Courses

COMS 325 - New Media (4)
This course introduces students to new communication technology, its influence on society, and how to write for the new media environment. This course will focus on examining new communication technologies including the different ways in which these technologies are used, the theoretical models that are relevant to new communication technology as well as the practical applications and implications of new communication technology on communication.
COMS 326 - Advanced Presentation Techniques (4)
Course involves intensive self-evaluation of both verbal and non-verbal elements of presentation. Interviews, group communications, and presenting with multimedia are covered. Theories of communication are discussed as they relate to presentation styles. Junior-level standing required.
COMS 327 - Media and Children (4)
Students learn about the latest research in child development, media design, and marketing. Students then apply these ideas to the creation of a media message for a specific age group. Junior-level standing required.
COMS 328 - America at the Movies (3)

An examination of the sociopolitical meanings and significance of American film from the silent era to the present. To better understand how films can potentially reflect and affect society, students read about American history and analyze dozens of films in their particular historical contexts.

COMS 329 - "Reality" TV and Film (4)
How is "reality" mediated in film and television? In this course students examine the truthfulness, ethics, and sociopolitical implications of such forms and genres as the documentary, neorealism, Dogme 95, tabloid talk shows, voyeurism/confession shows, crime shows, freak shows, and contest/game shows.
COMS 332 - Screening Violence (4)
Violence in media and popular culture has been the subject of great concern and voluminous research for many years. In this course students examine the history, meaning, and real-world implications and effects of media violence, with a focus on film, television, literature, news, sports, comics toys, and video games.
COMS 333 - Communication, Power, and Social Change (4)
How does power operate through communication to delay or to advance social progress? Analyze history, film, documentary, news, corporate PR, government propaganda, and cultural myth. Craft short messages from comic books to posters to radio or video spots. Design and get feedback for messages students create on issues of choice.
COMS 340 - Public Relations Firm (4)

This is a hands-on class for students who are planning to work in the field of public relations. The class is run as a public relations firm with students working as consultants with clients to develop plans and projects for public relations campaigns. Required pre-req for this course is COMS 240.

COMS 368 - Newspaper Writing/Editing (STAR) (4)

The faculty advisor offers a comprehensive evaluation -- oral and written -- of the most recent edition of the campus newspaper, the STAR. Instruction is provided on a wide variety of journalism topics, from editing and reporting to ethics and law. Students are required to read the STAR and the written evaluation by the advisor. May be repeated for up to 12 units. Required pre-req for this course is COMS 210.

COMS 369 - Studio Blue (4)

This is an essential class for students who will work in the Broadcasting Industry. Students will learn about the history, structure, and operations of local broadcasting. Students will be expected to work in a specific department of Studio Blue during the semester. May be repeated for credit up to 12 units.  Required pre-req for this course is COMS 201.

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