Courses offered by the Department of Communication Studies
Spring 2025
Fundamentals of Communication
The practice of rhetoric, performance studies and communication theory; extensive practical and performance applications of communication skills in addition to lectures and readings.
Introduction to Communication Studies
Introduction to the Communication Studies discipline, including its academic/professional associations and journals, history and traditions, research methodologies and theories, and careers for graduates.
Interpersonal Communication
Introduction to communication elements such as self-concept, messages, and listening; patterns of interaction in romantic, friendship, family, and work relationships.
Introduction to Film
Nature and function of film as a mode of communication; basic language of cinema; selected films screened and studied. (3 hours lecture & 3 hours lab.)
Introduction to Performing Literature
Nature and function of film as a mode of communication; basic language of cinema; selected films screened and studied.
Public Speaking
Develop skills needed by the effective communicator and critical consumer of speech. Includes practice in speaking and an introduction to theories and analysis of speeches.
Communication for Business and the Professions
Communication used in business and professional organizations; proposal presentations, group decision making, parliamentary procedure and interviewing.
Argumentation and Debate
Principles of argumentation and debate; analysis, briefing, evidence, reasoning and refutation; debating on vital questions.
Small Group Communication
Aspects of group leadership; group discussion and the problems of communication in human relations.
Practicum in Communication Studies
Practical experience in major interdepartmental activities outside the classroom under direct faculty supervision. (Requires permission of department.)
History of Film
Historical, cultural, artistic and technological development of the film industry; selected films screened and studied. (3 hours lecture and 3 hours lab.)
Performance Composition
Study of the rhetorical and aesthetic elements of solo and group performance, including performances of literature, cultural performances and experimental performances.
Advanced Public Speaking
Refined development in platform speaking. (Requires B or higher in CMST 1061/CMST 2060.)
Rhetoric of the Contemporary Media
Various forms of media (television, pulp novels, pop music); their promotion of cultural values and modes of conduct; study of major rhetorical critics and theorists.
Personal Relationships and Social Networks
How personal relationships exist within a web of other personal and social relationships; examining how third-parties (whether individuals or social groups) influence the initiation, maintenance, and deterioration of personal relationships and how our personal relationships influence our networks.
Communication Research
Techniques and procedures in communication research; topic development, research design, data collection, data analysis; examination of recent research in communication.
Communication and Gender
Gender differences, sex roles and sexual stereotypes in communication.
Intercultural Communication
Theories and research of how people of different cultures communicate; emphasis on developing a critical sensitivity and foundations for increased effectiveness appropriate to a multicultural society.
Independent Study
(Requires permission of department.)
Selected Topics in Communication Studies
More details can be found in course catalog. (Requires consent of instructor.)
Political Communication
Factors and strategies in contemporary political communication in the U.S.; emphasis on electronic communication, candidates and images, campaign management, social media practices, speech-making, and advertising.
Communication as Culture
Advanced exploration of theories and methods of cultural studies within the communication discipline. Analysis of the creation, maintenance and alteration of cultural norms, institutions and values through both mass mediated spectacle and intimate communication ritual.
Communication and Leadership in Teams
Analysis of communication processes in groups and teams; includes examination of theories and research findings; addresses individual and team participation, leadership and decision-making skills.
Theories of Communication
The role and importance of theory. Interpretive and objective theories about communication in personal relationships, groups, and organizations.
Advanced Topics in Performance Studies
(Requires permission of department.)
Visual Rhetoric
Explanation of how visual images communicate messages and make persuasive arguments.
Practicum in Communication Studies
Practical experience in major interdepartmental activities outside the classroom under direct faculty supervision. (Requires permission of department. Pass/Fail.)
See the Course Catalog for further information regarding available courses.