Mar 28, 2024  
2022-2023 Undergraduate Catalog 
    
2022-2023 Undergraduate Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

School of Communication


Michael Andrew Moshier, Ph.D., Interim Dean
Sara LaBelle, Ph.D., Assistant Dean of Academic Programs and Faculty Development
Andrea Weber, Ed.D., Assistant Dean of Advising and Student Life
 
Professors: Bevan, Hopson, Jia, Katz, Miller-Day, Moshier, Sparks, Weber, K.;
Associate Professors: LaBelle, Tukachinsky;
Instructional Associate Professor: Weber, A.;
Assistant Professors: Ball, Janicke-Bowles, Vendemia;
Instructional Assistant Professors: Bejerano, Maeda;
Instructors: Bartosh, Buckley, Nichols, Rogeness, Ross;
Presidential Fellow: Kotkin.

The School of Communication is committed to maintaining an academic and social environment in which students may develop into inquiring thinkers who communicate productively in society. We do so by exposing students to theories and research emanating from the communication discipline and by providing them with opportunities to apply their knowledge and practice communication principles in varied settings. Students learn and practice the skills important for developing and sustaining high quality, ethical relationships in personal, professional, and global contexts.

Lambda Pi Eta is chartered and sponsored by the National Communication Association which meets on a regular basis to network and promote the field of communication studies. Guest speakers include members of the community, alumni, professionals and faculty. The student-run club meetings are open to all School of Communication majors. However, official membership requires that applicants have completed 60 semester credits (12 in the SoC), a cumulative GPA of at least a 3.0 and a major GPA of at least a 3.3. Membership includes a certificate from the national office, an honor stole, a pin, and other networking materials and opportunities.

Chapman Radio offers students the opportunity to work with Chapman University’s own radio station, heard on campus and around the world via the Internet (Chapman Radio | On the air since 1967). Students may participate by having their own radio show or by helping to produce radio shows for others. Other opportunities include programming, publicity and promotion. The Chapman radio workshop also offers university credit for participation in this activity.

Honors at Graduation
The School of Communication awards honors to graduating seniors who have demonstrated exceptional academic achievement. Requirements for consideration include a GPA of 3.700 or higher in the major and a cumulative GPA of 3.500 or higher.

Master of Science in Health and Strategic Communication
The Master of Science in Health and Strategic Communication graduate program aims to foster an understanding of the behavioral, psychological and social bases of health and requires students to engage in individual scholarship or team research of an interdisciplinary nature. Health and strategic communication is the study and use of communication strategies to inform and influence individual, institutional, community and public audiences about important health issues. Our mission is to help improve policy and decision-making through evidence-based research, analysis and application.

Chapman and non-Chapman students can apply to the M.S. program as early as the spring semester of their junior year. Students will receive conditional admission to the program, pending completion of their B.A. degree. (See the Graduate catalog for more details.)

Degrees

Bachelor of Arts

Integrated Program

Courses

Communication Studies

  • COM 100 - Introduction to Communication Studies


    Prerequisite, communication studies or global communication and world languages major or consent of the instructor. This course is designed to introduce the Communication Studies major to the many facets of the discipline, including its research and career options. Students will be introduced to the curriculum for the major. Special attention will be given to what constitutes human communication, how communication is studied and measured, what professional options are available to a communication studies major. This course is required for all communication studies majors. Must receive a minimum grade of B- or course must be repeated. (Offered every semester.) 3 credits
  • COM 101 - Public Speaking


    An introduction to oral rhetoric, comprising the history, rationale and application of the principles of public address. Some sections of this course may be offered for majors and minors only. (Offered every semester.) 3 credits
  • COM 102 - Public Speaking in a Diverse Society


    An introduction to the skills of public presentation development, oral delivery, and using supporting media, with special attention paid to informative and persuasive messages. Course emphasizes the necessity of audience analysis, as well as sensitivity and adaption to the unique cultural perspectives of listeners. Some sections of this course may be offered for majors and minors only. (Offered every semester.) 3 credits
  • COM 108 - Chapman Radio Workshop


    A weekly course centered on broadcasting individual student radio shows, learning the everyday operations of Chapman Radio, and the broadcasting industry. The weekly events and issues of Chapman Radio will be addressed and discussed. The workshop also gives technical training in regards to on-air procedures, FCC and internet regulations, on and off campus promotion, studio and live engineering, and industry communications. Guest lectures from professionals in radio will occur throughout the semester. Some sections of COM 108 and COM 308 will be held together. Pass/No Pass. This course may be repeated for credit. (Offered as needed.) 3 credits
  • COM 110 - Interpersonal Communication


    Students learn to apply communication skills of listening, perception, language usage, nonverbal communication, and conflict resolution. Emphasis is placed on effective communication and methods for overcoming barriers to interpersonal communication. Some sections of this course may be offered for communication studies and/or strategic and corporate communication majors only. (Offered every semester.) 3 credits
  • COM 151 - Mass Communication


    From Gutenberg to Web sites, this course examines the historical development of mass media forms and products and evaluates the impact of mass media on cultural values, social norms and movements in the U.S. and around the world. Some sections of this course may be offered for communication studies majors and strategic and corporate communication majors only. Letter grade with Pass/No Pass option. (Offered every semester.) 3 credits
  • COM 195 - Communication Research I


    Communication Research I focuses on understanding how people behave in creating, exchanging, and interpreting messages. Students will become familiar with survey research, experimental research, rhetorical criticism, and ethnographic criticism. (Offered every semester.) 3 credits
  • COM 210 - Theories of Persuasion


    A survey of advocacy from Aristotelian principles to contemporary practices. Emphasis is on the interdisciplinary generation of persuasion theories from post World War II to the present that empower recognition, analysis and evaluation of persuasive messages. Some sections of this course may be offered for communication studies and/or strategic and corporate communication majors only. Letter grade. (Offered every semester.) 3 credits
  • COM 210B - Theories of Persuasion for Non-Majors


    A survey of advocacy from Aristotelian principles to contemporary practices. Emphasis is on the interdisciplinary generation of persuasion theories from post World War II to the present that empower recognition, analysis and evaluation of persuasive messages. Letter grade. (Offered as needed.) 3 credits
  • COM 211 - Intercultural Communication


    The course reviews basic concepts and theories, deals with crucial skills needed for intercultural communication, and raises ethical questions. By exploring research findings and observations of a variety of cultures and discussing their own experiences as intercultural communicators, students will develop basic analytical and practical competence as global intercultural communicators. Some sections of this course may be offered for communication studies and/or strategic and corporate communication majors only. (Offered every semester.) 3 credits
  • COM 212 - Group Communication


    This course is designed to provide the student with the skills necessary to participate effectively in problem-solving groups. Instruction includes theory and technique. Competencies in group communication are developed through in-class exercises and case studies. Some sections of this course may be offered for majors only. (Offered every semester.) 3 credits
  • COM 219 - Business and Professional Communication for Business Majors


    Prerequisite, accounting, or business administration major. This course will build students’ business and professional communication competence in ways that reflect (1) job market, cultural, technological, and social demands; and (2) the findings of empirical research in communication and related disciplines. Offered for Business Administration and Accounting majors only. (Offered every semester.) 3 credits
  • COM 229 - Experimental Course


    Experimental courses are designed to offer additional opportunities to explore areas and subjects of special interest and may be repeated for credit if course content is different. Course titles, Prerequisites, and credits may vary. Some topics may require student lab Fees. May be repeated for credit, if course topic is different. Some topics may require student lab Fees. (Offered as needed.) 1-3 credits
  • COM 251 - Issues in Mass Communication


    An in-depth exploration of the personal, ethical, social, political and economic issues raised by the increasing impact, power and ubiquity of the mass media in the United States and around the world. Is the world a better place because of the mass media? This course attempts to answer that question. Some sections of this course may be offered for communication studies and/or strategic and corporate communication majors only. (Offered as needed.) 3 credits
  • COM 291 - Student-Faculty Research/Creative Activity


    Prerequisite, consent of instructor. Students engage in independent, faculty-mentored scholarly research/creative activity in their discipline which develops fundamentally novel knowledge, content, and/or data. Topics or projects are chosen after discussions between student and instructor who agree upon objective and scope. P/NP or letter grade option with consent of instructor. May be repeated for credit. (Offered as needed.) 1-3 credits
  • COM 295 - Introduction to Research Methods


    Prerequisites, COM 100 , or SCC 100  with a grade of B- or higher and communication studies or global communication and world languages or strategic and corporate communication major. Introduction to Research Methods focuses on the process of how researchers study the creation, exchange, and interpretation of messages. Students will gain experience understanding and evaluating existing research as well as designing their own research projects. The course will cover a range of quantitative and qualitative approaches to studying human communication, including survey, experimental, observation, interview, and content analysis designs. Some sections of this course may be offered for majors only. Students may only receive credit for either COM 295, or SCC 295 . (Offered every semester.) 3 credits
  • COM 298 - Careers in Communication


    Appropriate for students who are in the process of exploring and defining career goals, this course explores personal interests, values, and abilities; and examines methods of researching information on careers. Some sections of this course may be offered for communication studies and/or strategic and corporate communication majors only. May be repeated for credit. (Offered as needed.) 1 credit
  • COM 302 - Sports Communication


    Prerequisites, COM 100 , or SCC 100  with a minimum grade of B- and COM 295 , or SCC 295  with a minimum grade of C, or as a corequisite. Sports Communication is a course designed to provide students with a complete overview of public relations opportunities within the sports industry. The course will take a detailed look at all elements of sports public relations including newspaper, radio, television, agency, internet, colleges, first and second tier sports and major professional teams. The course will include lecture time, guest speakers and group activities. Class participation, brainstorming and problem-solving situations also will be key components of the class. The students will learn to become sports publicists over the course of the semester and understand both the high stakes and time pressures involved with the responsibilities. Students who have taken COM 329  Sports Communication may not enroll in this course. Some sections of this course may be offered for communication studies and/or strategic and corporate communication majors only. (Offered as needed.) 3 credits
  • COM 308 - Advanced Chapman Radio: Special Event Broadcasting


    Prerequisites, COM 108 . While COM 108  Introduction to Chapman Radio centers on developing individual student shows, the advanced Chapman Radio course moves beyond this individual focus and centers on broadcasting special events at Chapman. Specifically, students in this class will be tasked with learning remote broadcasting technology and equipment, establishing a remote connection back to the Chapman Radio studios and broadcasting events like sporting events, guest speakers, music performance, and other special events. Students will learn the technical side of remote broadcasting, hosting special events, in particular play-by-play for sporting events, and programming a 24-hour live stream. Some sections of COM 108  and COM 308 will be held together. Pass/No Pass. This course may be repeated for credit. (Offered as needed.) 3 credits
  • COM 310 - Business and Professional Communication


    Prerequisites, COM 100 , or SCC 100  with a minimum grade of B- and COM 295 , or SCC 295  with a minimum grade of C, or as a corequisite. This course will build students’ business and professional communication competence in ways that reflect (1) job market, cultural, technological, and social demands; and (2) the findings of empirical research in communication and related disciplines. Some sections of this course may be offered for communication studies majors and/or strategic and corporate communication majors only. Students may only receive credit for either COM 219  or COM 310. Letter grade. (Offered as needed.) 3 credits
  • COM 311 - Gender and Communication


    Students will be introduced to the complex ways in which communication and gender interact. Attention will be given to the socially endorsed views of masculinity and femininity as taught to individuals through a variety of cultural means. Some sections of this course may be offered for communication studies and/or strategic and corporate communication majors only. (Offered as needed.) 3 credits
  • COM 314 - Communication Theory


    Prerequisites, COM 100 , or SCC 100  with a minimum grade of B- and COM 295 , or SCC 295  with a minimum grade of C, or as a corequisite and communication studies or global communication and world languages or strategic and corporate communication major. Students will be introduced to the theories and ideas that shape how we understand the human communication process. Through the use of communication theories, each student will be provided an explanation of how and why humans interact, communicate, and make various communication choices. (Offered as needed.) 3 credits
  • COM 317 - Media and Politics


    Prerequisites, COM 100 , or SCC 100  with a minimum grade of B- and COM 295 , or SCC 295  with a minimum grade of C, or as a corequisite. An examination of the role of the mass media in the American political process. Topics include various models and theories of political communication, the construction of news, agenda setting, mass media effects, campaign communications, and the impact of press coverage of political actors and institutions. Some sections of this course may be offered for communication studies and/or strategic and corporate communication majors only. Some sections may be taught with POSC 317 . (Offered as needed.) 3 credits
  • COM 328 - Mass Media Effects


    Prerequisites, COM 100 , or SCC 100  with a minimum grade of B- and COM 295 , or SCC 295  with a minimum grade of C, or as a corequisite. The course examines the effects of mass media on individuals and groups in society. Media content and effects are explored in various domains, including violent, sexual, pro-social and news media. The course begins with a historical overview of theory, methodology and research in the realm of media effects. The course continues with extensive survey of contemporary research about the role of media in facilitating changes in people and society, and consideration of possible explanations of how media effects occur. The course will conclude with discussion of possible ways to diminish socially undesirable media effects. Specifically, the effectiveness of media literacy programs and media regulation will be considered. Some sections of this course may be offered for communication studies and/or strategic and corporate communication majors only. (Offered as needed.) 3 credits
  • COM 329 - Experimental Course


    Experimental courses are designed to offer additional opportunities to explore areas and subjects of special interest and may be repeated for credit if course content is different. Course titles, and Prerequisites, may vary. Some courses require student lab Fees. Some sections of this course may be offered for communication studies and/or strategic and corporate communication majors only. May be repeated for credit, if course topic is different. Some topics may require student lab Fees. (Offered as needed.) 3 credits
  • COM 330 - The Origins of Western Civilization: Mathematics and Philosophy in Magna Graecia and Ancient Sicily


    (Same as MATH 330 PHIL 330 .) 3 credits
  • COM 334 - Communication Through Entertainment


    Prerequisites, COM 100  or SCC 100  with a minimum grade of B- and COM 295  or SCC 295  with a minimum grade of C or as a corequisites. Whether by design or by accident, by example or by association, for better or for worse, entertainment media have an uncanny power to impact and effect attitudes and behavior. Why else would advertisers covet placement of their advertisements alongside entertainment productions, use of their products by entertainment stars, or integration of products organically into entertainment? Over the course of the decades, not only have commercial advertisers taken advantage of these methods to market their wares, but in contemporary times a number of interest groups have adapted them for and mastered their use in the communication of public service messages, spawning the field of Entertainment Communication as a cottage industry that has proven most effective at educating the viewing public about a myriad of health and social issues. This class will provide both a theoretical and a practical approach by examining underlying theories of behavior change, reviewing the evolution of Entertainment Communication as a present day common practice, analyzing various past real world examples of Entertainment Communication applications, and then applying those concepts creatively by designing an Entertainment Communication campaign for an existing contemporary television series. By combining research and practical skills, students will understand how Entertainment Communication works and how it can be applied in their professional lives. Letter grade. (Offered as needed.) 3 credits
  • COM 336 - Effective Sport/Organizational Communication: Leading Teams and Individuals


    Prerequisites, COM 100  or SCC 100  with a minimum grade of B- and COM 295  with a minimum grade of C or as a corequisite and communication studies or strategic and corporate communication or global communication and world languages major. The course will cover the major themes of effective communication through the lens of sports and organizations. Students will study the most dynamic and effective communicators in their field, as well as the theory and methods behind their styles. Letter grade with Pass/No Pass option. (Offered as needed.) 3 credits
  • COM 337 - Image and Marketing of Cities


    Prerequisites, COM 100  or SCC 100  with a minimum grade of B- and COM 295  with a minimum grade of C or as a corequisite and communication studies or strategic and corporate communication or global communication and world languages major. “What is a city for?” “Why do people choose to live in a place?” “Where should people move their business?” These are critical questions for regions and cities. This class focuses on the mythology of cities, and ways that communities market themselves to the world. In terms of skills, this ability to hone a message is one of the critical areas for real estate, engineering and business promotion firms. The class will focus first on the basics of urban development, from the earliest times to modernity, and then turn to the issue of marketing. The course will bring in key speakers with backgrounds in economic development, the Middle East, suburbia, millennials and other related topics. Given the current situation, the course will also focus on issues concerning pandemics and the more recent accelerated moves to smaller cities and suburbs. Letter grade. (Offered as needed.) 3 credits
  • COM 338 - Podcast Production and Editing


    Prerequisites, COM 100  or SCC 100  with a minimum grade of B- and COM 295  with a minimum grade of C or as a corequisite and communication studies or strategic and corporate communication or global communication and world languages major. This course is designed to advance the goal of vision through persuasive messaging with an evidence-driven introduction to emerging technologies and digital media, organizational communication, mass communication, and intercultural communication. After successfully completing this class, students will have an understanding of how Podcasting works, how it differs from terrestrial and satellite offerings. Students will gain operational skills and understand responsibilities including “Pod-Safe” best practices and music licensing compliance. The class will learn how to get Podcast on iTunes, Google Play, Spotify and other high-profile outlets. Students will be ready to meet the challenges and opportunities technology reveals in the future. This class will focus heavily on the creative process; being a host, putting together a show, conceptualizing informative and entertaining content, how to identify the target audience, and how to market a podcaster and a show to that audience. IMPORTANT: each member of the class will produce a weekly podcast by mid-semester. Letter grade. (Offered as needed.) 3 credits
  • COM 350 - Mass Communication Theory


    Prerequisites, COM 100  or SCC 100  with a minimum grade of B- and COM 151 COM 295  with a minimum grade of C. The course introduces students to major theories of media audiences, media effects, media structures and processes, as well as media content and meaning. Theories will be discussed in their historical and philosophical context. Students will be expected to understand the key concepts of each theory and be able to apply them to everyday life situations and communication artifacts. Letter grade. (Offered as needed.) 3 credits
  • COM 351 - Propaganda and Public Opinion


    Prerequisites, COM 100 , or SCC 100  with a minimum grade of B- and COM 295 , or SCC 295  with a minimum grade of C, or as a corequisite. Starting with classical Hellenic rhetoric, particularly Aristotle’s applications to politics, the course deals with how the Western tradition of political rhetoric has been extended worldwide to mass-media based societies favoring the ideologies of democracy, capitalism, fascism, and communism, etc. Some sections of this course may be offered for communication studies and/or strategic and corporate communication majors only. (Offered as needed.) 3 credits
  • COM 355 - Family Communication


    Prerequisites, COM 100  or SCC 100  with a minimum grade of B- and COM 295  or SCC 295  with a minimum grade of C or as a corequisite. This purpose of this course is to enhance understanding about communication patterns within families. This course, examines theory/research on the role of communication in creating and maintaining healthy marriages and families. Some sections of this course may be offered for communication studies and/or strategic and corporate communication majors only. Letter grade. (Offered as needed.) 3 credits
  • COM 360 - Mindful Communication


    Mindfulness will be applied to develop better presentation, interpersonal and group communication skills. Through an in-depth look at self-concept, verbal and nonverbal language and listening skills, students gain an increased awareness of the way they perceive themselves and others as well as the cultural and ethical implications of their communication behavior. (Offered every year.) 3 credits
  • COM 372 - Introduction to Health Communication


    Prerequisites, COM 100 , or SCC 100  with a minimum grade of B- and COM 295 , or SCC 295  with a minimum grade of C, or as a corequisite. This is a survey course introducing the student to principles that hold particular importance to health communication. The emphasis will be on empirical research in health communication. As part of the exploration of contextual topics, patient-provider interaction and interpersonal communication in health contexts will be examined. Some sections of this course may be offered for communication studies and/or strategic and corporate communication majors only. (Offered as needed.) 3 credits
  • COM 388 - Advanced Interpersonal Communication


    Prerequisites, COM 110  with a minimum grade of C and COM 100 , or SCC 100  with a minimum grade of B- and COM 295 , or SCC 295  with a minimum grade of C, or as a corequisite. Relationships are a fundamental part of the human experience. This course will focus on understanding the communicative processes inherent in creating, maintaining, and dissolving a variety of close relationships. Issues related to interpersonal attraction, and self-disclosure are some of the topics that will be explored in-depth. Some sections of this course may be offered for communication studies and/or strategic and corporate communication majors only. (Offered as needed.) 3 credits
  • COM 393 - Communication Law


    Prerequisites, COM 100 , or SCC 100  with a minimum grade of B- and COM 295 , or SCC 295  with a minimum grade of C, or as a corequisite. The course will provide the student with an overview of the basic issues of communications law in the United States, with a focus on constitutional issues such as Freedom of Speech and Expression, Rights of Privacy, Intellectual Property, etc. The goal is to provide the potential media professional with an understanding of the manner in which the law impacts a civil society which uses mass media ranging from newspapers to the Internet. Some sections of this course may be offered for communication studies and/or strategic and corporate communication majors only. (Offered as needed.) 3 credits
  • COM 399 - Individual Study


    Prerequisites, junior standing, consent of instructor. Individual study and research offered to students in order to research particular topics that are not provided for by regular curriculum offerings. Students design their individual research or projects under the guidance of a faculty member. May be repeated for credit. (Offered as needed.) 1-6 credits
  • COM 401 - Persuasive Speaking


    Prerequisites, COM 100 , or SCC 100  with a minimum grade of B- and COM 295 , or SCC 295  with a minimum grade of C. This course focuses on persuasive public speaking skills used in politics, social change, organizational needs, sales presentations, news media coverage, and commercials, and highlights discrete factors in persuasion, such as problems in determining the effect of persuasive messages, source credibility, and message variables. Some sections of this course may be offered for communication studies and/or strategic and corporate communication majors only. (Offered as needed.) 3 credits
  • COM 410 - Organizational Communication


    Prerequisites, COM 100 , or SCC 100  with a minimum grade of B- and COM 295 , or SCC 295  with a minimum grade of C. Instruction includes a mix of theory and practice of interpersonal communication in organizational settings. Major research theories are experienced through analysis of case studies and guided role-play of typical situations in organizations. Some sections of this course may be offered for communication studies and strategic and corporate communication majors only. (Offered every semester.) 3 credits
  • COM 411 - Communication in the Global Workplace


    Prerequisites, COM 100  or SCC 100  and COM 211  with a minimum grade of B- and COM 295  or SCC 295  with a minimum grade of C. This course, using a case-study approach, aims to help people of different cultures to effectively communicate and work together in the global workplace by breaking down conceptual, theoretical, perceptual and practical barriers. Some sections of this course may be offered for global communication, communication studies and/or strategic and corporate communication majors only. Letter grade. (Offered as needed.) 3 credits
  • COM 412 - Communication and Workplace Technologies


    Prerequisites, COM 100 , or SCC 100  with a minimum grade of B- and COM 295 , or SCC 295  with a minimum grade of C. This course examines how emerging technologies both help and hinder workplace communication. We examine theory, practical applications, key scholars, and current empirical research. We use case studies to provide context for learning how to thrive in the contemporary, often global for-profit and non-profit organization. Some sections of this course may be offered for communication studies and/or strategic and corporate communication majors only. (Offered as needed.) 3 credits
  • COM 415 - Communication and Virtual Organizing


    Prerequisites, COM 100  or SCC 100  with a minimum grade of B- and COM 295  or SCC 295  with a minimum grade of C. This course examines how social media and emerging technologies make organizing without a traditional organization possible. The course explores how human agents and technological tools co-create virtual organizations through strategic cycles of recursive interactions. This is done through the examination of theoretical frameworks, practical strategies, and current empirical research. Students work in teams to link communication theories and organizational practices to build effective virtual organizations. Some sections of this course may be offered for communication studies and/or strategic and corporate communication majors only. Letter grade. (Offered as needed.) 3 credits
  • COM 429 - Experimental Course


    Prerequisite, junior standing. Experimental courses are designed to offer additional opportunities to explore areas and subjects of special interest and may be repeated for credit if course content is different. Course titles, prerequisites, and credits may vary. Some sections of this course may be offered for Communication Studies and/or Strategic and Corporate Communication majors only. May be repeated for credit, if course topic is different. Some topics may require student lab fees. (Offered as needed.) 1-3 credits
  • COM 440 - Conflict, Negotiation and Power


    Prerequisites, COM 100 , or SCC 100  with a minimum grade of B- and COM 295 , or SCC 295  with a minimum grade of C. Aspects of personal power and global power will be studied in relationship to conflict resolution. Students will apply theoretical methods using real world case studies. Emphasis is on early recognition of unhealthy conflict, accurate diagnosis of its causes and the development of effective communication-based intervention strategies. Some sections of this course may be offered for communication studies and/or strategic and corporate communication majors only. (Offered as needed.) 3 credits
  • COM 445 - Social Media and Contemporary Society


    Prerequisites, COM 100  or SCC 100  with a minimum grade of B- and COM 295  or SCC 295  with a minimum grade of C and COM 151 . This course is a two-part journey through the recent integration of social media into society. This course will explore the historical roots of new and social media, spending time understanding the roles of each of the major social media (e.g., AIM, Facebook, YouTube, Twitter). This course will investigate a variety of ways that new media have influenced important facets of everyday lives (e.g., politics, health, privacy, relationships). An understanding of social scientific research methods is helpful, but not required. Some sections of this course may be offered for communication studies and/or strategic and corporate communication majors only. Letter grade. (Offered as needed.) 3 credits
  • COM 452 - Political Communication


    Prerequisites, COM 100 , or SCC 100  with a minimum grade of B- and COM 295 , or SCC 295  with a minimum grade of C. Students will be introduced to the systematic and theoretical role of communication in society and politics. The course focuses on the variables of political communication, even as a particular context may be explored- e.g. the American Presidency, the UN and Global Politics, local California politics, etc. In all of these, the nature of democratic (political campaigns, debates and election strategies) vs. non-democratic processes will be examined and critiqued. Some sections of this course may be offered for communication studies and/or strategic and corporate communication majors only. (Offered as needed.) 3 credits
  • COM 456 - Mother-Daughter Communication


    Prerequisites, COM 100 , or SCC 100  with a minimum grade of B- and COM 295 , or SCC 295  with a minimum grade of C. The mother-daughter relationship has been explored in literature, film, and in the social sciences. This course will examine the mother-daughter relationship through social, psychological, developmental, and relational communication lenses. The course challenges students to explore the socially constructed nature of the mother-daughter relationship in film and investigate the many ways this unique relationship is understood through the social sciences. In addition to examining the social construction of the mother-daughter relationship across time, contemporary social science theories will be discussed and students will be challenged to assess how these theories do or do not help to explain their own personal maternal relationships. This mother-daughter communication course is an upper division course that contributes toward students’ personal development and complements students’ interests in pursuing counseling, pastoral, health, gerontology, social services and other career ambitions involving a need to understand family relationships. COM 456 may be used to fulfill major requirements for upper division credits. Some sections of this course may be offered for communication studies and/or strategic and corporate communication majors only. Letter grade. (Offered as needed.) 3 credits
  • COM 480 - Nonverbal Communication


    Prerequisites, COM 100 , or SCC 100  with a minimum grade of B- and COM 295 , or SCC 295  with a minimum grade of C. Students learn to identify and apply nonverbal communication cues such as body movements, vocalics, use of space and environment, physical appearance, and touch. Emphasis is placed on understanding specific functions of nonverbal communication and the successful use of nonverbal communication in various contexts. Some sections of this course may be offered for communication studies and/or strategic and corporate communication majors only. (Offered as needed.) 3 credits
  • COM 482 - Advanced Health Communication


    Prerequisites, COM 100 , or SCC 100  with a minimum grade of B- and COM 295 , or SCC 295  with a minimum grade of C. This is a survey course exposing the student to principles that hold particular importance to health communication and campaigns. The emphasis will be on both seminal and recent research trends, with specific attention directed toward relevant research designs and methodologies. As part of the exploration of contextual topics, types of health campaigns will be examined, and students will have an opportunity to participate in an active and ongoing campaign. Some sections of this course may be offered for communication studies and/or strategic and corporate communication majors only. (Offered as needed.) 3 credits
  • COM 485 - Media and Relationships


    Prerequisites, COM 100 , or SCC 100  with a minimum grade of B- and COM 295 , or SCC 295  with a minimum grade of C. The course involves three sections: a) media effects, b) interpersonal communication, and c) the ways in which these two bodies of research are integrated and merged. Students will learn how media exposure and use impacts perceptions of and behaviors within various interpersonal relationships. Some sections of this course may be offered for communication studies and/or strategic and corporate communication majors only. (Offered as needed.) 3 credits
  • COM 488 - Darkside of Interpersonal Communication


    Prerequisites, COM 100 , or SCC 100  with a minimum grade of B- and COM 295 , or SCC 295  with a minimum grade of C. Relationships are a fundamental part of the human experience, yet communicating in relationships is not always productive. This course will focus on understanding negative and dysfunctional communication in a variety of interpersonal contexts. Jealousy, gossiping, teasing and bullying, infidelity, deception and lying, and verbal and physical aggression or violence are some of the topics that may be explored in-depth. Some sections of this course may be offered for communication studies and/or strategic and corporate communication majors only. (Offered as needed.) 3 credits
  • COM 490 - Independent Internship


    Prerequisites, consent of instructor and communication studies, or strategic and corporate communication major. In coordination with the Career and Professional Development Center, opportunities are for students to explore career options and develop skills by associating with professional agencies. Consult advisor. A maximum of 6 hours can be applied to major requirements. P/NP. May be repeated for credit. (Offered every semester.) ½-6 credits
  • COM 491 - Student-Faculty Research/Creative Activity


    Prerequisites, COM 100 , or SCC 100  with a minimum grade of B- and COM 295 , or SCC 295  with a minimum grade of C, and consent of instructor, and communication studies, or strategic and corporate communication major. Students engage in independent, faculty-mentored scholarly research/creative activity in their discipline which develops fundamentally novel knowledge, content, and/or data. Topics or projects are chosen after discussions between student and instructor who agree upon objective and scope. P/NP or letter grade option with consent of instructor. May be repeated for credit. (Offered as needed.) 1-3 credits
  • COM 493 - Ethical Controversies in Communication


    Prerequisites, COM 100 , or SCC 100  with a minimum grade of B- and COM 295 , or SCC 295  with a minimum grade of C. The goal is to provide an in-depth understanding and application of ethical standards in a variety of communication contexts. Students will explore alternative ways of evaluating and responding to communication problems. Students will be able to identify, describe, and apply appropriate features of ethical communication interventions. Some sections of this course may be offered for communication studies and/or strategic and corporate communication majors only. (Offered as needed.) 3 credits
  • COM 495 - Research Seminar in Communication


    Prerequisites, COM 100 , or SCC 100  with a minimum grade of B- and COM 295 , or SCC 295  with a minimum grade of C. Topics for this course vary. Some sections of this course may be offered for communication studies and/or strategic and corporate communication majors only. (Offered as needed.) 3 credits
  • COM 498 - Senior Seminar


    Prerequisites, communication studies major, senior standing, and COM 100 , or SCC 100  with a minimum grade of B- and COM 295 , or SCC 295  with a minimum grade of C. In this capstone course, students will demonstrate proficiency in research and criticism by writing a major research paper which will be evaluated by the department and presented to an audience of peers. Some sections of COM 498 and SCC 498  may be taught together.

      (Offered every semester.) 3 credits

  • COM 499 - Individual Study


    Prerequisites, COM 100 , or SCC 100  with a minimum grade of B- and COM 295 , or SCC 295  with a minimum grade of C, and consent of instructor. Individual study and research offered to students in order to research particular topics that are not provided for by regular curriculum offerings. Students design their individual research or projects under the guidance of a faculty member. May be repeated for credit. (Offered as needed.) 1-6 credits

Strategic and Corporate Communication

  • SCC 100 - Introduction to Strategic and Corporate Communication


    Prerequisite, strategic and corporate communication major. This introductory course in strategic and corporate communication emphasizes communication theory and practice associated with the advancement of an organization’s mission, vision, product and/or service. Specifically, this course focuses on the persuasive use of messaging in the organizational context and develops skills in the purposeful use of communication. Students will be introduced to the concepts, skills and issues associated with different types of public information campaigns and other forms of strategic messaging designed to reach various audiences both internal and external to the corporation. The goal of this course is to create strategic communicators who are able to understand messaging so that it can facilitate an organization achieving it goals. (Offered every semester.) 3 credits
  • SCC 200 - Message Design I


    Prerequisite, SCC 100 . This course covers the basic principles of creating an effective message campaign to be consistent with an organization’s purpose or goals. A major focus is to apply theories of persuasion and communication. Students will learn the initial stages of planning and designing message campaigns. Students will then implement and evaluate the message campaign in Message Design II. Some sections of this course may be offered for communication studies and/or strategic and corporate communication majors only. (Offered as needed.) 3 credits
  • SCC 301 - Interviewing and Focus Groups


    Prerequisites, COM 100 , or SCC 100  with a minimum grade of B- and COM 295  , or SCC 295  with a minimum grade of C, or as a corequisite. This course is designed to give students experience in planning for and conducting different types of professional interviews. Students will be learning the theoretical frameworks explaining the roles people enact in interviewing situations and the nature of interviewing communication. Course will address the functions and techniques of the major types of interviews, including the facilitation of focus groups, and learn how to construct effective interview guides. Students will gain experience constructing interview guide, conducting professional interviews, and participating in them. Some sections of this course may be offered for strategic and corporate communication and/or communication studies majors only. (Offered as needed.) 3 credits
  • SCC 302 - Visual Communication Design


    Prerequisites, COM 100 , or SCC 100  with a minimum grade of B- and COM 295  or SCC 295  with a minimum grade of C, or as a corequisite. Visual Communication Design will introduce students to the use of industry-standard tools for visual communication design along with the key theories of visual communication and typography, reinforce and strengthen competencies in research, analysis and message design so that students can craft an effective message or message campaign, and reinforce the aforementioned skills with real-life applications which combine research, message design, graphic design, and analysis in order to design visual communications that obtain a desired goal. Some sections of this course may be offered for communication studies and/or strategic and corporate communication and/or global communication and world languages majors only. (Offered as needed.) 3 credits
  • SCC 304 - Messaging in Advertising and Promotion Context


    Prerequisites, COM 100  or SCC 100  with a minimum grade of B- and SOC 295 , or SCC 295  with a minimum grade of C, or as a corequisite. This course is designed to give students experience in planning for and conducting different types of campaigns. This course will introduce you to the concepts, analyses, and activities that comprise advertising and promotion management and provide practice in assessing and solving advertising and promotion challenges. Class sessions will be devoted to learning major advertising and promotion concepts and applying them to real world examples and experiences. Students who have taken COM 329  when taught as Messaging in Advertising and Promotion Context may not enroll in this course. Some sections of this course may be offered for strategic and corporate communication and/or communication studies majors only. (Offered as needed.) 3 credits
  • SCC 305 - Marketing Through the Communicator’s Lens


    Prerequisites, COM 100  or SCC 100  with a minimum grade of B- and COM 295  or SCC 295  with a minimum grade of C or as a corequisite. This course will strengthen student knowledge as communicators regarding business’s product and service policies, pricing, advertising, selling, distribution, and marketing research with global emphasis. Students will learn to analyze a company’s marketing programs and begin learning to create their own. Students who have taken MKTG 305  or SCC 329  when taught as Marketing Through the Communicator’s Lens should not enroll in this course. Some sections of this course may be offered for strategic and corporate communication and/or communication studies majors only. Letter grade. (Offered as needed.) 3 credits
  • SCC 329 - Experimental Course


    Prerequisite, sophomore standing. Experimental courses are designed to offer additional opportunities to explore areas and subjects of special interest. Course titles, and Prerequisites, may vary. Some courses require student lab Fees. May be repeated for credit, if course topic is different. Some topics may require student lab Fees. (Offered as needed.) 1-3 credits
  • SCC 393 - Peace Communication


    (Same as PCST 393 .) This course will take students to a location to analyze the communication strategies of various organizations that pursue peace and social justice, situating this communication within the specific history and culture of the area. Emphasizing real world examples of peace communication practice, the course provides a chance to analyze these through the lens of research and theory from communication studies and peace studies. Students will meet with leaders from and observe a mixture of government agencies, non-profits, non-governmental and advocacy organizations, for-profit social enterprises, and/or international institutions. Students will be expected to attend classes and complete readings and/or written assignments prior to, during, and after departure. Focus of the course will vary depending on the instructors and the location of the program. May be repeated for credit. Fee: TBD. (Offered interterm, alternate years.) 3 credits
  • SCC 400 - Message Design II


    Prerequisites, strategic and corporate communication major, SCC 100 , SCC 200  with a minimum grade of B- and COM 295  with a minimum grade of C. The purpose of this class is for students to apply what they have learned about message design so far in Strategic and Corporate Communication Studies courses to an actual communication campaign.  In this class, students will continue the development of a campaign targeted at college students, implement this campaign using various channels and messages, and evaluate the effectiveness of this campaign on achieving target goals and objectives. Students will also learn about principles of effective message design, application of communication theory to global corporate and strategic communication attempts, and how to apply message design to their own career goals. Letter grade. (Offered every semester.) 3 credits
  • SCC 410 - Training and Consulting in the Corporate Context


    Prerequisites, COM 100 , or SCC 100  with a minimum grade of B- and COM 295 , or SCC 295  with a minimum grade of C. This course will introduce students to the theories and principles of andragogy and instructional design as they relate to training and consulting in corporate and professional environments. Students will learn theoretical frameworks and practical strategies for diagnosing organizational problems and individual employee skill gaps, and then designing and delivering appropriate training interventions. This course will focus on engaging contemporary corporate audiences with competent training facilitation and effective use of communication technology and presentation aids. Some sections of this course may be offered for strategic and corporate communication and/or communication studies majors only. (Offered as needed.) 3 credits
  • SCC 415 - Communication and Organizational Change


    Prerequisites, COM 100 , or SCC 100  with a minimum grade of B- and COM 295 , or SCC 295  with a minimum grade of C. This course is designed to orient students to the theoretical frameworks and empirical research on the role of communication in corporate change. Course focuses on internal and external changes, including technology adoption and innovation, leadership change, downsizing, and volatile markets and economies. Students will learn the theories, skills, and strategies associated with designing messages which promote acceptance of change, and how to use interpersonal communication during change to reduce employee uncertainty. Some sections of this course may be offered for strategic and corporate communication and/or communication studies majors only. (Offered as needed.) 3 credits
  • SCC 420 - Risk and Crisis Communication


    Prerequisites, COM 100 , or SCC 100  with a minimum grade of B- and COM 295 , or SCC 295  with a minimum grade of C. This course explores the communicative dynamics that both prevent and cause organizational crisis. Through case studies, the class examines how people plan, communicate and make good decisions in high-risk situations, as well as how to manage crisis effectively. Students will apply concepts, theories and frameworks to research, design and deliver crisis communication plans and media training. Some sections of this course may be offered for strategic and corporate communication majors only. (Offered as needed.) 3 credits
  • SCC 425 - Communication in the Non-profit Organization


    Prerequisites, COM 100 , or SCC 100  with a minimum grade of B- and COM 295 , or SCC 295  with a minimum grade of C. This course focuses on nonprofit organizational communication at the macro and micro levels. Through a combination of readings, case analysis, writings, discussions, and guest speakers, students gain an understanding of the challenges and opportunities within the non-profit sector. Topics included in this class are: organizational identity, change processes, fund-raising, advocacy, stress and burnout, board management and professionalism. Some sections of this course may be offered for communication studies and/or strategic and corporate communication majors only. (Offered as needed.) 3 credits
  • SCC 491 - Student-Faculty Research/Creative Activity


    Prerequisite, consent of instructor. Students engage in independent, faculty-mentored scholarly research/creative activity in their discipline which develops fundamentally novel knowledge, content, and/or data. Topics or projects are chosen after discussions between student and instructor who agree upon objective and scope. P/NP or letter grade option with consent of instructor. May be repeated for credit. (Offered every semester.) 1-3 credits
  • SCC 498 - Senior Seminar in Strategic and Corporate Communication


    Prerequisites, strategic and corporate communication major, senior standing, SCC 100 , and COM 295  or SCC 295 . This course will serve as a capstone course for the major. (Offered every semester.) 3 credits
  • SCC 499 - Individual Study


    Prerequisite, consent of instructor. Individual study and research offered to students in order to research particular topics that are not provided for by regular curriculum offerings. Students design their individual research or projects under the guidance of a faculty member. (Offered as needed.) 1-6 credits