2016-17 Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]
Communication
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Britt 240
541-552-6673
Alena Ruggerio, Chair
| Professor |
Associate Professor |
Assistant Professor |
Adjunct Faculty |
Emeritus Faculty |
| Alena Ruggerio |
Garth Pittman |
Andrew Kenneth Gay |
Julie Akins |
Mark Chilcoat |
| Susan Walsh |
Jody Waters |
Erik Palmer |
Stuart Corns |
Ernest Ettlich |
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Precious Yamaguchi |
George Dohrmann |
Jonathan Lange |
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Jodie Ferguson |
Thomas Pyle |
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Michael Gantenbein |
Howard Schreiber |
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Brandon Givens |
Karen Shafer |
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Erica Knotts |
Paul Steinle |
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Melody Love |
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Gary Lundgren |
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Bob Pennell |
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Kandy Simmons |
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Brent Streeper |
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The Communication program provides students opportunities to develop verbal, nonverbal and visual communication knowledge and skills through the exploration of communication studies, film, television and video, journalism, and convergent media. Students may select from one of three concentrations for the Communication degree: (a) Communication Studies, (b) Digital Cinema, or (c) Social Media and Public Engagement.
The Communication Studies Concentration focuses on the understanding and skill acquisition related to the communication practices that occur in the everyday interactions of social actors in a variety of contexts. Our research and teaching focuses on interpersonal communication; small group, organizational and cross-cultural communication; analysis of public rhetoric and discourse; and conflict resolution, mediation, and negotiation.
The Digital Cinema concentration provides students with the benefits of both a traditional film school curriculum and a forward-looking education in visual storytelling and innovation for the 21st century. Students study the history of visual storytelling and apply their conceptual learning to traditional production settings with hands-on creation of film, television and video content. Meanwhile, students also gain practical skills and competencies in mobile content production, content strategy, and new media entrepreneurship.
The Social Media and Public Engagement concentration provides students with the practical and conceptual competencies required to live and work productively in a 21st-century media landscape. Whether seeking meaningful employment, maintaining healthy online relationships, or practicing thoughtful citizenship, students emerge from the SMPE concentration with skills and dispositions in personal reputation management, content strategy, online journalism, visual storytelling, design thinking and new media entrepreneurship.
The Communication program emphasizes connections between conceptual understanding, critical thinking, communication behaviors, and message construction. Faculty bring a broad range of academic and professional training and accomplishments to the classroom, and the department’s student-centered program emphasizes skill-building, critical thinking, research and writing.
Students may earn credit for on-campus practical experiences with University media outlets, public relations and marketing, as well as teaching and research assistance to faculty. Communication majors intern throughout and beyond the local community at newspapers, magazines, radio and television stations, social service organizations, government agencies, advertising and public relations firms, and many businesses and non-profit organizations.
Academic Credit Policies
Activities, Practica, and Internships
The Communication program has adopted the following policies regarding academic credit for Communication activities, internships, and practica. Students should also view additional policies in the information packet available from the course administrators. No more than 12 credits of COMM 377 , COMM 409A , COMM 409B , COMM 409C and COMM 410A , COMM 410B , COMM 410C may be applied to a Communication concentration. Credits accrued in COMM 377 , COMM 409A , COMM 409B , COMM 409C and COMM 410A , COMM 410B , COMM 410C beyond the first 12 will apply toward the 180 credits required for graduation, but not toward the major. No more than 20 credits of COMM 199 , COMM 377 , COMM 401 , COMM 405 , COMM 409A , COMM 409B , COMM 409C and COMM 410A , COMM 410B , and COMM 410C may be applied to the 68-credit minimum for the major. The remaining 48 credits must be earned through completion of formal classroom courses.
Activity Courses
Activity courses involve an on-campus communication activity approved by the Communication Department chair. Such activities include, but are not limited to, working for the University’s student newspaper or radio station, aiding a departmental faculty member as a teaching or research assistant, judging high school or SOU forensics tournaments, working on departmental and University publications or productions. Activity credits may be earned under COMM 377 .Students may:
- register for no more than 4 credits of COMM 377 per term but repeat it in subsequent terms for credit;
- apply no more than 6 credits of COMM 377 to their major; and
- register for no more than a total of 12 credits of COMM 377.
COMM 377 credits count toward the 68 communication credits required for the Communication major, but not toward the 28 upper division communication credits required for the major. Activity courses may not be taken for a letter grade without instructor consent.
Practica and Internships
Practicum credits are earned for off-campus communication internships. Students may earn practicum credits by working at radio and television stations, newspapers, or advertising and public relations agencies; volunteering at a variety of social service agencies; or working with youth organizations, health care facilities, charitable organizations, political campaigns, governmental offices, magazines, chambers of commerce, or arts organizations. Practicum credits may be earned under COMM 409A , COMM 409B , or COMM 409C /COMM 509 . Students may:
- register for no more than 4 credits of COMM 409 per term, but repeat it in subsequent terms for credit;
- apply no more than 6 credits of COMM 409 to the Communication major; and
- register for no more than a total of 15 credits of COMM 409.
COMM 409 credits count toward the 68 communication credits required for the Communication major and also toward the 28 upper division credits required for the major. Practicum courses may not be taken for letter grade without prior instructor approval.
Graduate Study
Graduate students may choose communication as the secondary emphasis in the school area degree (see Graduate Programs). This requires students to have previously finished three of the following courses: COMM 125 , COMM 210 , COMM 225 , COMM 324 . Graduate work must include COMM 560 - Topics in Communication and two additional graduate courses in communication. Exceptions may be made on rare occasions with the approval of the student’s advisor.
Through collaboration with the departments of Art, Computer Science,and Communication, Emerging Media & Digital Arts provides interdisciplinary instruction in visual narrative, design, and creation of visuals in a digital age. Students develop fundamental analytical and practical skills in constructing, composing, and evaluating digital media. Emphasis in this area reflects the increasing digitalization of society, as well as the dispersion of multi-mediated, non-linear forms of knowledge in the twenty-first century. See EMDA for course descriptions.
Bachelor of Science in Innovation and Leadership
This new interdisciplinary B.S. degree is designed for working professionals who have one to two years of previous college experience, at least five years of work experience beyond entry level, and a desire to lead, innovate, collaborate, and think creatively. For more information on requirements go to Innovation and Leadership, Bachelor of Science .
Program Requirements
Major
Concentration
Minor
Certificate
Communication
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COMM 125 - Interpersonal Communication
4 credits
Focuses on message exchange in dyadic interaction. Emphasizes development of various communication skills in interpersonal contexts. May be approved for University Studies (Information Literacy-Strand C).
Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. -
COMM 172 - Studio Production for Film and Video
4 credits
Provides an introduction to the basic equipment and operating techniques of multi-camera studio production. Explores camera operation, the language of video production, and other necessary equipment and techniques. Students work individually and in groups to develop, script, prep and shoot original work.
* This course was formerly offered under a different number; students who took the following course(s) will not receive additional credit unless otherwise noted: VP 172
Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. -
COMM 195 - Digital Life
2 credits
Introduces a wide variety of fundamental skills in digital and social media. Although most students in higher education use digital technologies such as smartphones and social medial platforms every day, an emerging body of scholarly research has demonstrated the need for instruction in competencies such as online privacy, personal reputation management, and critical information gathering. This course provides that learning in a fast-paced, interactive format in which students use online technologies to critically explore the impacts of rapidly evolving technology on Digital Life.
Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. -
COMM 199 - Special Studies
1 to 18 credits
Credits to be arranged. Repeatable.
Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. -
COMM 200 - Communication Across Cultures
4 credits
Provides an introduction to cultural and intercultural communication. Students are exposed to a variety of ways in which cultures and communication intersect through readings, lectures, and guest speakers from the multicultural community. Approved for University Studies (Explorations Strand E–Humanities).
Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. -
COMM 202 - Introduction to Popular Culture
4 credits
Examines popular media as a dynamic arena for social and cultural expression. Drawing on the interdisciplinary traditions of Media Theory and Cultural Studies, students will engage with key debates over the relationship between media and culture, examine divergent media consumption and production practices, and become familiar with different modes of critical analysis. Emphasis will be given to providing an overview of the theoretical range of cultural and media studies.
Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. -
COMM 203 - Media Literacy
4 credits
Students will learn to analyze messages conveyed by the media in daily life; understand the influence of media in their professional, political and social lives; participate in the use and creation of media in democratic, ethical and socially responsible ways; understand how people from diverse cultures might interpret and process media in distinct ways. Approved for University Studies Explorations (Strand E - Humanities)
* This course was formerly offered under a different number; students who took the following course(s) will not receive additional credit unless otherwise noted: COMM 201.
Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. -
COMM 206 - Multimedia Writing
4 credits
Introduces students to a wide variety of practices in media writing, including blog posts, social media updates, news reports, and magazine features. Addresses basic writing competence, enabling students to advanced courses in journalistic and professional writing. Introduces basic techniques for creating content on a variety of social media platforms. (Cross-listed with EMDA 206 .
* This course was formerly offered under a different number; students who took the following course(s) will not receive additional credit unless otherwise noted: JRN 251.
Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. -
COMM 210 - Public Speaking
4 credits
Emphasizes the development of public speaking abilities and critical awareness of the processes, content, and forms of oral communication. Open to freshmen and sophomores who do not have previous speech experience. May be approved for University Studies (Information Literacy-Strand C).
Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. -
COMM 214 - Mobile Image Making
4 credits
Introduces the production of still and video images using mobile capture devices such as smartphones and tablet computers. It emphasizes fundamentals of photography and video imaging as they might be applied to the creation of visual content suitable for professional applications in journalism, marketing and other genres of visual storytelling. Students will also develop understanding of commercial, ethical and legal contexts for creating and distributing images in the media. Students will work on a personal style, design a narrative strategy, and create content suitable for a professional portfolio or reel.
Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. -
COMM 215 - Digital Video Foundations
2 credits
Provides an introduction to the necessary production processes, equipment, and equipment applications for video field production. Corequisite(s): COMM 215R . (Cross-listed with EMDA 202 .)
* This course was formerly offered under a different number; students who took the following course(s) will not receive additional credit unless otherwise noted: VP 215
Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. -
COMM 215R - Digital Video Foundations - Recitation
2 credits
Students complete projects applying techniques in video production.
Corequisite(s): COMM 215 . (Cross-listed with EMDA 202R .)
* This course was formerly offered under a different number; students who took the following course(s) will not receive additional credit unless otherwise noted: VP 215R
Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. -
COMM 220 - Narrative Foundations
4 credits
Students will study narrative communication across multiple mediums to better understand how stories shape identities, communities, and cultures. Students will master classical story principles, such as plot, narration, characterization, and audience, and apply their understanding in the creation of their own original stories. Approved for University Studies Integration - Strand E.
Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. -
COMM 225 - Small Group Communication
4 credits
Examines the communication variables within the small, task-oriented group. Emphasizes the decision-making process. Approved for University Studies (Information Literacy - Strand C).
Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. -
COMM 272 - Camera, Audio, and Lighting for Film and Video
4 credits
Students will learn intermediate level skills and techniques in camera, audio, and lighting for film and video production. Through lectures, readings, and short video projects, students will gain knowledge of standard production tools and workflows. During the course of the term, students will practice lighting, shooting, and recording sound in the studio and on location. Prerequisites: COMM 214, or COMM 218 and COMM 218R, or EMDA 202 and EMDA 202R, or VP 215 and VP 215R, or instructor permission. Prerequisite(s): COMM 214 , or COMM 218 and COMM 218R, or COMM 215 and COMM 215R , or EMDA 202 and EMDA 202R , or instructor permission.
* This course was formerly offered under a different number; students who took the following course(s) will not receive additional credit unless otherwise noted: VP 272.
Graded (A-F) only -
COMM 290 - Introduction to Film Analysis
4 credits
Introduces students to film form and structure; gives students skills to understand, write about and produce films. Focuses on film aesthetics, (mise-en-scène, cinematography, editing and sound); film genres; narrative and non-narrative structures; and the dynamics of the viewing experience. Approved for University Studies Explorations (Strand E - Humanities).
* This course was formerly offered under a different number; students who took the following course(s) will not receive additional credit unless otherwise noted: FLM 290
Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. -
COMM 296 - Film Genres
4 credits
Explores popular film genres such as the Western, the musical, the thriller, science fiction, the detective story, the epic, and the comedy of silent films. Emphasizes cultural and artistic value, the characteristics of each form, and variations within forms.
* This course was formerly offered under a different number; students who took the following course(s) will not receive additional credit unless otherwise noted: FLM 296
Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. -
COMM 297 - Major Film Directors
4 credits
Analyzes works by selected international film directors who have made significant contributions to cinematic art, including Fellini, Hitchcock, Eisenstein, Kurosawa, Bergman, Welles, Altman, and Buñuel.
* This course was formerly offered under a different number; students who took the following course(s) will not receive additional credit unless otherwise noted: FLM 297
Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. -
COMM 300 - Research Strategies
4 credits
Examines key concepts and methods for gathering and evaluating information. Students gain an understanding of the research processes within the field of communication, from formulating a research question and organizing a search strategy to hands-on research and academic writing. Prerequisite course for all communication majors taking 400-level courses. Prerequisite(s): COMM 200 or COMM 203 or COMM 290 . Junior standing or above.
Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. -
COMM 302 - Communication and Media Theory
4 credits
Examines a range of theoretical models of communication emphasizing interpersonal, organizational, intercultural, group and public communication, rhetoric and discourse, film, television and new media, journalism and popular culture. Emphasis on both social science and critical/cultural theoretical models. Prerequisite(s): COMM 200 or COMM 201 .
Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. -
COMM 310 - Advanced Public Speaking
4 credits
Public speaking course for students who have taken an introductory course and college juniors and seniors with experience in public speaking who have not taken COMM 210 . Emphasizes content strategies, alternate organizational patterns, speaking styles, and use of language.
Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. -
COMM 312 - Screenwriting
4 credits
Introduces and applies the unique techniques and practices of scriptwriting for film and video production.
* This course was formerly offered under a different number; students who took the following course(s) will not receive additional credit unless otherwise noted: VP 312
Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. -
COMM 315 - Location Shooting for Film and Video
4 credits
Provides practice in professional techniques for video/film field production. Students will gain skills in the production process and technical areas of film production. Students will complete productions for university programs and events as well as for community organizations. Repeatable for a maximum of 12 credits. Prerequisite(s): COMM 172 , or COMM 215 and COMM 215R , or EMDA 202 and EMDA 202R , or COMM 272 .
Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. -
COMM 320 - Topics in Hispanic Film
4 credits
Examines selected topics in Hispanic cinema, focusing on insights into cultures, history, and film production and practices in Hispanic countries, with additional emphases on film theory, form in film, and the major Hispanic film industries (Spain, Mexico, Argentina, and Cuba). Courses may focus on masterpieces of film, great directors, women in cinema, cultural identity, post-structuralism, or post-colonialism. Repeat credit is allowed for different topics. Repeatable for a maximum of 12 credits.
* This course was formerly offered under a different number; students who took the following course(s) will not receive additional credit unless otherwise noted: FLM 320. Repeatable for a maximum of 12 credits combined.
Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. -
COMM 321 - Public Affairs Journalism
4 credits
Focuses on the practice of journalism in the public interest, including reporting skills for governmental affairs, basic investigative reporting, public records research and interviewing. Prerequisite(s): COMM 206 or CM 206 or instructor permission.
* This course was formerly offered under a different number; students who took the following course(s) will not receive additional credit unless otherwise noted: JRN 361
Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. -
COMM 322 - Online Journalism
4 credits
Explores the role of the Internet in reshaping journalistic practices, including newsgathering, reporting, editing, social networks, digital visual journalism, and web-based content design. Students demonstrate the use of the Internet as a reporting tool, develop an understanding of the technological components of computer-assisted reporting and web design, and explore how multimediality or different media formats can best tell a story. Prerequisite(s): EMDA 201 .
* This course was formerly offered under a different number; students who took the following course(s) will not receive additional credit unless otherwise noted: CM 322
Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. -
COMM 323 - Strategic Social Media
4 credits
Students gain practical skills and conceptual knowledge in social media campaigns to achieve strategic goals for clients, including but not limited to commercial enterprises, non-profit or governmental organizations, journalistic enterprises, or creative promotion on behalf of arts-based endeavors. Students will learn practices of social media listening, how to formulate a content strategy and editorial calendar, how to craft specific multimedia content items, how to measure the effectiveness of a social media campaign, and how to nurture the social graph of an enterprise. Prerequisite(s): Junior standing or permission of instructor. (Cross-listed with EMDA 323 .
* This course was formerly offered under a different number; students who took the following course(s) will not receive additional credit unless otherwise noted: CM 323
Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. -
COMM 324 - Nonverbal Communication
4 credits
Examines the nonlinguistic aspects of human communication. Students review empirical literature and participate in exercises to promote awareness of and skill development in nonverbal communication. Prerequisite(s): COMM 125 .
Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. -
COMM 330 - Interviewing and Listening
4 credits
Examines and develops interviewee and interviewer skills in job selection interviews, as well as social scientific interviewing techniques. Prerequisite(s): Junior standing or above.
Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. -
COMM 332 - Discourse Analysis of Social Problems
4 credits
Examines the construction of social problems (such as homelessness and hunger) by media; policymakers; and stakeholders, including community-based groups, social movements, and nongovernmental and civic organizations. Explores how voices and perspectives are framed and disseminated in the public realm and how power works through language, texts, and social action. Includes a community-based learning component involving community service, applied projects, and reflective, action-based learning. Approved for University Studies (Integration - Strand I). Prerequisite(s): Junior standing or above.
Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. -
COMM 341 - Remix Culture
4 credits
Examines acts of creative repurposing - the mashing, meme-ing, sampling, hacking and sharing of pre-existing content toward modified ends. Students will explore and participate in different remix practices, including visual essays, found footage videos and audio mashups, while interrogating the legal, artistic and cultural implications of these practices in the process. Prerequisite(s): EMDA 201 or EMDA 202 or COMM 215 or EMDA 203 or EMDA 204 or EMDA 461 . (Cross-listed with EMDA 341 .)
Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. -
COMM 342 - Persuasion
4 credits
Study and practice of persuasive communication. Examines social and psychological foundations, ethical issues, and contemporary theory and practice.
Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. -
COMM 343 - Argumentation and Critical Thinking
4 credits
Explores critical thinking through creating, defending, and critiquing propositions of fact, value and policy. Teaches argumentative strategies for political and competitive debate. Approved for University Studies (Integration - Strand I).
Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. -
COMM 344 - Media Photography
4 credits
Introduces students to still image production for use in mass media; focuses on fundamentals of photography, including exposure, focus, digital files, metadata, archiving and visual storytelling. Students develop professional competency in commercial and photojournalistic media production, and understanding of ethical and legal contexts for creating and distributing images in the mass media. Prerequisite(s): COMM 215 /COMM 215R or EMDA 201 /EMDA 201R or EMDA 202 /EMDA 202R or COMM 172 or COMM 214 . (Cross-listed EMDA 344 .
* This course was formerly offered under a different number; students who took the following course(s) will not receive additional credit unless otherwise noted: CM 344
Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. -
COMM 345 - Introduction to Cybernetics & Cyberculture
4 credits
Students learn how cybernetic technologies have developed and become incorporated into everyday life and culture. This course interrogates emerging common wisdom about these new technologies, and discusses the significance of cultural issues such as post-humanism and cyborgs in popular culture. Prerequisite(s): EMDA 201 or EMDA 202 or COMM 215 or EMDA 203 or EMDA 204 or EMDA 461 . (Cross-listed with EMDA 330 .)
* This course was formerly offered under a different number; students who took the following course(s) will not receive additional credit unless otherwise noted: CM 330
Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. -
COMM 350 - Topics in French Film
3 to 4 credits
Examines selected topics in French cinema, focusing on insights into French culture as seen through film. Recent topics include Masterpieces of French Film, Film and Cultural Identity, and French Film and Society. May be repeated for credit when topic changes. Approved for University Studies Integration - Strand J. Prerequisite(s): Completion of all lower division University Studies requirements
* This course was formerly offered under a different number; students who took the following course(s) will not receive additional credit unless otherwise noted: FLM 350
Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. -
COMM 355 - Communication, Culture, and Conflict
4 credits
Examines the role of culture in how we understand, experience, and manage conflict. Explores cultural variables that may underlie or cause conflict, conceptual models for understanding and managing conflict across cultural groups, and perspectives on understanding and engaging in conflict at local, national and international levels. Using case studies and exploration of current events, students analyze interpersonal, intergroup, and international aspects of conflict. Prerequisite(s): Junior standing or above.
Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. -
COMM 362 - Transmedia Storytelling
4 credits
Introduces students to transmedia storytelling by looking at its place in today’s media landscape, exploring its diverse functions and forms, and introduces the production techniques that are used to develop, produce, and distribute transmedia content across a variety of platforms. Prerequisite(s): EMDA 201 or EMDA 202 or COMM 215 or EMDA 203 or EMDA 204 or EMDA 461 . (Cross-listed with EMDA 362 .)
* This course was formerly offered under a different number; students who took the following course(s) will not receive additional credit unless otherwise noted: CM 362
Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. -
COMM 363 - Documentary Film: Theory and Criticism
4 credits
Introduces students to the history and theory of documentary film. Students examine a range of documentary practices, considering their respective representational strategies and the consequence of those strategies for epistemological and ethical concerns at the center of the documentary tradition.
* This course was formerly offered under a different number; students who took the following course(s) will not receive additional credit unless otherwise noted: CM 363
Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. -
COMM 375 - Editing for Film and Video
4 credits
Applied editing techniques for field and studio production. Prerequisite(s): COMM 215 or EMDA 202 .
* This course was formerly offered under a different number; students who took the following course(s) will not receive additional credit unless otherwise noted: VP 375
Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. -
COMM 377 - Activities
1 to 4 credits
Supervised on-campus communication activity approved by the Communication Department chair or designee. Includes the application of principles and theories of communication in educational, professional, and community settings. See Academic Credit Policies for credit information. Repeatable for a maximum of 12 credits.
Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. -
COMM 378 - Siskiyou Newspaper
2 to 4 credits
Supervised work on SOU’s campus newspaper The Siskiyou; tasks may include, but are not limited to, news writing, layout, copy and photo editing, reporting, photography, feature and opinion/editorial writing, marketing and distribution. Repeatable for a maximum of 12 credits. Prerequisite(s): Instructor consent.
* This course was formerly offered under a different number; students who took the following course(s) will not receive additional credit unless otherwise noted: JRN 377B
Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. -
COMM 380 - News and Documentary Screenwriting
4 credits
Introduces non-fiction screen writing for broadcast journalism and documentary film production. Examines the ethical standards, missions, and practices of broadcast news organizations and documentary filmmaking. Prerequisite(s): COMM 206 or COMM 214 or CM 206 or instructor permission.
* This course was formerly offered under a different number; students who took the following course(s) will not receive additional credit unless otherwise noted: JRN 362
Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. -
COMM 399 - Special Studies
1 to 4 credits
Credits to be arranged. Repeatable.
Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. -
COMM 401 - Research
1 to 12 credits
COMM 501, COMM 505, and COMM 507 are limited to 12 credits singly or in combination. Repeatable. Prerequisite(s): Junior standing or above.
Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. -
COMM 403 - Thesis
1 to 12 credits
Credits to be arranged. Repeatable. Prerequisite(s): Junior standing or above.
Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. -
COMM 405 - Reading and Conference
1 to 4 credits
*COMM 501, COMM 505, and COMM 507 are limited to 12 credits singly or in combination. Repeatable. Class restriction: Junior standing or above.
Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. -
COMM 407 - Seminar
1 to 4 credits
*COMM 501 , COMM 505 , and COMM 507 are limited to 12 credits singly or in combination. Credits to be arranged. Repeatable. Prerequisite(s): Junior standing or above.
Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. -
COMM 409A - Practicum/Internship in Communication Studies
1 to 15 credits
Supervised internship approved by the Communication Department chair or designee. Includes the application of principles and theories of communication in educational, professional, and community settings. See Academic Credit Policies for credit information. Repeatable for a maximum of 15 credits. No more than 12 credits of COMM 409A, 409B, 409C can be applied to the Communication major; additional credits will apply as elective credit. Prerequisite(s): COMM 300 . Senior standing.
* This course was formerly offered under a different number; students who took the following course(s) will not receive additional credit unless otherwise noted: COMM 409.
Graded Pass/No Pass only. -
COMM 409B - Practicum/Internship in Digital Cinema
1 to 15 credits
Supervised internship approved by the Communication Department chair or designee. Includes the application of principles and theories of communication in educational, professional, and community settings. See Academic Credit Policies for credit information. Repeatable for a maximum of 15 credits. No more than 12 credits of COMM 409A, 409B, 409C can be applied to the Communication major; additional credits will count as electives. Prerequisite(s): COMM 300 . Senior standing.
* This course was formerly offered under a different number; students who took the following course(s) will not receive additional credit unless otherwise noted: VP 409.
Graded Pass/No Pass only. -
COMM 409C - Practicum/Internship in Social Media and Public Engagement
1 to 15 credits
Supervised internship approved by the Communication Department chair or designee. Includes the application of principles and theories of communication in educational, professional, and community settings. See Academic Credit Policies for credit information. Repeatable for a maximum of 15 credits. No more than 12 credits of COMM 409A, 409B, 409C can be applied to the Communication major; additional credits will count as electives. Prerequisite(s): COMM 300 and senior standing.
* This course was formerly offered under a different number; students who took the following course(s) will not receive additional credit unless otherwise noted: JRN 409.
Graded Pass/No Pass only. -
COMM 410A - Capstone in Communication Studies
2 to 4 credits
Course project, research paper, teaching assistantship, internship, or practicum supervised by a faculty member. Project synthesizes four years of learning and includes a written and oral presentation. Repeatable for a maximum of 4 credits. Prerequisite(s): COMM 300 . Senior standing and instructor consent.
* This course was formerly offered under a different number; students who took the following course(s) will not receive additional credit unless otherwise noted: COMM 410.
Graded (A-F) only. -
COMM 410B - Capstone in Digital Cinema
2 to 4 credits
Course project, research paper, teaching assistantship, internship, or practicum supervised by a faculty member. Project synthesizes four years of learning and includes a written and oral presentation. Repeatable for a maximum of 4 credits. Prerequisite(s): COMM 300 . Senior standing and instructor consent.
Graded (A-F) only. -
COMM 410C - Capstone in Social Media and Public Engagement
2 to 4 credits
Course project, research paper, teaching assistantship, internship, or practicum supervised by a faculty member. Project synthesizes four years of learning and includes a written and oral presentation. Repeatable for a maximum of 4 credits. Prerequisite(s): COMM 300 . Senior standing and instructor consent.
* This course was formerly offered under a different number; students who took the following course(s) will not receive additional credit unless otherwise noted: VP 410, JRN 410A, JRN 410B
Graded (A-F) only. -
COMM 411 - Online Cultures
4 credits
Examines how online platforms and networks foster new kinds of communities, identities, and social movements. Students will consider key accounts of social media, debate its effects, and examine best practices for using it. Students will also use online platforms to create their own communities, conduct research, and interact with each other using virtual spaces. Prerequisite(s): EMDA 320 or EMDA 321 . (Cross-listed with EMDA 411 .)
* This course was formerly offered under a different number; students who took the following course(s) will not receive additional credit unless otherwise noted: CM 411
Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. -
COMM 412 - Evaluation of Public Communication
4 credits
Surveys and applies the major classical and twentieth-century approaches to analysis and criticism of public communication. Emphasizes understanding and applying various models of rhetorical analysis. Prerequisite(s): COMM 300 , BA 324 , or PSY 229 . Junior standing or above.
Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. -
COMM 420 - Science Fiction Film
4 credits
Explores Fredric Jameson’s assertion that Science Fiction is “the social realism of our time” because it dramatizes the dilemmas and opportunities of living in a highly mediated world, one saturated with imagery, much of it commercial, where the boundaries between the real and the virtual are uncertain. In addition to studying the history of science fiction film and discussing theories of virtual reality, the course will examine the specific technologies used to produce special effects in Science Fiction (and increasingly most) film. Prerequisite(s): EMDA 320 or EMDA 321 . Junior standing or above. (Cross-listed with EMDA 420 .)
* This course was formerly offered under a different number; students who took the following course(s) will not receive additional credit unless otherwise noted: FLM 420.
Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. -
COMM 421 - Animation & Anime
4 credits
Considers what makes animation distinctive as an art form, the technologies used to produce it, and its relation to broader cultural issues such as Disney’s historic influence on childhood experience. The class also examines the way that Anime crosses boundaries: bridging different national markets and cultures, spilling into other genres such as comics (manga) and video games, and blurring lines between consumers and producers (Otaku or fan culture). Prerequisite(s): EMDA 320 or EMDA 321 . Junior standing or above. (Cross-listed with EMDA 421 .)
* This course was formerly offered under a different number; students who took the following course(s) will not receive additional credit unless otherwise noted: FLM 421.
Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. -
COMM 424 - Creative Entrepreneurship
4 credits
Equips students to apply entrepreneurial strategies to their creative practice in the arts and media. Students will learn to ideate, innovate, and iterate in collaboration with an engaged audience to develop, finance, and market works of value. The course will introduce students to the crowd-funding platforms, social media marketing tools, and new digital distribution channels that have opened economic opportunities to content creators and will offer students a foundation in the skills needed to launch and manage a successful creative enterprise.
Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. -
COMM 441 - International Communication
4 credits
Covers historical and contemporary perspectives regarding global communication, including media systems, technologies, coverage, representations, flow of information, advertising, public relations, and development communication. Approved for University Studies (Integration - Strand J). Prerequisite(s): COMM 300 . Junior standing or above.
Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. -
COMM 444 - Film Festival Programming and Promotion
4 credits
Students will study the international film festival circuit and independent film market, participate in a community partnership project with the Ashland Independent Film Festival, program and promote a student film festival, and prepare a festival distribution strategy for their own short films.
Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. -
COMM 448 - Mediation and Conflict Management
4 credits
Introduces students to the fundamental concepts and theories of dispute resolution and assists them in developing the basic skills and knowledge for productively managing their own and intervening in others’ disputes. Class time consists primarily of practice and roleplay, as well as lecture, lecture-discussion, and coaching by professional mediators. Certificate of completion provided with successful completion of the course. Additional fees/tuition may apply. Prerequisite(s): Junior standing or above. (Cross-listed in other departments.)
Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. -
COMM 448A - Conflict Management for INL
4 credits
Introduces students to the fundamental concepts and theories of dispute resolution and assists them in developing the basic skills and knowledge for productively managing their own and intervening in others’ disputes. Class time consists primarily of practice and roleplay, as well as lecture, and lecture-discussion. Intended for students in the Innovation and Leadership degree program. Prerequisite(s): Innovation and Leadership students only.
Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. -
COMM 455 - Conflict Resolution
4 credits
Explores negotiation and conflict across a variety of contexts (e.g., interpersonal, organizational, international). Students develop skills for productively managing their own conflicts and negotiation contexts. Prerequisite(s): Junior standing or above.
Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. -
COMM 456 - Negotiation
4 credits
Explores negotiation across a variety of contexts (e.g., interpersonal, organizational, business, labor, community and international). Introduces students to the fundamental theories, concepts and requisite skills for productively managing their own negotiations as well as analyzing others. Prerequisite(s): Junior standing or above.
Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. -
COMM 460 - Topics in Communication
4 credits
Examines selected topics in communication based on interest and need. Repeat credit is allowed for different topics. Prerequisite(s): COMM 300 or approved equivalent. Junior standing or above.
Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. -
COMM 460A - Women Transforming Language
4 credits
Explores how diverse groups of feminists have transformed the history of Western rhetorical theory. Requires research on one significant feminist to advance the ongoing academic conversation about women’s additions to and revisions of rhetoric. Approved for University Studies (Integration - Strand J). Prerequisite(s): COMM 300 or approved equivalent. Sophomore standing or above.
Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. -
COMM 460B - Communication and Third-World Development
4 credits
Explores the strategic application of communication technologies and practices to effect social and economic change in third-world nations and regions. Includes historical, theoretical, and practical exploration of the field of development communication; critical responses to dominant paradigms of development; and emergent or alternative approaches to development and communication that seek empowerment, participation, social justice, and cultural autonomy in marginalized or impoverished communities throughout the world. Approved for University Studies (Integration - Strand I). Prerequisite(s): COMM 300 or approved equivalent. Sophomore standing or above.
Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. -
COMM 460C - Culture, Identity, and Communication
4 credits
Addresses issues surrounding construction and communication of cultural identities within and across cultural communities from critical, social, and historical perspectives. Examines the multiplicity, dynamics, and negotiation of culture and cultural identities in national and global contexts. Approved for University Studies (Integration - Strand J). Prerequisite(s): COMM 300 or approved equivalent.
Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. -
COMM 460D - Technology, Communication, and Culture
4 credits
Explores the interstice between science/technology and culture from a communication perspective. This course investigates how new and emerging scientific technologies influence social structures as well as individual behaviors. Approved for University Studies (Integration - Strand H). Prerequisite(s): COMM 300 or approved equivalent.
Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. -
COMM 460E - Visual Communication
4 credits
Provides a comprehensive overview of the diverse frameworks by which we explain, explore and understand visual methods of communication. Students will gain a scientific understanding of visual communication (encompassing biological and cognitive models of vision), plus a social understanding (encompassing interpretation, content analysis, semiotics, discourse analysis and critical perspectives on the production and reception of visual content). This course also addresses changes in the nature of visual communication driven by the digitalization of media in the 21st century. Prerequisite(s): COMM 300 or other research/writing course approved by instructor, and junior standing or above.
Graded (A-F) only -
COMM 472A - Advanced Documentary Production
4 credits
Offers students an advanced exploration of documentary media production. Students explore the diverse approaches used by documentarians to represent reality and consider the benefits and limitations of these approaches for their own production work. By the end of the term, students will have pitched, planned, shot and edited a short documentary in collaboration with others in the class. Repeatable for a maximum of 8 credits. Prerequisite: COMM 272 or VP 272 or instructor permission. Prerequisite(s): COMM 272 or VP 272 or instructor permission.
* This course was formerly offered under a different number; students who took the following course(s) will not receive additional credit unless otherwise noted: VP 372A.
Graded (A-F) only -
COMM 472C - Advanced Informational and Promotional Video Production
4 credits
Involves work with government and non-profit clients to script, prep, produce, and edit promotional and informational programs. Includes work with SOU departments, students and administration to develop studio and remote productions that promote, educate, and benefit the university. Students will study and apply advanced aesthetic and technical production skills to complete these professional studio and taped productions, which may be distributed on RVTV and on the web. Repeatable for a maximum of 8 credits. Prerequisite: COMM 272 or VP 272 or instructor permission. Prerequisite(s): COMM 272 or VP 272 or instructor permission.
* This course was formerly offered under a different number; students who took the following course(s) will not receive additional credit unless otherwise noted: VP 372C.
Graded (A-F) only -
COMM 472D - Advanced Fictional Film Production
4 credits
Hands-on course in fictional film production. Students investigate key formal criteria that define fictional films, paying particular attention to the relationship between genre and style. Students work in groups to write, shoot, and edit their own short films, considering such aspects as scriptwriting, mise-en-scène, acting styles, cinematography, editing and narrative. Prerequisite(s): COMM 272 or VP 272 or instruction permission.
* This course was formerly offered under a different number; students who took the following course(s) will not receive additional credit unless otherwise noted: VP 372D.
Graded (A-F) only -
COMM 472E - Advanced Broadcast Journalism Production
4 credits
Students will focus on writing, producing, and directing and editing multicamera studio news programming for both live and taped cablecasting on RVTV and web streaming. Students will practice strategies in producing and directing in studio and remote environments, and they will become adept in sophisticated camera and lighting techniques. Students will work under the supervision of faculty and guest professionals. Prerequisite(s): COMM 272 or COMM 172 or VP 272 or VP 172, or instructor permission.
* This course was formerly offered under a different number; students who took the following course(s) will not receive additional credit unless otherwise noted: VP 372E.
Graded (A-F) only -
COMM 475 - Organizational Communication
4 credits
Studies the formal and informal channels of the message movement (up, down, and lateral) in modern profit and nonprofit organizations. Examines the role of communication in different theoretical approaches (e.g., classical, cultural, systems, and human resources) and organizational processes (e.g., assimilation, leadership, and decision making). Prerequisite(s): Junior standing or above.
Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. -
COMM 480A - Advanced Reporting Topics
1 to 4 credits
Examines selected topics in journalism and media writing based on interest and need. Repeat credit is allowed for different topics. Prerequisite(s): COMM 206 or CM 206 or instructor permission.
* This course was formerly offered under a different number; students who took the following course(s) will not receive additional credit unless otherwise noted: JRN 381.
Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. -
COMM 482 - Mass Media Ethics and Law
4 credits
Especially in context of rapid and relentless change in digital technology, contemporary society is also witnessing tumultuous evolution in the mass media, and in the ability of citizens to participate in the public sphere. In the domains of free speech, journalism, civic participation, copyright and more, the relentless pace of technological innovation presents new challenges for both the audiences and the producers of media content. In this course, we will explore the ethical and legal foundations of the mass media, and connect past cases and principles that can guide current and future action by media professionals and citizens. Approved for University Studies Integration (Strand I). Prerequisite(s): Junior standing or above.
* This course was formerly offered under a different number; students who took the following course(s) will not receive additional credit unless otherwise noted: COMM 481.
Grade mode designated on a CRN basis each term. Students should consult current term schedule. -
COMM 485 - Advanced Social Media Campaigns
4 credits
Students will plan, execute and assess a term-long social media campaign on behalf of a campus or community stakeholder. The scope of a successful campaign will include research of the existing social media landscape for the stakeholder, creation of a social media strategy, drafting of a content calendar, execution of the content strategy, and collection and reporting of analytics.
Prerequisite(s): COMM 323 . Junior standing or above.
Graded (A-F) only -
COMM 501 - Research
1 to 12 credits
COMM 501 , COMM 505 , and COMM 507 are limited to 12 credits singly or in combination. Repeatable.
Graded (A-F) only -
COMM 503 - Thesis
1 to 12 credits
Credits to be arranged. Repeatable.
Graded (A-F) only -
COMM 505 - Reading and Conference
1 to 4 credits.
COMM 501 , COMM 505 , and COMM 507 are limited to 12 credits singly or in combination. Repeatable.
Graded (A-F) only -
COMM 507 - Seminar
1 to 4 credits.
*COMM 501 , COMM 505 , and COMM 507 are limited to 12 credits singly or in combination. Repeatable.
Graded (A-F) only -
COMM 508 - Workshop
1 to 4 credits
Credits to be arranged. Repeatable.
Graded (A-F) only -
COMM 509 - Practicum/Internship
1 to 9 credits
Supervised off-campus internship approved by the Communication Department chair or designee. Includes the application of principles and theories of communication in educational, professional, and community settings. See Academic Credit Policies for credit information. Repeatable for a maximum of 15 credits. Prerequisite(s): COMM 300
Graded Pass/No Pass only. -
COMM 512 - Evaluation of Public Communication
4 credits
Surveys and applies the major classical and twentieth-century approaches to analysis and criticism of public communication. Emphasizes understanding and applying various models of analysis. Prerequisite(s): COMM 300 , BA 324 , or PSY 229 .
Graded (A-F) only -
COMM 541 - International Communication
4 credits
Covers historical and contemporary perspectives regarding global communication, including media systems, technologies, coverage, representations, flow of information, advertising, public relations, and development communication. Approved for University Studies (Integration). Prerequisite(s): COMM 300 .
Graded (A-F) only -
COMM 548 - Mediation and Conflict Management
4 credits
Introduces students to the fundamental concepts and theories of dispute resolution and assists them in developing the basic skills and knowledge for productively managing their own and intervening in others’ disputes. Class time consists primarily of practice and roleplay, as well as lecture, lecture-discussion, and coaching by professional mediators. Certificate of completion provided with successful completion of the course. Additional fees/tuition may apply. (Cross-listed in other departments.)
Graded (A-F) only. -
COMM 555 - Conflict Resolution
4 credits
Explores negotiation and conflict across a variety of contexts (e.g., interpersonal, organizational, international). Students develop skills for productively managing their own conflicts and negotiation contexts.
Graded (A-F) only -
COMM 556 - Negotiation
4 credits
Explores negotiation across a variety of contexts (e.g., interpersonal, organizational, business, labor, community and international). Introduces students to the fundamental theories, concepts and requisite skills for productively managing their own negotiations as well as analyzing others.
Graded (A-F) only. -
COMM 560 - Topics in Communication
4 credits
Examines selected topics in communication based on interest and need. Repeat credit is allowed for different topics. Prerequisite(s): COMM 300
Graded (A-F) only -
COMM 560E - Visual Communication
4 credits
Provides a comprehensive overview of the diverse frameworks by which we explain, explore and understand visual methods of communication. Students will gain a scientific understanding of visual communication (encompassing biological and cognitive models of vision), plus a social understanding (encompassing interpretation, content analysis, semiotics, discourse analysis and critical perspectives on the production and reception of visual content). This course also addresses changes in the nature of visual communication driven by the digitalization of media in the 21st century. Prerequisite(s): COMM 300 or other research/writing course approved by instructor, and graduate standing.
Graded (A-F) only -
COMM 575 - Organizational Communication
4 credits
Studies the formal and informal channels of the message movement (up, down, and lateral) in modern profit and nonprofit organizations. Examines the role of communication in different theoretical approaches (e.g., classical, cultural, systems, and human resources) and organizational processes (e.g., assimilation, leadership, and decision making). Prerequisite(s): COMM 125 or COMM 225 and COMM 300 ; or PSY 229 ; or BA 324
Graded (A-F) only -
COMM 581 - Mass Media Ethics Law
4 credits
Studies the constitutional freedoms and statutory limitations affecting mass media in the U.S. Topics include freedom of the press, the right of privacy, libel, media and the courts, copyright, broadcast and cable regulation, obscenity, access to information, advertising regulation, and freedom of the scholastic press. Prerequisite(s): COMM 203 and COMM 300 ; or PSY 229 ; or BA 324
Graded (A-F) only
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