Courses

In this course students will analyze and evaluate the historical, economic, social, cultural, and political forces of globalization in the context of media. A strong focus will be on modern and contemporary world cultures and on current issues in the globalization of media forms and information technologies. Historical contexts and pressures at work within the contested terrain of globalism will be examined. Students will understand the development of global communication and media networks as these have evolved, expanded, and make up globalization. In addition, students will closely examine the role of digital media and global activism. (3 units; Fall, even years & Online)

Explores basic methodologies of communication research, including experiments, surveys, focus groups, field observations, content analysis, and rhetorical and critical analyses. These methodologies and the theoretical and ethical assumptions underpinning them are examined as ways of posing questions and getting answers about human communication. Each student will write papers based on a research project including problem definition, literature review, data gathering and analysis and reporting. (3 units; Spring, even years & Online)

Functions, responsibilities, and influence of various mass media and emerging forms of niche media in society. Students review the theories, structures, functions, practices, economics, critical analyses, and historical aspects of mass media and its social responsibility in society. (3 units; Fall, Spring, & Online)

This course provides students opportunities to analyze, use and produce content for current and emerging social media, such as Twitter, Facebook, Tumblr, YouTube, Reddit and other professional business platforms. (3 units; Spring)

This course examines the dynamics in communication within small groups. Students will learn effective critical thinking and problem solving skills for use when working in small groups. (3 units; Fall & Online)

Concentration upon a specific topic in the field of communication arts. Topic varies for different semesters. May be taken multiple times with change in topic. (3 units; Fall/Spring)

This class examines gender from both a secular and biblical perspective through an examination of rhetoric, interpersonal communication, and media. Students will learn what gender is, how society and biology impact what gender is, and how gender impacts their own communication and the communication of others. (3 units; Fall)

Under faculty supervision, the student will be assigned to a position, utilizing principles of communication studies acquired and employed throughout their university experience. This internship provides an opportunity for investigating and participating in field experience with a practitioner of the trade, giving depth and breadth to their understanding of communication studies as a whole. Prerequisite: Permission of the Department Chair. (1-3 units; Fall/Spring)

This course introduces students to the growing field of digital studies. Given the interdisciplinary nature of digital studies, students will study digital texts and projects and will work collaboratively to evaluate, develop, and refine their technical skills to create and edit various forms of digital publications. Prerequisite: ENG 123. (3 units; Fall, odd years)

This course will provide students with an introduction to electronic and traditional broadcasting principles. Students will analyze, synthesize, and evaluate online and traditional broadcasting principles in the form of podcasts. (3 units; Fall)

Principles, history and professional practice of public relations and the writing and production of materials for special events, newsletters, and brochures. (3 units; Fall, Spring, & Online)

A participation class in forensics. Students compete in intercollegiate events. Majors may take a maximum of eight (8) units as part of the Communications Program. Communications minors may take a maximum of four (4) units. Students should consult their advisor in the Communication Arts Department to determine how many units per semester are allowed since the program is offered on a continuing basis. (1-3 units; Fall/Spring)

This course examines the dynamics in communication within small groups. Students will learn effective critical thinking and problem solving skills for use when working in small groups. (3 units; Fall & Online)

Analysis and oral presentation of literature in a way that is vivid, compelling, and dramatic. This class will help the student to perfect skills in dramatic reading, reading of scripture, and finding and preparing literature for oral presentation. (3 units; Spring & Online)

A study of the principles and models of argumentation and debate, the basic theories, strategies, and processes by which a student may present an effective argument, as well as their application to business and interpersonal communication as well as ministry. The course provides practical experience in forming arguments, defending a position, using evidence to build a case, refutation, and analysis of arguments. Special emphasis given to the principles of Parliamentary Debate. May be repeated for a total of eight (8) units. Only three (3) units may be applied to the major. (1-3 units; Fall)

This course is designed to develop advanced analysis of communication artifacts using rhetorical theory. The course discusses and makes use of rhetorical theorists from classical and contemporary traditions to better understand cultural artifacts from various contexts. Application to various non-communication related fields will be explored. (3 units; Spring & Online)

Concentration upon a specific topic in the field of communication arts. Topic varies for different semesters. May be taken multiple times with change in topic. (3 units; Fall/Spring)

A participation class in forensics. Students compete in intercollegiate events. Majors may take a maximum of eight (8) units as part of the Communications Program. Communications minors may take a maximum of four (4) units. Students should consult their advisor in the Communication Arts Department to determine how many units per semester are allowed since the program is offered on a continuing basis. Prerequisite: COM 210. (1-3 units; Fall/Spring)

This class examines gender from both a secular and biblical perspective through an examination of rhetoric, interpersonal communication, and media. Students will learn what gender is, how society and biology impact what gender is, and how gender impacts their own communication and the communication of others. (3 units; Fall)

Under faculty supervision, the student will be assigned to a position, utilizing principles of communication studies acquired and employed throughout their university experience. This internship provides an opportunity for investigating and participating in field experience with a practitioner of the trade, giving depth and breadth to their understanding of communication studies as a whole. Prerequisite: Permission of the Department Chair. (1-3 units; Fall/Spring)

This course will address principles and processes of communication from one culture to another. Attention will be given to different perceptions, ways of thinking, values, verbal and non-verbal expression, and sub-groups within a given culture. Prerequisite: 3 units of Biblical Studies coursework. (3 units; Spring)

Principles, history and professional practice of public relations and the writing and production of materials for special events, newsletters, and brochures. (3 units; Fall, Spring, & Online)

The student will learn how to use drama and theatre activities both for and with children, and how they can incorporate drama into education by creating lesson plans and planning specific assignments. The student will also develop skills in oral interpretation and storytelling to become a more interesting and expressive teacher. (3 units; Fall/Spring)

Advanced study and application of 3-Dimensional makeup techniques with a focus on foam latex prosthetics. Students will develop skills in life casting, mold making, sculpting, casting and running foam latex. Students will learn advanced painting and makeup application techniques required for blending prosthetics with human skin. Students will also explore techniques for using gelatin makeup for large wound and facial trauma effects. Additional lab fee. (3 units; Spring, even years)