Communication

The Master's Degree

Advising

Each new graduate student should consult with a faculty advisor before initial registration. Academic advisors work with students to develop a tentative plan of study based on department requirements and the student's interests.

Grading Policy

No grade below B- in a Communication course may be applied toward the degree, and students who do not maintain a cumulative 3.0 GPA will be placed on academic probation. Communication courses to be counted toward the degree requirements may not be taken on a CR/NC basis except for COM 501.

Courses with a 300-course prefix number that advisors require of graduate students as prerequisites must be passed with a minimum grade of B (grades of B- or lower will not be accepted). Hours earned as prerequisites may not be counted toward the graduate degree.

NOTE:

Students also should refer to the campus policy on the Grades Acceptable Toward Master’s Degrees section of this catalog.

Important Course Information

All Communication M.A. candidates are required to complete at least 36 hours of graduate study in communication, including at least three 500-level graduate seminars. Graduate seminars are numbered 514 through 599.

Course Repetition: COM 570 and COM 580 may be taken for credit more than once, provided the course topic differs each time. No more than eight semester hours of credit for COM 499 and COM 599 (tutorials) will be accepted for the degree. All other Communication courses may be repeated for grade improvement only once.

Course Offerings: Cross-listed courses may be accepted for the major. Students should be careful to register for the course with the appropriate department prefix (COM) to ensure that credit is received. Other courses may be accepted toward the major only through a Student Petition with the Communication Department.

Although 400-level courses are open to both B.A. and M.A. candidates, graduate students enrolled in 400-level courses should expect more stringent grading standards and/or more assignments (and perhaps differently structured assignments) than undergraduates enrolled in the same courses.

Program Learning Outcomes

After completing the M.A. in Communication, students will be able to:

Find, understand, criticize and perform research as communicators.
Demonstrate critical written and oral communication skills at a scholarly and/or professional level.
Demonstrate scholarly or creative facility in an area of communication specialization.

Requirements

Core Requirements
COM 504	Introduction to Graduate Study in Communication ^1,2	4
COM 506	Research Methods in Communication ¹	4
500-level graduate seminars in Communication		12
Graduate-level COM courses (400- or 500-level)		12
COM 501	Closure Experience (minimum) ^1,3	4
Elective (400- or 500-level) ⁴		3
Total Hours		39

¹: Students must complete department-required courses (COM 501, COM 504, and COM 506) at UIS to graduate. No waivers or substitutions are accepted.
²: No more than eight semester hours of graduate-level courses may be taken before taking COM 504, which is offered only in the fall semester.
³: A student may not register for COM 501 until they have registered for COM 506. COM 506 is offered only in the spring semester.
⁴: If an elective is outside of Communication, it must be approved by a Student Petition with the Communication Department.

With department approval, additional courses may be required by the advisor to meet deficiencies.

Master’s Closure

In accordance with campus requirements, all graduate students must complete a closure experience (COM 501) consisting of one of the following: a thesis, a project, or comprehensive exams. A faculty committee must approve the proposed thesis or project before it is started. Students must have completed a minimum of 32 (preferably 36) credit hours to be eligible for comprehensive exams. Students write comprehensive exams over five areas during a two-day period. Comprehensive exams will be offered once every semester at a regularly scheduled time. More specific guidelines on any of the three options listed above are available from the Communication Department or from COM faculty.

Students must enroll for a total of four hours of credit in the closure experience; however, they may accrue the total in increments. Campus policy requires that students be enrolled in at least one semester hour of closure experience for each fall and spring semester after they have begun their graduate closure exercise until that exercise is completed. For Communication students, this means that if the closure experience (thesis/project/comprehensive exams) has not been completed by the end of four continuous credit hours of enrollment in COM 501, students must register for COM 502 (zero credit hours, one billable hour) each regular semester (excluding summer terms) until the closure experience is completed.

EHS HDC Admissions
Degree Program	Program Type	Dept Application Materials and Admission Criteria	Prerequisite Course Requirements	Department ADM Review	Dept Conditional Admits	Dept Appeal Process
Communication	MA	Minimum overall undergraduate GPA of 3.00 Two letters of recommendation including one from an academic source *One – two page personal statement of purpose	N/A	Department Chair and at least two additional COM faculty	Yes, must complete eight credit hours of prescribed COM courses and receive a grade of B or better for full admission	Yes, petition process with review by all COM faculty

Courses

COM 101. Understanding Media. 3 Hours.

Examines the first media of early civilizations to the current explosion and convergence of digital media in the information age. The focus will be on how media have influenced the maintenance of social order and have been agents of change. Course Information: This course fulfills a general education requirement at UIS in the area of First-Year Seminar and Social and Behavioral Science.

COM 102. What TV Has Taught Us: Exploring Leadership and Societal Change through Popular TV Shows. 3 Hours.

This course examines how media can be used to evoke societal change, such as leadership. These topics will be explored through the lens of pieces of media in popular culture. Course Information: This course fulfills a general education requirement at UIS in the area of Humanities and in the area of First-Year Seminar.

COM 112. Fundamentals of Communication. 3 Hours.

Course emphasizing the development of effective speaking skills through students' in-class presentations. Students will learn the theory and practice of effective verbal and nonverbal communication in a variety of contexts. Course Information: This course fulfills a general education requirement at UIS in the area of Oral Communication. (IAI Code C2 900).

COM 201. Introduction to Interpersonal Communication. 3 Hours.

Introduction to fundamental theories and concepts in interpersonal communication. Explores how humans establish meaning, engage in communication and form relationships.

COM 202. Human Sexualities. 3 Hours.

Introductory survey of major concepts, themes, and terminology in human sexuality; sexual anatomy and physiology; reproduction and contraception; sexual (dys)function and communication; STDs, sexual violence, and sexuality in the media. Course Information: Same as WGS 202. Intended for Freshmen and Sophomores. This course fulfills a general education requirement at UIS in the area of Social and Behavioral Sciences.

COM 203. Introduction to Mass Media. 3 Hours.

Examines the theory, history and tradition, structure and function, controls on the media, technology, ethical and legal issues, and future of mass media.

COM 204. Introduction to Public Relations and Strategic Communication. 3 Hours.

Introduction to the theories, functions, and applications of public relations. Analysis of the most effective methods of internal/external public relations and organizational communication for profit and nonprofit organizations. Course Information: IAI Major Code: MC 913.

COM 205. Speech & Debate Experience I. 1 Hour.

Participation in oral interpretation, public address and/or debate events. Students will participate in group practices, coaching sessions, and tournament competitions. Course Information: May be repeated to a maximum of three hours.

COM 206. ECCE: Student Newspaper: Engaged Journalism Experience. 1-3 Hours.

Students serve as contributors for UIS Student Media – The Observer. Students will create written, photographic, or recorded content (video or audio) and participate in mandatory staff meetings. Students will also participate in production and promotional activities as needed. Course Information: May be repeated for a maximum of 6 hours. This course fulfills an Engaged Citizenship Common Experience requirement at UIS in the areas of Engagement Experience.

COM 209. Introduction to Social Media. 3 Hours.

Introduces the history, theory, and uses of social media. Examines not only the debate over the impact of social media but also their relevance in our daily lives and future careers. It compares the ways by which social media influence a variety of segments of mass media-journalism, broadcasting, public relations, advertising and marketing. Course Information: This course fulfills a general education requirement at UIS in the area of Humanities.

COM 210. Media Writing. 4 Hours.

Introduction to the many types of media writing including print, radio and TV, web writing, public relations and advertising. Focus is put on developing strong writing skills and using the journalistic style of The Associated Press Stylebook. Course Information: Topical Area: Journalism/Media Studies. Course may be counted as upper-level Communication credit via petition to the department.

COM 212. Multimedia Reporting. 3 Hours.

Introduces students to the study and practice of gathering, organizing and writing for print, broadcast and online mediums. Develops skills in proper news writing styles, grammar, spelling, and AP style. Content produced for class will be considered for publication in UIS student media.

COM 215. Introduction to Photography. 3 Hours.

In-depth exploration of the photographic process with an emphasis on a fine print creation, camera techniques and use of light for both digital and film. Course Information: Same as ART 215. Topical area: Visual Arts. This course fulfills a general education requirement at UIS in the area of Visual, Creative, and Performing Arts.

COM 236. Introduction to Graphic Design. 3 Hours.

Introductory course covering the theory and practice of graphic design. Over the course, students will be introduced to digital imaging, print design, animation, typography fundamentals, and web design. The course will also concentrate on media theory and art and design criticism. Course Information: Same as ART 236. This course fulfills a general education requirement at UIS in the area of Visual, Creative, and Performing Arts.

COM 252. Visual Storytelling/Reporting. 3 Hours.

Students learn how to visually tell a story using video shooting and editing techniques. Students improve interviewing skills while working on scripts, learn how to pair video with a script, and present stories visually. Content created for this class will be considered for publication in student media. Course Information: Same as ART 252. This course fulfills a general education requirement at UIS in the area of Visual, Creative, and Performing Arts.

COM 261. Fake News and Fact-Checking. 3 Hours.

Provides an overview of creation/characteristics of and legal/ethical issues surrounding fake news and disinformation in the US and around the globe. Encourages the development of media literacy through critical analysis and comparison of misinformation, fake news, and disinformation.

COM 307. Podcasting History. 3 Hours.

This course will introduce students to historical interpretation and audio production. Students will perform historical research, interview a historian, and develop and edit a podcast that tells a historical story. Course Information: Same as HIS 307.

COM 311. Audio Production. 3 Hours.

Hands-on introduction to audio principles and techniques for multi-media production. This includes discussion of audio fundamentals and exercises using both analog and digital recording equipment. Digital equipment and techniques are introduced for radio, television, and other multimedia presentations.

COM 315. Editing. 3 Hours.

Examination of the editing process as it relates to media, public relations work, and other publications. Study of journalistic style, grammar review, concise writing, legal and ethical issues of editing, and design fundamentals. Course Information: Same as ENG 315. Not intended for students with First-year standing.

COM 323. Voice and Movement. 4 Hours.

Explores the voice and body as instruments of expression in performance and daily communication. The course will focus on vocal and physical exercises for a more accessible performing instrument. Course activities will include various physical and vocal explorations, exercises, improvisations, and non-verbal performance projects. Course Information: Same as THE 323.

COM 331. Business and Managerial Communication. 3 Hours.

Application of business and managerial communication skills necessary for leadership and success in organizations. Students will examine features of organizational communication processes and verbal/nonverbal communication. Construction and evaluation of written communication in business contexts, social media, and oral presentations with an emphasis on analysis, data representation, and evidence-based arguments will be practiced. Course Information: Same as: MGT 330.

COM 333. Feature Writing for Journalists. 3 Hours.

Develop, report and write stories focused on trends, news, human interest and other features for print and digital news outlets. Students will analyze feature story structure, with emphasis placed on compelling narratives, in-depth research, and writing techniques that captivate readers. Content produced for class assignments will be considered for publication in UIS student media. Course Information: Not intended for students with first-year standing.

COM 334. Sex, Gender, and Popular Culture. 4 Hours.

Survey of sex, gender and sexuality in production, reception, and content of contemporary U.S. popular culture. Themes: definitions, approaches, and functions of pop culture; race, class, gender, and sexuality in production and reception of media; representation and stylization of the body; masculinity and media violence; strategies for resisting media messages. Course Information: Same as WGS 338 and SOA 338. Previous WGS coursework recommended, but not required.

COM 337. Print Design. 4 Hours.

Intermediate course covering the theory and practice of graphic design as it applies to print. Students will be introduced to different printing techniques and outputs, professional and archival printing, and the technical properties of the translation of screen to print, including designing posters, logos, packaging, and other design portfolio works. Course Information: Same as COM 337.Prequisites ART 236 or permission of instructor.

COM 338. Web Design. 4 Hours.

Intermediate course covering theory and practice of graphic design as it applies to the web. Students will create web-based projects incorporating images, animations, sound and video, while learning HTML & CSS. Course will explore programmatic/systemic relationship between digital media, UX, UI, and design. Course Information: Same as COM 338.

COM 339. Animation. 4 Hours.

This is an intermediate course covering the theory and practice of digital media as it applies to animation. Students cover basic terminology, concepts, and principles of animation. Course covers historical perspective, current technologies and applications, basic principles of 2D and 3D animation, and animation on the Web. Course Information: Same as ART 339. Prerequisite: ART 236 or COM 236 or permission of instructor.

COM 341. ECCE: Media and Social Change. 3,4 Hours.

Explores uses of innovative communication technologies in facilitating and enhancing social change across time/space. The economical, political, and societal impact of communication technologies are examined using scholarly and popular literature. Studies how media technologies shape the lives of citizens across the world. Course Information: This course fulfills an Engaged Citizenship Common Experience requirement at UIS in the area of Global Awareness.

COM 365. Interviewing. 3 Hours.

Study of and practice in interviewing and its various purposes in communication settings. Practical and theoretical approaches to information gathering and gaining employment.

COM 366. Comm Research in Action. 3 Hours.

Garner hands-on research experience as well as learning to read/critique research studies. Students will identify a research problem, collect and analyze data, and draw conclusions. Helps prepare students for capstone experiences.

COM 380. Special Topics in Communication. 1-3 Hours.

Study of a current communication topic. Description of topic for a given semester will be stated in the course schedule. Course Information: May be repeated if topics vary.

COM 402. Artificial Intelligence and Ethics. 3,4 Hours.

This course provides a cross-disciplinary exploration of key topics concerning artificial intelligence (AI), delving into its history and fundamental principles. Through an examination of philosophical, moral, and ethical dilemmas, it aims to deepen students' understanding of the potential and limitations of AI.

COM 404. ECCE: Media Law and Ethics. 3,4 Hours.

Examines media law/ethical decision-making from media producers, critics, and users. Includes obscenity/indecency, libel, privacy, advertising, conflict of interest, and rights of access. Explores social, cultural contexts which laws/ethical principles develop. Course Information: Same as LES 408, PAR 404. Not intended for Freshmen, Sophomores. This course fulfills an Engaged Citizenship Common Experience requirement at UIS in the area of U.S. Communities.

COM 407. Photojournalism and Documentary Photography. 3,4 Hours.

Emphasizes the power of visual storytelling in contemporary media. Students learn to capture compelling images to convey news, human experiences, and social issues with accuracy and empathy. Topics include history, ethics, storytelling, introductory technical skills, and critical analysis. Assignments involve photographing real-world events, people, and places and producing a final photo essay. Works may be considered for publication in UIS Student Media.

COM 411. Relational Communication in a Digital World. 3,4 Hours.

Exploration of the ways in which our personal identity and relationships are built, maintained. and sometimes destroyed in an increasingly digital society. Technological influences across a variety of relationships and communication contexts will be examined. Students will develop effective practices for communicating in a digital world. Course Information: Not intended for students with Freshman or Sophomore standing.

COM 419. Leadership Communication. 3,4 Hours.

An overview of the complexities of leadership with an examination of communication styles and the skills of effective leaders. Assignments include analytical, critical, and self-reflective exercises. Not intended for students with freshman standing.

COM 421. Advanced Interpersonal Communication. 3,4 Hours.

Deeper analysis and application of interpersonal communication topics/theories and their impact on our close relationships, including an exploration of cultural factors, relational challenges, the role of technology, and techniques for becoming better relational communicators. Course Information: Prerequisites: COM 201 or permission of instructor.

COM 422. ECCE: Small Group Communication. 3,4 Hours.

Fundamental theories and concepts of small group communications are demonstrated through practical application and small group work. The course will focus on such aspects of small group communication as leadership, decision-making, and conflict management. Course Information: This course fulfills an Engaged Citizenship Common Experience requirement at UIS in the area of Engagement Experience.

COM 423. ECCE: Dating and Relating. 3,4 Hours.

Analysis of the complexities/challenges of initiating, escalating, and terminating romantic relationships and the communicative processes that help/hinder relational development. Topics addressed include attraction, understudied relationships, cultural influences, problematic interaction, and changes in the dating process. Course Information: This course fulfills an Engaged Citizenship Common Experience requirement at UIS in the area of U.S. Communities.

COM 424. ECCE: Gender Communication. 3,4 Hours.

Examination of gendered communication and gendered norms in a variety of contexts including family, romance, education, and the workplace. Representations in the media critiqued and theories of gender differences compared and evaluated. Course Information: Same as WGS 424. Not intended for students with Freshman or Sophomore standing. This course fulfills an Engaged Citizenship Common Experience requirement at UIS in the area of U.S. Communities.

COM 425. ECCE: Intercultural Communication. 3,4 Hours.

Analysis of domestic and international cultures. Examines differing worldviews, nonverbal cues, beliefs, language, artifacts, sources of conflict, and methods for negotiating meaning across borders. Course Information: Not intended for students with Freshman standing. This course fulfills an Engaged Citizenship Common Experience requirement at UIS in the area of U.S. Communities.

COM 428. Nonverbal Communication. 3,4 Hours.

Examination of how personal symbols (clothes, gestures, etc.) and use of public contexts (distance, space, time) convey meaning; exploring problems arising from differing interpretations of these symbols in a culturally diverse society.

COM 437. Typography. 4 Hours.

Advanced course covering the theory and practice of digital media as it applies to typography. Students will be introduced to the terminology, concepts, and history of typography, while completing typesetting projects in the contexts of drawn, digital, printed and web-based formats. Course Information: Same as ART 437. Prerequisites: ART 236 or COM 236 or permission of instructor.

COM 444. Advanced Media Writing. 3,4 Hours.

Advanced journalism practice, focusing on writing features and columns for media outlets. Students will engage in lectures and workshops to learn advanced techniques and industry standards. Emphasis is on independent writing projects, helping students develop their unique voices and styles. By course end, students will have a portfolio of polished, publishable work that will be considered for student media and possibly other outlets.

COM 447. Media Criticism. 3,4 Hours.

Examines the dynamic interplay between media and society, focusing on how technology, industry practices, content creation, and user interactions shape our world. Students will examine various media forms and their influence on cultural trends, political discourse, and economic development. Students will gain an understanding of the media's role in society and develop analytical skills applicable to careers in the media industry.

COM 448. Advertising. 3,4 Hours.

Theoretical and critical analysis of advertising, emphasizing its historical context and pivotal role in transforming society into a postmodern consumer culture. Students will explore advertising's evolution, examining how it shapes and reflects societal values, trends, and behaviors. Students will develop comprehensive advertising campaigns, gaining hands-on experience in crafting messages and understanding their functions.

COM 452. Entrepreneurial Journalism. 3,4 Hours.

This course introduces students to how changes in the media landscape affect traditional news media, resulting in new business models and job descriptions for journalists. By considering the far-reaching shifts in the media industry, this course guides students to explore alternative business models and entrepreneurial journalism.

COM 453. Advanced Visual Field Reporting. 3,4 Hours.

Builds on broadcast news writing, interviewing, and editing skills learned in COM 352. Adds emphasis on story ideas, camera operations, editing and reporting. Students will learn how to tell stories effectively using voice-over, stand-ups, natural sound, and video. Content created in this course will be considered for publication by UIS student media. Course Information: Same as ART 473. Prerequisites: COM 352 or ART 372.

COM 462. Writing For Public Relations. 3,4 Hours.

Intensive study of the most effective methods for written public relations communication. Students write news releases, broadcast announcements, and newsletter copy, as well as work on grammar and journalistic style. Course Information: Prerequisites: COM 204 or COM 210 or instructor permission.

COM 463. Organizational Communication. 4 Hours.

Analysis of organizational communication approaches, managerial style, motivation, leadership, corporate cultures, conflict, public relations, and diversity. Course Information: Topical Area: Interpersonal Communication.

COM 464. Conflict Management. 3,4 Hours.

Examination of role and effect of conflict on interpersonal, group, and organizational relationships and social movements. Theoretical and practical applications are explored to foster success in conflict resolution.

COM 468. Persuasion. 3,4 Hours.

Examination of theories and techniques involving attitudinal and behavioral change with the objective of students becoming better practitioners and more critical receivers/analysts of persuasive messages. Students analyze historical and current examples of propaganda and persuasion.

COM 471. ECCE: Communication Ethics. 3,4 Hours.

Introduction to ethics of communication practice including evaluation of ethical dilemmas in interpersonal, small group, intercultural, and organizational contexts. Analyze and compare and contrast ethical frameworks and perspectives and develop personal and communal ethical standards, which they apply to ethical dilemmas. Course Information: This course fulfills an Engaged Citizenship Common Experience requirement at UIS in the area of U.S. Communities.

COM 472. ECCE: Political Communication in the United States. 3,4 Hours.

Examination of the theories and practices of political communication in the United States. Topics include campaigning vs. governance, communication ethics, political advertising, political campaigns, political debates, the presidency, the role of the media, the role of unelected advisors, speechwriting, technology, etc. Course Information: This course fulfills an Engaged Citizenship Common Experience requirement at UIS in the area of U.S. Communities.

COM 477. ECCE: Global Media and Culture:China. 3,4 Hours.

Examines media and culture in China from the perspective of what's happening today based on traditions, culture and politics of the country. Theoretical perspectives from communication are used as the basis to examine a variety of types of media, such as entertainment and news. Course information: Not recommended for Freshman. This course fulfills an Engaged Citizenship Common Experience requirement in the UIS area of Global Awareness.

COM 478. ECCE: Communicating About Race. 3,4 Hours.

Examines how race is experienced in the U.S. by analyzing documentaries, current events, and several movies. Explores historical and current barriers to genuine dialogue about race relations. Course Information: This course fulfills an Engaged Citizenship Common Experience requirement at UIS in the area of U.S. Communities.

COM 479. ECCE: Global Media and Communication. 3,4 Hours.

This course provides a comparative overview of global media organizations, as well as of international media systems. It will explore global news, some of the important ethical issues related to global media, and the roles and characteristics of global journalists, including citizen journalists. Course Information: This course fulfills an Engaged Citizenship Common Experience requirement at UIS in the area of Global Awareness.

COM 480. Advanced Topics in Communication. 1-4 Hours.

Intensive study of a current communication topic. Description of topic for a given semester will be stated in the course schedule. Course Information: May be repeated if topics vary.

COM 491. Capstone in Communication. 3 Hours.

This culminating course blends engaging in communication research with building a professional portfolio. Students will produce a project that demonstrates their ability to conduct research, critically analyze communication issues, and apply findings. The course emphasizes career readiness through a combination of project management and professional skill-building exercises. Course Information: Prerequisites: Senior Standing, COM 366, or Instructor Approval.

COM 495. Exit Assessment. 0 Hours.

An exit assessment required of all bachelor's degree-seeking Communication majors prior to completion of the graduate application. Course Information: For program assessment only; graded pass/fail pending completion. Taken in the final semester of expected graduation.

COM 499. Tutorial. 1-3 Hours.

Specialized instruction; students may arrange for special courses on otherwise unavailable topics, subject to availability. Course Information: May be repeated to a maximum of 6 hours if topics vary.

COM 501. Closure Experience. 1-4 Hours.

All graduate students must complete a closure experience. Communication students have three options. 1) Thesis: Research-based exploration of a topic approved by thesis committee. 2) Project: Production of a major project selected with approval of project committee. 3) Comprehensive examination: Comprehensive examinations in five topical areas over a two-day period. Students must have completed a minimum of 32 credit hours to be eligible for the comprehensive exam. Students should consult their advisers for program guidelines during their first semester. Successful completion of any of the three options fulfills the master's closure requirement. NOTE: If the thesis/project/exam is not completed by the time four hours are accrued in continuing enrollment, students must register for COM 502 for zero credit hours (one billable hour) in all subsequent semesters until the thesis/project/exam is completed. Course Information: Credit/No Credit grading only. May be repeated to a maximum of 4 hours.

COM 502. Closure Experience Continuing Enrollment. 0 Hours.

Refer to NOTE in course description for COM 501. Course Information: May be repeated.

COM 504. Introduction to Graduate Study in Communication. 4 Hours.

Examination of the literature with which graduate communication students should be familiar, especially that exploring the nature of theory, the functions of research, and the philosophy of communication. Restricted to Graduate - Springfield.

COM 506. Research Methods in Communication. 4 Hours.

Examination of qualitative and quantitative research methods used in communication. Methods examined include surveys, content analysis, discourse analysis, grounded theory, and ethnography. Focus is put on developing students' familiarity with various methodologies in order to design and complete a mini-research project and write a research proposal for future coursework in Communication. Course Information: Restricted to graduate.

COM 516. Communication Theory. 4 Hours.

Seminar studying the nature and functions of theory lays the foundation for more detailed examination of theories from different contexts of communication and with differing philosophical bases. Course Information: Topical Areas: Interpersonal Communication; Journalism/Media Studies.

COM 524. Interracial Communication. 4 Hours.

Seminar examining origins and types of racism in the US. Exploration of how race and ethnicity affect education, housing, friendships and employment. Examination of ways to improve interracial communication. Course Information: Topical Area: Interpersonal Communication.

COM 528. Meaning And Social Structure. 4 Hours.

Seminar examining diversity and multiculturalism similarities and differences in individual interpretation of words, symbols, events, and interaction. Critical exploration of how individuals' language use affects the social structures they build and use, particularly their views of education and learning. Course Information: Topical Area: Interpersonal Communication.

COM 532. Social and Cultural Effects of Mass Media. 4 Hours.

Seminar featuring an overview of social, scientific, and critical theories regarding the effects of mass media on society. Examination of the ways in which these theories develop from particular social and historical contexts and how they reflect ideas and debates about media, politics, and culture. Course Information: Topical Area: Journalism/Media Studies. Restricted to Graduate - Springfield.

COM 555. Women and Media. 4 Hours.

Seminar exploring the role of women in the media today. Examination of women as participants in the media business and as subjects of the media and the impact of both on society. Course Information: Topical Area: Journalism/Media Studies.

COM 562. Public Relations in Organizations. 4 Hours.

Seminar on the advanced study of public relations in profit and nonprofit organizations. Examination of the threats and opportunities faced by organizations dealing with internal and external public. Hands-on research/participation in a public relations campaign for a local organization. Course Information: Topical Area: Interpersonal Communication.

COM 563. Organizational Communication Theory. 4 Hours.

Seminar featuring an in-depth look at organizational theory integrated with current communication theory. Discussion includes approaches to consulting and analyzing communication in organizations. Course Information: Topical Area: Interpersonal Communication.

COM 564. Film and Culture: A Global Perspective. 4 Hours.

Seminar examining film as cross-cultural practice in communication. Issues of gender, sexuality, class, race, and power will be explored through the theoretical perspectives of Barthes, Foucault, Althusser, Bourdieu and the like. Course Information: Topical Area: Journalism/Media Studies. Restricted to graduates.

COM 565. Communication, Culture, and Power. 4 Hours.

Seminar centered on the right of power as it applies to communication and culture. Specifically, students will attempt a critical evaluation of power as it pertains to the (co)construction of identity within their everyday lives. Topics will include race, gender, class, sexual orientation, religion, politics, and popular culture. Course Information: Topical Area: Interpersonal Communication. Restricted to Graduate - Springfield.

COM 570. Topics in Interpersonal Communication. 4 Hours.

Seminar with intensive study of an interpersonal communication topic. Description of topic for a given semester will be stated in the course schedule. Course Information: May be repeated if topics vary. Topical Area: Interpersonal Communication. Restricted to Graduate - Springfield.

COM 580. Topics in Journalism/Media Studies. 4 Hours.

Seminar with intensive study of a media topic. Description of a topic for a given semester will be stated in the course schedule. Course Information: May be repeated if topics vary. Topical Area: Journalism/Mass Media. Restricted to Graduate - Springfield.

COM 599. Tutorial. 1-4 Hours.

Specialized instruction; graduate students may arrange for special courses on otherwise unavailable topics, subject to availability. Course Information: May be repeated to a maximum of 6 hours if topics vary.