Communication Studies

http://www.whitworth.edu/communication-studies

The Whitworth Communication Studies Department provides students with the theories and skills necessary for effective communication in diverse contexts. Working within the tradition of the liberal arts, the department introduces students to theoretical, historical and philosophical assumptions fundamental to communication scholarship and practice.

The learning outcomes of this major prepare the student to...

  • identify the relationships between the theory and practice of communication and the student's faith or worldview.
  • demonstrate writing skills required to excel in an entry-level communications-related job and/or graduate school.
  • demonstrate public-speaking and presentation skills required to excel in an entry-level communications-related job and/or graduate school.
  • demonstrate interpersonal skills required to excel in relational, cultural, professional and technological contexts.
  • demonstrate critical-thinking skills required to excel in the intellectual, professional and personal dimensions of life. 

The Whitworth Communication Studies Department offers a major with four tracks: communication, journalism & media studies, speech communication, and strategic communication.

Courses

COM 113 Interpersonal Communication3
Introductory course to communication studies that surveys perception, self-concept, feedback, listening, disclosure, conflict management, language and nonverbal communication. Fall and spring semesters.
COM 113H Honors Interpersonal Communication3
This course introduces principles of interpersonal relationships in a communal living and learning context off-campus. As an honors course, this class will emphasize experiential learning outcomes. Topics we will examine include: perception, self-concept, feedback, listening, disclosure, conflict management, verbal and nonverbal communication, relationship development, intercultural communication, and relational contexts. Jan term, even years.
COM 120 Media and Society3
This course looks at the history, culture, impact and future of media in the U.S. and abroad, with an emphasis on media literacy skills for the global citizen. Fall and spring semesters.
COM 125 Writing for Mass Media3
News values; creativity and structure in news writing; journalistic style and format; accuracy, clarity and conciseness in writing; basic reporting and research skills, interviewing, listening, and observing. Also listed as EP 125. Also listed as VC 125. Fall and spring semesters.
COM 126H Writing for Digital Media3
Students will explore the research and media theory that covers writing for digital media, then apply those concepts to a weekly online multimedia publication. Spring semester.
COM 210 Introduction to Public Speaking3
Introduction to speech construction and delivery. Speech skills are surveyed, including research, listening and nonverbal communication. Fall and spring semesters and periodic Jan Terms.
COM 212 Theories of Human Communication3
A comprehensive treatment of major theoretical approaches toward understanding the production and interpretation of human communication. Also listed as VC 212. Fall and spring semesters.
COM 223 Small Group Communication4
A theoretical and practical look at group communication processes such as conflict management, decision-making, group dynamics, leadership, and problem-solving. Fall semester.
COM 231 Photojournalism3
Introduction to photojournalism and the photographic and visual skills needed to create a compelling news image. Students shoot and critique documentary-style photographs and begin to develop a professional portfolio that includes news, feature, sports, portrait and picture stories. Personal camera - preferably a DSLR or advanced point-n-shoot - strongly recommended. Limited equipment available for short-term use. Spring semester. Periodic.
COM 237 Introduction to Video & Audio Production3
Course introduces students to fundamental concepts and techniques in the production of video and audio content. Skills are relevant to a range of media contexts, from journalism to PR to advertising. The emphasis in this course is on "hands-on" learning of basic video and audio recording, editing and non-fiction storytelling skills. Fall semester.
COM 244 Publicity and Public Relations3
Role and effect of publicity and public relations in the United States. Public relations process, public-opinion polling, development, evaluation of public relations programs. Prerequisite: COM 125. Also listed as EP 244. Spring semester.
COM 245H Applied Speech: Forensics1
A practicum course for students involved in the intercollegiate forensics program. An in-depth course in advanced public speaking and debating that may be repeated for credit. Prerequisite: by permission. Fall and spring semesters.
COM 246 Applied Journalism: Radio1
Staff work on university radio station. May be repeated for credit. Fall and spring semesters.
COM 247 Applied Journalism: Yearbook1
Staff work on university yearbook. May be repeated for credit. Fall and spring semesters.
COM 248 Applied Journalism: Public Relations Agency1
Whitworth's student-run public relations agency, Beyond the Pines, is designed to give students of all majors who are interested in public relations an opportunity to practice their skills in a real-world environment. Students work in client-based teams to provide a broad array of public relations services to area nonprofit organizations. May be repeated for credit. Fall and spring semester.
COM 249 Applied Journalism: Newspaper1
Staff work on university newspaper. May be repeated for credit. Fall and spring semesters.
COM 250 Applied Photography and Photojournalism1
Photo staff for the university yearbook and newspaper. Students shoot and edit photo packages for both publications throughout the academic year.
COM 270 Mediated Communication & Relationships3
Communication and relational connections are fundamental to the human experience, and within the last several decades, both realities have been influenced by the increased personal use of electronic mediated devices and communication technologies. This course will explore the individual and collective consequences of mediated communication, and consider the influence of mediated communication on relational development. Fall semester, even years.
COM 302 Digital Strategic Communication3
This course covers the paradigm shift that social media is creating at the juncture of communication and technology. Students learn how to utilize online channels such as Twitter, Facebook, blogs, online ads, geo-based location and rating services, and other e-marketing tactics to engage your audience. Explores multiple platforms for monitoring, managing and tracking campaigns. Offered through Continuing Studies. Periodic Offering.
COM 309W Introduction to Communication Research3
An introduction to communication studies research methods and tools, including traditional and electronic resources. Students will develop skills in scholarly writing and argumentation. Prerequisite: COM 113 or COM 212. Spring semester.
COM 311 Public Relations and Communication3
Students examine the role of managed communication in public relations problems unique to health, education, and human and public service organizations. This study includes the theory and practice of public speaking with a focus on civic persuasion. Students will strengthen written communication skills critical for effectiveness in professional environments. Offered through Continuing Studies. Periodic offering.
COM 313 Advanced Interpersonal Communication3
Explores communication issues in the development of personal relationships, specifically friendships, romantic, family, and work relationships. Topics include the processes of establishing relationships, maintaining relationships, and coping with relational challenges. Fall semester, odd years. For Communication majors only.
COM 315 Critical Media Analysis3
Analysis of messages from primary mass media sources including print and broadcast news, Internet, entertainment and advertising. Course uses various tools to examine how messages are used by media producers and audiences to create meaning. Also listed as EP/COM 315. Spring semester.
COM 316 International Mass Media3
Development and operations of global mass communication channels and organizations. Comparative analysis of media, media practices, and flow of media content throughout the world. Fall semester. Even years.
COM 323 Organizational Communication3
Structure, process and function of communication in organizations, including diagnosing communication problems, analyzing communication networks, and managing communication. Prerequisite: Students must have met the oral communication requirement. Spring semester.
COM 325 Topics in In-Depth Reporting3
Newsgathering techniques and strategies, including direct observation, participant observation and interviewing; using public records and documents, libraries and statistics; dealing with sources; polls and surveys. Course explores a different news content approach each semester, including sports, arts, politics, science or education. Prerequisite: COM 125.
COM 326 Advanced Reporting for Digital Media3
Students will gain reporting and publishing experience in digital journalism, developing skills in text, image, audio, video, interactive and social. Students will produce digital story packages and discuss new media theory. Prerequisite: COM 125 or COM 126H.
COM 337 Video and Audio Journalism3
Development of writing, reporting, editing and production skills for video and audio journalism. Introduction to using field video and audio equipment. Broadcast news writing and production. Includes planning, researching and gathering of material and producing long-form journalistic audio and video pieces. Prerequisite: COM 125 or equivalent. Periodic offering.
COM 339 Digital Storytelling3
Explores theory and practice of digital, multi-modal writing and storytelling. Students will analyze and create digital stories using freely available tools for capturing, editing, and presenting audio, video, and text. Cross-listed with EL/FVNS 339. Prerequisites: EL 210,EL 245, COM 125, or permission of instructor. Periodic offering.
COM 339H Digital Storytelling3
Study of digital, multimodal writing/storytelling. Students create a variety of digital texts using freely available audio, video, and text editing tools. Two evening screenings in addition to regular class meetings. Prerequisites: EL 210, EL 245, COM 125, or instructor permission. Also listed as COM/FVNS 339. Jan term.
COM 343 Editing for Multimedia3
Introduction to principles of editing and design for communication on multiple platforms. Students will explore editing for content and mechanics as well as the important role of design in conveying an effective informational or persuasive message. Jan Term. Even years.
COM 344 Strategic Event Planning3
In this course, students are introduced to special events as an important area of strategic communication and how events can benefit an organization in various ways, from fundraising, to public relations, to education, to employee engagement, Topics include researching, planning, coordinating, marketing, managing, and evaluating of events. Students will both observe events and facilitate the planning and implementation of at least one on-campus event.
COM 345 Media and Society in Germany3
Off-campus program in Germany. Students gain basic understanding of contemporary German society and current issues such as European unity, changing demographics, the Christian church and the media in Germany. Students have an opportunity to acquire/solidify digital storytelling and media production skills in a cross-cultural and transnational setting. German language skills not required. May Term, even years.
COM 346 Media Impact in Contemporary U.S.3
Students taking this study program visit New York and Washington, D.C. to learn from media executives and scholars what they believe are the main issues currently facing the media; course also explores impact of media on contemporary U.S. society. Media industries visited will include newspapers, television, radio, magazine and book publishing, and advertising. Jan Term. Periodic.
COM 347W History and Theory of Rhetoric3
The origin and development of speech communication from its earliest conceptions in ancient Greece through the present, with particular emphasis on the theories of rhetoric. Prerequisite: COM 212. Offered annually.
COM 348 Mass Media History3
Origins and development of print and broadcast mass media in the United States. Prerequisite: COM 212 recommended, junior standing, or by permission of instructor. Also listed as EP 347. Fall semester. Odd years.
COM 351 Group Dynamics3
A focus on group behavior, including work teams and how their functioning affects organizational effectiveness. Emphasis on effective group processes for role clarification, decision-making, problem-solving, conflict resolution and group communications. Students develop communication strategies and application of concepts through completion of a small-group project. Offered through Continuing Studies.
COM 352 Conflict Management3
Investigates how individuals can manage relational conflict more effectively, with an emphasis on the language and structure of conflict. Students will develop skills in managing social and task conflict in both professional and personal contexts. Periodic offering. Offered through Continuing Studies.
COM 353 Communication in Leadership3
This course will explore how the practice of leadership is guided by the processes of communication through examining the theories and practice of both leadership and communication. It examines the role that communication plays in the leading of organizations, in navigating change in organizations, and in cultivating and maintaining the leader-follower relationship.
COM 370 Action Heroes to Zany Moms: Representations of Women in Popular Culture3
This course approaches recent popular culture in the US as more than simply entertainment. Particular attention is paid to representations of gender, sexuality, race, and class as intersecting, dynamic social categories embedded in narratives about women and feminism. Different media effects theories are explored and discussed. Cultural theory is used to learn how social anxieties, problems, and desires are constructed, managed, and challenged through cultural texts, critically analyzing how popular culture shapes who we are. Focus is on primarily visual culture, and a variety of genres and mediums.
COM 371 Stereotypes in the Media3
This course will explore how stereotypes are used to communicate understandings and misunderstandings about people through mass-mediated communication. An emphasis will be placed on how and why people stereotype and on how those stereotypes are distributed to the mass public through various media, including film, television, print, and advertising. Various stereotypes regarding ethnic and racial minorities, women, the LGBT community, class, age, religious affiliation, and ability will be identified and discussed. Critical analysis and discussion will be used to probe media, gender, racial, class, etc. issues and their intersections.
COM 375 Hollywood: Spotlight on Gender Representation3
This Jan Term program approaches recent film and television products in the US as more than simply entertainment. Particular attention is paid to representations of gender, sexuality, race, and class as intersecting, dynamic social categories embedded in narratives about gender and feminism. Different media effects theories will be explored and discussed in a hands-on environment. Students will have the opportunity to engage with "media makers" in the heart of the entertainment industry to discuss and explore how intersectional representation is approached.
COM 398 Intercultural Communication3
Study of how elements such as ritual, status, symbolism, concepts of time and use of space create our worldview. Class promotes cross-cultural understanding using interactive and visual communication to communicate effectively across cultures. Intent is to broaden cultural awareness and enhance multicultural literacy. Jan Term.
COM 402 Mass Media Law3
The First Amendment and court-protected freedom of expression, libel, right of privacy, copyright, covering government and the courts, broadcast regulation. Fall semester. Even years.
COM 403 Freedom and Responsibility of Speech3
An in-depth examination of the First Amendment and court-protected freedom of expression including sedition and political speech, religious speech, protest speech, academic freedom, and symbolic expression. Fall semester. Odd years.
COM 405 Literary Journalism3
Exploration of the literary journalism movement from the early 20th century through the "New Journalism" of the 1960s and 70s to modern work. Students will read and discuss literary journalistic works from a range of authors while developing a proposal for an original piece of their own.
COM 415 Persuasion3
Study and application of persuasion theories and research as they relate within interpersonal, media, ministry, and other contexts. The course will consider, primarily from a social science perspective, how speakers, messages and various persuasive appeals can modify attitudes and behaviors. Fall semester, even years.
COM 445H Applied Speech: Forensics1
A practicum course for students involved in the intercollegiate forensics program. An in-depth course in advanced public speaking and debating that may be repeated for credit. Prerequisite: by permission. Fall and spring semesters.
COM 446 Broadcast Management Practicum: Radio1
Management work on the university radio station. Prerequisite: COM 246 and appointment to management position. May be repeated for credit. Fall and spring semesters.
COM 447 Editorial Practicum: Yearbook1
Editorial work on the university yearbook. Prerequisites: COM 247 and appointment to editorial position. May be repeated for credit. Fall and spring semesters.
COM 448 Applied Journalism: PR Leadership1
Leadership of the Whitworth student-run public relations agency. Instructor consent required. May be repeated for credit. Fall and spring semesters.
COM 449 Editorial Practicum: Newspaper1
Editorial work on the university newspaper. Prerequisite: Appointment to editorial/leadership position. May be repeated for credit. Fall and spring semesters.
COM 461 Applied Cross-Cultural Communication3
Explores the importance of competent communication in the international arena. Study of how elements such as ritual, status, symbolism, concepts of time and use of space create our world view. This course will provide opportunities for students to enhance both professional and interpersonal skills in the area of communicating effectively across cultures. The intent is to broaden cultural awareness and enhance multicultural literacy as applied in nonacademic settings. For continuing studies students only.
COM 482 Media Innovation3
Advanced issues-related topics in journalism and mass communication. Combines theoretical, historical and practical knowledge to provide an in-depth examination of new and traditional models of journalism and media with a focus on media innovation and development.
COM 490 Internship1-4
Internship in communication studies is a required course that combines an internship fieldwork experience with the academic study of communication for the purpose of applying communication theories, concepts and skills in a professional work environment. COM 490 internships require approval and registration by the communication studies internship faculty adviser before students start work at internship to be eligible for credit. Students are able to take COM 490 after they have completed 18 credits in communication courses (12 of these 18 credits must be completed at Whitworth University). COM 490 is offered during the Fall, Spring and Summer Terms.
COM 493 Media Ethics3
Nature and criteria of ethical behavior; personal and organizational ethical issues facing the mass media, including the power of the media, news gathering and reporting techniques, media source relations, privacy, freedom of the press, taste, conflicting interests, fairness and objectivity. Senior standing. Spring semester.
COM 494 Communication Ethics3
An in-depth examination of the nature and criteria of ethical oral communication behavior in interpersonal, public speaking, group and intercultural settings. Examines ethical theories and their application to credibility, lying and persuasion in social, political, and religious contexts. Senior standing. Spring semester.

The communication major consists of a common foundation (21 credits) and one of four different tracks (24-25 credits). The foundation is as follows:

Requirements for Communication Major-Foundation Courses (21)

COM 113Interpersonal Communication3
or COM 113H Honors Interpersonal Communication
COM 120Media and Society3
COM 212Theories of Human Communication3
COM 309WIntroduction to Communication Research3
COM 402Mass Media Law3
or COM 403 Freedom and Responsibility of Speech,Freedom & Respnblty of Speech
COM 490Internship3
COM 493Media Ethics3
or COM 494 Communication Ethics

The communication track is for students who wish to pursue a generalist approach to the broad field of communication. Students completing the communication track must complete the foundation (21 credits) plus:

Requirements for Communication Track (39-40)

Communication Foundation Courses (21)21
Two of the following skills courses:6
Writing for Mass Media
Writing for Digital Media
Introduction to Public Speaking
Photojournalism
Introduction to Video & Audio Production
Publicity and Public Relations
Topics in In-Depth Reporting
Video and Audio Journalism
Editing for Multimedia
Three of the following concepts courses:9-10
Small Group Communication
Mediated Communication & Relationships
Advanced Interpersonal Communication
Critical Media Analysis
International Mass Media
Organizational Communication
Mass Media History
History and Theory of Rhetoric
Communication in Leadership
Action Heroes to Zany Moms: Representations of Women in Popular Culture
Stereotypes in the Media
Intercultural Communication
Persuasion
Media Innovation
Three credits of department electives, not counting IS or TA3

The journalism & media studies track is for students who wish to pursue either an academic or professional exploration of mass media. Students completing the journalism & media studies track must complete the foundation (21 credits) plus:

Requirements for Journalism & Media Studies Track (39)

Communication Foundation Courses (21)21
One of the following:
Writing for Mass Media
Writing for Digital Media
One of the following:
COM 325Topics in In-Depth Reporting3
Advanced Reporting for Digital Media
COM 337Video and Audio Journalism3
Media Innovation
One of the following skills courses:3
Introduction to Public Speaking
Photojournalism
Introduction to Video & Audio Production
Publicity and Public Relations
Editing for Multimedia
Two of the following concept courses:6
Critical Media Analysis
International Mass Media
Mass Media History
Action Heroes to Zany Moms: Representations of Women in Popular Culture
Stereotypes in the Media
Three credits of COM electives, not counting IS or TA3

The strategic communication track is for students who are interested in the persuasive side of mass media, with an emphasis on public relations. Students completing the strategic communication track must complete the foundation (21 credits) plus:

Requirements for Strategic Communication Track (39)

Communication Foundation Courses (21)21
COM 244Publicity and Public Relations3
COM 323Organizational Communication3
One of the following skills courses:3
Writing for Mass Media
Writing for Digital Media
Introduction to Public Speaking
Introduction to Video & Audio Production
Video and Audio Journalism
Editing for Multimedia
Strategic Event Planning
Two of the following concepts courses:6
Small Group Communication
Mediated Communication & Relationships
International Mass Media
Mass Media History
Communication in Leadership
Intercultural Communication
Persuasion
Media Innovation
Three credits of department electives, not counting IS or TA3

The speech communication track is for students who are interested in exploring interpersonal, group and organizational speech dynamics. Students completing the speech communication track must complete the foundation (21 credits) plus:

Requirements for Speech Communication Track (40)

Communication Foundation Courses (21)21
COM 210Introduction to Public Speaking3
COM 223Small Group Communication4
Three of the following:9
Mediated Communication & Relationships
Advanced Interpersonal Communication
Organizational Communication
Communication in Leadership
Intercultural Communication
Persuasion
Three credits of department electives, not counting IS or TA3

Requirements for a Communication Minor (15)

COM 125Writing for Mass Media3
or COM 126H Writing for Digital Media
COM 113Interpersonal Communication3
COM 212Theories of Human Communication3
Two approved upper-division courses6

Requirements for a Communication & Technology Minor (21)

Foundation: Take both courses6
Writing for Mass Media
Writing for Digital Media
Computer Science I
Electives:12
Six credits of Computer Science courses, 200 level or higher
Six credits of Communication Studies courses, 200 level or higher
Capstone: Choose one of the following3
How to Make Darn-Near Anything
Media Innovation

Requirements for a Communication & Culture Minor (18)

Select one:3
Interpersonal Communication
Media and Society
Select one: Lower division US Cultural Studies (USCS) or Women's & Gender Studies (WGS) course or pre-approved course dealing with culture, from an outside dept.3
Select two: Upper division US Cultural Studies (USCS) or Women's & Gender Studies (WGS) course or pre-approved courses dealing with culture, from an outside dept.6
Select two:6
Critical Media Analysis
Organizational Communication
Media and Society in Germany
Action Heroes to Zany Moms: Representations of Women in Popular Culture
Stereotypes in the Media
Intercultural Communication

Visual Communication (18 Credits)

Requirements for the visual communication minor are listed on the visual communication page.

Dean of Arts & Sciences

JOHN PELL

Chair

KEVIN GRIEVES

Professors

MICHAEL INGRAMALAN MIKKELSON

Associate professors

NICHOLE BOGAROSHKEVIN GRIEVESERICA SALKINJOY YORK

Director of Forensics

MICHAEL INGRAM