Communication Department

Course Descriptions

COM 100 Public Speaking (4 units)

Theory and practice of speech organization, composition, and delivery. Research materials used as a part of course work. 4 lectures/problem-solving.

COM 101 Survey of Mass Communication (4 units)

Survey of contemporary mass media; communication theory, structure and inter-relationships of newspapers, magazines, radio, and television. Analysis of major media content. 4 lectures/problem-solving.

COM 103 Interpersonal Communication (4 units)

The variables determining communication behavior. Developement of understanding through involvement in a variety of structured face-to-face interactions with other students. 4 lectures/problem solving.

COM 106 Writing for Communication Practitioners (4 units)

Editorial, research, feature, and scholarly writing styles, constructions, and structures unique to the communication field. 4 lectures.

COM 108 Information Gathering and Writing (4 units)

Information resources for creation of written messages targeted at select media audiences to achieve a stated communication objective. Consideration of audience characteristics, appropriate format and style for effective message formulation and evaluation of feedback to determine communication effectiveness. 4 lectures/problem-solving. Prerequisite: COM 106.

COM 131/131A Photography (2 units for each)

Basic photography techniques, including taking, processing, and selecting good photos. For those with no or limited experience in photography. 2 lectures, 2 three-hour laboratories a week. Prerequisites: COM 280 or ART 150, and access to camera that uses 35mm, 120 or 620 films and has adjustable shutter speed, f/stop, and focusing controls. Corequisites: COM 131/131A.

COM 200 Special Study for Lower Division Students (1-2 units)

Individual or group investigation, research, studies, or surveys of selected problems. Total credit limited to 4 units, with a maximum of 2 units per quarter.

COM 201 Introduction to Communication Theory (4 units)

Contributions of rhetorical theory, linguistics, psychology, and sociology to the development of general communication theory. 4 lectures/problem solving.

COM 204 Advocacy and Argument (4 units)

Analysis of logical methods of proof and different modes of advocacy. Argument as measured by formal validity and rhetorical effectiveness. Principles of argumentation with application of contemporary forms of public advocacy. 4 lectures/problem-solving. Fulfills GE Area A2.

COM 206 Introduction to Desktop Publishing (4 units)

Principles and theory of typography, layout, and production of material for the print industry. Work with Macintosh computers and learn elements of desktop publishing, including word processing, graphic design, and page composition. 4 lectures/problem-solving.

COM 216 Report Writing (4 units)

Report-writing techniques. Covers research, organization, and preparation of specialized and technical information. Regular written reports are required. 4 lectures/ problem-solving. Prerequisite: ENG 104.

COM 232 Publications Photography (4 units)

Photography for media publications and public relations. Course includes photo editing, picture stories and photo illustrations and photography and lighting for newspapers, magazines, and other media publications. 2 one-hour lectures, 2 two-hour activities. 4 lectures/problem-solving. Corequisites: COM232. Prerequisites: COM 131/131A.

COM 260 Communication Law (4 units)

Constitutional, statutory and case law governing freedom of speech and press, libel, privacy, journalist’s confidential sources, subpoena, search warrant, contempt, newsgathering and freedom of information, free press and fair trial, obscenity, and access to the media. 4 lectures/problem-solving.

COM 261 Communication Ethics (4 units)

Responsibility of the mass media and the journalist in today’s society. 4 lectures/problem-solving.

COM 270 Media, Politics, Sex & Violence (4 units)

Effects of mass media institutions on societies; their significance as social institutions. Examines the ways in which news and entertainment media impact public attitudes and behavior. It also Includes examinations of sex, gender, violence, politics, and race.
4 lectures/problem-solving. Fulfills GE Area D3.

COM 280 Understanding & Appreciating the Photographic Image (4 units)

History and aesthetics of the photographic image. Explores theories of visual communication and methods of photographic image evaluation. Views and evaluates applications of photography. Examines the role of composition, light, and imagination in the production of photographic images. 4 lectures/presentations. Fulfills GE Area C1.

COM 299/299A/299L Special Topics for Lower Division Students (1-4 units)

Group study of a selected topic, the title to be specified in advance. Total credit limited to 8 units, with a maximum of 4 units per quarter. Instruction is by lecture, laboratory, or a combination of both. Corequisites may be required.

COM 300 Reporting I (4 units)

Basic news gathering and writing principles. Emphasis on style, sources, interviewing, news leads, and story development. 4 lectures/problem-solving. Prerequisites: COM 106, COM 108, COM 201, COM 260, COM 261. Corequisites: COM 300/300A.

COM 301 Broadcast Journalism (4 units)

Gathering and writing of news for broadcast media. Introduction to broadcast news production. Beginning field production. 4 lectures/problem-solving. Prerequisites: COM 106. Corequisites: COM 301/301A.

COM 306 Advanced Desktop Publishing (4 units)

Advanced instruction in the principles of typography, layout, publication design, editing, and production for newsletters, brochures, newspapers, and magazines. 4 lectures/problem solving. Prerequisite: COM 206.

COM 312 Magazine Journalism (4 units)

Analysis and history of various types of publications produced in magazine format. Class works on design and production of several magazine-styled publications using the latest in computer technology and desktop publishing software. Includes lectures, demonstrations and critiques of student projects. 4 lectures/problem-solving. Prerequisites: COM 106, COM 300.

COM 313 Public Relations Theory (4 units)

Effects of organized information on public thinking; dissemination of ideas by commercial, industrial, social, and governmental organizations; the use of various publicity tools. 4 lectures/problem solving. Prerequisite: COM 106.

COM 314 Organizational Communication Theory (4 units)

Interdisciplinary theoretical approaches to the study of communication in and between organizations. Emphasis on organizational communication theories relating to managerial, psychological, sociological, systemic, cultural, and political views of communication in and between organizations. 4 lectures/problem-solving. Prerequisites: Completion of GE requirements in Area A and a minimum of two GE courses from sub-areas C1-C3 and a minimum of two GE courses from sub-areas D1-D3. Fulfills GE Synthesis course requirements for Areas C4 or D4.

COM 316/316A Communication Research (4 units)

Research methods used to measure the content, process and effects of communications on attitudes, knowledge, and behavior. Research design, data analysis and evaluation in quantitative and qualitative communication research methodology. 4 lectures/problem-solving. Prerequisites: COM 108, COM 201.

COM 317 Reporting II (4 units)

Advanced newsgathering, interviewing and writing principles. Emphasis on multisource interviews and stories, including documents and news features. 2 lectures, 2 two-hour activities. Prerequisites: COM 106, COM 300/300A.

COM 319 Public Relations Writing (4 units)

Format and style for writing public relations materials. Emphasis on writing the various types of public relations copy. 4 lectures/problem- solving. Prerequisites: COM 106, COM 300/300A,
COM 313.

COM 321 Advanced Organizational Communication Theory (4 units)

Analysis of breakdowns in communications systems; identification of barriers and constraints to effective message transmission. Emphasis on practical and creative problem solving.
4 lectures/problem-solving.

COM 325 Persuasion (4 units)

How persuasion is affected by messages in various communication contexts. The process is studied through differing aspects of source, channel(s) and receiver(s). Emphasis on contributions from behavioral theorists. 4 lectures/problem-solving.

COM 327 Intercultural Communication (4 units)

Considers complexities of communication in a culturally diverse world toward the goal of improving communication effectiveness. Assimilates theory and research from anthropology, sociology, psychology, ethnic and gender studies, conflict & peace studies, and communication. Examines roles of culture, social groups, and individuals in shaping communication. 4 lectures/problem-solving. Prerequisites: Completion of General Education Area A and D: Sub-areas 1, 2, and 3. Fulfills G.E. area D-4.

COM 337 Group Discussion (4 units)

Variables of communication within problem-solving groups; development of conference and discussion skills. Secondary emphasis on group psychology as it relates to problem-solving discussions. 4 lectures/problem-solving.

COM 351A Newspaper Practices (2 units)

Newspaper laboratory for beginning newspaper staff members. For students interested in gaining practical newspaper experience. Minimum of 4 hours of activity a week. Prerequisite: COM 106, 108, 201, 260, 261, 300, or permission of instructor. Total credit in COM 351A,
COM 352A, COM 354A limited to 6 units.

COM 352A Magazine Practices (2 units)

Magazine production course for beginning staff members; includes writing, layout, and production activity. Minimum of 4 hours activity a week. Prerequisite: COM 106, 108, 201, 206, 260, 261, 300, 312, or permission of instructor. Total credit in COM 351A, COM 352A,
COM 354A limited to 6 units.

COM 354A Broadcast Practices (2 units)

Television production experience for broadcasting option students. Minimum of 6 hours of production activity a week. Prerequisites: COM 301 and COM 411 or permission of instructor. Total credit in COM 351A, COM 352A, COM 354A limited to 6 units.

COM 357 In-Depth Reporting (4 units)

In-depth reporting principles and development, including investigative, interpretive, series, and personality stories. Students required to research background for story assignments. 4 lectures/problem-solving. Prerequisites: COM 106, COM 108, COM 201, COM 260, COM 261, COM 300, COM 317.

COM 365 New Media Presentations (4 units)

Use of representational technology (such as PowerPoint) to create, organize, visualize, and present public messages to maximize communication effectiveness. Design and creation of basic web sites and pages to achieve diverse communication goals with various audiences. 4 lectures/problem solving. Prerequisites: COM 100 or COM 204.

COM 400 Special Study for Upper Division Students (1-2 units)

Individual or group investigation, research, studies, or surveys of selected problems. Total credit limited to 4 units, with a maximum of 2 units per quarter.

COM 409 Negotiation and Conflict Resolution (4 units)

Role of communication in the productive settlement of interpersonal and organizational disputes. The course examines effective communication strategies used in negotiation and bargaining situations. 4 lectures/problem-solving. Prerequisites: COM 106, COM 108,
COM 201, COM 260, COM 261.

COM 410 Nonverbal Communication (4 units)

Effects of nonverbal communication. Theory and application of selected areas of research in nonverbal communication. Topics include nonverbal communication in work, home, and relationships; cultural similarities and differences in nonverbal communication. 4 lectures/problem-solving. Prerequisites: COM 106, COM 108, COM 201, COM 260, and
COM 261.

COM 411 Advanced Broadcast Journalism (4 units)

Principles and practices of interpretive reporting and commentary in electronic media; organization, writing, delivery of news analysis; production of commentary programs on news, leading to their use on radio and television stations. 2 lectures, 2 two-hour activities. Prerequisites: COM 106, COM 108, COM 201, COM 260, COM 261, COM 300/300A, and COM 301/301A. Corequisites: COM 411/411A.

COM 413 Public Opinion, Propaganda and the Mass Media (4 units)

Techniques of sociological and political persuasion, mass media and public opinion in the United States; developments in international propaganda. Integrates disciplines of sociology and political science in application to operation of communication and communications media in society. 4 lectures/ problem-solving. Prerequisites: one course from each of the following Sub-areas: A1, A2, A3, and D1, D2, D3. GE Synthesis course for Sub-area D4.

COM 414 Public Relations Management (4 units)

Discussion of current public relations practices in businesses and institutions; development of public relations campaigns for specific situations. 4 lectures/problem-solving. Prerequisites: COM 106, COM 206, COM 261, COM 313, COM 319.

COM 416 Advanced Communication Research (4 units)

Advanced communication research, design, analysis, inference and evaluation, including multivariate methods. Use of computer packages for data analysis. Each student will design, implement and report a research project. 2 lectures/problem-solving; 2 two-hour activities. Corequisites: COM 416. Prerequisites: COM 106, COM 108, COM 201, COM 260, COM 261, COM 316.

COM 417 Reporting III (4 units)

Gathering material and writing newspaper stories pertaining to government and courts; emphasis on organization and procedure of governmental institutions. Students required to research background for story assignments. 4 lectures/problem-solving. Prerequisites:
COM 106, COM 300, COM 317.

COM 423 Political Economy of Mass Communication (4 units)

Political context of economic principles underwriting communications media. Historical and contemporary assessment of how economics of telecommunications, press, broadcasting, and the Internet interact with wider political processes, including legislative and regulatory agencies. Focus on U.S.-based media; comparative international references. 4 Lecture/problem-solving. Prerequisites: one course from each of the following Sub-areas: A1, A2, A3 and D1, D2, D3. GE Synthesis course for Sub-area D4.

COM 425 Global Communication (4 units)

Examination of structures and processes of global communication; political, social, historical, and economic contexts. Analysis and comparison of mass media systems on a national, regional, and global level. Explanation of theoretical concepts and case studies. 4 lectures/problem-solving. Prerequisites: COM 101, COM 201.

COM 431/431A Digital Photography (4 units)

Nature and types of image capture devices, image manipulation and adjustment techniques, and image output devices typically encountered by working photographers and artists; major emphasis upon image manipulation and compositing. 2 one-hour lectures, 2 two-hour laboratories. Corequisites: COM 431/431A. (2/2).

COM 446 Special Events Planning (4 units)

Application of public relations techniques to planning special events. Participation in planning, organization, and implementation of selected events. 4 lectures/problem-solving, 2 two-hour activities. Corequisites: COM 446/446A. Prerequisites: junior or senior standing.

COM 448 Media Criticism (4 units)

Analysis and criticism of the mass media. Examination of popular literature on the media and the study of selected programming to determine the state of the art. Writing critical analysis of current programs. 4 lectures/problem-solving. Prerequisites: COM 106, COM 108, COM 261.

COM 451A Advanced Newspaper Practices (2 units)

Newspaper laboratory for students who wish experientially based guidance in newspaper editorial and management practices. Minimum of 4 hours of production activity a week. Prerequisites: COM 106, COM 300, COM 351A, or permission of instructor. Total credit hours in COM 451A, COM 452A, COM 454A limited to 6 units.

COM 452A Advanced Magazine Practices (2 units)

Magazine production course for students in editorial and management positions. Minimum of 4 hours activity a week. Prerequisites: COM 106, COM 300, COM 312, COM 352A, or permission of instructor. Total credit in COM 451A, COM 452A, and COM 454A limited to 6 units.

COM 454A Advanced Broadcast Practices (2 units)

Advanced video production course. Minimum of 4 hours of production activity a week. Prerequisites: COM 101, COM131/131L, COM 301, COM 411, and COM 354A, or permission of instructor. Total credit in COM 451A, COM 452A, and COM 454A limited to 6 units.

COM 461 Applied Communication/Internship (6 units)

An intensive communication internship or other individual/group study of the communications process as specified by each option. Mandatory credit/no credit. Prerequisite: senior standing.

COM 465 Online Journalism (4 units)

Forms of online storytelling with an emphasis on news writing and editing. Examines the differences and similarities between journalism practiced on the Internet and in other media, such as print and television. Emphasis on efficient, readable copy, timely reporting, presentation strategies and effective use of online resources. 4 lectures/problem solving. Prerequisites COM 106, COM 108, COM 260, COM 261, COM 300, COM 317.