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)