Communication (Non-Comprehensive)

1. General Education Requirements - see "General Education Programs" section of catalog
   Specific General Education Requirements: COM 115(3), MED 120(3)
2. Major Requirements (33 hours)
   1. Theory and Method Core (9 hours): COM 209(3), 210(3), 350(3)
   2. Communication Practices Core (12 hours): COM 205(3), 315(3); 322(3) or 328(3); 325(3) or 326(3). (One course may not be used to satisfy both the Communication Practices Core and Option Requirements.)
   3. Program Assessment (0 hours): COM 499(0)
   4. Choose one of the following options:
      1. Communication Studies (12 hours): Select 12 hours of electives chosen from: COM 307(3), 309(3); 322(3) or 328(3); 325(3) or 326(3); 332(3), 336(3), 360(3), 397(3)*, 405(3), 495(3), 505(3), 506(3), 550(3), 566(3), 597(3)*; MED 580(3)
      2. Ethical Leadership (12 hours): COM 436(3), 513(3); PHI 345(3) or 341(3); 3 additional hours chosen from: COM 307(3), 332(3), 336(3); 360(3) or 512(3); 405(3), 495(3), 505(3), 506(3), 566(3); PHI 302(3), 343(3), 513(3); PSY 355(3), 356(3); PSY 555(1) and 556(2); PLS 319(3); REL 370(3)
      3. Health Communication (12 hours): COM 405(3), 505(3); 6 additional hours chosen from: COM 307(3), 309(3); 325(3) or 326(3); 332(3),  336(3), 390(3), 397(3)*, 495(3), 506(3), 360(3) or 512(3), 513(3), 597(3)*
      4. Intercultural Communication and Diversity (12 hours): COM 360(3), 512(3); 6 additional hours chosen from: COM 307(3), 390(3), 397(3)*, 405(3), 495(3), 513(3), 566(3), 597(3)*
      5. Interpersonal Communication (12 hours): COM 332(3), 405(3), 506(3); 3 additional hours chosen from: COM 307(3), 360(3), 390(3), 495(3), 511(3), 513(3), 521(3)
      6. Organizational Communication (12 hours): COM 332(3), 336(3), 436(3); 3 additional hours chosen from: COM 360(3), 397(3)*, 495(3), 511(3), 512(3), 513(3), 521(3), 597(3)*
      7. Rhetoric (12 hours): COM 322(3) or 328(3); 397(3)* or 597(3)*; 566(3); 3 additional hours chosen from: COM 397(3)*, 495(3), 513(3), 550(3), 597(3)* 
         *With advisor approval. No more than 3 total hours of COM 397 or 597 may be counted toward the 30 hours required.
3. Minor Required (or second major)
4. Specific Requirements for Bachelor of Arts Degree - see Degrees, Programs and Requirements section of catalog
5. General Baccalaureate Degree Requirements - see General Baccalaureate Degree Requirements section of catalog

Communication (Non-Comprehensive)

1. Education Requirements - see General Education Program and Requirements section of catalog
   Specific General Education Requirements: COM 115(3), MED 120(3)
2. Major Requirements (33 hours)
   1. Theory and Method Core (9 hours): COM 209(3), 210(3), 350(3)
   2. Communication Practices Core (12 hours): COM 205(3), 315(3); 322(3) or 328(3); 325(3) or 326(3). (One course may not be used to satisfy both the Communication Practices Core and Option Requirements.)
   3. Program Assessment (0 hours): COM 499(0)
   4. Choose one of the following options:
      1. Communication Studies (12 hours): Select 12 hours of electives chosen from: COM 307(3), 309(3); 322(3) or 328(3); 325(3) or 326(3); 332(3), 336(3), 360(3), 397(3)*, 405(3), 495(3), 505(3), 506(3), 550(3), 566(3), 597(3)*; MED 580(3)
      2. Ethical Leadership (12 hours): COM 436(3), 513(3); PHI 345(3) or 341(3); 3 additional hours chosen from: COM 307(3), 332(3), 336(3); 360(3) or 512(3); 405(3), 495(3), 505(3), 506(3), 566(3); PHI 302(3), 343(3), 513(3); PSY 355(3), 356(3); PSY 555(1) and 556(2); PLS 319(3); REL 370(3)
      3. Health Communication (12 hours): COM 405(3), 505(3); 6 additional hours chosen from: COM 307(3),309(3); 325(3) or 326(3); 332(3), 336(3), 390(3), 397(3)*, 495(3), 506(3), 360(3) or 512(3), 513(3), 597(3)*
      4. Intercultural Communication and Diversity (12 hours): COM 360(3), 512(3); 6 additional hours chosen from: COM 307(3), 390(3), 397(3)*, 405(3), 495(3), 513(3), 566(3), 597(3)*
      5. Interpersonal Communication (12 hours): COM 332(3), 405(3), 506(3); 3 additional hours chosen from: COM 307(3), 360(3), 390(3), 495(3), 511(3), 513(3), 521(3)
      6. Organizational Communication (12 hours): COM 332(3), 336(3), 436(3); 3 additional hours chosen from: COM 360(3), 397(3)*, 495(3), 511(3), 512(3), 513(3), 521(3), 597(3)*
      7. Rhetoric (12 hours): COM 322(3) or 328(3); 397(3)* or 597(3)*; 566(3); 3 additional hours chosen from: COM 397(3)*, 495(3), 513(3), 550(3), 597(3)* 
         *With advisor approval. No more than 3 total hours of COM 397 or 597 may be counted toward the 30 hours required.
3. Minor Required (or second major)
4. General Baccalaureate Degree Requirements - see “General Baccalaureate Degree Requirements” section of catalog

Public Relations (Non-Comprehensive)

This major is designed for students who wish to enter public relations, employee relations, and other related fields.

Additional Admission Requirements: Applicants must submit a letter grade for COM 115(3), COM 209(3), MED 120(3) and JRN 270(3). A grade point average of 2.50 or higher must be achieved across these 12 hours.

1. General Education Requirements - see General Education Program and Requirements section of catalog
   Specific General Education Requirements: COM 115(3), MED 120(3)
2. Major Requirements (48 hours)
   1. Departmental Core (3 hours): COM 209(3)
   2. Public Relations Core: COM 210(3), 309(3), 336(3), 379(3), 439(3), 449(3), 509(3); and 3 additional hours from COM 495(3) or 550(3) or 509(3)
   3. Publishing Design and Technologies: 6 hours from JRN 378(3), 477(3), MED 365(3), 390(3), CIS 195(3), ENG 373(3)
   4. Relational Communication: 3 hours from COM 205(3) or other appropriate COM course selected in consultation with advisor
   5. Advocacy and Rhetoric: COM 350(3) and 3 hours from COM 315(3) or 322(3) or 328(3)
   6. Writing: JRN 270(3); and ENG 321(3) or JRN 370(3) or JRN 374(3)
   7. COM 499(0)
3. Minor Required (or second major)
4. General Baccalaureate Degree Requirements - see General Baccalaureate Degree Requirements section of catalog

Socio-Political Communication (Comprehensive)

1. General Education Requirements - see General Education Program and Requirements section of catalog
   Specific General Education Requirements: COM 115(3), MED 120(3)
2. Major Requirements (48 hours)
   1. Departmental Core (3 hours): COM 209(3)
   2. COM 210(3), 315(3), 322(3), 328(3), 332(3), 350(3), 379(3), 550(3), JRN 270(3), MED 454(3), 580(3)
   3. 12 hours with advisor approval from: COM 360(3), 495(3), 566(3), 597(3)*, JRN 407(3), MED 365(3), PLS 316(3), SOC 152(3)
   4. COM 499(0) 
      *All special topics courses require advisor approval. No more than 6 hours of special topics may be credited toward the major.
3. General Baccalaureate Degree Requirements - see General Baccalaureate Degree Requirements section of catalog

Speech and Theatre Education

1. General Education Requirements - see General Education Program and Requirements section of catalog
2. Major Requirements (41 hours)
   Students interested in teaching speech and theatre at the secondary level may choose one of two options: One option emphasizes communication (see below) and the other emphasizes theatre (see Department of Theatre and Dance). Both options meet state certification requirements for Speech and Theatre Education.
   1. Core: COM 115(3), 322(3), 532(3), 534(3), 536(2); THE 123(3), 130(3), 150(2), 151(1), 310(3), 430(3)
   2. Communication Option:
      1. COM 205(3), 209(3)
      2. 6 hours of electives to be chosen from the following: COM 307(3), 320(3), 321(3), 328(3), 332(3), 336(3), 350(3), 405(3), 512(3); THE 505(3), 506(3), 510(3), 515(3), 530(3), 541(3), 542(3) 
3. Professional Education courses: COM 417(3), COM 490 (6), COM 491(6); and the Professional Education Required Core and Competencies (see Teacher Certification, Teacher Education Program and Secondary Education Requirements section of catalog).
4. General Baccalaureate Degree Requirements - see General Baccalaureate Degree Requirements section of catalog
5. In order to meet Missouri state teacher certification requirements, candidates for the Bachelor of Science in Education degree are required to meet the following grade point average requirements: at least a 2.50 GPA on all course work attempted at all colleges attended; at least a 2.50 GPA in the certificate subject area (major field of study) which includes all courses listed under B; at least a 2.50 GPA in any additional certificate subject area; at least a 2.50 GPA in the professional education courses; and no grade lower than a "C" in all professional education courses. All GPA requirements include both Missouri State and transfer grades.

Communication

1. COM 209(3)
2. 12 hours of COM elective courses chosen with approval of department head or delegate (6 hours of which must be chosen from courses numbered 300 or higher) to bring total hours in minor to at least 15 hours.

Ethical Leadership

1. COM 436(3), 513(3); and COM 360(3) or 512(3)
2. Select one course with advisor approval from: COM 205(3), 322(3), 315(3), 326(3)
3. Select two courses with advisor approval from: COM 307(3), 332(3), 336(3), 405(3), 495(3), 505(3), 506(3), 566(3); GST 170(3); HST 324(3); PHI 302(3), 343(3), 513(3); PLS 319(3); PSY 320(3), 355(3), 356(3), 379(3), REL 370(3)
4. No more than 6 hours may also count toward a major.

Conflict and Dispute Resolution

The intent of the undergraduate certificate in Conflict and Dispute Resolution is to provide concentrated training in conflict processes that can be applied to a variety of degree and professional areas. Students completing this program will have a better understanding of the dynamics of conflict and the skills to effectively negotiate conflict in a wide range of settings.

Entrance Criteria: To be admitted students must have 60 credit hours, have a 3.00 GPA, and submit a personal statement explaining their reasons for seeking the certificate and how the program will meet their professional goals. Meeting the minimum application requirements does not guarantee admission to the certificate.

Requirements:

1. Complete the following 3 courses: COM 205(3), 511(3), 521(3)
2. Complete 1 credit hour of internship experience that directly relates to conflict and its application in professional settings. Students must have completed COM 511 and COM 521 or 6 credit hours of equivalent conflict courses before enrolling in the internship. In most instances, certificate students will enroll in COM 495, Communication Internship, to fulfill the internship requirement. Other internship courses may be substituted with approval of the certificate advisor.
3. Complete 6 hours of elective credits. The intent of these electives is to allow students to focus on conflict processes that are specific to their professional interest area. Courses in the 6 hour elective requirement allow a more discipline specific focus than is found in the core and may include COM 501, Special Topics in Conflict, or other courses selected in consultation with the certificate advisor.

Communication Courses

COM 100 Introduction to Majors in Communication

This course is intended for new or prospective Communication majors and minors. The course informs students about programs of study in Communication and assists students in making decisions regarding degree programs and career plans. This is an elective course that will not count towards major or minor requirements. Graded Pass/Not Pass only. 1(1-0) F,S

COM 115 Fundamentals of Public Speaking

General Education Course (Basic Required Courses). Instruction and practice in researching, composing, and delivering formal and informal speeches in a variety of public contexts. Representative topics include: ethics in public speaking; listening; library research; outlining; delivery; writing in an oral style; evaluation of public address; and analyzing and adapting to audiences. The course emphasizes informative and persuasive speaking. 3(3-0) F,S

COM 120 Fundamentals of Debate

A survey of fundamental principles of debate, including research techniques, argument invention and construction, refutation, and strategy. This course is taught in relationship to current debate topics, and is not limited to participants on the debate team. May be repeated to a total of 12 hours. Variable content course. 3(3-0) F,S

COM 205 Interpersonal Communication Theory and Skills

Theory and practice in the principles and skills of interpersonal communication within a variety of contexts. Representative topics include: perception; self-concept development; verbal and nonverbal communication; effective listening techniques; conflict resolution; and sensitivity to cultural and gender differences. 3(3-0) F,S

COM 209 Survey of Communication Theory

A survey of selected theoretical approaches to understanding mediated and non-mediated human communication. 3(3-0) F,S

COM 210 Communication Research Methods

A survey of the quantitative, qualitative, and rhetorical methods most commonly used for research in communication. Topics include the nature of the research process; research ethics; academic vs. applied research; evaluating research; and a discussion of specific research methods such as experimental design, statistical interpretation, survey research, individual and group interviewing, sampling and polling, content analysis, ethnography, qualitative analysis techniques, and rhetorical analysis. 3(3-0) F, S

COM 300 Careers in Communication

Prerequisite: COM 115 and COM 209. This course assists Communication students to assess their abilities and qualifications, to research professional opportunities, and to prepare for job searching and career planning. 1(1-0) D

COM 305 Service Learning in Communication

Prerequisite: 30 hours and concurrent registration in a communication course designated as a service learning offering. This service component for an existing course incorporates community service with classroom instruction in communication to provide an integrative learning experience that addresses the practice of citizenship and promotes an awareness of and participation in public affairs. Includes 40 hours of service that benefits an external community organization, agency, or public service provider. Approved service placements and assignments will vary depending on the course topic and learning objectives; a list of approved placements and assignments is available from the instructor and the Citizenship and Service Learning Office. May be repeated but no more than two hours of service learning credit may count toward graduation. 1 F,S

COM 307 Gender and Communication

This course examines theory and research on gender and communication. Its purpose is to help students explore how gender and communication are interrelated, how these concepts intertwine with other aspects of our identities, and how these factors play out in their own lives. 3(3-0) D

COM 309 Principles of Public Relations

Prerequisite: COM 115 and COM 209 and MED 120. Study of the development, planning, and implementation of communication programs and campaigns. Emphasis on the professional practices and ethical standards important to effective communication within organizations, and between organizations and their publics. 3(3-0) F,S

COM 315 Public Speaking II

Prerequisite: COM 115. Study and practice in speech research, composition and presentation. Emphasis is placed on speeches for business and the professions. 3(3-0) F,S

COM 320 Principles of Advanced Debate

A survey of principles of debate, including counterplans, criticism, deep refutation, and other advanced strategies. This course is taught in relationship to current debate topics, and is not limited to participants on the debate team. May be repeated to a total of 12 hours. Variable content course. 3(3-0) F,S

COM 321 Inter-Collegiate Debating

Open only to those chosen to debate as University representatives. May be repeated to a total of 12 hours. 1-3 F,S

COM 322 Introduction to Argumentation

Prerequisite: COM 115. Fundamental theories of argument. This course will meet the secondary teaching certification requirements for a minimum of 2 semester hours in debate. 3(3-0) F,S

COM 325 Nonverbal Communication

This course examines the methods of research in nonverbal communication, the types or subcodes of nonverbal behaviors, and the application of nonverbal behaviors in social situations. 3(3-0) F

COM 326 Effective Listening

Prerequisite: COM 115 and COM 209 and MED 120. The purpose of this course is to prepare the student to understand listening attitudes and behavior and to build a program for improvement in listening skills through application of listening theory to practical situations. 3(3-0) S

COM 328 Persuasion

Prerequisite: COM 115. Recommended Prerequisite: COM 209 and COM 210 and MED 120. Modern theories of persuasion with some evaluation of specific case studies. 3(3-0) F,S

COM 331 Employment Interviewing

Students will examine the employment interviewing process as an instance of applied persuasion from the perspective of the job applicant. Topics include: anticipating employer questions, types of commonly asked questions, asking questions during the close, nonverbal elements of persuasive interviewing, the structure of the selection interview, creating positive first impressions, and writing thank you letters after the interview. 1(1-0) D

COM 332 Small Group Communication

Prerequisite: COM 115; and Communication majors/minors must be admitted to degree program. Recommended Prerequisite: COM 209 and COM 210 and MED 120. Basic theory and techniques of oral interaction in group activities. 3(3-0) F,S

COM 336 Communication in Organizations

Prerequisite: COM 115; and Communication majors/minors must be admitted to degree program. Recommended Prerequisite: COM 209 and COM 210 and MED 120. Analysis of communication processes as they occur within organizations. Students study both the effects of the organizational context on communication as well as the role of communication in shaping organizational life and effectiveness. 3(3-0) F,S

COM 350 The Rhetorical Tradition and Contemporary Applications

Prerequisite: COM 115; and Communication majors/minors must be admitted to degree program. Recommended Prerequisite: COM 209 and COM 210 and MED 120. A survey of rhetorical theory from the classical period until present. The relevance of the rhetorical tradition to contemporary communication theory and practice is stressed. 3(3-0) F,S

COM 360 Introduction to Intercultural Communication

Prerequisite: COM 115; and Communication majors/minors must be admitted to degree program. Recommended Prerequisite: COM 209 and COM 210 and MED 120. This course investigates the nature of communication between people from different cultures and nations. 3(3-0) F,S

COM 379 Writing for Public Relations

Recommended prerequisite: JRN 270. Study and preparation of copy for press releases, newsletters, brochures, annual reports, and other written public relations communications. 3(3-0) F,S

COM 390 Communication and Aging

Communication theories as they apply to the aging process. Examination of the effects of communication on the self-esteem, self-perception, well-being, and quality of life of the elderly. Study of communication between the elderly, the elderly and the young, and the elderly and their caregivers in a variety of contexts, including in one-on-one, family, and mediated situations. 3(3-0) D

COM 397 Topics in Communication

A course covering a single topic within the field of Communication; subject will vary according to student demand and faculty availability. Examples include Conflict and Conflict Management, and Gender Differences. May be repeated up to a total of 6 hours with permission of department. Variable Content Course. 1-3 D

COM 405 Interpersonal Communication

Prerequisite: COM 115; and Communication majors/minors must be admitted to degree program. Recommended Prerequisite: COM 209 and COM 210 and MED 120. A survey of contemporary interpersonal communication theories and issues within a variety of contexts. 3(3-0) F

COM 417 Teaching of Speech and Theatre

Prerequisite: EDC 350, SPE 340, IMT 365, 12 hours in communication and 12 hours in theatre. Scope and objectives of the speech and theatre program in secondary schools; organization and administration of curricular and co-curricular programs; general instruction methodology. Completion of Checkpoint II for the Professional Portfolio is a component of this course. This course is recommended to be completed the fall semester before student teaching. Credited only on B.S. in Education (Secondary). A grade of "C" or better is required in this course in order to take COM 490 or COM 491. May not be taken Pass/Not Pass. Identical with THE 417. Cannot receive credit for both COM 417 and THE 417. 3(3-0) F

COM 436 Communication and Leadership

Prerequisite: COM 115; and 60 hours; and Communication majors/minors must be admitted to degree program. In-depth study of the relationship between communication and leadership within organizations and the development of specific communication competencies associated with effective leadership. 3(3-0) S

COM 439 Techniques and Cases in Public Relations

Prerequisite: COM 210 and COM 309; Communication majors/minors must be admitted to degree program. Recommended Prerequisite: COM 336. Communication theories and techniques of message preparation as applied to the function of organizational promotion. 3(3-0) F,S

COM 449 Communication Programs and Issues Management

Prerequisite: COM 210 and COM 336 and COM 439; Communication majors/minors must be admitted to degree program. Analysis and practice in strategic communication program planning and management, including techniques relevant to effective crisis communication and issues management. 3(3-0) F,S

COM 490 Supervised Teaching (Secondary Speech and Theatre)

Prerequisite: COM 417; a grade of "C" or better in all professional education courses; current pre-professional liability insurance; and approval for supervised teaching. Student observes then teaches speech and theatre classes under the direction of the cooperating teacher and the university supervisor. Student participates in school-related activities appropriate to the assignment and attends all required meetings. In order to receive a grade in this course, the student's professional portfolio must meet or exceed final criteria. Course will not count toward the major GPA. May not receive credit for both COM 490 and THE 490. Supplemental course fee. 6 F,S

COM 491 Supervised Teaching (Secondary Speech and Theatre)

Prerequisite: Concurrent enrollment in COM 490. Student observes then teaches under the direction of the cooperating teacher and the university supervisor. Student participates in school-related activities appropriate to the assignment and attends all required meetings. In order to receive a grade in this course, the student's professional portfolio must meet or exceed final criteria. Course will not count toward the major GPA. May not receive credit for both COM 491 and THE 491. Supplemental course fee. 6 F,S

COM 493 Clinical Experiences in Teaching II

Prerequisite: EDC 199; and admitted to Teacher Education Program; and grades of "C" or better in all professional education courses and; and completion of portfolio checkpoints 1 and 2; and current pre-professional liability insurance; and program approval. This course is designed to meet HB 1711 for student's experience as a Teacher's Aide or Assistant Rule (Rule 5 CSR 80-805.040), to that of conventional student teachers within the same program. It is also designed to support completion of additional clinical requirements within that program including: seminars and workshops, required meetings, school related activities appropriate to the assignment, demonstrated mastery of the MOSTEP quality indicators and completion and overall assessment of a Professional Preparation Portfolio. This course is credited only on B.S. in Education or appropriate master's-level certification programs. Can only receive credit for one of the following: AGE 499, AGT 499, ART 469, BSE 499, CFS 498, COM 493, ECE 499, ELE 499, ENG 434, HST 499, MCL 491, MID 499, MTH 496, MUS 499, PED 498, SCI 499, SEC 499, SPE 499, THE 493. 4 F,S

COM 494 Conflict Capstone

Prerequisite: COM 205 and COM 511 and COM 521; and admission to the certificate program in Conflict and Dispute Resolution; and at least one certificate elective course. This course allows students an applied opportunity to integrate theoretical material on conflict and dispute resolution with information on a variety of contexts in which conflict occurs. 1(1-0) D

COM 495 Communication Internship

Prerequisite: Program of study in Communication major or minor or Undergraduate Certificate in Conflict and Dispute Resolution; admitted to degree program; and permission of Internship Coordinator. Supervised pre-professional field experience related to communication studies. Meeting minimum prerequisite requirements does not guarantee internship placement. May be repeated to a maximum of 6 hours with permission of Internship Coordinator. No more than three hours may be applied to a Communication minor. No more than one hour may be applied to the Undergraduate Certificate in Conflict and Dispute Resolution. 1-6 F,S

COM 496 Readings in Communication and Persuasion

Prerequisite: COM 115 and COM 209 and MED 120 and permission of instructor; Communication majors/minors must be admitted to degree program. Supervised independent study exploring in-depth selected areas. Selected readings controlled by conferences, progress reports and term papers. May be repeated to a total of 6 hours. 2-3 F,S

COM 499 Program Assessment

Prerequisite: permission of instructor. Required assessment of programs for all communication majors. Must be taken during the last semester of graduation or of residence. Assessment activities include submission of a cumulative academic portfolio and may include other elements such as exit interviews, surveys, or examinations. The focus is on communication program development, rather than on individual student evaluation. Graded Pass/Not Pass only. 0(0-0) D

COM 500 Service Learning in Communication

Prerequisite: permission of instructor and concurrent enrollment in a communication, media, or journalism course designated as a service learning offering. This service component for an existing course incorporates community service with classroom instruction in communications to provide an integrative learning experience that addresses the practice of citizenship and promotes an awareness of and participation in public affairs. Includes 40 hours of service that benefits an external community organization, agency, or public service provider. Approved service placements and assignments will vary depending on the course topic and learning objectives; a list of approved placements and assignments is available from the instructor and the Citizenship and Service Learning Office. May be repeated but no more than 1 hour of service learning credit may count toward a masters degree. May be taught concurrently with COM 600. Cannot receive credit for both COM 600 and COM 500. 1 F,S

COM 505 Health Communication

Examination of communication theory in the health care context. Emphasis will be on communication effectiveness in health care professional/client relationships, in addition to message practices in small group, organizational, and mediated health campaign settings. May be taught concurrently with COM 605. Cannot receive credit for both COM 605 and COM 505. 3(3-0) D

COM 506 Family Communication

This course is intended to provide students with an in-depth examination of communication as it functions in family systems. May be taught concurrently with COM 607. Cannot receive credit for both COM 607 and COM 506. 3(3-0) D

COM 509 Proseminar in Public Relations

Prerequisite: permission of instructor. Readings and applications in chosen areas of professional communication practice. May be repeated once for credit. Variable content course. May be taught concurrently with COM 609. Cannot receive credit for both COM 609 and COM 509. 3(3-0) D

COM 511 Conflict and Communication

Equips students to understand the dynamics of interpersonal conflict and its resolution in a variety of community settings. Students will learn to analyze their own conflict styles and to develop self-regulation strategies for collaborative outcomes. The course covers conflict theory and research and applies these ideas to current community and organizational settings and diverse populations. Lectures/discussions by scholars, community leaders, and/or agency personnel who deal with conflict as well as simulations of conflict situations will be provided. May be taught concurrently with COM 611. Cannot receive credit for both COM 611 and COM 511. 3(3-0) F

COM 512 Communication and Diversity in the Workplace

Exploration of current theory and research regarding communication and diversity in the workplace. Study of practical applications for the assessment and training of communication skills relative to culture, race, sex, age, disability, sexual orientation and other diversity issues. Emphasis is placed on improving understanding of communication similarities and differences among diverse population groups. Includes readings, class discussion, observation, and/or class projects about assessment and training in communication skills in a diverse workplace. May be taught concurrently with COM 617. Cannot receive credit for both COM 617 and COM 512. 3(3-0) D

COM 513 Ethical Issues in Communication

Ethical theories and justification models are studied and then related to ethical decision making in a variety of communication contexts, including interpersonal communication, group communication, organizational communication, and public communication. The course will examine the components of good ethical decision making in communication, as well as obstacles that can stand in the way of responsible choices. May be taught concurrently with COM 619. Cannot receive credit for both COM 619 and COM 513. 3(3-0) D

COM 521 Communication, Mediation, and Negotiation

Explores the communicative foundation for understanding the processes of mediation and negotiation as methods for resolving conflict, with an emphasis on interpersonal and organizational conflict. The course covers theories and concepts pertaining to mediation and negotiation, particularly alternative dispute resolution, and provides students the opportunity to apply concepts through a variety of experiential activities. May be taught concurrently with COM 621. Cannot receive credit for both COM 621 and COM 521. 3(3-0) S

COM 532 Teaching Debate

Prerequisite: COM 322. This course prepares the student to teach various forms of debate in a high school setting. It will explore all major forms of high school debate, including CX Policy Debate, L/D Debate, parliamentary, and Public Forum debate. May be taught concurrently with COM 631. Cannot receive credit for both COM 631 and COM 532. 3(3-0) F

COM 534 Teaching Individual Events

Prerequisite: THE 310. This course prepares the student to teach various individual events common in a high school setting. It will explore all major high school individual events, including Foreign and Domestic Extemporaneous Speaking, Original Oratory, Poetry, Prose, Dramatic Interpretation, Humorous Interpretation, Radio Speaking, Storytelling, and Student Congress. May be taught concurrently with COM 633. Cannot receive credit for both COM 633 and COM 534. 3(3-0) S

COM 536 Directing Forensics

Prerequisite: COM 532 and COM 534. Problems in coaching and conducting forensic contests. May be taught concurrently with COM 635. Cannot receive credit for both COM 635 and COM 536. 2(2-0) D

COM 550 Political Communication

Prerequisite: COM 115 and COM 209 and MED 120; Communication majors/minors must be admitted to degree program. Communication majors must complete COM 210. Examination of the communication process in modern political campaigns. Emphasis is placed on the role of communication strategies and tactics in political organization, message formation, fund raising, and mass media usage. May be taught concurrently with COM 650. Cannot receive credit for both COM 650 and COM 550. 3(3-0) F

COM 566 Social Movement Communication

Prerequisite: COM 115 and COM 209 and MED 120; Communication majors/minors must be admitted to degree program. Examination of social movement communication with emphasis on functionalist, dramatistic, and symbolic convergence theories. Study of movements' use of communication to generate discontent, mobilize and coordinate support, defend themselves and attack opponents, and negotiate with external groups. Critical analysis of collective actions such as student, civil rights, identity, labor, religious, feminist, lesbian/gay, and utopian movements. May be taught concurrently with COM 660. Cannot receive credit for both COM 660 and COM 566. 3(3-0) S

COM 597 Studies in Communication Theory and Practice

In-depth examination of a specific communication topic. May vary from semester to semester and, with permission of the department, may be repeated to a total of 12 hours. Variable content course. May be taught concurrently with COM 698. Cannot receive credit for both COM 698 and COM 597. 3(3-0) D

COM 600 Service Learning in Communication Graduate Study

Prerequisite: permission of instructor and concurrent enrollment in a communication, media, or journalism course designated as a service learning offering. This service component for an existing course incorporates community service with classroom instruction in communications to provide an integrative learning experience that addresses the practice of citizenship and promotes an awareness of and participation in public affairs. Includes 40 hours of service that benefits an external community organization, agency, or public service provider. Approved service placements and assignments will vary depending on the course topic and learning objectives; a list of approved placements and assignments is available from the instructor and the Citizenship and Service Learning Office. May be repeated but no more than 1 hour of service learning credit may count toward a masters degree. May be taught concurrently with COM 500. Cannot receive credit for both COM 500 and COM 600. 1, F,S

COM 605 Health Communication

Examination of communication theory in the health care context. Emphasis will be on communication effectiveness in health care professional/client relationships, in addition to message practices in small group, organizational, and mediated health campaign settings. May be taught concurrently with COM 505. Cannot receive credit for both COM 505 and COM 605. 3(3-0), D

COM 607 Family Communication

This course is intended to provide students with an in-depth examination of communication as it functions in family systems. May be taught concurrently with COM 506. Cannot receive credit for both COM 506 and COM 607. 3(3-0), D

COM 609 Proseminar in Public Relations

Prerequisite: permission of instructor. Readings and applications in chosen areas of professional communication practice. May be repeated once for credit. Variable content course. May be taught concurrently with COM 509. Cannot receive credit for both COM 509 and COM 609. 3(3-0), D

COM 611 Conflict and Communication

Equips students to understand the dynamics of interpersonal conflict and its resolution in a variety of community settings. Students will learn to analyze their own conflict styles and to develop self-regulation strategies for collaborative outcomes. The course covers conflict theory and research and applies these ideas to current community and organizational settings and diverse populations. Lectures/discussions by scholars, community leaders, and/or agency personnel who deal with conflict as well as simulations of conflict situations will be provided. May be taught concurrently with COM 511. Cannot receive credit for both COM 511 and COM 611. 3(3-0), F

COM 617 Communication and Diversity in the Workplace

Exploration of current theory and research regarding communication and diversity in the workplace. Study of practical applications for the assessment and training of communication skills relative to culture, race, sex, age, disability, sexual orientation and other diversity issues. Emphasis is placed on improving understanding of communication similarities and differences among diverse population groups. Includes readings, class discussion, observation, and/or class projects about assessment and training in communication skills in a diverse workplace. May be taught concurrently with COM 512. Cannot receive credit for both COM 512 and COM 617. 3(3-0), D

COM 619 Ethical Issues in Communication

Ethical theories and justification models are studied and then related to ethical decision making in a variety of communication contexts, including interpersonal communication, group communication, organizational communication, and public communication. The course will examine the components of good ethical decision making in communication, as well as obstacles that can stand in the way of responsible choices. May be taught concurrently with COM 513. Cannot receive credit for both COM 513 and COM 619. 3(3-0), D

COM 621 Communication, Mediation, and Negotiation

Explores the communicative foundation for understanding the processes of mediation and negotiation as methods for resolving conflict, with an emphasis on interpersonal and organizational conflict. The course covers theories and concepts pertaining to mediation and negotiation, particularly alternative dispute resolution, and provides students the opportunity to apply concepts through a variety of experiential activities. May be taught concurrently with COM 521. Cannot receive credit for both COM 521 and COM 621. 3(3-0), S

COM 631 Teaching Debate

This course prepares the student to teach various forms of debate in a high school setting. It will explore all major forms of high school debate, including CX Policy Debate, L/D Debate, parliamentary, and Public Forum debate. May be taught concurrently with COM 532. Cannot receive credit for both COM 532 and COM 631. 3(3-0), F

COM 633 Teaching Individual Events

This course prepares the student to teach various individual events common in a high school setting. It will explore all major high school individual events, including Foreign and Domestic Extemporaneous Speaking, Original Oratory, Poetry, Prose, Dramatic Interpretation, Humorous Interpretation, Radio Speaking, Storytelling, and Student Congress. May be taught concurrently with COM 534. Cannot receive credit for both COM 534 and COM 633. 3(3-0), S

COM 635 Directing Forensics

Problems in coaching and conducting forensic contests. May be taught concurrently with COM 536. Cannot receive credit for both COM 536 and COM 635. 2(2-0), D

COM 650 Political Communication

Examination of the communication process in modern political campaigns. Emphasis is placed on the role of communication strategies and tactics in political organization, message formation, fund raising, and mass media usage. May be taught concurrently with COM 550. Cannot receive credit for both COM 550 and COM 650. 3(3-0), F

COM 660 Social Movement Communication

Examination of social movement communication with emphasis on functionalist, dramatistic, and symbolic convergence theories. Study of movements' use of communication to generate discontent, mobilize and coordinate support, defend themselves and attack opponents, and negotiate with external groups. Critical analysis of collective actions such as student, civil rights, identity, labor, religious, feminist, lesbian/gay, and utopian movements. May be taught concurrently with COM 566. Cannot receive credit for both COM 566 and COM 660. 3(3-0), S

COM 698 Studies in Communication Theory and Practice

In-depth examination of a specific communication topic. May vary from semester to semester and, with permission of the department, may be repeated to a total of 12 hours. Variable content course. May be taught concurrently with COM 597. Cannot receive credit for both COM 597 and COM 698. 3(3-0), D

COM 701 Introduction to Graduate Studies

Introduction to graduate study in communication. Topics include an overview of the field, introduction to relevant journals, library skills, professional associations, planning a program of study, and how to satisfy the research requirement. 1(1-0), F

COM 702 Theory and Research in Communication

Survey of communication theory, models, and research. Topics include perception, construction of meaning, language and symbol systems, interpersonal discourse, relationships, small group interaction, and organizational communication. 3(3-0), F

COM 706 Rhetorical Theory

The study of rhetorical theories from the pre-Socratic period to the contemporary period. 3(3-0), F

COM 710 Contemporary Communication Education

Examination of current practices and trends in Communication Education. Graduate teaching assistants in communication are required to take COM 610 during the first semester of the assistantship. COM 610 is only open to graduate teaching assistants in the Department of Communication. 3(2-2), F,S

COM 712 Quantitative Analysis in Communication Research

Quantitative research designs and statistical tools used in human communication research. Topics include descriptive and inferential statistics, validity and reliability, hypothesis testing, and analysis and interpretation of computer assisted research. Students may design and carry out individual research projects. 3(3-0), D

COM 713 Media Resources for Organizations

This course is designed to provide students with an opportunity to explore the interface of profit and non-profit organizations with television, radio, newspapers and the internet to enhance organizational effectiveness. The course is project based focusing on developing specific media resources to meet strategic organizational communication goals. 3(3-0), D

COM 714 Qualitative Analysis in Communication Research

Qualitative approaches to studying human communication. Topics include in-depth interviewing, survey methods, observation and coding techniques in structured and naturalistic settings, and interpretive data analysis. Students may be required to design and complete research. 3(3-0), S

COM 716 Rhetorical Analysis in Communication Research

The investigation and evaluation of rhetorical acts and artifacts for the purpose of understanding rhetorical processes. Students will survey methods of rhetorical analysis and practice critical analysis of artifacts, events, and/or acts. 3(3-0), D

COM 718 Applied Communication Research Methods

Prerequisite: permission of instructor. In-depth examination of a specific applied communication research methodology including: survey research, media criticism, communication audits, in-depth interviewing, and focus group interviewing. Topic will vary semester to semester. May be repeated but only 3 hours will count toward the degree. 3(3-0), D

COM 722 Argumentation as Communication

Argumentation as related to decision making, conflict resolution and negotiation in business, industry, government, and education. 3(3-0), D

COM 724 Theories of Interpersonal Communication

Topics include theories, concepts, models of interpersonal communication, interpersonal discourse, relationships, resolving conflicts, verbal message analysis, interpreting nonverbal message. 3(3-0), D

COM 732 Theories and Concepts of Small Group Communication

Survey of theories and concepts related to communication in small groups. Topics include group development, roles, norms, leadership, cohesiveness, decision making, conflict, interaction analysis, and research approaches to small group communication. 3(3-0), D

COM 736 Concepts and Analysis of Communication in Organizations

Advanced study of communication in organizations. Application of traditional and contemporary theories of communication and organizations in current research and practice. Particular attention is given to the symbolic nature of organizing and to the analysis of organizational culture. 3(3-0), D

COM 739 Concepts and Analysis of Public Relations

Examination of concepts which underlie practices in public relations. Analysis of current practices and issues important in public relations for corporations, not-for-profit organizations. government agencies, and educational institutions. 3(3-0), D

COM 795 Communication Internship

Prerequisite: 12 graduate credit hours in Communication; and permission of department. Independent projects in the various areas of communication. May be repeated to a maximum of 6 hours with permission of the department. 1-6, F,S

COM 796 Independent Study

Prerequisite: permission of advisor. Study may be reading project or a practical application of theories. May be repeated to a maximum of 4 hours. 1-4, F,S

COM 797 Seminar: Communication Theory

Special topics in history, theory and criticism of communication. Topic may vary from semester to semester. With permission, may be repeated for a maximum of 6 hours. 3(3-0), D

COM 799 Master's Thesis

Prerequisite: completion of 9 graduate credit hours in communication; and permission of the Director of Graduate Studies and admission to the thesis option; and complete 3 graduate hours in research methods or be concurrently enrolled in one of the following courses: COM 712, COM 714, COM 716, or COM 718. Independent research and study connected with preparation of thesis. 1-6, F,S