COMM C1000 3 Units
Introduction to Public Speaking
In this course, students learn and apply foundational rhetorical theories and techniques of public speaking in a multicultural democratic society. Students discover, develop, and critically analyze ideas in public discourse through research, reasoning, organization, composition, delivery to a live audience and evaluation of various types of speeches, including informative and persuasive speeches.
COMM C1000H 3 Units
Introduction to Public Speaking - Honors
In this course, students learn and apply foundational rhetorical theories and techniques of public speaking in a multicultural democratic society. Students discover, develop, and critically analyze ideas in public discourse through research, reasoning, organization, composition, delivery to a live audience, and evaluation of various types of speeches, including informative and persuasive speeches. This is an honors course.
COMM 111 3 Units
Interpersonal Communication
Interpersonal communication examines the dynamics of the communication process within the context of interpersonal relationships (those with friends, families, romantic partners, professionally and co-workers). Influences of self-concept, perception, listening, verbal and non-verbal communication, and emotional expression are explored. Principles of professional and romantic relationship development, communication climate, self-disclosure, and conflict management are also discussed. Rhetorical, theoretical, and practical skills are also developed and practiced, with faculty supervision/evaluation in a variety of ways. (Formerly COMMST 111)
COMM 111H 3 Units
Interpersonal Communication - Honors
Interpersonal communication examines the dynamics of the communication process within the context of interpersonal relationships (those with friends, families, romantic partners, professionally and co-workers). Influences of self-concept, perception, listening, verbal and non-verbal communication, and emotional expression are explored. Principles of professional and romantic relationship development, communication climate, self-disclosure, and conflict management are also discussed. Rhetorical, theoretical, and practical skills are also developed and practiced, with faculty supervision/evaluation in a variety of ways. This course is intended for students in the Honors Program, but is open to all students who desire more challenging course work. (Formerly COMMST 111H)
COMM 125 3 Units
Critical Thinking Through Argumentation and Debate
This course is designed to provide an oral approach to critical thinking skills which includes individual and group debates. The course provides critical thinking for purposes of constructing, evaluating, and composing arguments in a variety of rhetorical forms. It also provides instruction in language, argument structure, types of reasoning, evaluation of evidence, fallacies in reasoning, and case development strategies. (Formerly COMMST 125)
COMM 135 3 Units
Mass Media and Society
This course explores the history, effects, and role of the mass media in the U.S. The major forms of mass communication are studied (television, radio, film, newspapers and magazines). There is also a focus on critical analysis of media messages, effects of media on individual and society, and theories of communication. Students move beyond being consumers of media to analysts of media. (Formerly COMMST 135)
COMM 136 3 Units
Introduction to Public Relations
Public Relations is a key component of modern business practices. Since the inception of social media, everyone needs to understand the basic principles, history, development, and professional practice of modern public relations. This includes concepts of planning and executing effective communication strategies, including message design and distribution, for multiple media platforms.
COMM 140 3 Units
Small Group Communication
This course provides students with the foundational knowledge and practice of speechmaking in a democratic society, while simultaneously emphasizing theory and research about communication in a variety of small group contexts. Additionally, the instruction and assessment centers on the efficacy of communication processes such as problem solving, conflict management, decision making, roles in groups, group development and leadership. This course is intended for students pursuing a Communication Studies degree or any discipline requiring effective communication in group settings. Throughout the course, students are expected to speak their own words, not words written by others. This course includes faculty-supervision and faculty evaluated oral presentations in the presence of others. (Formerly COMMST 140)
COMM 174 3 Units
Intercultural Communication
This course focuses on the communication behaviors and values common to all cultures and ethnic groups and on the differences that insulate and divide people. Students will examine influences on the communication process, including aspects such as stereotyping, perception, prejudice, values and expectations. Students will learn to overcome the communication problems that can result when members of other cultures communicate by evaluating their own intercultural communication patterns and learning skills to increase their effectiveness. Students will also acquire a greater appreciation for others. (Formerly COMMST 174)
COMM 176 3 Units
Gender Differences in Communication
This course explores the gender differences evident in communication. Students will examine the theories concerning gender differences, issues of gender in a variety of contexts (families, relationships, the workplace, the media, school), and the differences in the communication patterns resulting from gender. (Formerly COMMST 176)
