well as the way people use and read material in the new media. Prerequisite: COM 209 or equivalent experience. (3)
COM 316 Broadcast Journalism
Building on the skills mastered in COM 209, this courses focuses on gathering, writing, and preparing news for radio and television. Includes extensive practice in writing news for broadcast and handling taped material effectively. Prerequisite: COM 209. (3)
COM 317 Editing and the Editorial Process
Focuses on the editing process and the role of the editor in today’s media. It includes extensive practice in editing, headline writing, and layout, as well as discussions of ethical standards and practice in the media. Prerequisite: COM 209. (3)
COM 318 Public Relations Case Studies
Examines solutions to public relations problems through an analysis of actual corporate and association cases. The focus will emphasize successful public relations management and practice through the systematic application of defining, planning and programming, acting and communicating, and evaluating results. Prerequisites: COM 206 and COM 302. (3)
COM 320 Organizational Communication
A study of communication research and its application to industrial and organizational systems. Particular emphasis will be given to organizational communication theory, message processing, networks, and channels of communication; leadership and managerial behavior; systems theory and organizational structures; climate and culture; decision making and managing conflict; diversity and globalization; and the communication audit. (3)
COM 322 Principles of Communication Law
Examines the historical development of communications-related law and the interlocking technological, economic, political, and social issues affecting policies that guide and regulate the nation’s media and communications systems. Emphases include First Amendment and Privacy Law and the Federal Communications Commission’s regulation of interstate and international communications by radio, television, wire, satellite, and cable. (3)
COM 400 Internship
Senior students may register for an internship in a cooperating research or media communication agency in the Washington metropolitan area under the supervision of an instructor. Prerequisite: permission of the dean of Arts and Sciences. (3-6)
COM 421 Project
An investigation of a selected topic in the major discipline. The project is intended to demonstrate ability to conduct independent research and present the results in writing of commendable quality. Prerequisite: permission of the dean of Arts and Sciences. (3)
COM 425 Senior Seminar in Communication
The capstone course synthesizes the topical areas and theoretical traditions in the discipline so that students begin to understand humankind’s capacity to fashion symbols and well designed messages in a variety of situations, via any number of channels. Students will gain knowledge and understanding of communication theories, practices, trends, and problems; and will develop expertise in research methodology and in writing a major research paper. Prerequisite: senior standing. (3)
COM 433 Research
A student in this course will conduct collaborative research (scholarly work leading to new knowledge) under the direction of a faculty member. Prerequisite: application and approval of department chair. (1-6)