Mass Communication Emphasis

An introduction to the academic discipline of communication studies. Emphasis will be placed on preparing students for upper division communication studies courses by introducing them to the history, common themes, and overall structure of the discipline. Students will be introduced to research, ideas and communication principles, and be required to express their views in both sound written and verbal communication.

Analysis of person-to-person communicative behavior in relationships ranging from informal to intimate; classroom experiences with topics such as disclosure, conflict, listening, language and nonverbal behavior.

A systematic exploration of the theories communication scholars use to explain human communication. Specifically, theories dealing with rhetoric, persuasion, interpersonal, intercultural, small group, media, organizational and gender communications are examined.

Advanced work in speech communication with an emphasis on professional speaking techniques, humor and the use of stories. Oral assignments include serious and humorous personal stories that make a point, persuasive and special occasion speeches and a final professional presentation. Example speeches viewed and analyzed. Prerequisite: COM 111 or 211 or consent of instructor.

A focus on the personalities, inventions, developments, terminologies and issues closely associated with seven (7) mass media industries. Article reports using the business magazines, newspapers and trade journals read by media professionals will be required. Special emphasis on internship preparation and media job opportunities. Guest speakers.

Social and cultural variables in speech communication processes; strategies for resolving communication problems in intercultural settings with an emphasis on variables such as perception, roles, language codes and nonverbal communication.

Primarily from a social scientific approach, this course examines the basic theories and techniques of influence, providing the student with an awareness of the nature, function, and scope of attitude change. The course covers concepts such as attitudes, credibility, resistance to persuasion, ethics, and modern advertising practices.

The history, nature, purpose and methods of communication criticism. Eight (8) critical approaches to human communication events will be studied. An article review and group PowerPoint presentation are required. Prerequisite: junior standing.

Introduction to the research process that examines how research is planned and designed; introduces the processes of data collection and analysis; explores methodology for communication research, including sampling, questionnaire design and introduction to statistics; provides experiences in conducting original research.

This course introduces the basics of journalism writing, style, theory, investigation and ethics. Students will also select topics, conduct interviews and write at least six (6) articles to be submitted to the Concordia Courier. Journalism styles will include news, features, sports, review and opinion.

Theory and techniques of oral communication in the process of interviewing. Practical application in employment, information gathering (as in journalism and investigations) and persuasive interviews (as in selling and legal argument).

Introduction to Social Media is an introductory course that explores the fundamentals of social media. Topics covered in this foundational course include an introduction to social media and other emerging technologies and tools, current trends and future directions, benefits, values, and risks. Case studies to assess how social media impact and influence fields, such as communication and marketing, and how it informs future trends and developments are covered. Prerequisite: WRT 102: Writing and Research.

Script writing for radio, television and film; projects include announcements, commercials, news, features, documentaries, comedy, game and music shows.

Public relations as a communication discipline with an emphasis on developing and implementing campaigns. Presentations by PR professionals and in-class projects/exercises address specific topics including public relations in nonprofit organizations, corporate and social responsibility, media relations, technology and ethical issues.

A performance-based course in which students learn argument design, including use of reason and evidence, and practice in competitive, academic debate. This course is focused primarily on critical thinking, research skills and orally expressing arguments with rhetorical and presentational power.

Group process theories relevant to communicative behavior in small group settings; analysis of group member behavior, interaction patterns and problem-solving techniques in various group discussion settings. Prerequisite: COM 216.

Theory and research on nonverbal aspects of communication with emphasis on developing effective communication skills as they relate to physical appearance and dress, body movement, face and eye communication, vocal cues and the use of environment and space.

Introduction to Social Media is an introductory course that explores the fundamentals of social media. Topics covered in this foundational course include an introduction to social media and other emerging technologies and tools, current trends and future directions, benefits, values, and risks. Case studies to assess how social media impact and influence fields, such as communication and marketing, and how it informs future trends and developments are covered. Prerequisite: WRT 102: Writing and Research.

Script writing for radio, television and film; projects include announcements, commercials, news, features, documentaries, comedy, game and music shows.

Role of communication in achieving organizational goals; theory and practice of communication in private and public organizations; techniques to enhance understanding in organizations.

Advanced Strategies in Social Media will utilize the practical tools and strategies required to successfully leverage social networks to develop an understanding of core concepts that can be applied to various applications. May require three to five hours a week with a nonprofit organization or media company in the Southern California area learning how sales, marketing, and production integrate social media solutions to capture potential target markets. Prerequisite: COM 371.

In-depth work in solo and group oral interpretation, including selection, adaptation and presentation of reader’s theatre programs for adults and children. Topics include: intercultural issues in performance, performing for religious audiences and performance of non-fiction. Field trips required.