Courses

Among the diverse possibilities afforded by media work (television, film, radio, journalism, etc.) are content areas and skills all students should master, including history and structures, writing, and production. In addition, students select nine (9) hours in one of two concentrations, based on their area of interest.

Production: This concentration recognizes the broader career prospects and leadership opportunities for the student working "behind-the-scenes" in media careers. Courses emphasize off-camera, non-performance aspects of media and theatrical production. In addition to specialized skill courses, the student may also work up to two semesters each with WIWU-TV or WIWU-FM for credit. This puts production experience into an ongoing, real-world, experiential context.

Performance: This concentration is for students wishing to appear on-mic or on-camera in the “talent” positions of media work. It offers specialized training, such as “broadcast performance,” but also recognizes the commonalities in performance skills and thus allows coursework in public speaking and acting. Students may also work up to two semesters each in campus radio or TV for continuing practicum credit.

Division Core Courses

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COM-115 Introduction to Human Communication3 Hours
- Provides students with an understanding of communication encountered in various social settings, with an emphasis on both theoretical and practical aspects. Students will gain an understanding of communication as it affects the individual in message construction, interpersonal interaction, group and organizational settings, public settings, cultural settings, and mass communication settings. Also examines the ethics of communication, and participate in group projects, leading to presentations.
COM-340 Communication Theory3 Hours
- Examines definitions and models of communication. Exploration of specific theories will be emphasized through individual research. Prerequisite: COM-115 or permission of the Division.
COM-445 Communication Internship3 Hours
- A supervised and intensified hands-on work experience in a professional work environment. Student's interests and competencies must coordinate with the professional activities of the cooperating organization, and the student must have successfully completed work related to the internship. May be repeated up to a total of 6 credit hours. Graded on a CR/NC basis. Prerequisites: COM-235, the gateway course for the appropriate major, and permission of the instructor.
COM-480 Communication Senior Seminar II3 Hours
- Continues the senior capstone experience for Communication and Theatre majors. Students develop a philosophy of communication based on their study, a senior career and academic portfolio and a creative project in their area of specialty. Prerequisites: COM-479.

16-17 credit hours

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COM-112 Introduction to Multimedia Storytelling2 Hours
- Fundamental skills in multimedia technology are integrated through various approaches to non-fiction storytelling. Course includes education in basic page design, image manipulation, audio and video production.
COM-114 Intro to Radio Broadcasting2 Hours
- A practical course introducing the student to the operation of radio equipment, and a radio station. Projects are designed to acquaint the student with current radio station requirements. Included is a survey of the major areas of radio history, technical information, program philosophies, regulations, and social effects.
COM-113 Introduction to TV Production2 Hours
- Introduction to multi-camera and single camera television production. Studio equipment, operations, set, lighting and editing are covered with an emphasis on the creative process from scripting to finished product. Class includes field experience with WIWU-TV51.
COM-211 Introduction to Mass Communication3 Hours
- A survey of the media communication industries, focusing on their historical development in the United States and professional and ethical standards required in media professions.
COM-250 Media Scriptwriting3 Hours
- Principles of developing and writing scripts for multiple electronic media including radio, television, and online forms. Emphasis on the common principles applied across media, and developing scripts in coordination with available production techniques. Applications could include commercials, promotions, educational, public service, news and short-form narratives.
COM-363 Media Law and Ethics3 Hours
- Detailed survey of U.S. media law including First Amendment principles, libel/slander, prior restraint and broadcast regulation. Ethical frameworks for decision making in journalism and other media production work will be considered in a case study approach.

15 credit hours

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COM-224 Introduction to Newswriting3 Hours
- A survey of the field of journalism, including the news media, the role of reporters, ethics, methods, and operations. Practical application in gathering information and writing news stories through covering campus and University-related activities. Requires field assignments and attendance at newspaper meetings. Prerequisite: ENG-120 or Advanced Standing in English.
COM-251 Principles of Script Analysis3 Hours
- Explores methods of reading, studying, and analyzing theatrical scripts for production on stage and screen. By concentrating on the script as a vehicle for performance, students understand the script from the perspective of the actor, director, and designer. Extensive writing required.
COM-331 Public Relations Writing and Publicity3 Hours
- Partnerships with public agencies allow the acquisition of professional-level experience and skills in publicity, promotion, and fund-raising in various settings. Examines how organizations interact with print, broadcast, and online media to gain publicity. Explores general principles of media relations and develops the writing, presentation, and production skills used in media relations work. Prerequisite: COM-233 or permission of Division.

3 credit hours

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COM-227 Research Methods in Communication3 Hours
- Introduces students to the research process. Examines how research is planned and designed, explores both quantitative and qualitative methods, introduces the techniques of these methods, and provides experience in conducting original research. Prerequisite: COM-115 or permission of Division.
COM-233 Principles of Public Relations3 Hours
- Examines the history, roles, functions, purposes, methods, responsibilities, and ethical issues of public relations in various contexts, including corporate, nonprofit, and agency environments. Focuses on how organizations effectively communicate with various publics to achieve specific public relations objectives.
COM-362 Scriptwriting3 Hours
- Introduces students to the various forms of scriptwriting by exploring the art of storytelling as expressed in stage and film and by studying the accepted principles that shape this art form. Develops skills in scriptwriting, particularly in the areas of adaptation, one-acts, sketch comedy, and group writing, concentrating on writing for the theatre and church. Prerequisite: ENG-120 (or writing competency requirement met) and COM-251 or permission of Division.
COM-366 Organizational Communication3 Hours
- Examines the role of communication in organizations and the effect organizational structures have on communication from both theoretical and practical perspectives. Prerequisite: COM-115 or permission of Division.
COM-370 Symbols and Imaging3 Hours
- Explores the nature and use of symbols and imaging in social communication, the media, and advertising. Examines how to select symbols that capture the nature, message, service, or product of an institution or corporation for public awareness and service.
COM-464 Media Management3 Hours
- Focuses on leadership principles and issues for students pursuing management careers in media organizations. Leadership styles are addressed through case studies and key issues in economics, and regulatory law and new technologies are applied to decision making strategies. Prerequisite: COM-211.

6 credit hours

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COM-214 Radio Production3 Hours
- Principles of audio production are applied to radio station operations. Learn fundamentals of microphone technique and multi-channel digital recording in common radio projects such as commercials and public service announcements. Laboratory work on college radio operation required.
COM-220 Radio Practicum1 Hours
- Laboratory work for the staff of the university radio station. May be repeated up to a total of three semester hours. Graded on a CR/NC basis.
COM-223 Communication Graphics3 Hours
- Course provides proficiency in theory and production skills in computer-aided graphic design for the web, print, and for a variety of communication contexts.
COM-224 Introduction to Newswriting3 Hours
- A survey of the field of journalism, including the news media, the role of reporters, ethics, methods, and operations. Practical application in gathering information and writing news stories through covering campus and University-related activities. Requires field assignments and attendance at newspaper meetings. Prerequisite: ENG-120 or Advanced Standing in English.
COM-272 Stagecraft3 Hours
- Introduction to scenery, lighting, costume design, technical theater practices, and production management, stressing practical production experience and terminology. Learn to use stools, equipment, and techniques necessary for basic scenery construction, including stock 2-D and 3-D units, weight bearing scenery, properties and basic scene painting techniques. Requires practical production involvement and laboratory hours.
COM-314 Studio Production3 Hours
- Develops production and leadership skills in studio-based, long-form production. Work as a team to develop and produce an original television program for WIWU-TV. Format may vary among studio forms and could include talk, game show, situation comedy or drama. Prerequisite: COM-113 or permission of Division.
COM-322 Broadcast Journalism3 Hours
- The process and production of news reporting for radio and television with focus on broadcast writing style. Complete on-air assignments for the university radio station which includes gathering, writing, technical production, and on-air presentation. Prerequisite: COM-224 or permission of Division.
COM-364 Field Production3 Hours
- Advanced television production and operations associated with field production including concepts and practices in scripting, producing, editing, and on-location directing with a single-camera format. Prerequisite: COM-113 or permission of instructor.
COM-422 Television News3 Hours
- Advanced course combining principles of journalistic writing and reporting with the field production techniques of television news and online news management. Students will learn the basic concepts of broadcast reporting, producing a television news program and managing an online website connected to the news content. The student is expected to spend many hours outside of class mastering reporting techniques, including technical expertise, and will also work as a team member in completing newsroom functions. Prerequisites: COM-113 and COM-224.

6 credit hours

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COM-214 Radio Production3 Hours
- Principles of audio production are applied to radio station operations. Learn fundamentals of microphone technique and multi-channel digital recording in common radio projects such as commercials and public service announcements. Laboratory work on college radio operation required.
COM-220 Radio Practicum1 Hours
- Laboratory work for the staff of the university radio station. May be repeated up to a total of three semester hours. Graded on a CR/NC basis.
COM-226 Voice and Movement3 Hours
- Course focuses on modern acting techniques to gain greater control over body and voice. Students will explore various techniques for teh voice and body to clearly communicate characters to the theatrical audience.
COM-240 Television Practicum1-2 Hours
- Independent, creative work in television or video production. Student will propose a project and work with instructor to accomplish project goals over the course of a semester. May be repeated for a total of 2 hours to count toward major.
COM-252 Beginning Acting3 Hours
- Addresses basic techniques of acting applied to creating contemporary characters, including imaginative, emotional, and sensory responsiveness to realistic dramatic situations. Develops appreciation for the craft of acting, and clear and motivated characters for stage and church worship. Primarily for Theatre majors and minors and related majors; nonmajors by permission from the professor or Division Chair.
COM-322 Broadcast Journalism3 Hours
- The process and production of news reporting for radio and television with focus on broadcast writing style. Complete on-air assignments for the university radio station which includes gathering, writing, technical production, and on-air presentation. Prerequisite: COM-224 or permission of Division.
COM-365 Broadcast Performance3 Hours
- Vocal and visual performance techniques for radio and television are developed with a focus on repetition and in-studio application on university broadcast outlets. Principal areas of study include vocal dynamics, interviewing, ad-lib and on-camera presentation.
COM-422 Television News3 Hours
- Advanced course combining principles of journalistic writing and reporting with the field production techniques of television news and online news management. Students will learn the basic concepts of broadcast reporting, producing a television news program and managing an online website connected to the news content. The student is expected to spend many hours outside of class mastering reporting techniques, including technical expertise, and will also work as a team member in completing newsroom functions. Prerequisites: COM-113 and COM-224.

6 credit hours

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COM-115 Introduction to Human Communication3 Hours
- Provides students with an understanding of communication encountered in various social settings, with an emphasis on both theoretical and practical aspects. Students will gain an understanding of communication as it affects the individual in message construction, interpersonal interaction, group and organizational settings, public settings, cultural settings, and mass communication settings. Also examines the ethics of communication, and participate in group projects, leading to presentations.
COM-340 Communication Theory3 Hours
- Examines definitions and models of communication. Exploration of specific theories will be emphasized through individual research. Prerequisite: COM-115 or permission of the Division.

9 credit hours

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COM-116R Communication Lab-Radio0-1 Hours
- Provides practical experience working for the university radio station, WIWU-FM, completing technical training, on-air broadcasts, and off-air meetings and activities. Required of all students in their first semester on the radio staff. Labs may be taken for 0 or 1 credit. Graded on a CR/NC basis.
COM-116V Communication Lab-Television0-1 Hours
- Provides practical experience working for the university television station, WIUW-TV, completing technical training and serving as production crew for the studio and field broadcasts. Labs may be taken for 0 or 1 credit. Graded on a CR/NC basis.
COM-211 Introduction to Mass Communication3 Hours
- A survey of the media communication industries, focusing on their historical development in the United States and professional and ethical standards required in media professions.
COM-250 Media Scriptwriting3 Hours
- Principles of developing and writing scripts for multiple electronic media including radio, television, and online forms. Emphasis on the common principles applied across media, and developing scripts in coordination with available production techniques. Applications could include commercials, promotions, educational, public service, news and short-form narratives.
COM-363 Media Law and Ethics3 Hours
- Detailed survey of U.S. media law including First Amendment principles, libel/slander, prior restraint and broadcast regulation. Ethical frameworks for decision making in journalism and other media production work will be considered in a case study approach.

9-11 credit hours

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COM-224 Introduction to Newswriting3 Hours
- A survey of the field of journalism, including the news media, the role of reporters, ethics, methods, and operations. Practical application in gathering information and writing news stories through covering campus and University-related activities. Requires field assignments and attendance at newspaper meetings. Prerequisite: ENG-120 or Advanced Standing in English.
COM-331 Public Relations Writing and Publicity3 Hours
- Partnerships with public agencies allow the acquisition of professional-level experience and skills in publicity, promotion, and fund-raising in various settings. Examines how organizations interact with print, broadcast, and online media to gain publicity. Explores general principles of media relations and develops the writing, presentation, and production skills used in media relations work. Prerequisite: COM-233 or permission of Division.
COM-362 Scriptwriting3 Hours
- Introduces students to the various forms of scriptwriting by exploring the art of storytelling as expressed in stage and film and by studying the accepted principles that shape this art form. Develops skills in scriptwriting, particularly in the areas of adaptation, one-acts, sketch comedy, and group writing, concentrating on writing for the theatre and church. Prerequisite: ENG-120 (or writing competency requirement met) and COM-251 or permission of Division.

3 credit hours

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COM-251 Principles of Script Analysis3 Hours
- Explores methods of reading, studying, and analyzing theatrical scripts for production on stage and screen. By concentrating on the script as a vehicle for performance, students understand the script from the perspective of the actor, director, and designer. Extensive writing required.
COM-233 Principles of Public Relations3 Hours
- Examines the history, roles, functions, purposes, methods, responsibilities, and ethical issues of public relations in various contexts, including corporate, nonprofit, and agency environments. Focuses on how organizations effectively communicate with various publics to achieve specific public relations objectives.
COM-370 Symbols and Imaging3 Hours
- Explores the nature and use of symbols and imaging in social communication, the media, and advertising. Examines how to select symbols that capture the nature, message, service, or product of an institution or corporation for public awareness and service.
COM-464 Media Management3 Hours
- Focuses on leadership principles and issues for students pursuing management careers in media organizations. Leadership styles are addressed through case studies and key issues in economics, and regulatory law and new technologies are applied to decision making strategies. Prerequisite: COM-211.

3 credit hours

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Courses

Division Core Courses

Media Communication Major Requirements

Writing Electives (Choose One)

Division Electives (Choose Two)

Concentrations (Choose One)

Production

Performance

Media Communication Minor

Division Core

Media Communication Minor Requirements

Writing Electives (Choose One)

Division Electives (Choose One)