School of Communications

ADPR 101. Intro to Public Relations.3 Credits.

Prerequisites: None

ADPR 102. Introduction to Advertising and Integrated Communications.3 Credits.

This is an introductory course that provides a comprehensive overview of the practices of advertising and integrated communication (ADIC) as they are used by organizations to maximize the impact of unified messages and promotions on consumers and other stakeholders. The course introduces students to foundational principles and strategies, contemporary issues and practices, ethical considerations in the advertising industry, and the use of emergent technologies such as artificial intelligence, within the communications campaign planning process.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, Fall and Spring
UC: Breadth Elective, University Curriculum Ele

ADPR 159. Advertising & Integ Comm Elect.3 Credits.

Prerequisites: None

ADPR 201. Writing for Advertising and Public Relations.3 Credits.

Written communication is central to most advertising and public relations careers. Clear and persuasive writing is one of the tools used in advertising and public relations to convey clients' messages to target publics. This writing-intensive course introduces students to the world of professional advertising and public relations writing. Topics include press releases and other print tactics, online content and social media. Students are involved in both in-class and out-of-class assignments.

Prerequisites: Take ADPR 101 or ADPR 102
Offered: Every year, Fall and Spring

ADPR 215. Web, Mobile & Interactive Design.3 Credits.

Students learn how to create desktop and mobile multimedia elements using web development software, HTML5, CSS3 and simple scripting. Students design projects that include functional websites, animated content and interactive experiences.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, Fall and Spring

ADPR 222. Persuasion.3 Credits.

This course provides an overview of the theories, strategies, and ethics of social influence. We will study persuasion in various contexts, such as advertising and public relations. Students will analyze existing persuasive messages and industry case studies while considering strategic persuasion as an integrated communication effort.

Prerequisites: Take EN 101.
Offered: Every year, Spring

ADPR 240. Public Relations Management.3 Credits.

This course covers team leadership and control, styles of leadership, expectations of leadership and management, staffing for organizational communications and budgets. Writing and public speaking skills are emphasized.

Prerequisites: Take ADPR 101 or ADPR 102.
Offered: Every year, Spring

ADPR 259. Advertising & Integr Comm Elec.3 Credits.

Prerequisites: None

ADPR 309. Public Diplomacy.3 Credits.

This course examines concepts, issues and practices in public diplomacy, or the management of a nation's communications and relationships with foreign publics who have the ability to affect national and international interests. Students examine theoretical and practical aspects of public diplomacy, looking closely at the purpose and value of public diplomacy in governments and other institutions, the roles and responsibilities of public diplomacy specialists, and principles of strategic practices. Students apply what they have learned in the development of public diplomacy materials.

Prerequisites: Take EN 102 or ADPR 101.
Offered: Every year, Spring
UC: Breadth Elective

ADPR 311. Sports Public Relations (sps 311).3 Credits.

This class is a comprehensive review of sports management and sports event planning. Students examine such topics as strategic planning, budgeting and time management.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, Spring

ADPR 320. Strategies for Social Media.3 Credits.

This course addresses the impact of social and new media in an integrated profession. It focuses on strategically using social media to conduct research and monitor issues, to develop, implement and evaluate the success of public relations, advertising and integrated communication efforts. The course emphasizes the strategic utilization of various social media tools as key communication channels for advertising and public relations campaigns.

Prerequisites: Take ADPR 201 or STC 201 or COM 215
Offered: Every year, Fall and Spring

ADPR 332. Communication Research & Analytics.3 Credits.

Quantitative and qualitative reasoning is expected of today's advertising and public relations professionals, and this course presents an exploration of both quantitative and qualitative research methods. Students learn how to use principles of scientific research and data analysis to establish, monitor and evaluate strategic communication efforts.

Prerequisites: Take ADPR 101 or ADPR 102.
Offered: Every year, Fall and Spring

ADPR 335. Media Planning.3 Credits.

In this course, students learn about traditional as well as new and emerging media, with particular emphasis on their utility in an Advertising and Integrated Communication (ADIC) campaign. Students learn to understand media terminology, conduct and analyze research, evaluate various media based on the campaign objectives, and learn the process of designing and budgeting an effective media plan.

Prerequisites: Take ADPR 332 or STC 332
Offered: Every year, Spring

ADPR 341. Corporate Public Relations.3 Credits.

This course provides students with the knowledge and skills required for positions in the corporate sector. Topics include media relations, employee communication, community relations, investor relations and crisis communication. Students hone their written communication and critical thinking skills in this class.

Prerequisites: Take ADPR 201.
Offered: As needed

ADPR 343. Nonprofit Public Relations.3 Credits.

This course is designed for students who are interested in nonprofit public relations practice. Nonprofit practitioners help organizations manage their relationships by using many types of communication. This class helps students hone the skills that enable them to prosper as nonprofit public relations professionals. Written communication skills, along with other skills, are stressed.

Prerequisites: Take ADPR 201.
Offered: As needed

ADPR 344. Global Public Relations Management.3 Credits.

This course explores the practice of public relations from cosmopolitan perspectives. Students learn how government, transnational businesses, non-governmental organizations, and global agencies develop holistic global communication programs to build and maintain relationships with publics around the world. Emphasis is placed on diversity and multiculturalism relevant to the practice of public relations worldwide.

Prerequisites: Take ADPR 101 or ADPR 102.
Offered: As needed

ADPR 345. Investor Relations and Financial Communication.3 Credits.

The course explores the practice of investor relations, one of the highest paid specializations of public relations. Students study the function of investor relations in corporations and examine the role of investor relations specialists charged with communicating to the financial media, regulatory organization, financial analysts, shareholders and others in the financial community. Class discussions and assignments are designed to help students enhance critical thinking and reasoning skills, develop research and strategic planning skills and improve creative thinking skills.

Prerequisites: Take ADPR 201.
Offered: As needed

ADPR 346. Health Communication.3 Credits.

This course provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the dynamic field of health communication, exploring the intersection of communication theory, strategy, and public health. Students will examine the role of effective communication in promoting health, preventing diseases, and shaping individual and community behavior.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: As needed

ADPR 348. Event Planning.3 Credits.

This course emphasizes the fundamentals of event planning, from developing the event, choosing a site and activities, promoting the event, accommodating the audience, coordinating volunteers, overseeing a safe event environment, and assessing the event after completion. At the end of the course, based upon the readings and real-life application, the student should be able to appreciate and understand how to plan a first-rate event, regardless of the client, theme or environment.

Prerequisites: Take ADPR 201 or STC 201
Offered: As needed

ADPR 349. Media Relations.3 Credits.

This course gives students an understanding of the priorities and expectations of various types of contemporary media and how to successfully engage them through research-based strategies and tactics designed to reach key audiences. At the conclusion of the course, students should be well-practiced in various forms of working with journalists and the public via multiple media.

Prerequisites: Take ADPR 201.
Offered: As needed

ADPR 400. Special Topics.3 Credits.

The content of this course is specialized and varies from semester to semester. Students may inquire at the School of Communications front desk to learn more about the topic being offered.

Prerequisites: Take ADPR 201 or STC 201
Offered: As needed

ADPR 401. Bateman Competition Research.1-3 Credits.

This course is designed to prepare students for advanced public relations problem-solving, the development of strategic public relations plans and the execution of a comprehensive public relations program. Students develop and implement a public relations program based on the four-step public relations process by competing in the national Public Relations Student Society of America Bateman Case Study Competition.

Prerequisites: Take ADPR 201.
Offered: As needed

ADPR 402. Bateman Competition Campaigns.2 Credits.

Prerequisites: Take ADPR 332 ADPR 401.
Offered: As needed

ADPR 405. The Agency.3 Credits.

The Agency is a student-run, interdisciplinary firm in which students produce professional work under the direction of faculty. Specializing in Public Relations, Graphic and Interactive Design, and Advertising and Integrated Communications, students collaborate on teams to manage and produce visual, written and digital work for a variety of clients in the communications field. Students apply different research methodologies, tools and techniques, and tactics to achieve desired strategic outcomes and present their projects to clients. Course is repeatable with permission of instructor.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, Fall and Spring

ADPR 410. Branding Strategies.3 Credits.

In this course, students consider how brands are created and sustained, and examine them as the guiding forces for integrated communication campaigns. Students identify the common characteristics of successful brands and explore the tools and techniques that are used to build brand equity.

Prerequisites: Take ADPR 320.
Offered: Every year, Fall

ADPR 450. Crisis Communication Management.3 Credits.

This senior seminar for public relations majors is focused on crisis management. The course examines institutional crisis communication from a management perspective with an emphasis on crisis prevention, planning and response. Senior-level students in this course apply skills they have learned throughout the program to crisis case studies. Students are called on to demonstrate oral and written communication skills along with proficiencies in such areas as critical thinking, reasoning and creative thinking.

Prerequisites: Take ADPR 332 or STC 332
Offered: Every year, Fall

ADPR 485. Advertising and Integrated Communications Campaigns.3 Credits.

This course is the capstone course in the advertising sequence. It utilizes a team-based, project-driven approach to advertising with real-life clients. Each team engages in the conception, research, planning and execution of a unique advertising campaign for an entire semester. Students learn to work within client guidelines, strategic creative and media planning, budgetary considerations and post-campaign analysis. In this capstone experience, students develop a full-scale integrated communications campaign, including conducting secondary and primary research, strategic planning and the production of associated creative deliverables. Students also gain experience in pitching to clients and evaluating the success and impact of the campaign.

Prerequisites: Take ADPR 322 or STC 332.
Offered: Every year, Spring

ADPR 495. Public Relations Campaigns.3 Credits.

In this capstone course for students preparing for a career in public relations, they will develop the mindset of a strategic communicator. Work will involve case analyses, problem-solving exercises, and completion of a signature work. Attention is focused on the public relations planning process. Student teams will develop strategic public relations plans for clients. Writing, research and presentation skills are expected.

Prerequisites: Take ADPR 332.
Offered: Every year, Spring

ADPR 499. Public Relations Ind Study.1-6 Credits.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: As needed

COM 030. Transfer Credit.1-15 Credits.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, All

COM 101. Communications First-Year Seminar.1 Credit.

This first-semester course is designed to ease the transition to college and to acquaint first-year School of Communications students with timely and important resources and information. Students hear from faculty members in each of the departments within the School of Communications to learn more about the majors offered. Students also learn how to create their own success in college and as lifelong learners through development of important skills. Topics include effective communication, time management, study skills and degree requirements. This class is required of all first-year and transfer students entering with 0-26 college credits.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, Fall and Spring

COM 120. Media Industries and Trends.3 Credits.

This course introduces students to the structure, function, uses and social implications of media industries. Students examine the ways individual industries inform, entertain and influence media consumers. Significant focus is placed on media literacy. The course also surveys issues related to ownership, regulation, ethics and globalization. The main objectives of COM 120 are to help students understand media professions, industries and technologies in relation to key trends, including the increasing commercialization of media products, the consolidation and convergence of media industries, and the implications these processes hold for society. The course fosters the development of skills including the ability to access, analyze and properly cite sources for research on the media.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, Fall and Spring

COM 130. Visual Design.3 Credits.

This course introduces students to the design process using professional-level software for digital image creation and editing, typesetting and typography, page layout and design in preparation for advanced course work. Students produce course projects that demonstrate creativity, design concepts, critical thinking, aesthetic principles and basic technical competence.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, Fall and Spring

COM 140. Storytelling.3 Credits.

This survey course has been designed to reinforce grammatical standards of the English language while introducing students to the basic tenets of dramatic, journalistic and strategic writing. Through the examination of a single theme, students learn to tell stories using these three writing styles as they identify and connect with specified audiences.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, Fall and Spring
UC: Breadth Elective

COM 150. Public Speaking: Principles and Practice.3 Credits.

This course examines the principles of oral communication and presentation skills and puts those principles into practice. Through multiple assignments, students increase their confidence in delivering presentations and demonstrate effective research skills, speech development and preparation, and delivery. Additionally, critical thinking and listening skills are demonstrated through oral and written critiques.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, Fall and Spring
UC: Breadth Elective

COM 159. Communications Elective.3 Credits.

Prerequisites: None

COM 201. Media Career Development.1 Credit.

This course introduces students to the career development process and covers the skills needed to create a personal career plan. It includes topics such as self-assessment, career research, resume and cover letter preparation, networking and interviewing practice, as well as strategies for internship/job searches. Course material is geared specifically toward media/communication careers. The course is graded on a pass/fail basis. Students majoring in communications cannot count COM 201 toward their major electives.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, Fall and Spring

COM 215. Social Media and Society.3 Credits.

The focus of this course is to provide students the foundational skills necessary to become "influencers" in the social space. Students evaluate the relationship of social media with various communication industries. They examine the rise of social media and its effect on social interaction and audience behaviors, and analyze social media strategies and their effectiveness from a personal and organizational perspective. Projects require students to engage with a variety of social media platforms and tools.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, All
UC: Breadth Elective

COM 300. Special Topics in Communications.0 Credits.

Course topics vary and include new, experimental, or topical courses on a variety of subjects related to Communications industries and technologies. See course descriptions for specific course information. Course can be repeated for different topics.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: As needed

COM 301. Communications Career Practicum.1 Credit.

This course offers practical training in a communications-related occupation. Students complete a minimum of 40 hours of supervised fieldwork (paid or unpaid) in a professional setting. Practicum placements must be approved by the internship program director in accordance with the school policies and prior to earning credit. At least sophomore status required. This course is graded on a pass/fail basis.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, All

COM 302. Communications Career Practicum II.1 Credit.

This course continues practical training in a communications-related occupation. Students complete a minimum of 40 hours of supervised fieldwork (paid or unpaid) in a professional setting. Practicum placements must be approved by the internship program director in accordance with the school policies and prior to earning credit. At least sophomore status required. This course is graded on a pass/fail basis.

Prerequisites: Take COM 301 and permission of department chair.
Offered: Every year, All

COM 303. Communications Career Practicum III.1 Credit.

This course fulfills the 40 hour experiential learning opportunity in a communications-related occupation. Students complete a minimum of 40 hours of supervised fieldwork (paid or unpaid) in a professional setting. Practicum placements must be approved by the internship program director in accordance with the school policies and prior to earning credit. At least sophomore status required. This course is graded on a pass/fail basis.

Prerequisites: Take COM 302 and permission of department chair.
Offered: Every year, All

COM 340. Exploring Communications Abroad.3 Credits.

This multisection, global perspective course introduces students to the worldwide development of communications, including communication practices, infrastructure, environments and specializations. Students conduct primary and secondary research on communications in a specific country or in a cross-cultural context. The topics can range from international cinema though storytelling and global branding to documentary filmmaking depending on the specialty of the instructor. This course includes a short-term study-abroad component directly related to the topic.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, Fall and Spring
UC: Breadth Elective, Intercultural Understand

COM 350. Media Culture and Arts of Los Angeles.3 Credits.

This course introduces students to the diverse media companies based in Los Angeles as well as the influence of local history, art and culture on the past, present, and future of the city. The class examines industries including, but not limited to: journalism, film and television writing, video production, podcasting and web design. Students complete a final project focused on a Los Angeles media company.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, Fall and Spring
UC: Breadth Elective, University Curriculum Ele

COM 490. Communications Career Internship.3 Credits.

This course aims to promote professional growth and advancement through observation and participation in jointly supervised major-related fieldwork with a business or organization (paid or unpaid). The course also provides the opportunity for students to meet and work with active professionals in an industry directly aligned with their major while refining their own career goals. Students complete a minimum of 120-hours of supervised fieldwork in a professional setting evaluated by the internship supervisor and the school's internship coordinator. The internship placements must be approved via Handshake prior to student earning credit and in accordance with the school policies. A student must have completed a minimum of 57 credits as a prerequisite. This course is graded on a pass/fail basis. (Can be taken currently with COM 491 upon department chair approval.)

Prerequisites: Take COM 201 and a minimum of 57 credits completed.
Offered: Every year, All

COM 491. Communications Career Internship II.3 Credits.

This course aims to promote professional growth and advancement through observation and participation in jointly supervised fieldwork with a cooperating communications- related business or organization (paid or unpaid). The course also provides the opportunity for students to meet and work with active communications professionals while refining their own career goals and maximizing opportunities. Students complete a minimum of 120-hours of supervised fieldwork in a professional setting evaluated by the internship supervisor and the school's internship coordinator. The internship placements must be approved in accordance with the school policies and prior to student earning credit. Junior/Senior status is required. This course is graded on a pass/fail basis. (Repeatable or concurrent with COM 490 upon department chair approval.)

Prerequisites: Take COM 201, COM 490 and permission of department chair.
Offered: Every year, All

FTM 501. Production Reconstruction.3 Credits.

This class will teach and expand students' understanding of all aspects of prepping a feature film through lectures, experiential role-playing and weekly assignments. Students will analyze a produced film and will "recreate" all the steps to get into production including scheduling and budgeting through the use of industry standard software.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, Fall

FTM 502. Keys to the Production Office.3 Credits.

Students gain an understanding of the day-to-day and week-to-week workflow in the Production Office from opening the office to the start of principal photography. Detailed "how to" information provides an overview of the full scope of the industry and functions as a map for Production Office operations, including how the office supports the process of creating a film or show, how to organize production files, deliver production reports and forms, and execute proper etiquette and protocols for daily tasks.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, Fall and Spring

FTM 503. Creative Development.3 Credits.

Students learn to shape stories for the screen and gain a comprehensive understanding of concept development, dramatic structuring, character development and dialogue. They learn the mechanics involved in the development of new projects, including script coverage, sourcing material, script notes, creative meetings, packaging a project, and how to effectively navigate the development journey.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, Spring

FTM 505. Entertainment Law and Deal Making Practice.3 Credits.

Students gain an overview of contemporary entertainment law in regards to production including options, contracts, negotiations, copyright, IP, and licensing. Topics covers include how a producer protects themselves legally, find representation, and how to close deals.

Prerequisites: None

FTM 508. Worldwide Sales, Marketing And Distribution.3 Credits.

Students gain an overview of domestic and international sales and distribution, including insight into film festivals and markets, and the importance of an effective marketing campaign.

Prerequisites: None

FTM 510. Post-Production Workflow.3 Credits.

Students gain an overview of post-production management including: staff roles and post production responsibilities, data storage and management, directors and authors rights and responsibilities to final cut, licensing, graphics and titling.

Prerequisites: None

FTM 511. Film Finance Models.3 Credits.

This class is an overview of film, television and streaming finance models. Emphasis is on finance for the independent film market as well as productions involving the participation of major Hollywood production entities and/or broadcast and streaming platforms. Students create a finance model and business plan for a viable project.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, Spring

FTM 512. World Building and Creative Collaboration.3 Credits.

In this course, students will narratively "build" a world that they develop as a group. World building is a powerful tool that writers use to imagine a fantastical world that requires a complexity of vision such as seen in Star Wars or in any film or show that creates a new narrative world such as "Breaking Bad." This practice also helps producers to understand how to think about what's "not on the page" in a script in regards to production, and how to realize the vision of the director.

Prerequisites: Take FTM 503
Offered: Every year, Spring

FTM 514. Contemporary History of the Entertainment Industry.3 Credits.

This course focuses on the complexities of the industry and examines the intersection of art and business in the modern technological era of Hollywood. Topics include the evolution of production practices, distribution and exhibition of media, the role of labor and unions, how new technologies have shaped the industry and what the future holds for Hollywood. Students will deliver a research paper on applicable topics.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, Spring

FTM 515. Showrunning for TV.3 Credits.

How do TV shows get on the air? Students learn about and engage in the development process for a TV series or limited series. This class will also address what it takes to actually produce a show, and how to effectively lead as a showrunner.

Prerequisites: Take FTM 512 or FTM 516 or have instructor's permission.
Offered: Every year, Spring

FTM 516. Screenwriting Craft & Workshop.3 Credits.

This course focuses on advanced screenwriting skills and techniques for both feature films and television. Students will practice the rules of storytelling, dialogue, character development, and what makes a script actually sell.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, Fall and Spring

FTM 520. Line Producing.3 Credits.

Building on the foundational work students have learned in FTM 501, this class does a deeper dive into line producing skills including a strong emphasis on budgeting techniques and strategies, working with heads of departments and producers, and managing relationships and a budget throughout production.

Prerequisites: Take FTM 501.
Offered: Every year, Fall and Spring

FTM 550. Special Topics in Cinematic Production Management.3 Credits.

This course examines a specific topic or issue in production. Topics might focus on specific practice areas such as emerging technologies, or on industry issues and trends, such as the uses and impact of gaming platforms for virtual production pipelines, or the integrative relationship of talent management to production practices. Students may use this course to invesigate a cross-listed course in a department such as Game Design, Talent Management, Public Relations, Business.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: As needed

FTM 560. Production Practicum.1 Credit.

This course provides one-credit master workshops or classes on specific rotating and relevant topics in film producing, directing, AI, virtual production, casting, production management, VFX, etc. It broadens the practical hands-on education and expertise of students by providing valuable, real-world-master class targeted opportunities from successful professionals working in the field.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: As needed

FTM 601. Graduate Thesis.6 Credits.

Students create a viable pitch package with supporting production management materials, or engage in a collaborative production-based project with specified parameters.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: Summer

FTM 602. Production Internship/Apprenticeship.3 Credits.

Students seek and are engaged by a commercial, theatrical, episodic television or documentary for a professional production placement. Students must complete a minimum number of work hours as well as a reflection paper. Program director approval required.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: As needed

GID 100. Special Topics in Graphic + Interactive.3 Credits.

This course is only open to high school students in the QU Academy program. The content of this course is specialized and varies by semester and by section. A variety of topics in visual design may be covered. Students should consult the course description in the schedule for details on specific offerings.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: As needed, All

GID 110. Design Research and Methods.3 Credits.

This foundation course in research methods for art and design introduces informed strategies for problem solving and prepares students for upper-level coursework in graphic and interactive design. Emphasis is placed on the role of critical thinking in the design process. Theoretical models of design analysis are introduced. Practical hands-on methods include visual research, design journals, thumbnail sketches, mind maps, storyboards, comprehensives, diagramming, prototyping, case studies, topic and content development and other forms of conceptualization.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, Fall

GID 161. Web Design I.3 Credits.

This course extends the knowledge and practice of visual design using professional-level software for the creation of web design in preparation for advanced coursework. Students produce course projects that demonstrate creativity, design concepts, critical thinking, aesthetic principles and basic technical competence.

Prerequisites: Take GID 110; and COM 130.
Offered: Every year, Fall and Spring

GID 200. Special Topics in Graphics and Interactive Design.3 Credits.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: As needed

GID 205. Visual Thinking: Practice and Process.4 Credits.

This course builds a foundation in visual thinking practices and cultivates a better understanding of the creative process. Students examine the ways in which images communicate meaning and how visual thinking can be used as an alternative to and enhancement of verbal and quantitative thinking. Insights and applications to different fields including psychology, art, medicine, literature and business are explored throughout. The study and practice of a variety of visual thinking techniques build the foundation for generating innovative concepts and developing personal creative and visual thinking practices. No previous art, design or drawing experience necessary.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: As needed

GID 210. Graphic Design History.3 Credits.

This course surveys the historical and cultural events, movements and achievements that laid the groundwork for the contemporary practices and products of graphic design. Through lecture, video, discussion, research and studio projects, students are introduced to the visual history, the innovators and the technologies that influenced and transformed the practices of visual communication.

Prerequisites: Take GID 110.
Offered: As needed

GID 250. Web Design II.3 Credits.

This intermediate web design course provides further study in current industry standards for UX/UI design. User experience and user interface methods are explored and practiced in addition to a grounding in information architecture processes and techniques. Websites are developed using responsive design requirements.

Prerequisites: Take GID 110 and GID 161
Offered: Every year, Spring

GID 270. Typography I.3 Credits.

This course enables the student to both understand type and to use it as a design element. Using current computer graphics technology, topics explored include the use of type, page layout, color and the importing of graphics. Using professional page layout software, students create projects that demonstrate both design aesthetics and technical skills. Finished pieces are printed and become part of the student's portfolio.

Prerequisites: Take COM 130; and GID 110.
Offered: Every year, Fall

GID 300. Special Topics in GID.3 Credits.

Prerequisites: Take GID 161 or COM 130.
Offered: As needed

GID 301. Motion Graphics I.3 Credits.

This course explores aesthetic, critical and technical topics in motion graphics and 2D animation. Students produce projects that demonstrate knowledge and understanding of 2D animation and motion graphics used in the field of design.

Prerequisites: Take GID 110 and GID 161.
Offered: Every year, Fall and Spring

GID 305. Digital Photography.3 Credits.

Prerequisites: None

GID 315. Mobile Interaction Design.3 Credits.

This course covers practical techniques for researching, designing and prototyping mobile applications and experiences. Some of the topics covered include wireframe creation, user studies and paper and digital prototyping.

Prerequisites: Take GID 301.
Offered: Every year, Spring

GID 370. Typography II.3 Credits.

This course picks up where GID 270 leaves off by instructing in advanced typographic design; the use of grid structures; juxtapositions of type and image; and preparation for offset printing. Using the current computer technology, students create projects that demonstrate both an advanced knowledge of design/typography and current digital production processes. Finished pieces are printed and become part of the student's professional portfolio.

Prerequisites: Take GID 270.
Offered: As needed

GID 399. Advanced Independent Studio Work in Graphic and Interactive Design.1-6 Credits.

Advanced independent studio work in graphic and interactive design.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: As needed

GID 400. Special Topics in GID.3 Credits.

Prerequisites: Take GID 301.
Offered: As needed

GID 410. Web Design III.3 Credits.

This course explores advanced aesthetic, critical and technical topics in website design, development, structure and information architecture. Students use problem-solving methods of design research and analysis combined with authoring and scripting environments to enhance design, interaction, usability and effective communication. Topics include current processes and technologies of web design and web standards. Senior status required.

Prerequisites: Take GID 250 and GID 301.
Offered: Every year, Fall

GID 416. Design Sprints.3 Credits.

The Google Sprint and Design Thinking Sprints are proven processes for answering critical business questions through design, prototyping, and testing ideas with customers. Students will learn to facilitate product design sprints using these processes while experiencing a key role on an interdisciplinary, collaborative sprint team. This course covers facilitation best practices (remote, hybrid, and in-person) and a variety of sprint workshop methodologies and tools. Students complete a portfolio quality case-study of the sprint experience to use for employment purposes. All disciplines are welcome - you don't need to be a designer to become a great facilitator.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, Summer

GID 440. Motion Graphics II.3 Credits.

This course explores advanced aesthetic, critical and technical topics in motion graphics and animation. Topics include typography and motion graphic design and layout, editing digital video, and audio. Students use problem-solving methods of design research and analysis to produce digital video animations that demonstrate both knowledge and understanding of motion graphics, and that provide them with professional entry into the field.

Prerequisites: Take GID 301.
Offered: As needed

GID 480. Senior Seminar and Portfolio.3 Credits.

In this course, students consider critical issues in interactive design and prepare a portfolio, website, resume and other professional materials. For majors in graphic and interactive design. Senior status is required.

Prerequisites: Take GID 410.
Offered: Every year, Spring

GID 499. Advanced Independent Studio Work in Graphic and Interactive Design.3 Credits.

Advanced independent studio work in graphic and interactive design.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: As needed

ICM 500. Special Topics in Interactive Media.3 Credits.

The subject matter for this course varies depending on industry and professional trends.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: As needed

ICM 501. Foundations in Graduate Studies.3 Credits.

A sequence of readings, practices and exercises introduces the students to the "deep work" required of master's-level study. Through structured discussions, presentations, projects and readings, students build the knowledge base and critical skills required to formulate methodological research and practice across media. Each student sets up a portfolio site for the collection of research and practice artifacts created throughout the master's coursework.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, Fall and Spring

ICM 502. Visual Design.3 Credits.

This course covers the principles and practices associated with graphic design as a way to make complex information easier to understand and use. With a primary focus on typography as the fundamental means of conveying content, the course emphasizes the creative process of organizing and visualizing type and images through hierarchy, spatial organization of grid structures, positive and negative space, depth perception, transparency, and color theory. Readings locate design and typography within the larger history of visual art and graphic design and in relation to technology developments. Students who majored in GID at Quinnipiac as undergraduates, or those with professional graphic design experience should choose another course.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, Spring and Summer

ICM 504. Motion Across Media.3 Credits.

This course covers the concepts of motion design across multiple platforms. Students are challenged to analyze and create effective animations using the entire design process, including research, preproduction, storyboarding, and production techniques. Analysis of navigation, storytelling, visual design, and message delivery inform the application of methods. The focus is on communicating ideas to the audience effectively through motion in its many forms, whether on desktops, smart phones, tablets, or kiosks.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, Fall and Summer

ICM 505. Web Technologies.3 Credits.

This course introduces the foundational techniques of creating web-based content. Through a series of exercises, participants learn how interactive networks are organized, where to find the information necessary to create standards-based systems, and gain elementary experience designing and building sites.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, Spring and Summer

ICM 506. Writing for Interactive Media.3 Credits.

Good writing skills are a necessity for professional communication in spite of the changing media landscape. In this course students create, develop and hone a distinct written voice within varied media environments. Much of professional media work involves creating a consistent voice or presence for a person, organization or company. Participants focus on how to accomplish (or enhance) this process using effective compositional techniques.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, All

ICM 508. Audio and Video Design.3 Credits.

This course covers the aesthetic and technical principles and practices used to create video and audio content for cross platform and device delivery. Effective storytelling and message delivery concepts are emphasized while exploring various production techniques including storyboarding, script, an introduction to audio production, cinematography, lighting, interviewing, editing, and effective media distribution.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, All

ICM 512. Principles of User Experience Design.3 Credits.

This course explores the ever-changing processes and methods of user experience design. The Human-Centered Design and Design Thinking process are studied through readings and hands-on projects that cover empathy, the psychology of the user, problem definition, and ideation methods.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, Fall and Spring

ICM 513. Content Strategy.3 Credits.

Content is critical in today's media landscape, but without a strategic plan, it can remain invisible to the audience you wish to reach. In this course, students learn the best ways to design and implement a content strategy to engage a targeted audience. They are immersed in the planning for the creation and distribution of engaging stories and information. Students become content strategy practitioners who know how to use words, pictures, video, and social and mobile media to build an audience and communicate value.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, Fall and Spring

ICM 514. Understanding Your Audience.3 Credits.

Usability is the study of discrepancies between expected and actual user behavior. The course introduces students to empirical user research methods such as contextual inquiry, ethnographic studies, card sorting, and cognitive walkthroughs, that provide the foundation for user-centered interaction and communications design. In addition, students conduct effective usability tests, interviews, and surveys.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, Fall and Spring

ICM 516. Design Sprints.3 Credits.

The Google Sprint and Design Thinking Sprints are proven processes for answering critical business questions through design, prototyping, and testing ideas with customers. Students will learn to facilitate product design sprints using these processes while experiencing a key role on an interdisciplinary, collaborative sprint team. This course covers facilitation best practices (remote, hybrid, and in-person) and a variety of sprint workshop methodologies and tools. Students complete a portfolio quality case-study of the sprint experience to use for employment purposes. All disciplines are welcome - you don't need to be a designer to become a great facilitator.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, Summer

ICM 517. Ideation, Prototyping and Testing.3 Credits.

Ideation, prototyping and testing teaches students how to use low and high-fidelity sketching, information architecture, flowcharts, wireframes, user interface design, and functional prototypes for a variety of design problems. Through a series of creative projects, students learn various methods for each of these steps in the development of design products.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, Spring and Summer

ICM 518. Visual Storytelling.3 Credits.

The course provides an introduction to the concept of visual storytelling and immerses students in the theory and practice of creating and delivering visual narratives in digital environments. The course includes both the history of visual storytelling as well as contemporary approaches used in a variety of information related disciplines. Students analyze examples of work and apply that knowledge to create their own visual narratives

Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, Fall and Spring

ICM 522. Social Media Practice and Techniques.3 Credits.

The widespread use of social media in society has created a communications environment built on platforms that encourage contribution and collaboration through user-created media and interaction. This course explores the underlying concepts, development and management of social media platforms as well as the creation of effective approaches to facilitate a viable social media presence.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, Fall and Spring

ICM 524. Social Media Analytics.3 Credits.

This course gives students a working knowledge of the social media analytics process and analytics tools, along with their application to communications objectives within real-world situations.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, Fall and Summer

ICM 526. Social Media for the Public Good.3 Credits.

Social media has transformed the way individuals, groups, organizations, and cultures share information and relate to one another, and its potential harmful effects continue to be documented and studied. But are there ways social media could have a positive impact in our world? Students will dig deep into ways social media can help promote healthy movements, campaigns, relationships, and well-being. Through research and practice, students will begin to develop constructive steps for a more productive, values-based, and sensitive future for social media.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, Spring

ICM 528. Content Creation.3 Credits.

In this course, we explore the creation of engaging content. Students are guided through the process of planning and creating a suite of related projects in the medium(s) of their choice (writing, video, audio, image making.) The focus is on the conceptual processes and practices used in developing a unique and persuasive body of work to be distributed across mediums. Areas of interest are researched and then developed into a series of related pieces.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, Spring and Summer

ICM 529. Data Visualization.3 Credits.

This is a course in finding and telling visual stories from data. Students explore fundamental principles of data analysis and visual techniques, examine chart types and when to use them, and learn how to acquire, process and filter data. Through an understanding of data visualization best practices and audience analysis, students are able to identify and articulate what makes a successful information design. Industry-standard software tools are used to create static and interactive graphics--including charts, maps and diagrams--that make information more accessible to the intended audiences.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: As needed, Fall and Summer Online

ICM 530. Independent Study.3 Credits.

This is an elective course offered to accommodate students who seek advanced study in an area of the discipline. The topic and scope of the course are developed by the student in consultation with a faculty adviser, subject to approval by the program director and department chair.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: As needed, All

ICM 531. Graduate Internship.3 Credits.

This elective course provides interactive media students with the opportunity to work in a professional setting to acquire additional skills and insights into their chosen area of study. Students completing this course are required to work in a supervised environment. All internships must be approved by the graduate program director.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: As needed, All

ICM 540. Interactive Communications Abroad.3 Credits.

This multi-section course introduces students to the worldwide development of communications, including communication practices, infrastructure, environments, and specializations. Students conduct primary and secondary research on communications in a particular country or cross-cultural context. The topics can range from international visual arts through storytelling, global branding, and design, depending on the specialty of the instructor. This course includes a short-term study-abroad component directly related to the topic of the course, where students will be able to expand their skills and knowledge in a new environment. An interactive communications graduate-level final project is required.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: As needed

ICM 601. Master's Capstone.3 Credits.

Students create a professional quality web portfolio selected from the best work from their courses and experiences in the master's program. Each student is facilitated through the process of identifying and packaging works, creating a consistent message and image using the products of their research and practice.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, Spring and Summer

JRN 100. Special Topics in Journalism.3 Credits.

Prerequisites: None

JRN 106. Multimedia Production Techniques.3 Credits.

Prerequisites: None

JRN 199. Journalism Independent Study.1-6 Credits.

Prerequisites: None

JRN 200. Special Topics in Journalism.3 Credits.

Prerequisites: None

JRN 205. Photojournalism Fundamentals.3 Credits.

This hands-on course focuses on creating compelling, original news photography using the latest DSLR and Mirrorless cameras that journalists in the field are using today. Students learn about the basics of photography in this course and how to shape those technical skills into competent photojournalism.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every other year, Spring
UC: Fine Arts

JRN 260. News Writing.3 Credits.

This course teaches the principles and practices of news writing for digital platforms and print. Journalists must acquire skills to identify a news story and its essential elements, gather information efficiently, place it in a meaningful context, and write concise and compelling accounts. The readings, discussions, exercises and assignments for this course are designed to help students acquire such skills and understand how to utilize them wisely.

Prerequisites: Take COM 140.
Offered: Every year, All

JRN 263. Broadcast News Writing.3 Credits.

Students are introduced to the fundamentals of writing for the broadcast media in a professional environment. Topics include writing for radio and television, as well as integrating sound and video into news stories. The course also provides a basic understanding of primary journalistic values such as accuracy and fairness as they apply to broadcast news.

Prerequisites: Take COM 140.
Offered: Every year, All

JRN 275. News Reporting.3 Credits.

This course is focused on news reporting. Students learn how to gather, analyze and use information for journalistic stories. They learn to identify and use digital databases and resources, conduct thought-provoking interviews, and search and locate public documents in ethical and legal manners.

Prerequisites: Take JRN 260 or JRN 263.
Offered: Every year, All

JRN 280. The Art of the Podcast (SPS 280).3 Credits.

This hands-on course explores creative audio storytelling via the podcast. Students learn how to research, write, record, edit and self-publish creative nonfiction and fictional stories that are both original, and emulate some of the most popular podcasts on the market. Special emphasis is placed on audio gathering techniques, storytelling techniques and interviewing for live and recorded shows.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: As needed, Spring

JRN 285. Mobile Journalism: The Future of News.3 Credits.

News consumption on smartphones and tablets has surpassed that of desktops and newspapers, making mobile devices key to the future of news. Students examine the impact of this trend on the future of journalism, learn about the technologies necessary to produce news on these devices, critique the user experience provided by various apps and mobile websites, and produce a news app of their own. They also learn how to cover news events using mobile technology, how to produce mobile news stories and how to work in a mobile newsroom.

Prerequisites: Take COM 140.
Offered: As needed, Spring

JRN 291. Reporting for Television 1.3 Credits.

Students learn the principles of producing television news packages, which they shoot and edit using HD non-linear equipment. All students cover news and sports primarily off campus. The focus is on writing, news judgment, content, interviewing, use of voice and doing stand-ups. Stories can air on the TV newscast that is broadcast live weekly.

Prerequisites: Take JRN 106 or SPS 106; and JRN 260 or JRN 263.
Offered: Every year, All

JRN 300. Special Topics in Journalism.3 Credits.

Students engage in a detailed examination of current issues in journalism in a format that may incorporate academic research, journalistic writing and multimedia presentations. Students should consult the School of Communications course bulletin for information about each semester's offerings.

Prerequisites: Take COM 140.
Offered: As needed, All

JRN 301. Special Topics.4 Credits.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: As needed

JRN 306. SEO, Social Media, and Third-Party Platforms.3 Credits.

With a fresh take on audience engagement, students are introduced to the critical concepts of search engine optimization for social and digital news platforms while they learn and use industry recognized best practices for writing headlines, leads, URLs and social posts. Students will explore social algorithms and learn to use the knowledge to ensure strong storytelling reaches targeted audiences.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, Summer

JRN 311. Reporting for Television II.3 Credits.

In this course, students produce in-depth television stories. Pieces are longer to allow the student to explore issues in greater detail. Stories can air on the TV newscast that is broadcast live weekly.

Prerequisites: Take JRN 291.
Offered: As needed

JRN 315. The Art of Journalistic Interviewing.3 Credits.

Compelling stories don't just happen. They come from strong interviewing skills that tell stories people care about. Students learn how to ask questions that elicit pithy responses, emotion and expertise, using in-class and out-of-class exercises. Students also analyze and critique the interviewing styles used by professional journalists, as well as the work of their classmates.

Prerequisites: Take JRN 106 or SPS 106; and COM 140.
Offered: As needed

JRN 325. Telling Global Stories.3 Credits.

Using multimedia to gather and present facts lets journalists expand the scope of their storytelling. Students in this course examine current international journalism trends and socioeconomic and political issues specific to a developing country, learn fact-gathering techniques, and travel to that country during spring break to put into practice what they have learned. After spring break, students work on an interdisciplinary multimedia project.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: As needed, Spring

JRN 341. Sporting Culture Through Nonfiction.3 Credits.

It has often been said that sport is a microcosm of society, but many rhetoric scholars have begun to suggest that sport plays a role in constituting society and is "defined by a range of political practices, including allocations of resources, representations of identity, projections of nationalism and globalization, activism and change." This directed readings course examines American culture, as well as comparative values, through nonfictional accounts of sport.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: As needed, Summer Online

JRN 343. Literary Journalism in the '60s.3 Credits.

The 1960s stand out as an era of change and turbulence in 20th-century America. Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, these nonfiction writers and journalists wrote in a personal style that became known as "Literary Journalism," or "The New Journalism." This directed reading course requires students to analyze the historical and contemporary views of major literary journalists.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: As needed, Summer Online
UC: University Curriculum Ele

JRN 359. Journalism Elective.3 Credits.

Prerequisites: None

JRN 360. Watchdog Reporting.3 Credits.

In this course, students learn and practice watchdog journalism, helping to inform our communities and keeping public figures and institutions in check. Students cover in-depth news off campus, on topics such as crime, public health, politics, education and the environment. In conversations with working journalists, students learn both innovative and proven strategies for reporting. Students also work individually and in teams to publish stories and multimedia projects based on public data, documents and interviews.

Prerequisites: Take JRN 260 or JRN 263.
Offered: As needed, Spring

JRN 361. Sports Reporting (SPS 361).3 Credits.

This course introduces students to coverage of sports for the news media and includes writing game stories and sports profiles.

Prerequisites: Take JRN 260 or JRN 263.
Offered: Every year, All

JRN 362. The Story of Football (SPS 362).3 Credits.

This course traces the historical trajectory of American football and the coaches, players and media portrayals that transformed the game from a 19th-century collegiate test of manliness to what it is today: a spectator sport of immense appeal whose popularity endures despite more than a century of concerns over the game's debilitating and sometimes lethal violence.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, Fall

JRN 364. Sports Broadcasting.3 Credits.

This course introduces students to the concepts and content of what makes a good sports broadcaster. Aspects of sports broadcasting, both from inside the studio and outside on the field of play are explored. Students will learn and take on all the roles involved in sports broadcasting: that of a studio host, play by play, analyst, sideline reporter, interviewer and more.

Prerequisites: Take JRN 263
Offered: Every year, All

JRN 365. Effective Editing.3 Credits.

Students learn the basics of editing online text, magazines and newspapers, with an emphasis on copyediting, headline writing, composition and story packaging.

Prerequisites: Take JRN 275.
Offered: As needed

JRN 372. Entrepreneurial Media (The MIC Project).3 Credits.

This course addresses the fiscal and distribution challenges faced by journalists and media professionals and empowers student teams to construct sustainable business models. Students experiment with the latest technology, exchange ideas with some of the industry's most prominent thinkers and developers, and create content or products for viable media business ventures. Open to all School of Communications students.

Prerequisites: Take COM 140
Offered: Every year, Fall

JRN 375. Cultural and Entertainment Journalism.3 Credits.

Students learn how to write about arts and culture by reporting on local events and developing a theoretical framework for cultural reviewing. Topics include television, music, theater and film. In addition to hands-on reporting assignments, coursework includes readings, screenings and fieldwork.

Prerequisites: Take COM 140 or permission of instructor.
Offered: Every other year, Fall

JRN 380. Fundamentals of Digital Journalism.3 Credits.

This course covers the principles and practices associated with researching and producing stories for digital media. Students are required to produce stories that include textual, audio, video and interactive elements.

Prerequisites: Take JRN 106 or SPS 106; and JRN 260 or JRN 263.
Offered: Every year, All

JRN 388. Billionaires, Game-Changers and Grifters: The Stories of Business.3 Credits.

Students learn methods and tactics of writing about businesses for mass communication. The course covers why and how companies operate and how to write stories about corporate news from public records and other sources.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every other year, Spring

JRN 395. Broadcast Performance.3 Credits.

This course explores the variety of skills required to communicate effectively through broadcasting. Students learn and practice on-air presentation techniques for effective delivery and interpretation. The course focuses on voice, voice control and the phrasing interpretation of copy and body language. Study focuses on performance techniques, creativity, writing and analytical skills needed to communicate effectively. Open to broadcast and print students.

Prerequisites: Take JRN 106 or SPS 106; and JRN 263.
Offered: As needed

JRN 399. Journalism Independent Study.3 Credits.

Prerequisites: None

JRN 400. Special Topics in Journalism.3 Credits.

Students should consult the School of Communications course bulletin for information regarding each semester's offerings.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: As needed

JRN 450. Senior Seminar.3 Credits.

This seminar entails an in-depth examination of issues and research perspectives in journalism. Seminar titles vary each term and may include topics such as ethics in journalism, diversity in the newsroom, and international journalism practices. Students should consult the School of Communications course bulletin for information about each semester's offerings.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, All

JRN 470. Narrative Journalism.3 Credits.

Students in this class learn to report and write long-form articles suitable for publication in online and print magazines. Over a series of major writing assignments, students apply their research and interviewing skills to produce exhaustively reported and elegantly written articles. Topics in the course include: lead writing, article structure, interviewing, the use of statistics and the application of narrative techniques to journalistic writing.

Prerequisites: Take JRN 275.
Offered: As needed

JRN 480. Advanced Digital Journalism.3 Credits.

Many newsrooms now combine multiple types of media to immerse readers and make complex stories more digestible. This course covers the reporting and production skills needed to build many of these new forms, including interactive graphics and maps, and advanced audio and video projects. Students also study past and present interactive journalism projects and meet with some of the professionals who designed them.

Prerequisites: Take JRN 380.
Offered: As needed

JRN 488. The International Money Trail.3 Credits.

Business and investment, regulation and corruption, fraud and philanthropy are often global, making students who can track money across borders especially valuable. This course is designed to teach journalists, financiers, investigators, and strategic communicators to use financial analysis and digging skills on the international money trail. This course builds on JRN 388 and serves as the capstone for the minor is Financial Communications and Business Journalism.

Prerequisites: Take JRN 260 or JRN 263 or take FIN 201 and AC 211.
Offered: As needed, All

JRN 495. Advanced Reporting.3 Credits.

This course stresses individual enterprise reporting, in which students plan, report, write and produce stories suitable for print or multimedia that demonstrate their command of skills acquired during the course of study. Emphasis is placed on the role of the professional journalist as an ethical practitioner who represents and reflects the wider public in its economic, ethnic and racial diversity.

Prerequisites: Take JRN 380.
Offered: As needed

JRN 496. The QNN Newscast.3 Credits.

In this course students act as producers, news and sports reporters, writers, editors and anchors as they put on a live weekly newscast. Newscasts are recorded and critiqued for student portfolios.

Prerequisites: Take JRN 291.
Offered: Every year, All

JRN 498. Journalism Capstone.4 Credits.

In this capstone course for the journalism major, students work on long, in-depth pieces of journalism across platforms. The stories include numerical or statistical information, multiple interviews from a variety of diverse sources, and show the students' command of the techniques used to produce and present news in print, broadcast and digital environments. Senior status required.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, All

JRN 499. Independent Study.1-6 Credits.

Prerequisites: None

JRN 500. Special Topics in Journalism.3 Credits.

This course consists of seminar-based classes that consider emerging areas of scholarly research or industry developments in journalism, with a particular focus on how a specific research activity or industry development illustrates issues regarding economic, gender and social groups.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: As needed

JRN 501. Reporting and Fact-Checking.3 Credits.

Students are introduced to the basic practices and tools of journalism, which include interviewing, identifying and accessing public documents, writing leads and constructing organized, balanced stories.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, Fall

JRN 504. Digital Essentials.3 Credits.

The capacity to gather information and report the news remains at the core of the journalism profession. This course focuses on the fundamentals of news writing while also engaging students in emerging social media and other tools to present comprehensive news stories to all audiences.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, Fall

JRN 506. SEO, Social Media, and Third Party Platforms.3 Credits.

With a fresh take on audience engagement, students are introduced to the critical concepts of search engine optimization for social and digital news platforms while they learn and use industry recognized best practices for writing headlines, leads, URLs and social posts. Students will explore social algorithms and learn to use the knowledge to ensure strong storytelling reaches targeted audiences.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, Summer

JRN 521. Audio Storytelling.3 Credits.

Writing for the ear requires skills in preparing scripts, natural sound and audio recording and editing. This course prepares students to compose stories for radio news and podcasts, with a focus on developing the style of conversational broadcast writing common to National Public Radio.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, Fall

JRN 524. TV Reporting.3 Credits.

Visual news stories as broadcast by networks, affiliates and cable news channels and in evolving digital formats require skills in both storytelling and technology for shooting and editing video. This course covers the essentials of shooting video, editing and field reporting and producing.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, Fall

JRN 528. Data Journalism.3 Credits.

Information graphics are now an integral component of news, conveying big data into readily understood formats such as diagrams and charts. This course teaches students how to visually organize information and apply it to news stories for broadcast or online presentation.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: As needed

JRN 530. Independent Study (ICM530).3 Credits.

This is a special course offered to accommodate students who seek advanced practical training or advanced research in an area not directly included in the curriculum. The topic and scope of the course is developed by the student in consultation with a faculty adviser, subject to approval by the dean.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, All

JRN 531. Graduate Internship.3 Credits.

Experience in association with working professionals is essential to securing career opportunities. Students completing an elective internship to secure such experience are required to work in a supervised environment, approved by the graduate program director.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, All

JRN 541. Sporting Culture Through Nonfiction.3 Credits.

It has often been said that sport is a microcosm of society, but many rhetoric scholars have begun to suggest that sport plays a role in constituting society and is "defined by a range of political practices, including allocations of resources, representations of identity, projections of nationalism and globalization, activism and change." This directed readings course examines American culture, as well as comparative values, through nonfictional accounts of sport.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, Summer Online

JRN 543. Literary Journalism in the '60s.3 Credits.

The 1960s stand out as an era of change and turbulence in 20th-century America. Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, these nonfiction writers and journalists wrote in a personal style that became known as "Literary Journalism," or "the New Journalism." This directed reading course requires students to analyze the historical and contemporary views of major literary journalists.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, Summer Online

JRN 545. TV Production.3 Credits.

This course introduces students to the technical production skills that go into a daily news telecast. Newsroom organization, story development (from idea to the air) and the principles and practices of professional producers are studied.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, Fall

JRN 546. Digital News Production.3 Credits.

This course explores topics related to social media, such as the viral video clip from a Tweet or the verified source through social media. Students learn the skills, tools and best practices of digital and video content production, as well as social coordination in the news arena. They also explore logistical and ethical concerns in the social medium.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, Spring

JRN 552. Media Law and Ethics.3 Credits.

A thorough knowledge of laws and ethical behavior is essential to the professional practice of journalism. As such, this course covers the legal and ethical dimensions of media communications across platforms, with an emphasis on First Amendment, privacy and copyright issues.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, Spring

JRN 562. Sports Law and Ethics.3 Credits.

Federal antitrust law and regulations show that college and professional sports are treated as special components of American culture. This course examines the legal structure that grants special privileges to sports and to the ethical challenges sports journalists confront in going beyond the games to find the story.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, Spring

JRN 563. Sports Analytics.3 Credits.

Deciphering the volumes of data produced by high school, college and professional sports teams is an essential part of sports reporting. This course introduces students to the ever-growing volumes of statistics across major sports and shows how to transform such data into useful information.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, Spring

JRN 564. Presenting and Producing Radio Sports.3 Credits.

Radio remains an essential and effective medium for listening to games and for engaging the audience with live talk shows that discuss teams, players, sports and the action of the competition. This course presents students with the principles and practices of radio sports.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, Fall

JRN 565. Presenting and Producing Television Sports: Remote.3 Credits.

Students in this course write, produce and distribute a 30-minute sports program for broadcast featuring stories that illustrate intriguing and inspiring stories of a Division I college athletic department. Every student engages in shooting, editing, writing, interviewing, presenting and distributing the final product. Additionally, students originate and perform local and national style sports highlight segments along with live in-depth interviews.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, Spring

JRN 566. Presenting and Producing Television Sports: Studio.3 Credits.

Pre-game, post-game and intermission reports are among the most important aspects of televised sports, as each reveals and promotes the storylines through which games are covered. This course introduces students to the concepts and content behind the production of studio shows.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, Fall

JRN 572. Researching and Writing the News Documentary.3 Credits.

The complexities of producing the news documentary range from finding the right story to pursue to uncovering the proper visuals to help tell it. This course provides students with the skills to research, write, and produce visual nonfiction, long-form projects rooted in history or current events.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: As needed

JRN 573. Sports Literature.3 Credits.

Sports serve as a critical metaphor for American life in nonfiction works such as "Friday Night Lights," in novels such as "End Zone," in plays such as "Death of a Salesman" and in films such as "Raging Bull." This course examines why sports are prominent in cultural works that attempt to reveal the meaning of America.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: As needed

JRN 574. Crafting the Sports Feature.3 Credits.

Feature writers capture athletes when they are most noble, frail or otherwise vulnerable or heroic. They also capture the moment when a game means more than that. This course teaches students to apply creative vitality to their ideas and writing on sports outside of game stories.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, Fall

JRN 588. Business Reporting:Following the Money.3 Credits.

Students learn methods and tactics of writing about businesses for mass communication. The course covers why and how companies operate and how to write stories about corporate news from public records and other sources.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every other year, Spring

JRN 589. Critical Issues in Sports.3 Credits.

From health concerns to labor conflicts, the workaday world often intrudes on the bubble that protects the mythology of sport. Through reason, analysis and writing, students interact with vital issues that emerge from the seemingly routine day-to-day coverage of games.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, Spring

JRN 595. Sports Clinical.3 Credits.

Students completing the sports journalism program must participate in the Sports Clinical. This course focuses on advanced broadcast, multimedia, documentary and long-form reporting and to deepen the experience and training in a given area of specialization in terms of platform and subject matter.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, Spring

JRN 600. Capstone Proposal.3 Credits.

Students completing the journalism program conduct research and do preliminary reporting to write a capstone project proposal based on their area of inquiry. The faculty adviser and graduate program director must approve the topic. This course is graded on a pass/fail basis.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, All

JRN 601. Capstone Project.3 Credits.

Students completing the journalism program must complete a capstone project. Under the guidance of the their faculty adviser, students create an original, in-depth, professional-quality journalism project. This course is graded on a pass/fail basis.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, All

MSS 131. Media Innovators.3 Credits.

This course examines how media companies develop and refine media products and platforms. Learners examine how media companies anticipate and/or respond to different cultural, technological, and economic structures that create constraints and leave open the possibilities for media practitioners. Using a case study approach, the course explores how decision-makers have adapted to the dynamic media marketplace, the types of data they solicit, and the ways in which they confront the risks associated with creating and distributing media products.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year

MSS 139. Mass Comm Elective.3 Credits.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, All
UC: Breadth Elective

MSS 200. Special Topics.0-3 Credits.

The subject considered varies each semester depending on faculty and student interests.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: As needed

MSS 220. Media, History and Memory.3 Credits.

This course examines the relationship between media, history, and memory, focusing on how media shape both individual and collective memories of historical figures, events, and eras. Students learn how the past informs the present and how current media "re-present" the past. The course pays particular attention to who controls the historical narrative and the work done to recover forgotten/excluded voices and include their stories in U.S. history. In the major course project, students interview a family or community member about a specific historical event. The resulting essay, video, podcast analyzes the media's influence on both individual memory and collective memory.

Prerequisites: Take EN 102 or EN 103H
Offered: Every year, Fall and Spring
UC: Humanities

MSS 240. Is AI Taking Over? Disruption, Disinformation, and the Future Of Communication.3 Credits.

This course helps students understand how technologies such as artificial intelligence, virtual and augmented reality, facial recognition, and location-based services are radically transforming the way we communicate in disparate fields, including the media, science, art, politics, and business. Through critical analysis of technology, communication and power, students will understand how the promises of new technologies can be seized and warped, yielding significant disruptive consequences. Students will also develop critical thinking, research and writing skills, including accessing, analyzing, and properly citing sources for research on technology and media.

Prerequisites: Take EN 102.
Offered: Every year, Fall and Spring
UC: Breadth Elective

MSS 300. Special Topics.3 Credits.

Topics vary each semester depending on faculty and student interests.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: As needed

MSS 311. Diversity in the Media (WGS 311).3 Credits.

This course examines the role of media in the construction of social categories such as gender, race, class and sexual orientation. Students learn about the media as one of a number of social institutions--including religion, education and family--that influence our understanding of cultural difference. The course presents a variety of perspectives that address diversity in relation to both print and electronic media, emphasizing popular culture. Media diversity issues are analyzed in relation to ownership, representation, audience reception and the media workforce. Junior status required.

Prerequisites: Take WGS 101 or COM 120.
Offered: Every other year

MSS 320. Communication Technologies: Evolution and Impact.3 Credits.

This course explores the rapid spread of technology in the 21st century. Students examine the development, diffusion, and cultural impact of older technologies (e.g. the telephone, radio, television) for lessons that can be applied to more recent technological developments (e.g. the smartphone, streaming media, and social media). This blueprint is then used to predict, evaluate, and critique emerging technologies and the effects that they may have on culture, politics, economics, and everyday life in the next 10-20 years.

Prerequisites: Take COM 120.
Offered: As needed

MSS 332. Media Research Methods.3 Credits.

The course introduces students to a variety of media research methods through readings and hands-on exercises. Goals include helping students become knowledgeable and critical readers of media-related research produced in both industry and academic settings, and teaching students fundamental aspects of conducting media research and leading-edge strategies for effectively communicating research findings. Students perform original research using techniques including interviews, focus groups, content analysis and surveys. They also learn about statistics, social media tracking and research ethics. Junior status required.

Prerequisites: Take COM 120, MSS 131.
Offered: Every year, Fall

MSS 340. Communications Law and Policy.3 Credits.

This course helps students to develop an awareness and understanding of laws, regulations and professional standards of practice that apply to the work of communications practitioners. Attention is given to First Amendment guarantees, libel, privacy, journalist's privilege, copyright, media and advertising regulation. Selected cases are highlighted as examples of opinions handed down by state and federal courts. Junior status is required.

Prerequisites: Take MSS 131 or ADPR 101 or ADPR 102.
Offered: Every year, Fall and Spring

MSS 345. Media Users and Audiences (WGS 345).3 Credits.

This course considers popular, institutional and academic perspectives on media users and audiences in the U.S. and abroad. Students develop an understanding of how people choose and interpret media content, how marketers and media producers perceive audiences, popular assumptions about media effects on audiences and how social media use blurs boundaries between audiences and producers. Students develop and apply critical thinking and written and oral communication skills in assignments that address contemporary debates surrounding audiences and media users.

Prerequisites: Take EN 102 or EN 103H; and COM 120 or WGS 101.
Offered: Every year

MSS 346. Global Communication.3 Credits.

The course analyzes the roles information media and popular culture play in modern debates about political power, global economy and cultural identity. The relative influences of different communication technologies in relationships among global, transnational and local cultures also are examined.

Prerequisites: Take COM 120.
Offered: Every other year

MSS 349. Political Communication (PO 349).3 Credits.

This course explores the relationship between media and politics in the U.S. Students learn about the history of political communication, the role of image-making and image-management in political communication, the impact of the media on public policy, and the current state of our mediated political culture. In the major course project, student teams develop a comprehensive campaign communication strategy for a political candidate.

Prerequisites: Take COM 120 or PO 101.
Offered: Every other year

MSS 400. Special Topics.3 Credits.

Topics vary each semester depending on faculty and student interests.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: As needed, Fall and Spring

MSS 420. Sports, Media and Society (SPS 420).3 Credits.

This course examines the social, political, economic and historical significance of the intersection of sports, media and society. Participants examine such questions as: What role have sports played in shaping cultures throughout history? What is the relationship between sports and media? How do sports, through the media, influence U.S. culture today? What is the role of sports media professionals in U.S. culture? Junior status required.

Prerequisites: Take COM 120 or SPS 101.
Offered: Every year, Spring

MSS 441. Celebrity Culture.3 Credits.

This seminar explores modern communication networks through the lens of celebrity. Through a variety of readings and videos, including pieces using media effects and cultural studies approaches, the course addresses the following questions: How, and by whom, is the idea of celebrity shaped? What cultural meanings are conveyed by celebrity? How does celebrity change the way we think about important social issues? What is the impact of celebrity on the industry? How is the concept of celebrity shifting? And just why are we so fascinated by celebrity? The final course project involves creating a plan for a celebrity to rehabilitate/reshape their public image.

Prerequisites: Take MSS 131.
Offered: Every other year

MSS 442. Media Critics and Influencers.3 Credits.

This course focuses on the impact of two types of content creators - professional media critics and social media influencers. Students explore what it takes to be a professional critic by analyzing and producing criticism of TV, movies, music, apps, games, etc. Students also study what makes today's top influencers so successful and create their own social media influencer content, including reviews, demos, and tutorials. Students develop their critical voice and brand while creating engaging content aimed at a target audience. In the final Content Creation Project, students create and promote content for their own public blog, vlog, or podcast.

Prerequisites: Take MSS 131.
Offered: Every other year

MSS 443. Crime, Media and Culture.3 Credits.

This course examines the role of industrialized media in the social construction of crime, criminals, victims, social order, and deviance. We also consider why crime is represented so frequently in a variety of mainstream media genres, including news, docudramas, video games, popular music, and fictional dramas in both television and film. The course also discusses ways in which social media and digital surveillance technologies have been harnessed in relation to crime. Central themes of the course include theoretical debates related to media effects and critical media consumers, as well as how crime narratives can either demonize or glamorize segments of society.

Prerequisites: Take MSS 131.
Offered: Every other year

MSS 444. Popular Music.3 Credits.

Despite its salience as a mass medium, popular music remains under-studied in the discipline of media studies. Therefore, in order to provide students with a better understanding of popular music, this seminar involves the following: critically listening to and writing about popular music; considering music's role in identity (class, gender and sexuality, racial and ethnic, etc.) formation; examining the influence of media and technology on popular music; and understanding the music industry.

Prerequisites: Take MSS 131.
Offered: Every other year

MSS 445. TV and Society: From Sitcoms to Streaming.3 Credits.

The relationship between television industries, audiences, and programming is constantly evolving. Yet what persists is television's power to critique, regulate, and transform societal values, norms, and identities. This seminar examines how major national events from the civil rights movement to 9/11 have been reflected in and shaped by television series such as The Smothers Brothers, All in the Family, and Mad Men, television's role in identity formation (class, gender and sexuality, racial and ethnic, etc.), and the influence of new technologies on television industries and content.

Prerequisites: Take MSS 131.
Offered: Every year, Spring

MSS 450. Media Studies Seminar.3 Credits.

This seminar includes an in-depth examination of issues and research perspectives in media studies. Topics vary each term, focusing on the different media and current literature in the field.

Prerequisites: Take MSS 131.
Offered: Every year, Fall and Spring

MSS 491. Research Project.3 Credits.

Students conduct an in-depth research project under faculty supervision.

Prerequisites: Take MSS 332.
Offered: As needed

MSS 495. Capstone: Media Forecasting and Strategy.3 Credits.

In this media studies capstone course, students analyze the various forces impacting media industries, professionals, and users, tracking current trends and forecasting future influences. Students study the issues facing media producers/users and strategize creative responses to the challenges of operating in an ever-changing media environment, applying critical thinking, research and creative problem-solving skills to real-world situations in their capstone project, a Media Consultant Report. Students also are expected to demonstrate professional oral and written communication skills in their final project and a weekly Media Trends blog. Senior status required.

Prerequisites: Take MSS 131 and MSS 332 or ADPR 332
Offered: Every year, Spring

MSS 499. Independent Study.1-6 Credits.

Students may arrange to do an in-depth study of a topic under faculty supervision.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: As needed

PRR 501. Principles and Theories of Public.3 Credits.

Students are introduced to the growing body of knowledge in the discipline and gain expertise that contributes to professional competence in public relations. Students examine the function of public relations in organizations and society, review contemporary and historical roles of public relations professionals and explore the practice of public relations in various public and private settings. Students also learn the latest theoretical approaches to public relations and apply these approaches to contemporary public relations management practices.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, Fall

PRR 502. Public Relations Research Methods.3 Credits.

This course examines the applied use of research in public relations program development. Students learn methodologies appropriate for conducting secondary analyses and primary research. Both quantitative and qualitative methods are addressed, such as secondary analysis, content analysis, survey research, focus groups, participant observation, case study and experimentation.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, Fall

PRR 504. Law and Ethics in Public Relations.3 Credits.

Students become familiar with legal and industry standards for legally and ethically practicing public relations. The course aims to instill an appreciation for freedom of expression and the First Amendment; to impart a functional understanding of legal rules and principles relevant to public relations practice in the U.S.; to enhance students' ability to identify the moral and ethical dimensions of issues that arise in public relations practice; and to develop analytical and critical thinking skills that encourage students to make and justify ethical decisions.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, Fall

PRR 505. Public Relations Writing.3 Credits.

This course helps students develop professional-quality public relations writing skills. Students prepare a variety of public relations materials, such as news releases and other media materials; copy for internal magazines, reports, newsletters, brochures, institutional/advocacy advertising; video/audio scripts; web site copy; and speeches. Upon completion of this course, students have a professional portfolio of public relations writing samples.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, Spring

PRR 506. Public Relations Management.3 Credits.

This course focuses on the business management aspects of public relations, such as policy formation, project direction, resource management, client relations, budgeting and counseling. Special emphasis is placed on public relations' contribution to an institution's mission and effectiveness.

Prerequisites: Take STC 501 or PRR 501
Offered: Every year, Spring

PRR 507. Strategic Planning in Public Relations.3 Credits.

This course familiarizes students with the public relations strategic planning process. Students examine contemporary case studies that demonstrate the public relations planning process and apply what they have learned to the development and presentation of a public relations campaign plan for a client.

Prerequisites: Take PRR 501.
Offered: As needed

PRR 510. Crisis Management.3 Credits.

This course examines institutional crisis communication from a management perspective with an emphasis on crisis prevention, planning and response. Students are required to read and discuss selected articles from the crisis management literature, research and develop case studies of contemporary crises, and participate in simulations designed to develop professional expertise and practical skills in crisis management, including the management of information, management of public communication, strategic planning, problem solving, message production and issues management.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: As needed

PRR 511. Global Strategy.3 Credits.

This course examines concepts, issues and practices in international public relations across the borders and focuses on the challenges, opportunities, and the worldwide development of public relations. The course aims to inform you about the variables that affect public relations practice in the international realm and assist you in understanding of other countries' domestic public relations given the various cultures, geopolitical and socio-economic systems. Participants look closely at how governments, corporations, multinationals and nongovernmental organizations employ international public relations strategies around the world. Students also examine similarities between international public relations and public diplomacy and the effects of international public relations on images of nations.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: As needed

PRR 512. Investor Relations.3 Credits.

Students study the function of investor relations in corporations and examine the role of investor relations specialists charged with communicating financial information about companies to the financial media, SEC, financial analysts, shareholders and others in the financial community. Students learn how to integrate finance, communication, marketing and securities law compliance in efforts to maximize shareholder wealth.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: As needed

PRR 513. Health & Strategic Communications.3 Credits.

In this course, students are exposed to the field of strategic health communications, with particular attention to analysis and practice of health communication relationships and messages. Issues to be discussed include, but are not limited to: history and current challenges of the health communication field; health campaign creation, implementation and evaluation; cultural issues related to health behavior change campaigns; translational research; traditional and social media training for health care professionals; and perspectives of media influence on health attitudes, norms and behaviors.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: As needed

PRR 514. Public Relations and New Media.3 Credits.

This course addresses the impact of new media on public relations. It focuses on conducting public relations campaigns online and responding to public relations issues via new media, such as social networking and bookmarking sites, blogs, podcasts/vodcasts, discussion boards and conferences, wikis and mobile media.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, All

PRR 515. Special Topics in Public Relations.3 Credits.

This course examines a specific topic or issue in public relations theory and practice. Topics might focus on specific practice areas such as sports public relations, employee relations, political public relations, public diplomacy, nonprofit public relations, or on industry issues and trends, such as the uses and impact of new technologies, professional ethics and corporate social responsibility or the integration of communication practices.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: As needed, Fall and Spring

PRR 516. Branding Strategies.3 Credits.

This course explores strategies used by planners, communicators, managers and consultants to create, develop, nurture, maintain and reenergize brands. This course helps students understand the main idea of branding: developing, defending and growing brands for companies, agencies or nonprofits. It explores the essential elements of branding, including target audiences and segmentation, brand benefits, brand personality, differentiation and key brand equities. It also surveys conceptual approaches for the diagnosis of brand growth opportunities and for planning integrated brand communications.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: As needed

PRR 517. Strategic Comm for Health Professionals.3 Credits.

In this course, graduate students are exposed to the field of strategic health communication. In particular, students are asked to consider the role of health communication messages in internal, organizational settings, as well as outward-facing messages. Unique to this graduate-level strategic communication course, the students are expected to have minimal to no experience in the field of strategic communication. Instead, the overview of the field provided through this course seeks to encourage understanding of how the theories, practices and evaluations of health communication should be incorporated within their areas of health expertise.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: As needed

PRR 518. Measurement & Evaluation.3 Credits.

This course focuses on the development of knowledge and skills to ensure that students are able to use data to make business decisions. Students consider key concerns of measurement to determine if measurement tools are effective and appropriate for a project's goals, as well as how to make sense of data to measure success of a project and how to display findings for various audiences. The course is focused on the principles and process of utilizing research to best serve your client's or organization's goals. Main topics for the course include measurement development and refinement, online data analytics, audience segmentation, data interpretation and data visualization.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, Fall and Spring

PRR 519. Strategic Public Relations.3 Credits.

The focus of this course is reputation management and its importance to business success. Students analyze the function of corporate communications and examine a range of topics including organizational identity, image and reputation; issues and crisis management; institutional ethics and corporate social responsibility; strategic public relations planning; integrated marketing communication; public relations theories and best practices; and global public engagement. The class also explores specialty public relations practice areas such as media relations, investor relations, employee relations and government relations. Class discussions, case studies, in-class exercises, team projects and essay exams help students improve their critical thinking and reasoning skills, develop research and strategic planning skills and increase diversity awareness and sensitivities that are important to professional and business success.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: As needed

PRR 520. Sports Public Relations.3 Credits.

This class is a comprehensive review of sports event planning and management. Students examine such topics as strategic planning, budgeting and time management.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: As needed

PRR 521. Corporate Public Relations.3 Credits.

This course provides students with the knowledge and skills required for positions in the corporate sector. Topics include media relations, employee communication, community relations, investor relations, and crisis communication. Students hone their written communication and critical thinking skills in this class.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: As needed

PRR 522. Nonprofit Public Relations.3 Credits.

This course is appropriate for students who want to learn how to develop and implement comprehensive public relations campaigns for nonprofit organizations. It highlights the structures and nuances of the various types of NPOs and examines case studies and present-day scenarios. The course requires the development of a public relations campaign, and culminates in crafting a case study assessing the effectiveness of an assigned NPO's public relations campaign.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: As needed

PRR 523. Media Systems and Planning.3 Credits.

In this course, students learn about traditional as well as new and emerging technologies, with particular emphasis on their strengths and weaknesses as message carriers. Discussions include an overview of commonly used metrics and sources of data in the advertising and communications industries. Students then use this knowledge to plan and budget for integrated communication plans that capitalize on paid, earned and owned outlets.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: As needed

PRR 525. Financial Communications and Business.3 Credits.

This course provides students with a holistic view of public relations and corporate communications management, as well as strategic planning for organizational change and growth. It covers various styles and functions of management and leadership theory and introduces key principles of marketing, branding, risk management, ethics, and finance. Throughout the course, students develop the ability to work between crucial agency organizational departments.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: As needed

PRR 531. Graduate Internship in Public Relations.3 Credits.

Students complete a minimum of 90 hours of professional fieldwork supervised by the program director and a qualified field supervisor. Approval of the program director is required.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, All

PRR 540. Strategic Communications Abroad.3 Credits.

This multi-section course introduces students to the worldwide development of communications, including communication practices, infrastructure, environments, and specializations. Students conduct primary and secondary research on communications in a particular country or cross-cultural context. The topics can range from international strategic communication through storytelling, global branding, and design, depending on the specialty of the instructor. This course includes a short-term study-abroad component directly related to the topic of the course, where students will be able to expand their skills and knowledge in a new environment. A strategic communication graduate-level final project is required.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: As needed

PRR 547. Entertainment Public Relations.3 Credits.

This course reviews and applies the established RPIE (Research, Planning, Implementation, and Evaluation) process to the field of entertainment public relations in the context of such industries as music, movies, TV, theater, gaming, and sports. The distinctions between and among advertising, publicity, public relations, marketing, and promotion, in addition to how they can work together to support a specific goal, are highlighted.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: As needed

PRR 549. Media Relations.3 Credits.

This course gives students an understanding of the priorities and expectations of various types of contemporary media and how to successfully engage them through research-based strategies and tactics designed to reach key audiences. At the conclusion of the course, students should be well-practiced in various forms of working with journalists and the public via multiple media.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: As needed

PRR 551. Social Media Analytics.3 Credits.

This course familiarizes students with the role of analytics in digital communication strategies and social media account management. Students are introduced to the growing body of research on digital communication analytics, including social listening, social monitoring, attribution modeling, A/B testing, and data visualization. Key case examples of malicious data harvesting and data misuse are used to explore the importance of ethical data utilization in campaigns. Students finish this course with an understanding of the magnitude of social media on different elements of society and how social media analytics are used to recognize and solve problems across many industries.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every other year, Spring

PRR 552. Access/Diversity/Inclusion in Soc Media.3 Credits.

This course introduces best practices for creating social media content with optimized accessibility for disabled audiences, as well as improving diversity representation in the development and delivery of social media content. Students learn approaches for critically evaluating campaign strategies and individual social media messages for accessibility, diversity, and inclusion, and are empowered with knowledge of tools to improve campaign messages.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every other year, Fall

PRR 553. Social Media Content Strategy.3 Credits.

This course addresses the strategic development of content across various social media platforms to meet key publics where they're active with material that takes advantages of the specific affordances of each platform. The course will consider addressing issues and crises as they arise, pivoting in response to public concerns, and gaining management buy-in on response strategies.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every other year, Spring

PRR 605. Public Relations Grad Capstone.3 Credits.

Students develop a professional research project under the direction of program faculty. The project work should exhibit KSAs and/or serve as PRSA Readiness Review preparation.The capstone project is a personally designed, independently conducted activity, enabling students to further their knowledge/skill in one or more of the course topics that students have found especially interesting or beneficial. Permission of instructor required.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: Every year, Spring and Summer

PRR 606. Independent Study.3 Credits.

Students develop and implement individual research projects that advance understanding of particular theoretical or practical aspects of public relations. Approval of the program director is required.

Prerequisites: None
Offered: As needed