COMM 1900 (2 Credit Hours)
Learning Community Seminar
Seminar course associated with the Scripps College of Communication and its five schools. Topics
include introduction to disciplinary norms, academic expectations of specific schools and
programs, introduction to research of faculty, completion of original research project, and
readings on the course theme of rapidly changing media technology and its effects.
COMS 1010 (3 Credit Hours)
Fundamentals of Human Communication
Introductory analysis of oral communication in human relationships with focus on variety of
contexts including dyadic, small group, and public communication experiences. Serves as survey of
human communication processes. Mass lecture.
COMS 1030 (3 Credit Hours)
Fundamentals of Public Speaking
Principles of public speaking, practice in presenting informative and persuasive speeches with
emphasis on communicative process.
COMS 1100 (3 Credit Hours)
Communication Among Cultures
The purpose of this course is to explore the role of communication in understanding, accepting,
and appreciating cultural differences. Students in this course will understand that culture includes
not only issues of nationality, ethnicity, and race, but also gender, socioeconomic status, age, etc.
Using a number of co-cultural, cross-cultural, and intercultural examples, students will explore
how communication is a key component of bridging cultural differences.
COMS 1170 (1 to 3 Credit Hours)
Beginning Forensics
Students prepare for competition in oral interpretation, public speaking, and/or debate as part of
the Ohio University Forensics Team. Travel to a weekend tournament at another university is
required to earn credit. Number of credits depends upon number of performances prepared for
competition.
COMS 2020 (3 Credit Hours)
Communication and Persuasion
Process of communication and attitude change, survey of general theories and typical research,
and analysis of contemporary persuasion problems.
COMS 2040 (3 Credit Hours)
Principles and Techniques of Interviewing
Methods used in two-party, face-to-face oral communicative situations commonly encountered in
organizational and professional environments. Intensive practice through role-playing and reallife interviews in and out of class, emphasizing skills involved in giving and getting information,
persuasion, and job-employment situations.
COMS = Communication
T3 = Tier 3
ITS = Information and Technology Systems
MDIA = Media Arts and Studies
JOUR = Journalism
VICO = Visual Communication
COMS 2050 (3 Credit Hours)
Techniques of Group Discussion
Study of structure and dynamics of small groups, nature and functions of leadership, group
participation, problem solving, and decision making; frequent participation in group discussion
activities.
COMS 2060 (3 Credit Hours)
Communication in Interpersonal Relationships
Provides experience in study of communication in social interaction. Exploration of
communication variables and skill development in message generation in one-to-one informal
settings.
COMS 2150 (3 Credit Hours)
Argumentative Analysis and Advocacy
Basic principles of argumentative discourse including concepts of presumption, burden of proof,
rhetorical forms of reasoning, and evidence. Practice in applying these principles.
COMS 2170 (1 to 3 Credit Hours)
Advanced Forensics
Students prepare for competition in one or more individual events and/or debate as part of the
Ohio University Forensics Team. Attendance at tournaments is expected.
COMS 2200 (3 Credit Hours)
Oral Interpretation of Literature
Techniques of oral interpretation and development of adequate intellectual and emotional
responsiveness to the meanings of literature.
COMS 2350 (3 Credit Hours)
Introduction to Communication Theory
To identify the purposes, history, and application of key social and rhetorical theories of
communication through reading and discussing classic works of communication theory. To
understand issues of epistemology, ontology, and axiology when discussing the goals and
methods related to relevant theories.
COMS 2400 (3 Credit Hours)
Information Diffusion
This course provides an understanding of information diffusion theory, which seeks to explain the
process through which new ideas (innovations) spread over time via communication channels
among the members of a social system. It especially emphasizes the relevance, practicality, and
usefulness of diffusion theory in interpersonal, group, organizational, and mass communication
settings, with an emphasis in areas of public education, health, and policy. The course focuses on
factors that speed or hinder innovations and the critical points of interface between information
dissemination systems and end users.
COMS = Communication
T3 = Tier 3
ITS = Information and Technology Systems
MDIA = Media Arts and Studies
JOUR = Journalism
VICO = Visual Communication
COMS 2900 (1 to 15 Credit Hours)
Special Topics in Communication Studies
Specific course content will vary with offering.
COMS 2970T (1 to 14 Credit Hours)
Communication Studies Tutorial
A survey of topics and research traditions in Communication Studies, with emphasis on current
issues in the student's areas of interest.
COMS 2971T (1 to 14 Credit Hours)
Communication Studies Tutorial
In-depth study of a topic in Communication Studies.
COMS 2980T (1 to 14 Credit Hours)
Communication Studies Tutorial
In-depth study of a topic in Communication Studies.
COMS 2981T (1 to 14 Credit Hours)
Communication Studies Tutorial
In-depth study of a topic in Communication Studies.
COMS 3060 (3 Credit Hours)
Interpersonal Conflict Management
Analysis of the communication dynamics involved in managing interpersonal and organizational
conflicts. Examination of theory and research related to conflict management. Emphasis on case
studies and role-playing conflicts in various interpersonal and group settings.
COMS 3400 (3 Credit Hours)
Introduction to Health Communication
Concerned with issues in the theory and practice of health communication. Topics include
provider-patient communication; organizational communication in health care delivery systems;
communication in community/consumer health education; information technologies in health
communication; communication in support systems for the elderly, disabled, and terminally ill;
and, communication training for health care professionals.
COMS 3410 (3 Credit Hours)
Women and Health Communication
This course focuses on the unique communication issues for women in health-related settings.
Topics include the accomplishment of relational, informational, and medical goals for women
health care seekers, as well as the challenges of offering and seeking social support in
contemporary society.
COMS = Communication
T3 = Tier 3
ITS = Information and Technology Systems
MDIA = Media Arts and Studies
JOUR = Journalism
VICO = Visual Communication
COMS 3420 (3 Credit Hours)
Field Research Methods in Communication
Discussion and application of communication data collection methods such as content analysis,
participant observation, questionnaire design, sampling procedures, case studies, and unobtrusive
measures.
COMS 3500 (3 Credit Hours)
Introduction to Organizational Communication
Analysis of traditional and contemporary theories of communication in context of modern
complex organizations (government, industry, education, etc.). Consideration and explication of
such pertinent concepts and variables as message, channel, networks, information, information
flow, communication climate, communication audit, etc.
COMS 3501 (3 Credit Hours)
Advanced Organizational Communication
This course builds upon, and extends, the conceptual foundations of organizational
communication through analysis and critical examination of case studies. Students will read,
discuss, and write about advances in contemporary organizational communication thought,
practices, and research orientations.
COMS 3520 (3 Credit Hours)
Empirical Research Applications in Communication
Provides principles and basic skills necessary to critically analyze research literature; develop basic
proficiencies in structuring designs basic to descriptive and experimental studies, including data
collection, analysis, and presentation techniques in communication research.
COMS 3600 (3 Credit Hours)
Introduction to Communication in Public Advocacy
To introduce students to the theoretical, philosophical, and methodological influences integral to
legal and political communication research. To aid in the development of students' understanding
of those sources through readings, class discussions, writing assignments, examinations, and
presentations. To provide a theoretical and technical vocabulary of legal and political
communication research that will establish a foundation for successful advancement in the major.
COMS 3601 (3 Credit Hours)
Courtroom Rhetoric
Famous cases and methods of communication of masters of courtroom and judicial oratory. Cases
and trials including Cicero, Strafford, Charles I, Erskine, Hastings, Marshall, Webster, Darrow,
Sacco-Vanzetti.
COMS = Communication
T3 = Tier 3
ITS = Information and Technology Systems
MDIA = Media Arts and Studies
JOUR = Journalism
VICO = Visual Communication
COMS 3602 (3 Credit Hours)
Political Rhetoric
Rhetorical techniques found in political discourse are examined. Topics covered include symbolic
politics, the place of myth in politics, and the political elements of film, literature, and television.
COMS 3603 (3 Credit Hours)
Contemporary Culture and Rhetoric
Explores the relationship between rhetoric and contemporary culture. Contemporary theories of
rhetoric are examined and used to study communication in contemporary cultural issues. Issues
involving identity and power, in particular, will be discussed.
COMS 3610 (3 Credit Hours)
Advanced Argument and Debate
Advanced argumentation and debate course with legal issues used as basis for arguments.
COMS 3620 (3 Credit Hours)
Rhetorical Analysis and Criticism
Studies the approaches and methods of modern rhetorical critics. Emphasizes research and
writing skills for a critical evaluation of rhetorical artifacts.
COMS 3920 (3 Credit Hours)
Practicum in Communication Education
Students will receive instruction and hands-on experience in practicing skills related to human
communication pedagogy, including leading planned discussions over communication theories,
facilitating hands-on activities, and providing students with feedback on their communication
skills. Students enrolled in this course will learn general fundamentals of communication
pedagogy by serving as undergraduate discussion leaders for COMS 1010.
COMS 3970T (1 to 14 Credit Hours)
Communication Studies Tutorial
In-depth study of a topic in Communication Studies.
COMS 3980T (1 to 14 Credit Hours)
Communication Studies Tutorial
In-depth study of a topic in Communication Studies.
COMS 4030 (3 Credit Hours)
Advanced Presentations
This course will build on the knowledge and skills developed in COMS 1030. Students will learn
how to make presentations that require extensive research, longer presentation times, and/or
adaptation to diverse audiences. Particular attention will be given to developing competence
with presentation technology.
COMS = Communication
T3 = Tier 3
ITS = Information and Technology Systems
MDIA = Media Arts and Studies
JOUR = Journalism
VICO = Visual Communication
COMS 4050 (3 Credit Hours)
Meeting and Conference Planning
Theoretical and methodological approaches to principles of group and conference leadership.
Emphasis on leadership methods and skills as they apply to group and conference situations.
COMS 4060 (3 Credit Hours)
Advanced Interpersonal Communication
An examination of communication theories relevant to the study of interpersonal communication.
Attention will be given to communication involved in initiating, developing, maintaining,
repairing, and disengaging from interpersonal relationships.
COMS 4070 (3 Credit Hours)
Effective Classroom Communication for Teachers and Trainers
Course focuses on interpersonal communication in classroom environment, with particular
emphasis on communication between students and teachers. Taught in intensive format only
during summer session.
COMS 4071 (3 Credit Hours)
Nonverbal Communication for Teachers and Trainers
Course focuses on the nonverbal behaviors used by students and teachers/trainers, and the
impact of those behaviors on student/teacher relationships. Taught in intensive format only
during summer session.
COMS 4072 (3 Credit Hours)
Communication in Your Workplace: Strategies for Teachers and Administrators
Course focuses on the organizational communication variables that operate within the classroom,
school, community, and state. Increases the abilities of teachers and administrators to
understand and respond to the various organizational constituencies to which they are
accountable. Taught in intensive format only during summer session.
COMS 4073 (3 Credit Hours)
Effective Listening and Small Group Communication for Teachers and Trainers
Course focuses on steps to more effective listening and working in small groups for teachers and
trainers. Designed to familiarize teachers and trainers with the keys to active listening, the stages
of group development and decline, how to manage groups, and improving their cooperation and
productivity. Taught in intensive format only during summer session.
COMS 4074 (3 Credit Hours)
Family Communication for Teachers and Trainers
This course explores issues of family communication for classroom teachers and organizational
trainers. The definition and nature of contemporary families are explored. Children's views of the
family and peer relationships are highlighted. Conflict, stress, decision making, and problem
solving are discussed. Special activities for the teacher and trainer are provided. Taught in
intensive format only during summer session.
COMS = Communication
T3 = Tier 3
ITS = Information and Technology Systems
MDIA = Media Arts and Studies
JOUR = Journalism
VICO = Visual Communication
COMS 4075 (3 Credit Hours)
Instructional Communication Assessment for Teachers and Trainers
Examination of test construction and grading practices, procedures, and formats. Analysis of
underlying assumptions and philosophies of assessment in education. Emphasis on the alignment
among objectives, testing practices, and evaluation procedures. Taught in intensive format only
during summer session.
COMS 4076 (3 Credit Hours)
Children's Conflict and Mediation for Teachers and Trainers
This course focuses on the design and implementation of peer dispute mediation programs within
elementary and secondary school systems. Course content includes discussion of children's
communication development and development of conflict management ability, the rationale
underlying and challenges involved with implementing peer mediation programs, and approaches
to training youngsters in mediation and conflict management communication skills. Taught in
intensive format only during summer session.
COMS 4077 (3 Credit Hours)
Communicating with Diverse Students
This course is designed to explore issues relevant to enhancing communication competence and
effectiveness between individuals of diverse backgrounds. Specifically, the class will address
interactions between people from a variety of backgrounds including gender, age, religious,
geographical, ethnic or racial differences. The focus will be on examining the impact of variables
such as communication apprehension. Students will have the opportunity to explore the
underlying patterns that influence their own, as well as others', communication behaviors and
discuss strategies to improve understanding of, and appreciation for, differences. Taught in
intensive format only during summer session.
COMS 4100 (3 Credit Hours)
Cross-Cultural Communication
Analysis of processes and problems of communication as affected by national cultures; effects of
differences in language, values, meaning, perception, and thought.
COMS 4110 (3 Credit Hours)
Communicating with People with Disabilities
Examines the implications of communication between the physically disabled and able-bodied
individuals/groups. The course utilizes simulated exercises, video presentations, field trips, and
outside guest lecturers to give the student reasonable exposure to the disabled community.
COMS 4200 (3 Credit Hours)
Gender and Communication
Explores variations in communicative behaviors related to biological sex and psychological
gender. Examines gender communication in intrapersonal, interpersonal, small group, public, and
organizational settings.
COMS = Communication
T3 = Tier 3
ITS = Information and Technology Systems
MDIA = Media Arts and Studies
JOUR = Journalism
VICO = Visual Communication
COMS 4410 (3 Credit Hours)
Communication in the Family
Examination of the communication concepts basic to understanding interaction in the family.
Provides a framework for analysis of family communication. Explores communication issues that
relate to family interaction, including conflict, power, intimacy, and the development of
relationships. Presents a model of effective communication in the family. Consideration of verbal
and nonverbal communication behaviors.
COMS 4510 (3 Credit Hours)
Instructional Training and Development in Communication
Provides opportunity to design instructional training programs beginning with the needs
assessment and continuing through the evaluation phase. Combination of lecture/discussion and
student presentations.
COMS 4530 (3 Credit Hours)
Communication and the Campaign
Theory and practice of persuasion and management in campaign situations (political, religious,
information, fund-raising, advertising, etc.). Students may participate in local, state, or national
campaigns, or do an in-depth research paper.
COMS 4604 (3 Credit Hours)
Responsibilities and Freedom of Speech in Communication
Ethical and rhetorical implications of constitutional guarantees on political, social, and religious
speech; analysis of effects of famous legal cases on freedom of speech.
COMS 4630 (3 Credit Hours)
Rhetoric and Electronic Media
Examines meaning-making via the electronic symbol, verbal and graphic. Classes will alternate
between the analysis of theories and close examination of radio, hypertext (online via the World
Wide Web and stored on CD-ROM), email, word processing, and television--especially in contrast
to print and speech.
COMS 4800 (3 Credit Hours)
Capstone Seminar in Communication
This course presents a seminar treatment of current or topical interest in communication studies.
The topic will vary with instructor expertise and research interests. During the seminar, students
will synthesize and integrate concepts from multiple areas of communication.
COMS 4900 (3 Credit Hours)
Topics in Communication Studies
Course structure varies by instructor, but readings, classroom discussion, and demonstration of
understanding through written work is typical.
COMS = Communication
T3 = Tier 3
ITS = Information and Technology Systems
MDIA = Media Arts and Studies
JOUR = Journalism
VICO = Visual Communication
COMS 4910 (1 to 15 Credit Hours)
Communication Studies Internship
Supervised practical training and experience in selected professional environments for COMS
undergraduate students. Students should consult with the Internship Coordinator (or refer to the
COMS website) about the courses required before an internship can be taken for academic credit.
COMS 4911 (3 Credit Hours)
Health Communication Internship
This course will provide students with a supervised, guided practical experience relevant to their
Health Communication concentration.
COMS 4912 (3 Credit Hours)
Organizational Communication Internship
This course will provide students with a supervised, guided practical experience relevant to their
Organizational Communication concentration.
COMS 4913 (3 Credit Hours)
Communication in Public Advocacy Internship
This course will provide students with a supervised, guided practical experience relevant to their
Communication and Public Advocacy concentration.
COMS 4920 (3 Credit Hours)
Practicum in Communication Studies
Students assume roles in an internal real-to-life organization and engage in a consulting or
training project with an external client. Opportunity to apply theories and skills developed in
major.
COMS 4930 (1 to 3 Credit Hours)
Independent Study
Content varies. Individual contract between student and instructor required. May be repeated for
maximum of 9 hours; 3 may be counted for COMS Electives.
COMS 4970T (1 to 14 Credit Hours)
Communication Studies Tutorial
Thesis in Communication Studies.
COMS 4980T (1 to 14 Credit Hours)
Communication Studies Tutorial
Thesis in Communication Studies
COMS 5070 (4 Credit Hours)
Effective Classroom Communication for Teachers and Trainers
Course focuses on interpersonal communication in classroom environment, with particular
emphasis on communication between students and teachers. Taught in intensive format only
during summer session.
COMS = Communication
T3 = Tier 3
ITS = Information and Technology Systems
MDIA = Media Arts and Studies
JOUR = Journalism
VICO = Visual Communication
COMS 5071 (4 Credit Hours)
Nonverbal Communication for Teachers and Trainers
Covers nonverbal behavior of teachers and trainers in the classroom. Messages communicated by
the classroom environment and how the environment shapes students' learning patterns are also
covered. Small group activities to develop greater sensitivity to nonverbal communication are
provided. Readings. Taught in seminar format only during summer session.
COMS 5072 (4 Credit Hours)
Communicating in Your Workplace: Strategies for Teachers and Administrators
Focuses on the problems of communication within an education-oriented organization. Particular
emphasis on elements that help or delay the adoption of change, conflict management, and
practical knowledge and skill for communicating successfully in an educational setting. Taught in
seminar format only during summer session.
COMS 5073 (4 Credit Hours)
Effective Listening and Small Group Communication for Teachers and Trainers
Course focuses on steps to more effective listening and working in small groups for teachers and
trainers. Designed to familiarize teachers and trainers with the keys to active listening, the stages
of group development and decline, how to manage groups, and improving their cooperation and
productivity. Taught in intensive format only during summer session.
COMS 5074 (4 Credit Hours)
Family Communication for Teachers and Trainers
This course explores issues of family communication for classroom teachers and organizational
trainers. The definitions and nature of contemporary families are explored. Childrens' views of the
family and peer relationships are highlighted. Conflict, stress, decision making, and problem
solving are discussed. Special activities for the teacher and trainer are provided. Taught in
intensive format only during summer session.
COMS 5075 (4 Credit Hours)
Instructional Communication Assessment for Teachers and Trainers
Examination of test construction and grading practices, procedures, and formats. Analysis of
underlying assumptions and philosophies of assessment in education. Emphasis on the alignment
among objectives, testing practices, and evaluation procedures. Taught in intensive format only
during summer session.
COMS 5076 (4 Credit Hours)
Children's Conflict and Mediation for Teachers and Trainers
This course focuses on the design and implementation of peer dispute mediation programs within
elementary and secondary school systems. Course content includes discussion of children's
communication development and development of conflict management ability, the rationale
underlying and challenges involved with implementing peer mediation programs, and approaches
to training youngsters in mediation and conflict management communication skills. Taught in
intensive format only during summer session.
COMS = Communication
T3 = Tier 3
ITS = Information and Technology Systems
MDIA = Media Arts and Studies
JOUR = Journalism
VICO = Visual Communication
COMS 5077 (4 Credit Hours)
Communicating with Diverse Students for Teachers and Trainers
This course is designed to explore issues relevant to enhancing communication competence and
effectiveness between individuals of diverse backgrounds. Specifically, this course will address
interactions between people from a variety of backgrounds, including gender, age, religious,
geographical, ethnic, or racial differences. The focus will be on examining the impact of variables
such as communication. Students will have the opportunity to explore the underlying patterns
that influence their own, as well as others', communication behaviors, and discuss strategies to
improve their understanding of, and appreciation for, those differences. Taught in intensive
format only during summer session.
COMS 5100 (4 Credit Hours)
Field Research Methods in Communication
Development of research methods such as content analysis, participant observation, Q-analysis,
questionnaire design, sampling procedures, case studies, and unobtrusive measures.
COMS 5200 (4 Credit Hours)
Cross-Cultural Communication
Analysis of processes and problems of communication as affected by national cultures; effects of
differences in languages, values, meaning, perception, and thought.
COMS 5300 (4 Credit Hours)
Communication and the Campaign
Processes of communication as applied in a campaign, defined as any organizational goaloriented effort designed to influence behaviors of identifiable population. Emphasizes theory
application in nonclassroom campaign situations (political, fund-raising, publicity, etc.).
COMS 5310 (4 Credit Hours)
Theories of Argument
Relationship between formal logic and rhetorical systems of arguments; intensive study of
fallacies and experimental findings related to study of argument.
COMS 5320 (4 Credit Hours)
Responsibilities and Freedom of Speech in Communication
Ethical and rhetorical implications of constitutional guarantees on political, social, and religious
speech; analyses of significant legal cases on freedom of expression.
COMS 5630 (4 Credit Hours)
Rhetoric and Electronic Media
This course examines meaning-making via the electronic symbol, verbal and graphic. Classes will
alternate between the analyses of theory and close examination of radio, hypertext (online via the
World Wide Web and stored on CD-ROM), E-mail, word processing, and television--especially in
contrast to print and speech.
COMS = Communication
T3 = Tier 3
ITS = Information and Technology Systems
MDIA = Media Arts and Studies
JOUR = Journalism
VICO = Visual Communication
COMS 5900 (1 to 15 Credit Hours)
Topics in Communication Studies
Course structure varies by instructor, but readings, classroom discussion, and demonstration of
understanding through written work is typical.
COMS 6000 (4 Credit Hours)
Introduction to Graduate Study
Definition of field of communication, methods of structuring field, and research concerns within
areas of field. Examination of theory and function of research. Analysis of representative types
and methods of research.
COMS 6010 (4 Credit Hours)
Theories of Communication
Survey of contemporary communication theory, emphasizing cross-disciplinary contributions to
such theory.
COMS 6020 (4 Credit Hours)
Language and Symbol Systems
Role of verbal and nonverbal signs and symbols in communication. Emphasizes human
symbolizing capabilities and relationships between symbolic structures and physical reality.
COMS 6100 (4 Credit Hours)
Measurement Methodology in Communication
Measurement principles, instruments, and techniques in communication; problems and
procedures in testing, measuring, and evaluating communicative attitudes and skills;
development and availability of relevant standardized tests.
COMS 6200 (4 Credit Hours)
Communication in Social Conflict
Roles of communication in conflict and conflict in communication. Communication strategies for
reducing or managing conflict in social situations.
COMS 6209 (4 Credit Hours)
Communicating and Organizing
Communicating and Organizing provides a broad overview of theories and perspectives describing
communication processes within organizational settings. Students taking this course will learn
about classic theories describing functionalist approaches to organizing and communicating as
well as contemporary theories exploring organizational communication from interpretive and
critical perspectives.
COMS 6210 (4 Credit Hours)
Negotiation and Mediation
Explores communication dynamics involved in negotiating and mediating interpersonal and
organizational disputes. Examines research and ethical issues relevant to communication within
the contexts of negotiation and mediation.
COMS = Communication
T3 = Tier 3
ITS = Information and Technology Systems
MDIA = Media Arts and Studies
JOUR = Journalism
VICO = Visual Communication
COMS 6220 (4 Credit Hours)
Nonverbal Communication
Survey of major theories and research areas in field of nonverbal communication. In-depth
analysis of research in areas of student interest.
COMS 6230 (4 Credit Hours)
Gender and Communication
Explores variations in communicative behaviors related to biological sex and psychological
gender. Examines female and male communication in intrapersonal, interpersonal, small group,
public, and organizational settings.
COMS 6240 (4 Credit Hours)
Communication in the Family
Examination of the communication concepts that are basic to understanding interaction in the
family. Provides a framework for analysis of family communication. Explores communication
issues that relate to conflict, power, intimacy, and the development of relationships. Presents a
model of effective communication in the family. Consideration of verbal and nonverbal
communication behaviors.
COMS 6250 (4 Credit Hours)
Seminar in Instructional Communication
This course provides graduate students with an overview of the impact of communication in the
classroom. Specifically, this course focuses on the dynamics of communication and how this
influences student outcomes (e.g., learning, motivation) as well as instructor outcomes (e.g.,
efficacy, job satisfaction).
COMS 6260 (4 Credit Hours)
Communication Audits in Organizations
Examination and discussion of literature covering methods of assessing communication in
organizations. Designed to give students practical skill development through actual assessment,
data analysis and interpretation, and client report preparation.
COMS 6270 (4 Credit Hours)
Instructional Training and Development in Communication
Includes philosophies of organizational development; theories of instructional design,
emphasizing stages of planning implementation, and evaluation; and communication training
skills, including needs assessment and evaluation, writing objectives, application of
communication content, and selection of instructional modes and resources--all investigated
within business, professional, and governmental organizational contexts.
COMS 6300 (4 Credit Hours)
Communication and Persuasion
Process of communication and attitude change, survey of general theories and typical research,
analysis of contemporary persuasion.
COMS = Communication
T3 = Tier 3
ITS = Information and Technology Systems
MDIA = Media Arts and Studies
JOUR = Journalism
VICO = Visual Communication
COMS 6310 (4 Credit Hours)
History of Rhetorical Theory
Covers main concepts and principal figures in the history of rhetorical theory. Begins with classical
Greece and ends with postmodernity.
COMS 6320 (4 Credit Hours)
Rhetoric, Culture, and Social Critique
Course takes a specific theoretical approach to the critique of rhetoric as expressed in and by
contemporary culture. The goal will be to explore the rich variety of rhetorical expression current
in our lives. The reading list will encompass such topics as the critique of hate speech, the critique
of whiteness, as well as focus on the discourse of African American, Native American,
Latina/Latino cultures. Student projects will focus on one or more of the areas of inquiry with a
goal of understanding and critiquing the role of rhetoric in the perpetuation and alteration of a
culture.
COMS 6330 (4 Credit Hours)
Modern Rhetoric
Aims, tasks, and significance of rhetoric in relation to human communication processes.
Distinctions among speculative, critical, canonical, and performative perspectives in rhetorical
inquiry.
COMS 6340 (4 Credit Hours)
Religious Rhetoric
Pulpit oratory examined through analyses of selected clerics including Luther, Wesley, Whitefield,
Beecher, Brooks, Fosdick, Sunday, Graham, and others. Rhetorical analysis of revivalism, camp
meetings, social gospel, and ecclesiastical and polemic debates.
COMS 6341 (4 Credit Hours)
The Rhetoric of Protest and Reform
Rhetorical analysis and criticism of speaking during reform and revolutionary protest movements.
Selected areas include American Revolution, antislavery debates, Populists, Progressives, labor
unrest, women's rights, and civil rights agitation.
COMS 6342 (4 Credit Hours)
The Rhetoric of the World Wars
Analysis and criticism of wartime communication, its principal modes, techiques, media, and
effects. Theory and practice as reflected in WWI and II.
COMS 6343 (4 Credit Hours)
Analysis and Criticism of Legal Rhetoric
Analysis and criticism of principal modes, types, and styles of western legal rhetorical
communication as mirrored in selected cases, jurists, attorneys, decisions, and arguments, with
western legal communication studies as unique mode of rhetoric focusing upon English-American
jurisprudence and courtroom advocacy. Case study method employed. Critical analysis
accomplished.
COMS = Communication
T3 = Tier 3
ITS = Information and Technology Systems
MDIA = Media Arts and Studies
JOUR = Journalism
VICO = Visual Communication
COMS 6344 (4 Credit Hours)
Analysis and Criticism of Political Rhetoric
Analysis and criticism of principal modes, media techniques, and effects of western political
rhetorical communication. Theory and practice as reflected in major campaigns, administrations,
and movements in both open and closed societies.
COMS 6350 (4 Credit Hours)
Foucault, Discourse, and Social Change
The overarching goal of this seminar is to develop a clearer sense of what it means to have
rhetorical agency in a postmodern world. In moving toward that goal, we will interrogate
Foucault's work that bears on the themes of discourse, knowledge/power, subject, and space.
COMS 6900 (1 to 15 Credit Hours)
Special Topics in Communication Studies
Specific course content will vary with offering.
COMS 6910 (1 to 12 Credit Hours)
Internship
Experience in communication-related activities in organizational environments. Written proposal
required.
COMS 6930 (1 to 8 Credit Hours)
Independent Study
Readings on special problems under planned program approved by advisor. Projects must be
approved prior to registration.
COMS 6940 (1 to 12 Credit Hours)
Research
Individual research on special problems. Projects must be approved prior to registration.
COMS 6950 (1 to 12 Credit Hours)
Thesis
Independent research as part of completion of master's degree.
COMS 7000 (1 Credit Hours)
Professional Seminar in Communication Studies: Pedagogy
The professional seminar serves to orient students to graduate school and provide forums to
discuss what it means to be a scholar, teacher, citizen, and/or communication practitioner.
COMS 7001 (1 Credit Hours)
Professional Seminar in Communication Studies: Scholarly Writing
The professional seminar serves to orient students to graduate school and provide forums to
discuss what it means to be a scholar, teacher, citizen, and/or communication practitioner.
COMS = Communication
T3 = Tier 3
ITS = Information and Technology Systems
MDIA = Media Arts and Studies
JOUR = Journalism
VICO = Visual Communication
COMS 7002 (1 Credit Hours)
Professional Seminar in Communication Studies: Service
The professional seminar serves to orient students to graduate school and provide forums to
discuss what it means to be a scholar, teacher, citizen, and/or communication practitioner.
COMS 7003 (1 Credit Hours)
Professional Seminar in Communication Studies: Advanced Pedagogy
The professional seminar serves to orient students to graduate school and provide forums to
discuss what it means to be a scholar, teacher, citizen, and/or communication practitioner. All
iterations of the course will instruct graduate students on approaches for teaching particular
undergraduate courses in communication including but not limited to: Communication Theory,
Small Group, Interviewing, Argumentation, Interpersonal, Health Communication, Rhetoric, or
Organizational Communication. Students may repeat the course as new topics are offered.
COMS 7010 (4 Credit Hours)
Research Designs in Communication
Nature and selection of communicative research problems; development of strategies,
techniques, and appropriate designs, critical evaluation and development of experimental and
descriptive procedures.
COMS 7020 (4 Credit Hours)
Integrated Theory in Communications Studies I
COMS 7020 (and its companion course, 7030) will provide students with a broad-based
introduction to, and critical examination of, the historical foundations as well as the
contemporary theoretical investigations of the communication discipline. Students will read
primary source materials coupled with contemporary texts extending these works in developing,
applying and testing communication theory.
COMS 7030 (4 Credit Hours)
Integrated Theory in Communications Studies II
COMS 7030 (and its companion course, 7020) will provide students with a broad-based
introduction to, and critical examination of, the historical foundations of communication theory,
as well as the contemporary texts extending these works in developing, applying, and testing
communication theory.
COMS 7040 (4 Credit Hours)
Research Design and Analysis I
COMS7040 (and its companion course COMS 7050) introduces students to fundamental principles
of research design and analysis and serves as a foundation for other courses in the program.
Students will learn theoretical principles and research skills associated with four content areas: (a)
metatheoretical assumptions, (b) quantitative design and analysis, (c) qualitative design and
analysis, and (d) mixed-method design.
COMS = Communication
T3 = Tier 3
ITS = Information and Technology Systems
MDIA = Media Arts and Studies
JOUR = Journalism
VICO = Visual Communication
COMS 7050 (4 Credit Hours)
Research and Design and Analysis II
COMS 7050 (and its companion course COMS 7040) introduces students to fundamental principles
of research design and analysis and serves as a foundation for other courses in the program.
Students will learn theoretical principles and research skills associated with four content areas: (a)
metatheoretical assumptions, (b) quantitative design and analysis, (c) qualitative design and
analysis, and (d) mixed-method design.
COMS 7110 (4 Credit Hours)
Communication Historiography I
Bibliographic, analytical, and interpretive skills for dealing with published primary source
materials, including letters, speech texts, and audiovisual recordings in their historical contexts.
Designed to help students become skillful library users, situate a research problem in context, and
analyze primary historical materials.
COMS 7120 (4 Credit Hours)
Communication Historiography II
Techniques for research using archival material: transcripts, unpublished speeches, letters, diaries,
artifacts (e.g., scrapbooks, museum exhibits), memoirs, manuscripts. Readings exemplify a variety
of historical philosophies. Students research an original problem of their own definition within the
theme of the semester; the writing of conference papers is encouraged. Course builds on the
pedagogical skills introduced in 7110 by developing the ability to critique bibliographies,
argumentation, and prose style.
COMS 7130 (4 Credit Hours)
Qualitative Research: Ethnography of Communication and Conversational Analysis
Provides students with an understanding of how to conduct communication research projects
using two qualitative research methodologies that stress the collection and analysis of naturalistic
data--ethnography of communication and conversation analysis.
COMS 7200 (4 Credit Hours)
Introduction to Relating and Organizing
This course is the first in a series of courses designed to introduce graduate students to the
interconnections between micro practices and macro organizational and societal structures and
influences. Particular attention will be paid to how individuals and collectives experience and
enact fundamental tensions in their efforts to relate and organize.
COMS 7210 (4 Credit Hours)
Communication Process in Small Groups
Theory and research in group social system, group modification of individual judgment, leadership
styles, group vs. individual goals, and
intragroup lines of communication in small problemsolving and learning groups.
COMS = Communication
T3 = Tier 3
ITS = Information and Technology Systems
MDIA = Media Arts and Studies
JOUR = Journalism
VICO = Visual Communication
COMS 7220 (4 Credit Hours)
Communicative Process in Organizations
Interaction between organizational structure and communication within organizations. Emphasis
on theoretical and methodological analysis. Primary focus on conducting major research project.
COMS 7230 (4 Credit Hours)
Communication and Information Diffusion
Analysis of major approaches to data and information diffusion systems on local, regional,
national, and international levels. Emphasis on acquisition analysis and dissemination of data as
information, including critical points of interface and interaction between a system and its uses.
COMS 7250 (4 Credit Hours)
Organization Communication Consulting: Foundational Perspectives
A focus on theoretical perspectives to organizational communication consulting and
organizational development. Review of theory and research on communication training,
consulting practices, communication variables involved in the client/consultant relationship, as
well as intervention techniques.
COMS 7300 (4 Credit Hours)
Introduction to Rhetoric and Public Culture
An introductory survey of ideas theorizing the relationships between rhetoric and public culture.
Since many of these ideas offer critical and analytic perspectives, students will also learn how to
engage in critical analysis of the relationships between rhetoric and public culture. Likely
theories/theorists include: Kenneth Burke, Mikhail Bakhtin, Michel Foucault, Antonio Gramsci,
Jergen Habermas, cultural studies, post-colonial studies, feminist studies, and postmodernism.
COMS 7310 (4 Credit Hours)
Rhetorical Criticism
Theories and methodologies of selected modern critics. Exploration of interdisciplinary dimensions
in criticism of rhetorical interactions. Class and individual projects.
COMS 7400 (4 Credit Hours)
Introduction to Health Communication
Survey of the wide range of topics within the area of health communication, including cultural
concepts of health, patient centered meanings of health, physician patient interaction, social
support, health promotion campaigns, harm reduction campaigns, mass media constructions of
health, risk communication, and health-related values and ethics.
COMS 7900 (4 Credit Hours)
Topics in Communication Studies
Seminars focused on a special topic with a COMS faculty instructor, a visiting faculty member, or
a visiting professional. May be repeated for up to 20 hours.
COMS = Communication
T3 = Tier 3
ITS = Information and Technology Systems
MDIA = Media Arts and Studies
JOUR = Journalism
VICO = Visual Communication
COMS 7901 (4 Credit Hours)
Interdisciplinary Seminar
Seminar contents vary.
COMS 7940 (1 to 12 Credit Hours)
Research
Individual research on special projects. Projects must be approved prior to registration.
COMS 8200 (4 Credit Hours)
Communication in Organizations
Introduction to organizational communication. Specific objectives include development of
historical progress, examination of major research issues such as information flow, network
analysis, communication overload and underload, exploration of theoretical foundations in
organizational decision making, superior-subordinate communication, organizational
effectiveness, and change processes.
COMS 8210 (4 Credit Hours)
Seminar in Interpersonal Communication
Provides advanced graduate students with opportunity to identify and analyze basic components
of dyadic communicative system including multivariate nature of both relationships and effects.
COMS 8220 (4 Credit Hours)
Public Deliberation
Course addresses theoretical and practical dimensions of the public, private, civil, and technical
spheres of human discourse, with an emphasis on the content, structure, suasiveness, and social
cultural implications of the speech and action emerging from and contributing to those spheres.
COMS 8230 (4 Credit Hours)
Integrated Research in Communication Studies
This course is designed to provide advanced students with an opportunity to apply communication
theory in exploring questions and/or addressing problems that connect the realms of
interpersonal communication studies and organizational communication studies. The course will
be open to COMS graduate students who have successfully competed their first year of graduate
studies and to graduate students from other programs in the university contingent on instructor
permission. The precise questions explored and methods employed in that exploration will vary
according to instructor interests and background.
COMS 8290 (4 Credit Hours)
Topics in Relating and Organizing
Advanced seminar focusing on the role and dynamics of communication employed in the
processes of relating and organizing. Topic varies with instructor. Course topics will vary; may
repeat course as topics rotate for a total of 12 credits.
COMS = Communication
T3 = Tier 3
ITS = Information and Technology Systems
MDIA = Media Arts and Studies
JOUR = Journalism
VICO = Visual Communication
COMS 8310 (4 Credit Hours)
Rhetoric and Popular Culture
This course introduces students to major works in the study of rhetoric, popular culture, and their
relationship. It assumes that forms of popular culture (e.g., popular music, advertising, television
programming, popular novels, etc.) are social artifacts that serve an important persuasive
function in society. Popular culture provides conceptual and practical frameworks that orient
individuals to the world. Thus, this course will help graduate students to develop a set of
theoretical, methodological, and analytical resources for researching and interpreting the
persuasive functions of popular culture in specific historical and geographical contexts.
COMS 8320 (4 Credit Hours)
Rhetorical and Communicative Functions of Technology
This course examines the creation of meaning in verbal and graphic texts in speech, print, and
electronic environments, with emphasis on the cultural significance of various communication
technologies. In addition to discussions of theory, the course includes hands-on explorations of
electronic examples (including radio, cell phones, games, and Internet applications), especially in
contrast to print and speech, and consideration of social, economic, and technical dimensions of
mediated culture.
COMS 8330 (4 Credit Hours)
Feminist Rhetorical Theory
This course will begin with an examination of what it means to 'write women into the history of
rhetoric'. This examination will provide the backdrop for an initial historiographical approach to
women's contributions to rhetorical theory. Beyond this initial focus, the course will examine
recent developments in feminist theory that impinge on or work from an understanding of
rhetoric. As such, the course cuts across both historical and theoretical boundaries mapping the
space for a feminist rhetoric.
COMS 8390 (4 Credit Hours)
Topics in the Philosophy of Communication: Rhetoric and Public Culture
Study of particular philosophical traditions (e.g., post structuralism, pragmatism, the Frankfurt
School, analytic philosophy, Marxism), philosophers (e.g., Burke, Levinas, Foucault, Dewey,
Habermas, Giddens, Marx, Wittgenstein), and/or topics of interest to faculty and students not
covered by regular classes (e.g., visual communication; humor; privacy; surveillance; the rhetoric
of law; civil society and discourse; the rhetoric of terrorism-; narrative, rhetoric, space, and place;
political communication; and cultural studies). Topics will vary and the course may be repeated
twice as topics rotate.
COMS 8400 (4 Credit Hours)
Communication Issues in Health Care Organizations
This course introduces students to research on communication issues in health care organizing
and provides a forum for developing research agendas in this area. Underscoring course reading
and assignments is the assumption that health, illness, and healing acquire meaning through
symbolic interactions located within social, political, economic, and cultural structures.
COMS = Communication
T3 = Tier 3
ITS = Information and Technology Systems
MDIA = Media Arts and Studies
JOUR = Journalism
VICO = Visual Communication
COMS 8420 (4 Credit Hours)
Health Communication and Culture
The purpose of this course is to examine the influence of culture on communicative aspects of
patient and public health. The course explores theories of communication medical anthropology,
and health education to understand the conceptual foundations of intercultural health. The
course analyzes how peoples' health beliefs play out in interactions with patients and providers,
and examines how public health strategies can be designed for specific cultural contexts. The
larger purpose of this course is to train graduate students to communicate more effectively with
patients, providers, and the public in multicultural health care settings.
COMS 8430 (4 Credit Hours)
Relational Issues in Health Communication
This course will highlight the communicative accomplishment of health relationships. In
particular, students will gain an understanding of the interactional resources that enable health
care participants to construct emergent relationships and identities.
COMS 8440 (4 Credit Hours)
Public Understanding of Health and Healing
Seminar exploring the relationships among communication, public culture, and public perceptions
of health and healing. Surveys theoretical approaches (i.e., cultural studies, rhetorical analysis)
and emphasizes the application of theory through writing and criticism. There is a strong
emphasis on exploring current issues and challenges facing the health care industry and the
public's understanding of health and healing.
COMS 8900 (1 to 15 Credit Hours)
Special Topics in Communication Studies
Specific course content will vary with offering.
COMS 8950 (1 to 12 Credit Hours)
Dissertation
Independent research leading to the completion of the doctoral degree.
COMS = Communication
T3 = Tier 3
ITS = Information and Technology Systems
MDIA = Media Arts and Studies
JOUR = Journalism
VICO = Visual Communication