Course Descriptions
COMM 1307 Introduction to Mass Communication
Survey of basic content and structural elements of mass media and their functions
and influences on society. Additionally, a study of mass media in the United States
with emphasis on newspapers, magazines, radio, film, publishing, the internet and
television; history of mass media and the business models that support them; and the
role and responsibility of mass media in modern society. Prerequisite: Meet TSI college-readiness
standard for Reading and Writing; or equivalent. 3 credit hours. (A)
COMM 1335 Introduction to Electronic Media
An overview of the development, regulation, economics, social impact, and industry
practices in electronic media. Additionally, an historical and critical comparison
of the first two broadcast media as they have evolved, this course includes discussion
of important historical issues that resonate with contemporary media concerns - including
intellectual property and patent rights, aesthetics and production values, censorship
and freedom of speech, broadcast ethics, ratings fallibility, public responsibility
and emotional contagion. The course also discusses the development and necessary metamorphosis
of each medium in response to contemporary events, social change, and the encroachment
of new technology, new media and alternative delivery methods. Prerequisite: Meet
TSI college-readiness standard for Reading and Writing; or equivalent. 3 credit hours.
(A)
COMM 2300 Media Literacy
Criticism and analysis of the function, role, and responsibility of the mass media
in modern society from the consumer perspective. Includes the ethical problems and
issues facing each media format, with the effect of political, economic, and cultural
factors on the operation of the media. Prerequisite: Meet TSI college-readiness standard
for Reading and Writing; or equivalent. 3 credit hours. (A)
COMM 2330 Introduction to Public Relations
Exploration of the history and development of public relations. Presentation of the
theory behind and process of public relations, including the planning, implementation,
and evaluation of PR campaigns. Additionally, exploration of current trends in the
profession and overview of how the process is carried out in different public relations
specializations. The student is recommended to complete either COMM 1307 or SPCH
1311 prior to registering for this course, but not required. Prerequisite: Meet TSI
college-readiness standard for Reading and Writing; or equivalent. 3 credit hours.
(A)
COMM 2331 Radio / Television Announcing
Principles of, and practice in, radio and TV announcing, including the study of voice
(diction, pronunciation, and delivery) as it relates to mediated contexts and experience
in news announcing, interviewing, and acting in commercial. Prerequisite: Meet TSI
college-readiness standard for Reading and Writing; or equivalent. 3 credit hours.
(A)
COMM 2332 Radio/Television News
The preparation and analysis of news styles for the electronic media. Prerequisite:
Meet TSI college-readiness standard for Reading and Writing; or equivalent. 3 credit
hours. (A)
COMM 2339 Writing for Radio, Television, and Film
Designed to train the student in all typical forms of broadcast and film writing,
including news, commercial copy, critique and commentary, radio theatre, comedy and
dramatic teleplay, and screenplay. Course provides both writing and production experiences.
Prerequisite: Meet TSI college-readiness standard for Reading and Writing; or equivalent.
3 credit hours. (A)
COMM 2366 Film Appreciation
Survey and analyze cinema including history, film techniques, production procedures,
selected motion pictures, and cinema’s impact on and reflection of society. Lab required.
Prerequisite: ARTS 2348 or PHTC 1311 or consent of Associate Dean/Director. 3 credit
hours. (A)
Note: Students may take either DRAM 2366 or COMM 2366, but not both.
COMM 2389 Academic Co-op Communication
For students with interest or major in mass communications, radio, TV, or film. Integrates
on-campus study with practical hands-on work experience in communication. In conjunction
with class seminars, the student will set specific goals and objectives in the study
of communication. Contact the Associate Dean/Director for more information. Prerequisite:
Meet TSI college-readiness standard for Reading and Writing; or equivalent. 3 credit
hours. (A)