Plan of Study – Communication Studies

Principles of communication applied to interpersonal, group, and public speaking situations. Emphasis on verbal and nonverbal communication, listening, persuasive techniques, delivery, and responding to messages. Opportunity to practice speaking skills.

Analysis of communications skills vital to personal and professional success. Examines the role of communication in interpersonal relationships from their inception through termination. Specific areas of focus include: listening, non-verbal behavior, empathy, assertiveness, relationship development, and conflict resolution skills.

The study of argument as a process of inquiry and advocacy and the communicative means to change attitudes, beliefs, behaviors, as well as motivate people to action. Practical experience in: evidence, analysis and reasoning; organization and case-building; refutation and cross-examination; and audience analysis. Students apply theory to a variety of topics and contexts.

Focus on the building of public speaking skills needed in education, personal life, and careers in order to effectively communicate thoughts and feelings. Students evaluate the communication efforts of others and increase their critical listening skills.

An analysis of communication interaction in small groups. Addresses group formation, decision making strategies, roles and norms, leadership, and conflict management. Students participate in classroom groups and evaluate group performance.

Theory of behavior in communications in general and the mass media in particular. The design and evaluation of public opinion studies and research topics in communications with emphasis on the effects that the various media have had on consumers.

A capstone course for seniors. Analysis of several preeminent theories of human communication, with application to students' major areas of specialization within the field. Prerequisites: senior standing and COM 1050, COM 2120, COM 2140, COM 2350, COM 3100, COM 4010.

Introduction to basic concepts and practices of single camera field production, including directing theory, camera technique, sound, lighting, and editing. Preferred prerequisite or corequisite: BCA 2610.

Addresses theoretical principles and communication skills essential for professional careers. Includes informative, persuasive, journalistic, health, and employment interviews.

The skills of expressive reading to elicit listener response to the text, using vocal and physical expression. Prose, poetry, and drama analyzed for meaning and mood.

Basic forms and methods of expression, including voice projection and diction; development of individual talents in pantomime, improvisation, acting, and oral interpretation. Lecture and laboratory.

Instruction and practice in performing for radio and television (as reporter, host, spokesperson, etc.), including voice, poise, and on-camera technique. Prerequisite or corequisite: BCA 2610 or BCA 2810 or permission of program director or course instructor.

Survey of Western rhetorical theory from Classical times to the present; analysis and criticism of major theoretical and philosophical concepts concerning persuasion in speaking and writing. The influence of rhetoric on political, social, and individual thought and action.

A specialized course addressing a particular area of communication. May be repeated for credit with a new topic.

On-campus or on-the-job experience in communication (paid). Prerequisite: departmental approval.

On-campus or on-the-job experience in communication (unpaid). Prerequisite: departmental approval.

The study and public performance of staged productions from the operatic, light opera, and Broadway genres. Open to all students and community members.

Instruction and practice in the establishment of rapport with individuals through the use of empathic listening skills. The material is presented in the context of developing a helping relationship.

Writing and study of poetry, fiction, and plays at an introductory level. Includes discussion, writers’ workshops, and regular conferences with the instructor. Students contribute to the production of a class electronic publication. Prerequisite: WRT 1020.

An introduction to the major theories of communication interaction in and between organizations. Specific topic areas include: communication networks, leadership, communication ethics, communication climate, organizational persuasion, organizational culture, communication and change, and conducting the communication audit.

A study of the strategies and stylistic devices which lead to clear, concise, and complete business writing. Various types of business letters, memoranda, proposals, and reports are examined and developed. Prerequisite: WRT 1020.

Survey of Western rhetorical theory from Classical times to the present; analysis and criticism of major theoretical and philosophical concepts concerning persuasion in speaking and writing. The influence of rhetoric on political, social, and individual thought and action.

A specialized course addressing a particular area of communication. May be repeated for credit with a new topic.

On-campus or on-the-job experience in communication (paid). Prerequisite: departmental approval.

On-campus or on-the-job experience in communication (unpaid). Prerequisite: departmental approval.

Organization of the modern news organization; news values and news sources; structure of the news story; practical training in gathering and writing news stories for print and digital distribution.

Acquaints student with functions of public relations in our society and explains basic theories and principles in publicity writing and placement.

Instruction and practice in the establishment of rapport with individuals through the use of empathic listening skills. The material is presented in the context of developing a helping relationship.

Theory and application of technical writing principles. Topics include an introduction to the technical communication environment, ethical and legal considerations, the basics of writing and analyzing technical documents, collaborative writing, and design principles for documents and Web sites. Students create a variety of technical documents for inclusion in their final e-portfolios. Prerequisite: WRT 1020 or equivalent.

Students learn about the role of grants in agency funding and develop the basic skills needed to write a successful proposal to compete for funds from outside sources. Topics include: generating program ideas, researching funding sources; establishing and maintaining collaborative partnerships; proposal planning and development; and the establishing and analyzing program metrics, administration, reporting, and accounting for funds and program deliverables.

Acquaints student with functions of public relations in our society and explains basic theories and principles in publicity writing and placement.

Introduce the skills needed for active civic engagement with the goal of positive community transformation. Exploration of civic engagement, community involvement, advocacy, and planned change.

Analysis of major social issues/problems in the US and globally from a sociological perspective. Consideration of national and international implications. Focus on issues of stratification (social class, race, gender), deviance, industrial conflict, warfare, environmental pollution, and consumption. Analyses of specific social movements that respond to political and economic contradictions. Focus areas may include: media and public opinion; social inequality and justice; social control and deviance; and belief, religion, and science. May include an academic service learning component.

Study of the life and legacy of Francis of Assisi as a prism for exploring social justice issues and the key Franciscan values not only essential to the Catholic perspective on the world and human existence, but also relevant to the perspectives of other religious traditions of the world. Analysis of the implications for addressing ecological responsibility and the call to justice, peace, and respect for all persons.

The skills of expressive reading to elicit listener response to the text, using vocal and physical expression. Prose, poetry, and drama analyzed for meaning and mood.

Basic forms and methods of expression, including voice projection and diction; development of individual talents in pantomime, improvisation, acting, and oral interpretation. Lecture and laboratory.

Acquaints student with functions of public relations in our society and explains basic theories and principles in publicity writing and placement.

A study of the strategies and stylistic devices which lead to clear, concise, and complete business writing. Various types of business letters, memoranda, proposals, and reports are examined and developed. Prerequisite: WRT 1020.