Courses and Syllabi
The University Catalog is the authoritative source for information on courses. The Schedule of Classes is the authoritative source for information on classes scheduled for this semester. See the Schedule for the most up-to-date information and see Patriot web to register for classes.
Communication Spring 2027
Undergraduate
COMM 101: Fundamentals of Communication (3 Credits)
This is a comprehensive communication skills course that will equip you with the communication skills that you will need to be successful in your future courses, careers, and communities. In this course, you will learn how to conduct research for, organize, and deliver effective presentations that allow you to explain complex ideas, persuade, and advocate for change. You will learn how to build and sustain meaningful relationships as well as manage conflict in those relationships. You will also develop the small group and leadership skills that will help you work successfully in teams. All of these skills will be embedded within a diversity and equity context so that you can understand, analyze, adapt messages for, and demonstrate respect and consideration for the multitude of audiences with whom you will communicate in a range of intercultural, personal, and professional contexts. Offered by Communication. Limited to three attempts.
Mason Core: Mason Core, Oral Communication
Specialized Designation: Mason Impact.
Schedule Type: Laboratory, Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
COMM 140: Forensics Seminar I (0-4 Credits)
Intensive work in creative forensics events, including rhetorical criticism and informative, persuasive, extemporaneous, after-dinner, and impromptu speaking. Offered by Communication. May be repeated within the degree for a maximum 5 credits.
Recommended Prerequisite: Audition required.
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
1 Section Currently Scheduled
- COMM 140 - 001: Forensics Seminar I — Dawn M Lowry — 08:00 AM to 12:00 PM S - Nguyen Engineering Building 1109
COMM 141: Forensics Seminar II (0-4 Credits)
Intensive work in recreative forensic events, including dramatic duo, program interpretation, poetry interpretation, dramatic interpretation, and prose interpretation. Offered by Communication. May be repeated within the degree for a maximum 5 credits.
Recommended Prerequisite: Audition required.
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
1 Section Currently Scheduled
- COMM 141 - 001: Forensics Seminar II — Dawn M Lowry — 08:00 AM to 12:00 PM S - Planetary Hall 120
COMM 142: Debate Seminar I (0-4 Credits)
Work in affirmative research, case construction, and oral presentation; directed toward affirmative analysis of intercollegiate debate proposition. Offered by Communication. May be repeated within the degree for a maximum 5 credits.
Recommended Prerequisite: Audition required.
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
1 Section Currently Scheduled
- COMM 142 - 001: Debate Seminar I — Jackie Poapst — 08:00 AM to 11:50 AM S - Nguyen Engineering Building 1108
COMM 143: Debate Seminar II (0-4 Credits)
Work in negative research, case attacks, and oral presentation directed toward negative analysis of intercollegiate debate proposition. Offered by Communication. May be repeated within the degree for a maximum 5 credits.
Recommended Prerequisite: Audition required.
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
1 Section Currently Scheduled
- COMM 143 - 001: Debate Seminar II — Jackie Poapst — 08:00 AM to 11:50 AM S - East Building 201
COMM 148: Podcasting and Radio Workshop I (0-1 Credits)
Students receive individual guidance in podcast production while learning to be on-air show hosts at student internet radio station WGMU. New technologies such as computer automation systems and advanced production software are integrated throughout the curriculum to prepare students to engage in the most current applications for commercial and internet radio and podcasting. Offered by Communication. May be repeated within the degree for a maximum 3 credits.
Recommended Prerequisite: One 100 level COMM course, or permission of instructor.
Schedule Type: Studio
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
1 Section Currently Scheduled
- COMM 148 - 001: Podcasting and Radio Workshop — Rodger Smith — 01:30 PM to 02:45 PM T - The Hub 1202
COMM 200: Communication Theory (3 Credits)
Introduces the field of communication, including perspectives on theory and research, topical areas within the discipline, basic research methodologies, and a survey of theories in those areas. Covers basic procedures for theory-building, research, and writing about communication. Offered by Communication. Limited to three attempts.
Specialized Designation: Mason Impact.
Recommended Prerequisite: COMM 100 or COMM 101 or permission of undergraduate program director.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
3 Sections Currently Scheduled
- COMM 200 - 001: Communication Theory — Rodger Smith — 09:00 AM to 10:15 AM MW - Research Hall 202
- COMM 200 - 002: Communication Theory — Dawn M Lowry — 12:00 PM to 01:15 PM TR - Research Hall 202
- COMM 200 - DL1: Communication Theory — Catherine M. Wright - Online
COMM 203: Introduction to Journalism (3 Credits)
Course covers the history of the news industry, exploring how technology and culture shape what people read, watch, and listen to. Includes a consideration of the economics of the news industry. Students will get hands-on experience with the core skills that journalists use to create accurate, ethical, and meaningful stories. Offered by Communication. Limited to three attempts.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
1 Section Currently Scheduled
- COMM 203 - 001: Introduction to Journalism — Nancy Donnelly — 10:30 AM to 11:45 AM TR - Thompson Hall L004
COMM 204: Introduction to Public Relations and Strategic Communication (3 Credits)
This is a gateway course to the field of Public Relations (PR). Students learn the history, ethics, and practices of the PR industry, and discuss how technology, politics, culture, and globalization contribute to how practitioners plan client campaigns. Students also practice foundational skills to produce professional, ethical, and message-driven PR campaigns. This course is appropriate to all who are interested in exploring the fast-evolving PR field. Offered by Communication. Limited to three attempts.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
1 Section Currently Scheduled
- COMM 204 - DL1: Introduction PR/Strat COMM — Pratiti Diddi — 12:00 PM to 01:15 PM TR - Online
COMM 208: Introduction to Media Production (3 Credits)
Provides a general introduction to media production with emphasis on the basics of multimedia tools for camera, audio, lighting, and editing, focusing on non-fiction, journalism, or public relations/advocacy presentations. Offered by Communication. Limited to two attempts.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
1 Section Currently Scheduled
- COMM 208 - 001: Intro Media Production — Lance E Schmeidler — 10:30 AM to 01:10 PM M - David J. King Hall 1011B
COMM 261: Theories of Argumentation (3 Credits)
Analyzes argument within communicative settings. Emphasizes deductive and inductive forms of reasoning, fallacies in reasoning, tests of evidence, and models for such analyses. Offered by Communication. Limited to three attempts.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
1 Section Currently Scheduled
- COMM 261 - 001: Theories: Argumentation — Nick M Loew — 03:00 PM to 04:15 PM TR - Angel Cabrera Global Center 1306B
COMM 300: Writing and Rhetorical Criticism (3 Credits)
Theories and principles of public communication, emphasizing methods of persuasion, critical analysis, speaker-listener alignments in public setting, and measurements of effective public communication. Emphasis on developing writing and critical thinking skills. Offered by Communication. Limited to three attempts.
Mason Core: Mason Core, Writing Intensive in Major
Registration Restrictions:
Required Prerequisites: COMM 200C, U200 or 200XS.
C Requires minimum grade of C.
XS Requires minimum grade of XS.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
2 Sections Currently Scheduled
- COMM 300 - 001: Writing & Rhetorical Crit — Andrew E Rudd — 12:00 PM to 01:15 PM TR - East Building 134
- COMM 300 - 002: Writing & Rhetorical Crit — Susan Tomasovic — 03:00 PM to 04:15 PM MW - Planetary Hall 127
COMM 302: Media Theory (3 Credits)
Provides a comprehensive review of mass communication and media theory, focusing on media effects and the complex relationships between media producers, messages, technologies, and users/audiences. Examines role of media in news, politics, and popular culture. Offered by Communication. Limited to three attempts.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
2 Sections Currently Scheduled
- COMM 302 - 001: Media Theory — Erik Holland — 04:30 PM to 07:10 PM R - Horizon Hall 4012
- COMM 302 - DL1: Media Theory — Erik Holland - Online
COMM 305: Foundations of Intercultural Communication (3 Credits)
Analyzes communication variables as they relate to intercultural encounters. Emphasizes culture's influence on communication process, particularly influence of verbal and nonverbal communication on how message is interpreted. Notes: Communication majors are encouraged to complete COMM 200 prior to enrolling in this course. Offered by Communication. Limited to three attempts.
Specialized Designation: Mason Impact.
Recommended Prerequisite: 3 credits of 100 or 200-level COMM courses or 60 credits.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
COMM 308: Writing for Public Relations and Strategic Communication (3 Credits)
This course emphasizes practicing impactful and newsworthy PR writing and editing for materials such as news releases and media pitches. These strategic and targeted messages are designed to be shared across traditional and digital communication platforms to various publics and stakeholders. Students learn how to craft persuasive messages to achieve organizational objectives and optimize media attention. Offered by Communication. Limited to three attempts.
Mason Core: Mason Core, Writing Intensive in Major
Registration Restrictions:
Required Prerequisites: COMM 204C or 204XS.
C Requires minimum grade of C.
XS Requires minimum grade of XS.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
1 Section Currently Scheduled
- COMM 308 - 001: Writing for PR/Strat COMM — Dana Siller — 04:30 PM to 07:10 PM M - Horizon Hall 4001
COMM 318: Persuasion (3 Credits)
Theories of persuasive communication including traditional and contemporary attitudinal change; relationship among speaker, message, and audience; and relationship between attitudinal and behavioral change. Offered by Communication. Limited to three attempts.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
1 Section Currently Scheduled
- COMM 318 - DL1: Persuasion — Catherine M. Wright - Online
COMM 320: Digital Innovations in Professional Communication (3 Credits)
Course focuses on practical communication strategies for navigating the modern digital workplace and improving career-readiness. Students develop essential communication skills for professional contexts, including writing, presentations, and group collaboration while applying interpersonal and intercultural competencies. Examines how emerging technologies and digital business tools are transforming workplace communication and shaping career opportunities. Offered by Communication. Limited to three attempts.
Mason Core: Mason Core, Info Tech & Computing
Recommended Prerequisite: COMM 100, 101, or permission of instructor.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
COMM 325: AI-enhanced Research Analytics for Strategic Communication (3 Credits)
Provides students with industry specific, practical research and analysis skills essential for strategic communication. Focus areas include audience analysis and segmentation, message development and evaluation, as well as media monitoring. Students conduct applied research using survey and focus group methods, social listening skills, and media sentiment analysis. Students also learn how AI applications assist or extend traditional research and analytics efforts in the field of strategic communication. Offered by Communication. Limited to three attempts.
Registration Restrictions:
Required Prerequisite: (COMM 308C).
C Requires minimum grade of C.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
1 Section Currently Scheduled
- COMM 325 - 001: AI Rsch Analyics Strat Comm — Sojung Claire Kim — 12:00 PM to 01:15 PM TR - Research Hall 201
COMM 334: Family and Health Communication (3 Credits)
Examines how family communication contributes to physical, psychological, and social wellness. Explores how family communication affects our experience with health transitions (e.g., coping with cancer; becoming a caregiver; losing a loved one), contributes to health outcomes (e.g., stress and anxiety; disordered eating behavior; schizophrenia; drug abuse), and is central to health promotion behavior (e.g., understanding health history and genetics). Offered by Communication. Limited to three attempts.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
1 Section Currently Scheduled
- COMM 334 - DL1: Family/Health Communication — Sandra Djaba - Online
COMM 335: Organizational Communication (3 Credits)
Theory, practice, and methods to analyze communication in organizations. Emphasizes process and structure, interaction formats, mechanisms for modification, and career paths in organizational communication. Offered by Communication. Limited to three attempts.
Recommended Prerequisite: COMM 100, 101, or 301, or permission of instructor.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
1 Section Currently Scheduled
- COMM 335 - DL1: Organizational Communication — Meg Tucker - Online
COMM 340: Forensics Seminar III (0-4 Credits)
Intensive work in various types of creative forensics events, including rhetorical criticism and informative, persuasive, extemporaneous, after-dinner, and impromptu speaking. Offered by Communication. May be repeated within the degree for a maximum 5 credits.
Recommended Prerequisite: Completion of 60 hours, or 4 hours of COMM 140. Audition required.
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
1 Section Currently Scheduled
- COMM 340 - 001: Forensics Seminar III — Dawn M Lowry — 08:00 AM to 12:00 PM S - Nguyen Engineering Building 1109
COMM 341: Forensics Seminar IV (0-4 Credits)
Intensive work in various types of recreative forensics events, including dramatic duo, program interpretation, poetry interpretation, dramatic interpretation, and prose interpretation. Offered by Communication. May be repeated within the degree for a maximum 5 credits.
Recommended Prerequisite: Completion of 60 hours, or 4 hours of COMM 141. Audition required.
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
1 Section Currently Scheduled
- COMM 341 - 001: Forensics Seminar IV — Dawn M Lowry — 08:00 AM to 12:00 PM S - Planetary Hall 120
COMM 342: Debate Seminar III (0-4 Credits)
Work in affirmative research, case construction, and oral presentation directed toward affirmative analysis of intercollegiate debate proposition. Offered by Communication. May be repeated within the degree for a maximum 5 credits.
Recommended Prerequisite: Completion of 60 hours, or 4 hours of COMM 142. Audition required.
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
1 Section Currently Scheduled
- COMM 342 - 001: Debate Seminar III — Jackie Poapst — 08:00 AM to 11:50 AM S - Nguyen Engineering Building 1108
COMM 343: Debate Seminar IV (0-4 Credits)
Work in negative research, case attacks, and oral presentation directed toward negative analysis of intercollegiate debate proposition. Offered by Communication. May be repeated within the degree for a maximum 5 credits.
Recommended Prerequisite: Completion of 60 hours, or 4 hours of COMM 142. Audition required.
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
1 Section Currently Scheduled
- COMM 343 - 001: Debate Seminar IV — Jackie Poapst — 08:00 AM to 11:50 AM S - East Building 201
COMM 348: Podcasting and Radio Workshop II (0-1 Credits)
Intensive practical application of previously acquired on-air show hosting skills at student internet radio station WGMU. Skill development in podcast production and interviewing is included. New technologies such as social media, computer automation systems and advanced production software are integrated throughout the curriculum to prepare students to engage in the most current applications for commercial and internet radio and podcasting. Offered by Communication. May be repeated within the degree for a maximum 3 credits.
Recommended Prerequisite: COMM 148, or permission of instructor.
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
1 Section Currently Scheduled
- COMM 348 - DL1: Podcasting and Radio Wkshp II — Rodger Smith - Online
COMM 352: News Editing (3 Credits)
Sharpen editing skills and learn what it takes to shape stories as a news editor. This course covers how to evaluate copy, make key news and story judgments and tackle ethical issues. Students will get hands-on experience with editing basics like writing headlines, captions, and directing page design. Offered by Communication. Limited to three attempts.
Registration Restrictions:
Required Prerequisites: (COMM 303C, L303, 303XS, 309C, L309, 309XS, 203C, L203 or 203XS).
C Requires minimum grade of C.
XS Requires minimum grade of XS.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
1 Section Currently Scheduled
- COMM 352 - 001: News Editing — Brenna Maloney — 12:00 PM to 01:15 PM MW - Aquia Building 219
COMM 360: Digital Postproduction (3 Credits)
Offers instruction on delivering high-quality image and video products for digital media. Students will be introduced to an array of video-audio editing and digital image software for integrating video, audio, photo and graphic postproduction. Student projects focus on journalism, public relations, and advocacy contexts. Offered by Communication. Limited to two attempts.
Registration Restrictions:
Required Prerequisites: COMM 355C, FAVS 255C, 255XS, COMM 208C, 208XS, L355, FAVS U255 or COMM U208.
C Requires minimum grade of C.
XS Requires minimum grade of XS.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
1 Section Currently Scheduled
- COMM 360 - 001: Digital Postproduction — David J. Miller — 01:30 PM to 04:10 PM T - David J. King Hall - Hybrid
COMM 364: Videography (3 Credits)
Provides a comprehensive overview of the principles and practices of visual storytelling, encompassing short documentaries, campaigns, commercial work, news and other non-fiction narratives. Mobile, DSLR and fixed-lens cameras will be used to explore all facets of visual production that tell human stories, with emphasis on character, conflict, drama, and surprise. Offered by Communication. Limited to three attempts.
Registration Restrictions:
Required Prerequisites: COMM 355C, FAVS 255C, 255XS, COMM 208C, 208XS, L355, FAVS U255 or COMM U208.
C Requires minimum grade of C.
XS Requires minimum grade of XS.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
1 Section Currently Scheduled
- COMM 364 - 001: Videography — David J. Miller — 01:30 PM to 04:10 PM W - David J. King Hall 1011B
COMM 369: Multimedia Storytelling (3 Credits)
Introduces students to a multimedia approach to journalism. Students learn hands-on methods for combining different media formats to create compelling, well-rounded stories through a blend of text, photography, video, audio and data. No prior experience with cameras, sound recording, or web design needed. Offered by Communication. Limited to three attempts.
Mason Core: Mason Core, Writing Intensive in Major
Registration Restrictions:
Required Prerequisites: (COMM 309C, L309, 203C, L203, 303C or L303).
C Requires minimum grade of C.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
1 Section Currently Scheduled
- COMM 369 - 001: Multimedia Storytelling — Brenna Maloney — 10:30 AM to 11:45 AM TR - Innovation Hall 135
COMM 371: Sports Writing and Reporting (3 Credits)
Develop hands-on experience reporting and writing about sports. In this course, students will learn how to cover live events, break news and write feature stories in the unique style of sports journalism. Through in-class and out-of-class assignments, students will build skills for both print and online media. Offered by Communication. Limited to three attempts.
Registration Restrictions:
Required Prerequisites: (COMM 309C, L309, 309XS, 303C, L303, 203C, L203 or 203XS).
C Requires minimum grade of C.
XS Requires minimum grade of XS.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
1 Section Currently Scheduled
- COMM 371 - 001: Sports Writing and Reporting — Bram Weinstein — 01:30 PM to 04:10 PM W - Music Theater Building 1002
COMM 372: Sports and the Media (3 Credits)
Examines the role of mass media in constructing images of athletes, sport, and sports culture. Critical attention is given to broadcast, print, and film of sport media. Assesses sociological and cultural issues that shape sport media and culture. Offered by Communication. Limited to three attempts.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
1 Section Currently Scheduled
- COMM 372 - 001: Sports and the Media — Rodger Smith — 01:30 PM to 02:45 PM MW - Krug Hall 253
COMM 380: Media Criticism (3 Credits)
Examines practical criticism of a wide variety of media texts including television programs, newspapers, articles, films, photographs, and advertisements. Introduces principles of major contemporary modes of analysis for systematically interpreting visual and verbal forms of communication. Offered by Communication. Limited to three attempts.
Mason Core: Mason Core, Writing Intensive in Major
Recommended Prerequisite: Completion of 60 hours or permission of instructor.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
1 Section Currently Scheduled
- COMM 380 - DL1: Media Criticism — David J. Miller - Online
COMM 384: Social Media and Strategic Communication (3 Credits)
Students engage in social media research and analysis, examine best practices for designing effective campaigns, understand the conditions that create viral media, implement a personal branding strategy, and gain experience in strategic content creation by writing and executing a team-based social media campaign. Offered by Communication. Limited to three attempts.
Recommended Prerequisite: COMM 302
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
1 Section Currently Scheduled
- COMM 384 - 001: Social Media/Strategic Comm — 01:30 PM to 02:45 PM TR - Research Hall 202
COMM 385: Special Topics in Communication Studies (3 Credits)
Topics vary. Counts toward the Communication Studies concentration in the Department of Communication. Notes: May be repeated for credit when topic is different. Offered by Communication. May be repeated within the degree.
Specialized Designation: Topic Varies
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
1 Section Currently Scheduled
- COMM 385 - 001: Communicating Identity — Meg Tucker — 10:30 AM to 11:45 AM TR - Music Theater Building 1008
COMM 387: Special Topics in Journalism (3 Credits)
Topics vary. Counts toward Journalism concentration in the Communication Department. Notes: May be repeated for credit when topic is different. Offered by Communication. May be repeated within the degree.
Specialized Designation: Topic Varies
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
1 Section Currently Scheduled
- COMM 387 - 001: Data-Driven Storytelling — Gopal Ratnam — 01:30 PM to 02:45 PM TR - East Building 134
COMM 400: Research Methods in Communication (3 Credits)
Explores applications for primary research methodologies used in communication. Research project with focus on survey, critical ethnographic, or experimental methodologies. Notes: Students may not receive credit for both COMM 400 and COMM 490. Offered by Communication. Limited to three attempts. Equivalent to COMM 490.
Specialized Designation: Mason Impact.
Recommended Prerequisite: COMM 300 with a minimum grade of 2.00 (C).
Registration Restrictions:
Required Prerequisites: COMM 200C, U200 or 200XS.
C Requires minimum grade of C.
XS Requires minimum grade of XS.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
2 Sections Currently Scheduled
- COMM 400 - 001: Research Methods in Comm — Naessiamba Eab-Aggrey — 01:30 PM to 02:45 PM TR - West Building 1007
- COMM 400 - DL1: Research Methods in Comm — Neha Gour — 04:30 PM to 07:10 PM W - Online
COMM 401: Interpersonal Skills for Career Development (3 Credits)
Comprehensive study of theories and research associated with dynamics of interpersonal relationships in the workplace. Emphasizes individual motivation, interpersonal needs, communication styles, leadership, problem solving, decision making, diversity, interpersonal conflict, individual adaptation to organizational change, and influence of technology on workplace relationships. Offered by Communication. Limited to three attempts.
Recommended Prerequisite: COMM 301, or permission of instructor.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
1 Section Currently Scheduled
- COMM 401 - 001: Interpersonal Career Skills — Meg Tucker — 12:00 PM to 01:15 PM TR - Music Theater Building 1008
COMM 410: Strategic Communication Campaigns (3 Credits)
Building upon earlier coursework, this course helps students develop the practical skills and competencies they need to succeed as a public relations professional, such as strategic and crisis communication, research, PR ethics, and campaign planning. Students will produce a portfolio of research, writing, and multimedia materials they have created through client work generated as a team. Offered by Communication. Limited to three attempts.
Registration Restrictions:
Required Prerequisites: (COMM 308C, L308, 303C or L303).
C Requires minimum grade of C.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
1 Section Currently Scheduled
- COMM 410 - 001: Strategic COMM Campaigns — Barbara Burfeind — 10:30 AM to 11:45 AM MW - Research Hall 202
COMM 431: Social Media and Democratic Engagement (3 Credits)
Examines how an evolving media environment, including new information sources and new opportunities to produce content, changes how people understand their place in American society. Engages with questions of where and how people learn about, discuss, and engage with issues of public importance, such as political policy concerning science, health, technology, and society. Offered by Communication. Limited to three attempts.
Recommended Prerequisite: 60 credits or permission of instructor.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
1 Section Currently Scheduled
- COMM 431 - 001: Soc Media/Democratic Engagemt — Jackie Poapst — 01:30 PM to 04:10 PM W - West Building 1004
COMM 450: Internship in Communication (0-6 Credits)
On-the-job training in communication through approved field work study programs. Internships arranged and supervised by Department of Communication through internship coordinator. Related class work in resume preparation and job interviewing. Notes: See department for the application process. Offered by Communication. May be repeated within the degree for a maximum 6 credits.
Recommended Prerequisite: 60 credits, major or minor in communication, journalism, or sport communication; 15 credits in COMM for majors, 12 credits for non-COMM majors, and permission of department.
Registration Restrictions:
Enrollment limited to students with a class of Junior, Senior Plus or Senior.
Enrollment is limited to students with a major, minor, or concentration in Communication, Health Communication, Journalism, Political Communication or Sport Communication.
Schedule Type: Internship
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Special scale.
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Special scale.
1 Section Currently Scheduled
- COMM 450 - DL1: Internship in Communication — Susan Tomasovic - Online
COMM 452: Advanced Portfolio in Media Production (1-3 Credits)
Theory and practice in creation, distribution, and response to media productions. Students complete minimum 150 hours of work as assistants to engineers, producers, directors, and organizers of media production facilities on campus, under supervision of a sponsoring faculty member. Notes: Only 3 credits may be applied to the communication major. Offered by Communication. May be repeated within the degree for a maximum 6 credits.
Recommended Prerequisite: COMM 208, 303, or 348.
Schedule Type: Internship
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
1 Section Currently Scheduled
- COMM 452 - 001: Advanced Portfolio in Productn — David J. Miller
COMM 454: Free Speech and Ethics (3 Credits)
Major issues surrounding roles of speech, press, and electronic media in society. Includes history of free speech and press issues in society, government role in regulating marketplace of ideas, and responsibility of individual in free society. Offered by Communication. Limited to three attempts.
Mason Core: Mason Core, Mason Apex, Synthesis
Recommended Prerequisite: 85 credit hours or permission of instructor. ENGH 302
Registration Restrictions:
Required Prerequisite: (ENGH 101C).
C Requires minimum grade of C.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
1 Section Currently Scheduled
- COMM 454 - 001: Free Speech and Ethics — Brenna Maloney — 12:00 PM to 01:15 PM TR - East Building 201
COMM 491: RS: Honors Research Project in Communication (3 Credits)
Completion of independent honors research project under the guidance of the student's faculty sponsor. Offered by Communication. May be repeated within the degree for a maximum 6 credits.
Specialized Designation: Research/Scholarship Intensive
Recommended Prerequisite: Completion of COMM 490 with minimum grade of 3.0 and approval of honors project prospectus.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.
1 Section Currently Scheduled
- COMM 491 - 001: RS: Honors Rsrch Project Comm — Kevin B Wright — 12:00 PM to 01:15 PM MW - Innovation Hall 316
Graduate
COMM 602: Theories and Research of Mass Communication (3 Credits)
Explores theories that have guided development of mass media. Emphasizes major scientific and humanistic approaches to mass media effects. Offered by Communication. May not be repeated for credit.
Registration Restrictions:
Enrollment limited to students with a class of Advanced to Candidacy, Graduate, Junior Plus, Non-Degree or Senior Plus.
Enrollment is limited to Graduate, Non-Degree or Undergraduate level students.
Students in a Non-Degree Undergraduate degree may not enroll.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Graduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Graduate Regular scale.
1 Section Currently Scheduled
- COMM 602 - 002: Theories of Mass Comm — Erik Holland — 07:20 PM to 10:00 PM R - Horizon Hall 4012
COMM 620: Health Communication (3 Credits)
Examines interpersonal communicative processes associated with health in consumer-provider, family, and health communication campaign contexts. Focus on understanding cultural differences in perceptions of/communication about health and disease. Offered by Communication. May not be repeated for credit.
Registration Restrictions:
Enrollment limited to students with a class of Advanced to Candidacy, Graduate, Junior Plus, Non-Degree or Senior Plus.
Enrollment is limited to Graduate, Non-Degree or Undergraduate level students.
Students in a Non-Degree Undergraduate degree may not enroll.
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Graduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Graduate Regular scale.
1 Section Currently Scheduled
- COMM 620 - 001: Health Communication — Iccha Basnyat — 04:30 PM to 07:10 PM M - Horizon Hall 4014
COMM 632: Persuasion Theory (3 Credits)
Introduces students to the processes and effects of persuasive communication. Covers key theories of persuasion, behavior change, information processing, message effects, as well as important frameworks that guide the practice of persuasion in applied settings. Particular attention is paid to message features that generate predictable effects and how such effects may vary across different communicative situations. Offered by Communication. May not be repeated for credit.
Registration Restrictions:
Enrollment limited to students with a class of Advanced to Candidacy, Graduate, Junior Plus, Non-Degree or Senior Plus.
Enrollment is limited to Graduate, Non-Degree or Undergraduate level students.
Students in a Non-Degree Undergraduate degree may not enroll.
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Graduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Graduate Regular scale.
1 Section Currently Scheduled
- COMM 632 - 001: Persuasion Theory — Xiaoquan Zhao — 04:30 PM to 07:10 PM W - Angel Cabrera Global Center 1320C
COMM 635: Organizational Communication (3 Credits)
Analyzes communication systems, processes in public and private organizations. Topics include conflict management, group decision making, interviewing, technical presentations, and using various channels for improving internal and external communication. Offered by Communication. May not be repeated for credit.
Registration Restrictions:
Enrollment limited to students with a class of Advanced to Candidacy, Graduate, Junior Plus, Non-Degree or Senior Plus.
Enrollment is limited to Graduate, Non-Degree or Undergraduate level students.
Students in a Non-Degree Undergraduate degree may not enroll.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Graduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Graduate Regular scale.
1 Section Currently Scheduled
- COMM 635 - 001: Fndtns of Organizational Comm — Anne M. Nicotera — 04:30 PM to 07:10 PM R - Research Hall 201
COMM 639: Science Communication (3 Credits)
Reviews research on best practices in science communication for scientists and communication professionals. Explores theory on conceptualizing science communication as disseminating knowledge, promoting informed decision making, involving citizens in scientific research (i.e., citizen science), promoting legislative and individual actions, or creating entertainment. Students practice communicating complex science and designing contexts for public engagement with scientific research. Offered by Communication. May not be repeated for credit.
Registration Restrictions:
Enrollment limited to students with a class of Advanced to Candidacy, Graduate, Junior Plus, Non-Degree or Senior Plus.
Enrollment is limited to Graduate, Non-Degree or Undergraduate level students.
Students in a Non-Degree Undergraduate degree may not enroll.
Schedule Type: Seminar
Grading:
This course is graded on the Graduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Graduate Regular scale.
1 Section Currently Scheduled
- COMM 639 - 001: Science Communication — Chris Clarke — 07:20 PM to 10:00 PM T - Horizon Hall 5001
COMM 701: Communication Science Research Practicum (3 Credits)
Coordinates students into a research team to propose, test and report the findings of a two or three variable hypothesis. Conduct a research project that will make a publishable contribution to the communication science literature. May not be repeated for credit. Offered by Communication. May not be repeated for credit.
Registration Restrictions:
Required Prerequisites: (COMM 650B- or 650XS) and (COMM 700B- or 700XS).
B- Requires minimum grade of B-.
XS Requires minimum grade of XS.
Enrollment limited to students with a class of Advanced to Candidacy, Graduate or Non-Degree.
Students in a Non-Degree Undergraduate degree may not enroll.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Satisfactory/No Credit scale.
This course is graded on the Satisfactory/No Credit scale.
1 Section Currently Scheduled
- COMM 701 - 001: Comm Sci Research Practicum — Doran Tucker — 07:20 PM to 10:00 PM W - Research Hall 201
COMM 716: Global Public Relations Strategy and Practice (3 Credits)
Provides a survey of global public relations strategies and practices with an emphasis
in emerging issues such as globalization, lobbying, global policies, and a role of PR in the global,
cross-cultural marketplace. Offered by Communication. May not be repeated for credit.
Recommended Prerequisite: COMM 706 or permission of instructor.
Registration Restrictions:
Enrollment is limited to Graduate or Non-Degree level students.
Students in a Non-Degree Undergraduate degree may not enroll.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Graduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Graduate Regular scale.
1 Section Currently Scheduled
- COMM 716 - DL1: Global PR Strategy & Practice — Sergei A. Samoilenko — 07:20 PM to 10:00 PM M - Online
COMM 721: E-Health Communication (3 Credits)
Explores the use of computer-mediated communication technologies in health care and health promotion, including examination of technology in health information dissemination, health education, health communication interventions, and the management of health care delivery. Offered by Communication. May not be repeated for credit.
Registration Restrictions:
Enrollment is limited to Graduate or Non-Degree level students.
Students in a Non-Degree Undergraduate degree may not enroll.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Graduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Graduate Regular scale.
1 Section Currently Scheduled
- COMM 721 - 001: E-Health Communication — Kevin B Wright — 07:20 PM to 10:00 PM R - Research Hall 201
COMM 725: Qualitative Methods (3 Credits)
Examines qualitative research in communication. Emphasis is placed on techniques of naturalistic inquiry such as observation, interviewing, focus group methods, and ethnography, as well as tools for analyzing and reporting qualitative data. Offered by Communication. May not be repeated for credit.
Registration Restrictions:
Enrollment is limited to Graduate or Non-Degree level students.
Students in a Non-Degree Undergraduate degree may not enroll.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Graduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Graduate Regular scale.
1 Section Currently Scheduled
- COMM 725 - 001: Qualitative Methods — Richard T Craig — 04:30 PM to 07:10 PM T - Innovation Hall 133
COMM 735: Crisis Communication (3 Credits)
Examines crisis communication contexts with a particular emphasis on the role of communication in a variety of crises and how the media and Internet present crisis information to the public. Offered by Communication. May not be repeated for credit.
Recommended Prerequisite: Permission of instructor.
Registration Restrictions:
Enrollment is limited to Graduate or Non-Degree level students.
Students in a Non-Degree Undergraduate degree may not enroll.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Graduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Graduate Regular scale.
1 Section Currently Scheduled
- COMM 735 - 001: Crisis Communication — Mitchell E. Marovitz — 04:30 PM to 07:10 PM M - Horizon Hall 4012
COMM 750: Quantitative Methods (3 Credits)
Extends basic research knowledge and skills learned in COMM 650 Intro to Research Methods in Communication. Students will be taught to analyze and synthesize literature, develop theoretical linkages, and construct measurement scales. Offered by Communication. May not be repeated for credit.
Recommended Prerequisite: COMM 650.
Registration Restrictions:
Enrollment is limited to Graduate or Non-Degree level students.
Students in a Non-Degree Undergraduate degree may not enroll.
Schedule Type: Lecture
Grading:
This course is graded on the Graduate Regular scale.
This course is graded on the Graduate Regular scale.
1 Section Currently Scheduled
- COMM 750 - 001: Quantitative Methods — Doran Tucker — 04:30 PM to 07:10 PM T - Innovation Hall 336
COMM 797: Communication Capstone Project (3 Credits)
Final research project for MA in communication students who choose the Capstone Project option. Students discuss practical and theoretical issues related to their independent project. Includes readings related to underlying theoretical, methodological, and ethical issues facing contemporary communication researchers and practitioners. MA students must take 797 in the semester of graduation or with permission of the MA Director. No more than 3 credits can be applied to the degree. Offered by Communication. May be repeated within the degree for a maximum 6 credits.
Recommended Prerequisite: COMM 600 COMM 650
Registration Restrictions:
Enrollment limited to students with a class of Graduate or Non-Degree.
Students in a Non-Degree Undergraduate degree may not enroll.
Schedule Type: Research
Grading:
This course is graded on the Satisfactory/No Credit scale.
This course is graded on the Satisfactory/No Credit scale.
1 Section Currently Scheduled
- COMM 797 - DL1: Communication Capstone Project — Anne M. Nicotera — 07:20 PM to 10:00 PM W - Online