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 Fall 2025

Undergraduate

100-Level Courses in COMM

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.

101 Sections Currently Scheduled »

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.

1 Section Currently Scheduled

COMM 140 - 001: Forensics Seminar I — Dawn M Lowry — 08:00 AM to 12:00 PM S - East Building 201

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.

1 Section Currently Scheduled

COMM 141 - 001: Forensics Seminar II — Dawn M Lowry — 08:00 AM to 12:00 PM S - Innovation Hall 326

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.

1 Section Currently Scheduled

COMM 142 - 001: Debate Seminar I — Jackie Poapst — 08:00 AM to 12:00 PM S - Buchanan Hall D005

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.

1 Section Currently Scheduled

COMM 143 - 001: Debate Seminar II — Jackie Poapst — 08:00 AM to 12:00 PM S - Buchanan Hall D001

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.

1 Section Currently Scheduled

COMM 148 - 001: Podcasting and Radio Workshop — Jesse Robinson — 01:30 PM to 02:45 PM T - The Hub 1202

200-Level Courses in COMM

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.

2 Sections Currently Scheduled

COMM 200 - 001: Communication Theory — Dawn M Lowry — 09:00 AM to 10:15 AM TR - Thompson Hall 1018
COMM 200 - DL1: Communication Theory — Meg H. L. Tucker - Online

COMM 202: Media and Society (3 Credits)

Examines the relationship between media and society through the study of the development of various media systems in the United States, including print media, radio, television, film, the recording industry, and new communication technologies. Introduces media effects and basic theories. Offered by Communication. Limited to three attempts.

Schedule Type: Lecture

Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.

1 Section Currently Scheduled

COMM 202 - 001: Media and Society — Catherine M. Wright — 12:00 PM to 01:15 PM MW - Innovation Hall 137

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.

2 Sections Currently Scheduled

COMM 203 - 001: Introduction to Journalism — Brenna Maloney — 12:00 PM to 01:15 PM MW - Innovation Hall 133
COMM 203 - 002: Introduction to Journalism — Syed Muhammad Abubakar — 10:30 AM to 11:45 AM TR - Innovation Hall 135

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.

2 Sections Currently Scheduled

COMM 204 - 001: Introduction PR/Strat COMM — Pratiti Diddi — 03:00 PM to 04:15 PM MW - Innovation Hall 133
COMM 204 - 002: Introduction PR/Strat COMM — Michelle Cadwell Blackston — 09:00 AM to 10:15 AM TR - Innovation Hall 135

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.

2 Sections 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 208 - 002: Intro Media Production — Daniel Reed — 12:00 PM to 01:15 PM TR - David J. King Hall 1011B

300-Level Courses in COMM

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 200^C, U200 or 200^XS.
^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.

2 Sections Currently Scheduled

COMM 300 - 001: Writing & Rhetorical Crit — Star A. Muir — 03:00 PM to 04:15 PM MW - Innovation Hall 135
COMM 300 - DL1: Writing & Rhetorical Crit — Susan Tomasovic - Online

COMM 301: Interpersonal Communication: Theory to Practice (3 Credits)

Theories and principles of interpersonal communication emphasizing models of communication, verbal and nonverbal message systems, and analysis of communicative relationships. Offered by Communication. Limited to three attempts.

Schedule Type: Lecture

Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.

1 Section Currently Scheduled

COMM 301 - 001: Interpersonal Comm — Meg H. L. Tucker — 12:00 PM to 01:15 PM MW - Music Theater Building 1002

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.

1 Section Currently Scheduled

COMM 302 - 001: Media Theory — Rania Zaied — 09:00 AM to 10:15 AM TR - Innovation Hall 131

COMM 304: Foundations of Health Communication (3 Credits)

Explores health communication research practice: the role of communication in health care delivery, health promotion and disease prevention, risk communication, and personal as well as psychological well-being. Examines interpersonal, organizational, team, family, and intercultural relationships. Offered by Communication. Limited to three attempts.

Schedule Type: Lecture

Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.

1 Section Currently Scheduled

COMM 304 - DL1: Fnd Health Communication — Naessiamba Eab-Aggrey - 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.

Mason Core: Mason Core, Global Contexts, Global Understanding, Just Societies

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.

3 Sections Currently Scheduled

COMM 305 - DL1: Foundations Intercultural Comm — Lance E Schmeidler — 09:00 AM to 10:15 AM MW - David J. King Hall 1011B - Hybrid
COMM 305 - DL2: Foundations Intercultural Comm — Lance E Schmeidler - Online
COMM 305 - DL3: Foundations Intercultural Comm — Lance E Schmeidler - Online

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.

Registration Restrictions:

Required Prerequisites: COMM 204^C or 204^XS.
^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.

1 Section Currently Scheduled

COMM 308 - 001: Writing for PR/Strat COMM — Dana Siller — 04:30 PM to 07:10 PM M - Innovation Hall 135

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.

4 Sections Currently Scheduled »

COMM 331: Public Relations 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, community relations, and advocacy campaigns. Students work on creating a strategic set of materials intended to enhance a client’s reputation. Students will produce a portfolio of research, writing, and multimedia materials in collaboration with a client. Offered by Communication. Limited to three attempts.

Registration Restrictions:

Required Prerequisites: (COMM 308^C, L308, 303^C or L303).
^C Requires minimum grade of C.

Schedule Type: Lecture

Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.

1 Section Currently Scheduled

COMM 331 - 001: Public Relations Campaigns — Barbara Burfeind — 10:30 AM to 11:45 AM MW - Innovation Hall 131

COMM 332: Nonverbal Communication (3 Credits)

Theory, principles, and methods to analyze nonverbal communication. Emphasizes physical behavior, facial expression, personal space and territoriality, physical appearance, vocal cues, and environment. Offered by Communication. Limited to three attempts.

Schedule Type: Lecture

Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.

1 Section Currently Scheduled

COMM 332 - 001: Nonverbal Communication — Meg H. L. Tucker — 09:00 AM to 10:15 AM MW - Music Theater Building 1002

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.

1 Section Currently Scheduled

COMM 335 - 001: Organizational Communication — Anne M. Nicotera — 12:00 PM to 01:15 PM TR - Nguyen Engineering Building 1108

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.

1 Section Currently Scheduled

COMM 340 - 001: Forensics Seminar III — Dawn M Lowry — 08:00 AM to 12:00 PM S - East Building 201

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.

1 Section Currently Scheduled

COMM 341 - 001: Forensics Seminar IV — Dawn M Lowry — 08:00 AM to 12:00 PM S - Innovation Hall 326

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.

1 Section Currently Scheduled

COMM 342 - 001: Debate Seminar III — Jackie Poapst — 08:00 AM to 12:00 PM S - Buchanan Hall D005

COMM 343: Debate Seminar IV (0-4 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.

1 Section Currently Scheduled

COMM 343 - 001: Debate Seminar IV — Jackie Poapst — 08:00 AM to 12:00 PM S - Buchanan Hall D001

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.

1 Section Currently Scheduled

COMM 348 - DL1: Podcasting and Radio Wkshp II — Rodger Smith — 03:00 PM to 04:15 PM T - Online

COMM 351: News Writing and Reporting (3 Credits)

Offers real-world journalism experience through reporting and writing both hard news and feature stories. Learn to conduct interviews, fact-check, find reliable sources and develop news judgment. Students will practice reporting ethics while crafting stories that are accurate, meaningful, and impactful. Offered by Communication. Limited to three attempts.

Registration Restrictions:

Required Prerequisites: (COMM 303^C, L303, 303^XS, 309^C, L309, 309^XS, 203^C, 203^XS or L203).
^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.

1 Section Currently Scheduled

COMM 351 - 001: News Writing and Reporting — Mary C. Hickey — 01:30 PM to 04:10 PM W - Innovation Hall 203

COMM 353: Broadcast Journalism (3 Credits)

Students gain practical experience capturing, writing and editing video news packages for broadcast. The course emphasizes the unique writing style of video broadcast journalists – concise and conversational reports balanced with visuals and sounds. Students also examine the technical and ethical challenges that broadcast reporters and producers face when gathering and distributing the news. Offered by Communication. Limited to three attempts.

Registration Restrictions:

Required Prerequisites: (COMM 309^C, L309, 309^XS, 303^C, L303, 203^C, L203 or 203^XS).
^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.

1 Section Currently Scheduled

COMM 353 - 001: Broadcast Journalism — David J. Miller — 01:30 PM to 04:10 PM T - David J. King Hall 1011B

COMM 356: Performance for Digital Production (3 Credits)

Writing for video, performance skills for on-air work, interviewing. Offered by Communication. Limited to three attempts.

Recommended Prerequisite: 45 credits.

Schedule Type: Lecture

Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.

1 Section Currently Scheduled

COMM 356 - 001: Performance for Digital Prod — Susan Tomasovic — 01:30 PM to 04:10 PM R - David J. King Hall 1011B

COMM 359: Digital Media Management (3 Credits)

Principles, practices of media management from general techniques to operation of individual departments within a media organization. Offered by Communication. Limited to three attempts.

Schedule Type: Lecture

Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.

1 Section Currently Scheduled

COMM 359 - DL1: Digital Media Management — Rodger Smith - Online - Section Syllabus

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 355^C, FAVS 255^C, 255^XS, COMM 208^C, 208^XS, 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.

1 Section Currently Scheduled

COMM 360 - 001: Digital Postproduction — David J. Miller — 01:30 PM to 04:10 PM W - David J. King Hall - Hybrid

COMM 374: Political Journalism (3 Credits)

Explores how the media reports on politics, from covering government actions and elections to understanding campaigns and political movements. Students will practice writing political news through hands-on assignments, both in and out of the classroom. Also examines how the press shapes public perceptions of major social and political issues. Offered by Communication. Limited to three attempts.

Registration Restrictions:

Required Prerequisites: (COMM 309^C, L309, 309^XS, 303^C, L303, 203^C, L203 or 203^XS).
^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.

1 Section Currently Scheduled

COMM 374 - 001: Political Journalism — Eugenio Mulero — 01:30 PM to 04:10 PM M - Innovation Hall 129

COMM 375: Digital Advertising Strategies (3 Credits)

Students explore the history of advertising, advertising regulations, and how processes of technological change have reshaped the advertising field. Students also discuss topics related to media buying, audience targeting and segmentation, advertising campaign development and evaluation, and more. Offered by Communication. Limited to three attempts.

Recommended Prerequisite: COMM 302 or permission of instructor.

Schedule Type: Lecture

Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.

1 Section Currently Scheduled

COMM 375 - 001: Digital Advertising Strategies — Dana Siller — 04:30 PM to 07:10 PM T - David J. King Hall 2053

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.

Recommended Prerequisite: Completion of 60 hours or permission of instructor.

Schedule Type: Lecture

Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.

2 Sections Currently Scheduled

COMM 380 - 001: Media Criticism — Khaled Dakak — 10:30 AM to 11:45 AM TR - Innovation Hall 131
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.

1 Section Currently Scheduled

COMM 384 - 002: Social Media/Strategic Comm — Adela Levis — 03:00 PM to 04:15 PM MW - Innovation Hall 323

COMM 388: Special Topics in Public Relations and Strategic Communication (3 Credits)

Topics vary. Counts toward Public Relations & Strategic Communication 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.

1 Section Currently Scheduled

COMM 388 - 001: PR Rsrch & Analytics in AI Age — Sojung Claire Kim — 10:30 AM to 11:45 AM TR - Innovation Hall 133

400-Level Courses in COMM

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 200^C, U200 or 200^XS.
^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.

2 Sections Currently Scheduled

COMM 400 - 001: Research Methods in Comm — Yuan Yue — 03:00 PM to 04:15 PM MW - Angel Cabrera Global Center 1320A
COMM 400 - DL1: Research Methods in Comm — Doran Tucker — 07:20 PM to 10:00 PM M - Online

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.

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.

1 Section Currently Scheduled

COMM 452 - 001: Advanced Portfolio in Productn — David J. Miller

COMM 475: Journalism Law (3 Credits)

Explores the intersection between journalism and the legal system in the United States. Students will gain a understanding of the U.S. Constitution, the court system, and key legal principles that influence how journalists operate. Focus on topics including First Amendment rights, privacy, shield laws, and defamation through the lens of landmark court cases. This course is designed for non-lawyers who want to understand the legal landscape shaping the practice of journalism. 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.

1 Section Currently Scheduled

COMM 475 - 001: Journalism Law — Brenna Maloney — 12:00 PM to 01:15 PM TR - Lecture Hall 2

COMM 490: Honors Research Methods in Communication (3 Credits)

Honors version of COMM 400. Notes: Students may not receive credit for both COMM 400 and 490. Offered by Communication. Limited to three attempts. Equivalent to COMM 400.

Specialized Designation: Mason Impact.

Recommended Prerequisite: Acceptance to pursue honors in the major; COMM 300.

Schedule Type: Lecture

Grading:
This course is graded on the Undergraduate Regular scale.

1 Section Currently Scheduled

COMM 490 - 001: Honors Research Methods Comm — Chris Clarke — 12:00 PM to 01:15 PM MW - Research Hall 201

Graduate

600-Level Courses in COMM

COMM 600: Introduction to Graduate Studies (3 Credits)

Offers a broad introduction to the field of communication in terms of communication-based theories and research. Offered by Communication. May not be repeated for credit.

Recommended Prerequisite: Admission to graduate program in communication or permission of graduate program director.

Registration Restrictions:

Enrollment limited to students with a class of Advanced to Candidacy, Graduate, Junior Plus or Senior Plus.

Enrollment is limited to students with a major in Communication.

Enrollment is limited to Graduate 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.

2 Sections Currently Scheduled

COMM 600 - 001: Intro to Graduate Studies — Anne M. Nicotera — 04:30 PM to 07:10 PM R - Krug Hall 204
COMM 600 - 002: Intro to Graduate Studies — Richard T Craig — 04:30 PM to 07:10 PM R - Krug Hall 210

COMM 605: Intercultural Communication (3 Credits)

Analyzes communication variables related to communication across cultures. Topics include nonverbal communication, time conceptualizations, perceptions and attitudes, values, social organization patterns, cultural norms, language, ethics, conflict across cultures, and research in intercultural 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.

1 Section Currently Scheduled

COMM 605 - 001: Intercultural Communication — Jackie Poapst — 07:20 PM to 10:00 PM T - Research Hall 201

COMM 637: Risk Communication (3 Credits)

Research on sharing information about physical hazards such as toxic waste, radiation, disease, injury, biohazards. Topics include communication concerning workplace safety, environmental problems, risk assessments, and scientific uncertainties. 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.

1 Section Currently Scheduled

COMM 637 - 001: Risk Communication — Pratiti Diddi — 04:30 PM to 07:10 PM M - Innovation Hall 133

COMM 640: The Issues of Science and Politics (3 Credits)

Focuses on current and emerging issues in science and politics. Deals with selected advanced topics and provides students with opportunities to apply new skills and knowledge to projects related to their own interests. Spends considerable time exploring the causes and effects of science politicization and its impact on society. Consists of three modules, each representing a particular controversy. Offered by Communication. Limited to three attempts.

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.

1 Section Currently Scheduled

COMM 640 - DL1: Issues of Science and Pol — Sergei A. Samoilenko — 07:20 PM to 10:00 PM R - Online

COMM 642: Science and the Public (3 Credits)

Examines the relationship between science and society, with a particular emphasis on the role of communication in shaping public opinion on issues related to science and technology. 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.

1 Section Currently Scheduled

COMM 642 - 001: Science and the Public — Chris Clarke — 04:30 PM to 07:10 PM W - Buchanan Hall D003

COMM 650: Intro to Research Methods in Communication (3 Credits)

Introduces various research methods used by communication professionals. Focus on achieving understanding and knowledge of social scientific research, qualitative and quantitative, and critical analysis through use and application. 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 or Senior Plus.

Enrollment is limited to students with a major in Communication.

Enrollment limited to students in the LA-MA-COM, LA-MAIS-ISIN or LA-PHD-COM programs.

Enrollment is limited to Graduate or Undergraduate level students.

Students in a Non-Degree Undergraduate degree may not enroll.

Schedule Type: Laboratory, Lecture

Grading:
This course is graded on the Graduate Regular scale.

1 Section Currently Scheduled

COMM 650 - 001: Research Methodologies-Comm — Sojung Claire Kim — Richard T Craig — 04:30 PM to 07:10 PM T - East Building 201

COMM 653: Graduate Seminar in Instructional Communication (3 Credits)

Investigates theoretical and practical implications of instructional communication. Exposes graduate students to communication principles and practices of teaching college courses at upper and lower divisions. 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.

1 Section Currently Scheduled

COMM 653 - 002: Instructional Communication — Andrew E Rudd — 01:30 PM to 04:10 PM M - Krug Hall 209

COMM 690: Special Topics in Communication (3 Credits)

Explores contemporary issues in communication theory, research, and practice. Notes: Topics vary. May be repeated when topic is different. Offered by Communication. May be repeated within the term for a maximum 15 credits.

Specialized Designation: Green Leaf Related Course, Topic Varies

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.

1 Section Currently Scheduled

COMM 690 - 001: GlblHlthComm:Criticl Perspctvs — Iccha Basnyat — 04:30 PM to 07:10 PM M - Innovation Hall 131

700-Level Courses in COMM

COMM 700: Building Social Science Theory (3 Credits)

Explores the process of developing and testing social science theories. Emphasizes the components and mechanisms of theory - such as variables and causality - in a manner intended to inform rigorous social science inquiry using quantitative or qualitative methods. 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: Seminar

Grading:
This course is graded on the Satisfactory/No Credit scale.

1 Section Currently Scheduled

COMM 700 - 002: Building Social Science Theory — Tim Gibson — 04:30 PM to 07:10 PM R - Innovation Hall 317

COMM 706: Strategic Communication (3 Credits)

Examines commonalities of strategic communication campaigns across fields (e.g., military, diplomacy, health, politics, marketing, public relations) in order to understand strategic communication, compare fields, and emphasize strategic and evaluative research across fields. Offered by Communication. May not be repeated for credit.

Recommended Prerequisite: COMM 630 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.

1 Section Currently Scheduled

COMM 706 - 001: Strategic Communication — Mitchell E. Marovitz — 04:30 PM to 07:10 PM W - Innovation Hall 133

COMM 775: Media Content Analysis (3 Credits)

Introduces content analysis, a research technique for making replicable and valid inferences about text in sources such as news articles, advertisements, and television programs. Students design and conduct research using content analysis techniques. 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.

2 Sections Currently Scheduled

COMM 775 - 001: Media Content Analysis — Kevin B Wright — 07:20 PM to 10:00 PM W - Innovation Hall 203
COMM 775 - 002: Media Content Analysis — Kevin B Wright — 04:30 PM to 07:10 PM T - Innovation Hall 204

COMM 798: Communication Studies Project (3 Credits)

Final research seminar for all MA in communication students. Students discuss practical and theoretical issues related to project or thesis. Includes readings related to underlying theoretical, methodological, and ethical issues facing contemporary communication researchers and practitioners. MA students must take 798 in the semester of graduation or w/ 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 and 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: Thesis

Grading:
This course is graded on the Satisfactory/No Credit scale.

1 Section Currently Scheduled

COMM 798 - DL1: Communication Studies Project — Tim Gibson — 07:20 PM to 10:00 PM M - Online

Courses and Syllabi

Communication Fall 2025

Undergraduate

100-Level Courses in COMM

200-Level Courses in COMM

300-Level Courses in COMM

400-Level Courses in COMM

Graduate

600-Level Courses in COMM

700-Level Courses in COMM

800-Level Courses in COMM

Topics in COMM