COMMUNICATION DEPARTMENT

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Course Descriptions

COMM 1715 Introduction to Communication Studies (3)

An introduction to various dimensions of human communications and communication theory. Topics covered include models of communication, language, non-verbal communication, and interpersonal, intercultural, group, and mediated communication.

COMM 1775 Public Speaking (3)

An introduction to principles of rhetorical and communication theory, with a performance-based focus on the acquisition of public speaking skills, including organization, delivery and criticism of informative and persuasive presentations.

COMM 2010 Critical Thinking (3)

An introduction to informal logic, belief systems, value systems, and persuasion, with a special focus on contemporary issues. Cross-listed as PHIL 2010

COMM 2020 Oral Interpretation (3)

Learning to select a portion of someone else’s published words and bring them to life orally and visually within the tradition of oral interpretation. Various types of literature are explored with an orientation towards performance and intercollegiate forensics.

COMM 2025 Introduction to Theater (3)

From concept to performance, this class explores the components of theater production including personnel, terminology, techniques, and theatrical styles. Attendance at selected plays is required. Lab Fee: $80.

COMM 2401 Interpersonal Communication (3)

Explores the basic processes of one-on-one communication, verbal and nonverbal messaging, floor-holding techniques in conversation, message leakage, and related issues. Emphasis is given to interpersonal theories, methods of analysis, and basic skills.

COMM 2501 Organizational Communication (3)

Addresses organizational theory and models, patterns of group decision-making, power channels, efficacies and hindrances, and analysis strategies.

COMM 3001 Communication Theory (3)

Addresses the basic factors affecting human communication, the relationship between theory and practice, and the application of theories such as narrative, symbolic, and relational.

COMM 3010 Argumentation and Belief Systems (3)

An introduction to informal logic, belief systems, values systems, and persuasion, with a special focus on contemporary issues.

COMM 3015 Intercollegiate Forensics (3)

This classes prepares students in debate and individual speaking events through observation and participation.

COMM 3020 Creative Power of Story (3)

Addresses the persuasive and descriptive nature of story. Examines narrative coherence, rationality, and fidelity in the context of humans as storytellers. Special attention is given to the exploration of the consequences and opportunities resulting in the abandonment of a meta-narrative by the Academy.

COMM 3030 Mass Communication (3)

The influence, structure and function of mass media in its various forms is examined with special attention given to new and information, ethical issues, and the nature of competing outlets and their constituencies.

COMM 3401 Business Communication (3)

Basic communication theory and praxis is applied to various specialized areas in the business world including resumes, interviewing, presentations, meetings, and electronic communication (i.e. email etiquette, telephone protocols, and messaging). Cross-listed as BADM 3401

COMM 3501 Organizational Communication (3)

Addresses organizational theory and models, pattern of group decision-making, power channels, efficacies and hindrances, analysis strategies and the role of communication in organizational enhancement.

COMM 3701 Cross-Cultural Communication (3)

Facilitates the ability to understand the relationship between culture and communication as well as to cope with cultural differences in communication.  Addresses topics such as communication between contrasting value systems, cross-cultural communication styles, nonverbal communication, ethnocentrism, culture and perception. The analysis and creative exercise of marshaling the various modes of communication and symbol into persuasive cultural messages.

COMM 3715 Creative Arts and Culture (3)

The analysis and creative exercise of marshaling the various modes of communication and symbol into persuasive cultural messages.  

COMM 4001 Business & Professional Communication (3)

A course teaching practical and theoretical components of effective professional communications. Students will learn foundational skills in effective oral and written communication for the workplace, including development of proposals and presentations. Elements of cross-cultural communications will be included. The course uses Microsoft Word and PowerPoint in various business and professional applications.

COMM 4010 Rhetorical Theory and Criticism (3)

Teaches the craft of theory reading and critical application within the scope of rhetorical theories ranging from classical to contemporary.  This course explores evangelism and the gospel from different perspectives, taking into account not only the message of the gospel but manner in which it is delivered. Instruction goes beyond the traditional notion of evangelism as a message driven activity and into the arenas of how the gospel is heard and the effects of the Gospel on the hearer.

COMM 4015  Internal Communication (3)

The role and importance of self-talk and internal conversations is examined in the context of the executive control functions of the brain with attention to conflict resolution.

COMM 5015 Interpersonal Communication and Conflict Management (3)

In this course learners discover principles of interpersonal communication and conflict management in human relationships from a Christian perspective. The course gives attention to communication models, self-concept, non-verbal messages, stress, and other strategies that assist Christian leaders in developing interpersonal communication skills. In addition, the course focuses on the nature of conflict, how to identify common styles of conflict management, and how to manage conflict acceptably and productively.

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