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Communication (COMST.BA)

Communication Arts
The Communication major offers a variety of emphases that provide tools for student success in the fields of speech, writing, and communication. The major helps the student maximize options for graduate school or a professional career.
Degree Checklist
For a check list of all the courses required for this degree program and a suggested four-year sequence of study, please click on the link below.
General Education Requirements - Total Hours: 53-59
Click here for the General Education Core requirements
This program requires 6 hours of foreign language at the intermediate level.
Specialty Area Requirements
CINE 310 - Writing for Film and Television | Credit Hours: 3 | |
An introduction to the conventions of film and television writing formats. The course covers the fundamentals of screen storytelling, acquaints students with the nuances of particular formats, and explores excellence in each through analysis of texts and practical application. PrerequisitesENGL 110 |
CINE 340 - Film Theory and Criticism | Credit Hours: 3 | |
This course covers multiple aspects of contemporary film analysis and criticism. Current and historic films are examined from technical, artistic and moral/ethical perspectives. Students will receive a thorough introduction to tools and methods required for in-depth critique and appreciation of film. PrerequisitesDIGM-200, OR COMM-200, OR CINE-200, CINE-201, CINE-202 |
COMM 221 - Writing for Film and TV | Credit Hours: 3 | |
An introduction to the conventions of film and television writing formats. The course covers the fundamentals of screen storytelling, acquaints students with the nuances of particular formats, and explores excellence in each through analysis of texts and practical application. PrerequisitesENGL 110. |
COMM 200 - Understanding Human Communication | Credit Hours: 3 | |
This course introduces the discipline and multiple fields of communication by surveying the origin, history, and development of the field as well as the basic dimensions, concepts, and theories of human communicative interaction and behavior in both mediated and non-mediated contexts. |
COMM 211 - Public Speaking | Credit Hours: 3 | |
A course for beginners in the basic principles of speech directed toward the establishment of habits of good speech. PrerequisitesNone |
COMM 280 - Interpersonal Communication | Credit Hours: 3 | |
An introduction to the theory and practice of interpersonal communication. Students will examine verbal and nonverbal elements affecting communication between individuals in family, peer, group, and work contexts. Emphasis is placed on building skills needed to improve the quality of relationships through experiential learning. PrerequisitesCOMM 200 |
COMM 300 - Communication Research Methods | Credit Hours: 3 | |
This course introduces students to research methodologies used in the field of communication. Theoretical approaches to research and its value provide a basis for studying research design, specific qualitative and quantitative methods, the collection of data, and standards in statistical and rhetorical analysis of data. Attention is given to how research functions in the academic world as well as in communication-related professions such as journalism, public relations, advertising, and digital media. PrerequisitesCOMM 200 or DIGM 200 |
COMM 495 - Christianity and Communication | Credit Hours: 3 | |
A course providing a theoretical integration of the Christian faith with the field of Communication. Reviews fundamental themes connecting faith with communication practice for Christians from the time of the early church to the present, with special emphasis on practical responses to cultural and historical shifts in worldviews. PrerequisitesTHEO 231, Senior status or consent of instructor |
COMM 498 - Rhetorical Criticism | Credit Hours: 3 | |
This course introduces students to major issues and perspectives in rhetorical criticism, including foundational concepts from the history of rhetorical theory, elements of rhetorical studies, and methods of rhetorical analysis. By surveying traditional and contemporary approaches to rhetorical criticism, readings will encourage students to engage in the process of thinking about symbol use, reflect upon the power of language and human symbolic activity, and systematically explore how these processes work and why they affect us. Rhetorical approaches examine how to use language and symbols more effectively, how to communicate in more self-reflective ways, and how to evaluate messages that better accomplish strategic goals. PrerequisitesCOMM-300 or permission of instructor |
COMM 499 - Senior Research Project | Credit Hours: 3 | |
Designed to mentor the communication major or minor in the application of the techniques and procedures of research in communication. For upper-division majors and minors only. PrerequisitesCOMM 300 or COMM 301 |
COMM 351 - Persuasion | Credit Hours: 3 | |
This course looks at the principles of argumentation and debate, analysis and discussion of current public questions, briefing, inductive and deductive reasoning, strategy and refutation, and debates. PrerequisitesCOMM 200 or permission of instructor |
COMM 352 - Organizational Communication | Credit Hours: 3 | |
An introduction to the theory and practice of communication in organizations. Examines organizational behavior from the standpoint of historical and contemporary theories along with examples and case studies. Emphasis is placed on the role of communication in the development and maintenance of organizational structures. PrerequisitesCOMM 200 or consent of instructor |
COMM 354 - Intercultural Communication | Credit Hours: 3 | |
A study of the relationship between communication and culture with emphasis on factors affecting the processes and quality of interpersonal communication between those of differing cultures and subcultures. PrerequisitesNone |
COMM 480 - Communication Leadership | Credit Hours: 3 | |
An examination of effective leadership and the central role of communication in leadership processes. The course examines both traditional and contemporary notions of leadership and its practice in interpersonal, team, public, and virtual contexts. PrerequisitesCOMM-200 |
COMM 353 - Sport and Communication | Credit Hours: 3 | |
This course covers the basic principles and techniques of sport communication for collegiate and professional sports. Students will also examine the interrelationship between sport and media in today's society. Students will consider the functions and ethical responsibilities of media and sports communication personnel as well as the societal effects and impact of sports media. PrerequisitesCOMM 200 or DIGM 200 or consent of instructor. |
COMM 422 - Communication in Society | Credit Hours: 3 | |
Explores the theoretical and practical aspects of human communication and mass communication within culture. Both critical and institutional approaches will be studied. Specific areas will include the critical functions of language, relationship between interpersonal communication and the media, media values, and mediated reality within societies in both developed and underdeveloped countries. PrerequisitesCOMM 200 or DIGM 200 |
CINE 330 - U.S. Film History 1960-1979 | Credit Hours: 3 | |
This course examines later middle 20th century film (1960-1979) production in Hollywood and the United States. The course will study films that are significant in the progression of the industry through the Cold War, the counterculture movement, and the introduction of blockbusters. The course will focus on the significant films and filmmakers that influenced the further development of the film industry through a tumultuous time in American history and culture. PrerequisitesENGL 110 |
DIGM 365 - Innovation and Social Media | Credit Hours: 3 | |
A course designed to engage students in the social media world both practically and theoretically. Students will use key social media innovations and explore the implications of social media upon interpersonal interaction, business, marketing, politics, religion and human cognition. PrerequisitesDIGM 200 or COMM-200 or ARTS 200 |
COMM 310 - Writing for the Media (W) | Credit Hours: 3 | |
An introduction to the form, style and content of numerous categories of media writing. The course includes practical application of writing strategies and subjects for public relations, advertising, magazines, newspapers, television, radio and others. PrerequisitesCOMM 200, ENGL 110 |
COMM 312 - Reporting and Writing (W) | Credit Hours: 3 | |
This course introduces techniques of journalism by developing the students' news gathering and writing abilities under deadline pressures. Emphasis is placed on news and feature writing for print, electronic and online news media. PrerequisitesCOMM 200 OR DIGM 200 |
PUBR 316 - Public Relations Writing | Credit Hours: 3 | |
This course introduces students to the writing skills, knowledge and perspectives required to craft strategic messages capable of achieving specific PR objectives with key audiences. Students will develop and edit written messages for a variety of distribution channels, taking into account factors such as timing, organizational control and audience characteristics. Particular attention will be placed on the development of news releases (using Associated Press style), fact sheets, feature stories, and electronic media posts using an integrated communication approach. PrerequisitesPUBR 284 and ENGL 110 OR permission of instructor |
COMM 362 - Feature Writing | Credit Hours: 3 | |
Introduces student journalists to the craft of creative non-fiction storytelling through narrative and other feature story types. Students will cultivate their voices as writers while developing their reporting, researching, and interviewing skills as journalists. Computer-assisted instruction. PrerequisitesCOMM-200 or DIGM-200 |
DIGM 241 - Broadcast Copywriting | Credit Hours: 3 | |
This course provides instruction and practice in written commercial and public service copy for television and radio. Basic advertising principles are applied to broadcast situations. PrerequisitesENGL 110 |
DIGM 242 - Broadcast Journalism | Credit Hours: 3 | |
This course provides instruction and practice in the specialized field of writing and producing for broadcast journalism. Course content includes mechanics of news gathering, interviewing, writing and reporting. Discussion topics include news values, ethical considerations and development of individual stories. PrerequisitesENGL 110 |
BUSN 251 - Business Communications | Credit Hours: 3 | |
This course focuses on developing future managers and professionals in the art of effective communication, both oral and written. Emphasis is placed on research methods and reporting writing. PrerequisitesENGL-110 |
COMM 282 - Principles of Journalism | Credit Hours: 3 | |
This course surveys the history and theories of journalism and introduces students to contemporary journalistic practices. Students will learn about the function and operation of print, electronic and online news media. PrerequisitesCOMM 200 or DIGM 200 |
PUBR 284 - Principles of Public Relations | Credit Hours: 3 | |
An introduction to public relations for profit and nonprofit organizations. Topics include the history, principles, theories, practices, planning and research of the public relations field. This is the foundational course for all subsequent study in public relations. PrerequisitesCOMM 200 |
COMM 286 - Principles of Advertising | Credit Hours: 3 | |
This course looks at advertising and focuses on the communication aspects of advertising. Topics include types and functions of advertising and the fundamentals of broadcast and print advertising. PrerequisitesCOMM 200 |
Communication Electives - Credit Hours: 9
DIGM 200 - Introduction to Digital Media | Credit Hours: 3 | |
An introduction to the history, structure and practices of digital media. Discussion topics include commercial, legal, ethical, and social aspects of film, television and radio, the recording industry, the internet and other facets of present day media operations. PrerequisitesNone |
ENGL 307 - Literary Criticism (W) | Credit Hours: 3 | |
A study of literary theory in the 20th century with a brief overview of the history of criticism. Students will apply critical theories to a number of literary texts. PrerequisitesENGL-300 |
ENGL 309 - Rhetoric for Writers (W) | Credit Hours: 3 | |
A survey of the theories and techniques of rhetoric from ancient Greece to the present. Particular attention is given to the ways in which contemporary writers can create appropriate rhetorical strategies for communicating in their own social and cultural contexts. PrerequisitesENGL-300 |
PSYC 210 - Writing For Psychology | Credit Hours: 1 | |
A foundational course designed to introduce psychology majors to literature research and APA style writing for psychological research papers and reports. PrerequisitesPSYC-200 |
COMM 305 - Communication Practicum | Credit Hours: 1 | |
This course provides practical experiences researching, planning, managing, writing, editing, designing and producing a variety of professional communication products in laboratory setting. Students develop their skills through work with the Lee Clarion, Vindagua or an assigned public relations client. It is repeatable for credit. PrerequisitesCOMM-200 or DIGM-200 |
COMM 350 - International Communication | Credit Hours: 3 | |
This course introduces the key theories, concepts, and practices in the broadly defined field of international communication. Expanding knowledge beyond national borders, communication concepts are conceptualized through the lens of a Global Perspectives trip, teaching context-specific fundamental responsibilities and constraints. PrerequisitesCOMM-200 or permission of instructor.Co-requisite: GNST-251, 252, or 253 (Cross-Cultural Experience) |
COMM 410 - Media Law | Credit Hours: 3 | |
Examination of the legal and ethical aspects of publishing and broadcasting, with emphasis on freedom of the press, the right to know, copyright, libel, privacy, and obscenity. PrerequisitesCOMM 200 or DIGM 200 |
COMM 491-493 - Contemporary Topics in Communication | Credit Hours: 1 | |
A course presenting various topics of contemporary interest. Topics will change each semester. Repeatable for credit. PrerequisitesCOMM 200 |
COMM 492 - Contemporary Topics in Communication | Credit Hours: 2 | |
A course presenting various topics of contemporary interest. Topics will change each semester. Repeatable for credit. PrerequisitesCOMM 200 |
COMM 493 - Contemporary Topics in Communication | Credit Hours: 3 | |
A course presenting various topics of contemporary interest. Topics will change each semester. Repeatable for credit. PrerequisitesCOMM 200 |
CINE 330 - U.S. Film History 1960-1979 | Credit Hours: 3 | |
This course examines later middle 20th century film (1960-1979) production in Hollywood and the United States. The course will study films that are significant in the progression of the industry through the Cold War, the counterculture movement, and the introduction of blockbusters. The course will focus on the significant films and filmmakers that influenced the further development of the film industry through a tumultuous time in American history and culture. PrerequisitesENGL 110 |
PSYC 250 - Personality Theory | Credit Hours: 3 | |
A survey of the major theories on how personality develops. Theories are examined from a Christian perspective, and students are encouraged to formulate their own theoretical point of view. Theorists include Freud, Jung, Rogers, Maslow, and Skinner. PrerequisitesPSYC 200 |
PSYC 330 - Social Psychology | Credit Hours: 3 | |
A study of social dynamics, interpersonal relationships, and the influence of the social environment on behavior. PrerequisitesPSYC 200 |
THEA 210 - Beginning Acting | Credit Hours: 3 | |
This course provides instruction and practice for the beginning actor. Basic acting principles are learned and applied through in class exercises and performances. This course is intended for non-majors only. PrerequisitesNone |
THEA 215 - Improv Acting | Credit Hours: 3 | |
This course utilizes participation, lecture material, and selected readings to convey a well-rounded experience in the history, theory, and creation of improvisational theatre. |
Specialty Area Subtotal Hours: 48
Electives - Total Hours: 13-19
Total Hours in Program: 120
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Amount: $4000
In order to qualify to apply for the Ashley Soulé Conroy Study Abroad Scholarship, applicant must be a U.S. citizen who is enrolled as an undergraduate in a U.S. 4- year college or university. Applicants must also have at least 30 hours of completed undergraduate credit by the time of the study abroad term’s start date and intend to study abroad in a program that is outside of the U.S. and be enrolling in a study abroad term (the days that you are actually enrolled in classes abroad) that is no shorter than 14 weeks. Summer applicants will not be considered unless their academic term abroad is longer than 14 weeks, in which case they should apply for the Spring semester scholarship. A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 at their current institution, verifiable on their transcript is required. For more information or to apply, please visit the scholarship provider’s website.
Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship Program
Amount: $5000
The Gilman Scholarship Program is open to U.S. citizen undergraduate students who are receiving Federal Pell Grant funding at a two-year or four-year college or university to participate in study and intern abroad programs worldwide. For more information or to apply, please visit the scholarship provider’s website.
Boren Scholarships
Amount: $20000
Boren Scholarships, a prestigious initiative of the National Security Education Program, provide unique funding opportunities for U.S. undergraduate students to study less commonly taught languages in world regions critical to U.S. interests, and underrepresented in study abroad, including Africa, Asia, Central and Eastern Europe, Eurasia, Latin America, and the Middle East. In exchange for funding, Boren Scholars commit to working in the federal government for at least one year after graduation. High school graduates, GED recipients and matriculated undergraduate students may apply for the scholarship. For more information or to apply, please visit the scholarship provider’s website.
Critical Language Scholarship
Amount: Variable
Half the fun of going abroad is learning a language, and this grant from the U.S. Department of State is there to support aspiring linguists abroad. Even if you can only go abroad for a brief time, the CLS Program is perfect as it funds U.S. undergraduate and graduate students for “overseas language and cultural immersion programs,” specifically during the summer months. Check if your language of interest is eligible and then apply to get that funding to dive deep into your studies abroad.
David-Putter Scholarship Fund
Amount: Max of $15000
If you’re passionate about social justice and plan to continue your commitment to your community activism values while abroad, then the Davis-Putter Scholarship is a perfect opportunity to fund both your studies in the USA and abroad. Engaging in social change while abroad is an amazing way to immerse in the local community and go beyond being a tourist in your destination of choice. Look for programs that align with your social issue interests and then share your passion with the Davis-Putter Fund to gain the grant to make it happen!
Diversity Abroad Achievement Scholarship
Amount: $1000
Each semester, AIFS offers up to 10 semester scholarships of USD 1000 to outstanding students from under-represented groups. Applicants must demonstrate high academic achievement and/or participate in community service activities.
Facebook Advertising Scholarship
Amount: $2500
AdvertiseMint is very excited to let you know that we are offering a $2,500 scholarship for creative students that show entrepreneurial characteristics. We would love to make the application for this scholarship available to your students. Eligibility Requirements: Applicant must be within the ages of 18 to 25. Applicant must be currently enrolled at an accredited high school, college or university in the United States by selection date or enrolled at an accredited high school, college or university in the United States during the time of submission. Students must create a video pitch for a company they would like to start. Applicant must submit application through our online form.
Fund For Education Abroad
Amount: Up To $10000
The mission of the Fund for Education Abroad (FEA) is to provide scholarships and ongoing support to students who are underrepresented among the U.S. study abroad population. FEA makes life-changing, international experiences accessible to all by supporting students of color, community college, and first-generation college students before, during, and after they participate in education abroad programs.
Owner Direct Vacation Rentals Study Away Scholarship
Amount: $500
Eligible students should submit an original 600-800 word essay in PDF format to marketing@ownerdirect.com describing why travel is important between Jul 1 – Aug 31, 2021. Essays will be judged based on the following: content, creativity, inspiration and style. One essay per entrant only. Please include your name, college or university at which you are enrolled at full time, mailing address, email address and documentation of current or upcoming college or university program
Phi Kappa Phi Study Abroad Grants are designed to help support undergraduates as they seek knowledge and experience in their academic fields by studying abroad. Fifty grants are awarded each year. Applicants must attend an undergraduate institution with an active Phi Kappa Phi chapter and have a cumulative GPA of 3.75 or higher. For more information or to apply, please visit the scholarship provider’s website.
The Scott’s Cheap Flights Study Abroad Scholarship
Amount: $1000
The Scott’s Cheap Flights is awarding a US$1,000-worth study abroad scholarship. The scholarship is open to both undergraduate and graduate students who enrolled at an accredited higher education program in the United States and will be acquiring education abroad as part of the program
Toptal Scholarships for Women; Empowering Future Female Leaders to Change the World
Women Change the World This program is for ambitious women, 16 years or older, who are passionate about making some meaningful change for a community or cause they care about. Pursuing an Education Brilliance and wisdom come in many forms. This program is open to women from all walks of life who are currently pursuing or aiming to pursue any type of education program. Creating Momentum Around the World We are awarding one prize per region to current residents of Europe, the Americas, Africa, Asia, and Oceania. See below for application timelines. With an Idea — And a Plan Entries will be judged on the originality of the idea, your plan for making it happen, and your passion for the cause it represents.
Tortuga Backpacks Study Abroad Scholarship
Amount: $1000
Are you dreaming of studying abroad and experiencing other cultures overseas but can’t do so because of a tight student budget? Twice a year, Tortuga Backpacks offers students a chance to live their dream through a study abroad scholarship funded by the company’s customers when they purchase luggage. The scholarship awardee will receive a 1000 USD scholarship which will be sent directly to the student’s study abroad program of choice and 1 awesome Tortuga Travel Backpack. To apply, read all the instructions and eligibility requirements on their website’s scholarship page and fill out the application form at the bottom. Only one submission per person is allowed. Please check our website for submission deadlines and the announcement of the winner. The winner will be featured on our blog and social media accounts.
Amount: $500-$1000
VolunteerForever is proud to present its annual Travel Scholarship! To help travelers with the cost of travelling, VolunteerForever is offering $500 to $1000 travel scholarship. This scholarship can be used for anything that may be related for your travel such as airfare and program application. Application is easy, simply complete our application form with your biological information and a short essay!