Graduate Courses
Required Courses (19 hours)
COMMS 600 - Introduction to Graduate Studies (1)
Introduction to graduate education, communications theory, research, and academic writing. Faculty research programs presented.
COMMS 602 - Qualitative Research Methods (3)
Major methods of qualitative research used in communications studies.
COMMS 610 - Studies in Communications Theory (3)
Nature and content of contemporary mass communications theory.
COMMS 611 - Communications/Social Science Research Methods (3)
Prerequisite: Stat 221 or equivalent and/or social science research methods.
Major methods of research used in communications studies.
COMMS 616 - Media Effects: Individual, Family, and Society (3)
Prerequisites: Comms 600, 602, 610, 611.
Media's roles in major social settings. Capstone course, including preparation for comprehensive exam.
COMMS 699R - Master's Thesis (6) or COMMS 698R - Master's Project (6)
Electives (minimum of 12 credits)
COMMS 604 - Communications History and Historical Research Methods (3)
In-depth investigation of the history of mass media, including study of historical research methods.
COMMS 607 - International Media and Communications (3)
Role of communication internationally and its impact on culture, ethics, morality and politics around the world. Comparison of communication systems, media flows, and communications among countries.
COMMS 619 - Gender, Race, and Class in Mass Communications (3)
Issues related to gender, race, and class in the communication process. Implications of current developments in critical theory and issues of diversity.
COMMS 621 - Media and Religion (3)
Seminar regarding the interface of media and religion.
COMMS 622R - Seminar on Media and Current Societal Issues (3)
Pre-announced societal issue or issues (such as environment, impact of new technologies, vulnerable audiences, consumerism, non-profits, health communications, terrorism, etc.).
COMMS 623 - Literature of Journalism (3)
Critiquing journalism theories and philosophy ranging from traditional libertarian ideals to contemporary movements of public journalism and public service broadcasting.
COMMS 624 - Seminar on Media Law and Ethics (3)
Review of literature and research on ethics. Legal and regulatory relationship between government and communications; legal research methods.
COMMS 625 - Integrative Persuasive Communications (3)
Persuasion theories and links to practice of integrated communications, including promotion, advertising, public relations, direct marketing, and branding.
COMMS 627 - Public Relations Theory and Leadership (3)
Relationship of strategic communications and stakeholder theory to current issues in the field, including reputation, image, apologia, trust, transparency, power, leadership, conflict resolution, and change.
Possible Elective Substitutes
(require approval, cannot exceed 3 credits in total)
COMMS 612R - Research Practicum (1-3)
Practical experience in research under direction of individual faculty.
COMMS 691R - Special Studies in Communications (1-3)
Individual study with a graduate faculty member. Course and subject must be approved by committee chair and graduate coordinator before registration.
COMMS 692R - Professional Practicum (1-3)
Individual work in professional communications settings, with oversight and assessment by graduate faculty member.
COMMS 695R - Topical Seminar (1-3)
Seminar on focused pre-announced topic relating to specific media issues, often taught by visiting scholar or media professional.
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