Lynn University

Undergraduate Courses

COM 101
INTRODUCTION TO COMMUNICATION & MEDIA
3 CREDITS
An overview of communication media, encompassing structures, processes, functions and effects. Areas of study include: television, film, sound recording, radio, graphics, drama, animation, photography, journalism, public relations, advertising, Internet media, political communication and human expression.

COM 103
ACTING I
3 CREDITS
This course explores acting as a means of improving communication skills, creativity, imagination and self-expression. The student actor gains practice in applying the theories and techniques of acting in performance.

COM 108
MEDIA LITERACY
3 CREDITS
A study of how individuals can function as better informed media consumers and more accurately interpret media content, including advertising, programming, text and images of newspapers, magazines, radio, television, and film. Examines strategies and tactics employed by commercial media to influence consumers.

COM 110
INTRODUCTION TO JOURNALISM
3 CREDITS
A survey of past, present and future journalistic practices, with an emphasis on professional standards, ethics and the growing role of the Internet.

COM 111
PRESENTATIONAL COMMUNICATION
3 CREDITS
A practical study in effective oral communication across a variety of delivery platforms and media.

COM 113
THEATER APPRECIATION
3 CREDITS
This course provides a broad understanding of the history of the theater and the elements of theatrical production. The course includes an analysis of the structure of a play, the nature of the theater and key historical eras within the development of theater as an art form.

COM 115
INTRODUCTION TO ADVERTISING AND PUBLIC RELATIONS
3 CREDITS
An introduction to the advertising and public relations industries including basic concepts and terminology related to the field. The course focuses on the emergence of the industry and various stages of change in the industry as well as the creation of messages, media planning and strategy.

COM 130
UNDERSTANDING FILM
3 CREDITS
Study of cinema as an art form, a craft and a major commercial industry. Students learn about the language and grammar of cinema, narrative structure, stylistic techniques and the basics of film criticism.

COM 140
AUDIO PRODUCTION
3 CREDITS
Introduction to sound (voice, music, sound effects) in radio, television and motion pictures. An overview of technology and its use in audio recording and editing. Lab fee: $40.

COM 145
TELEVISION PRODUCTION
3 CREDITS
An introductory course exploring the methods and equipment for TV production, including lighting, audio, camera, video switching, control room operation, set design and on-air performance. Projects include producing commercials and newscasts. Lab fee: $40.

COM 150
FILM PRODUCTION
3 CREDITS
This course is an introduction to the basic principles and techniques of fictional narrative motion picture production. Students produce short film projects, emphasizing dramatic development and creative visual storytelling through image composition, camera movement, editing and sound. Lab fee: $40.

COM 203
ACTING II
3 CREDITS
This intermediate course gives the student actor further experience in applying the techniques of acting through in-depth scene study and analysis of comedic and dramatic plays and screenplays. In addition to scene work, the course emphasizes students acquiring greater skills in vocal and physical expression. Prerequisite: COM 103.

COM 206
INTERNET MEDIA
3 CREDITS
This course analyzes key issues, differences and similarities among national media landscapes, media audiences and the impact of new media technologies. Content analysis provides insight into the evolution of media systems.

COM 210
NEWS REPORTING
3 CREDITS
An intermediate level course to sharpen the skills and techniques for news writing and reporting for print or electronic media. Exercises include information gathering and story presentation for all media. Students also study the balance between the rights of an individual and the ethical and moral responsibilities in journalism. $40 Lab Fee.

COM 212
PUBLIC RELATIONS PLANNING AND STRATEGY
3 CREDITS
This course provides a theoretical and practical foundation for the study and application of public relations as a management function in the overall organizational strategy and in identification. Analyzes the implications of public relations on management decisions and the constituencies they effect.

COM 221
ORAL INTERPRETATION
3 CREDITS
Narrative, dramatic and lyric modes of interpreting and delivering published material such as poetry, story excerpts and other creative and expository genres, with emphasis on oral presentation techniques.

COM 224
MULTIMEDIA JOURNALISM
3 CREDITS
This course demonstrates how a single story can fulfill its potential through a variety of media platforms, what makes a news story effective and how to recognize the best medium for delivery (the Web, television, radio, newspaper, magazine or more likely, a combination of all five). Focuses on how to tailor a story in a form appropriate for the Web, print, PDA screen and broadcast. Lab fee: $40.

COM 227
DIGITAL CINEMATOGRAPHY
3 CREDITS
A course designed to acquaint students with the basic elements of pre-visualization and digital cinematographic techniques that are applied in a variety of production platforms. Lab fee: $40.

COM 231
POLITICAL CAMPAIGNS AND THE NEW MEDIA
3 CREDITS
This course introduces students to the range of communication practices in contemporary political campaigns. Integrates political communication theory with practical applications using emergent media technologies. Equips students with entry-level skills for employment in political and public life.

COM 233
WORLD DRAMA
3 CREDITS
A study of dramatic literature from the ancient Greeks to the present, including such dramatists as Sophocles, Shakespeare and Ibsen.

COM 235
FILM HISTORY (1895-1950)
3 CREDITS
An introduction to the historical evolution of motion pictures from a novelty entertainment to an art and industry. Topics include the modest beginning in New York, the move to Hollywood, the rise of the star system, the emergence of the studios, introduction of sound and the beginning of the demise of the studio system in 1948.

COM 241
GROUP COMMUNICATION
3 CREDITS
A study of the theory and practice of group/team communication, emphasizing student participation and development as a group. The course develops skills in group leadership, group participation, group analysis and group management.

COM 243
RADIO-TELEVISION PERFORMANCE
3 CREDITS
History and evolution of the modern media and the communicator’s role in media development. Study of voice maintenance. Methods of organizing and delivering broadcast messages, including using mood, pace, force of presentation, inflection, melody, interview and TelePrompTer techniques and appropriate wardrobe and makeup.

COM 255
FILM AND TV EDITING
3 CREDITS
Theories and applications of non-linear video editing, examining the skill, form and concept of post-production techniques. Students learn the art of storytelling through a variety of methods and styles. Topics include narrative film-style editing and montage-style editing used in music videos and commercials. Lectures and laboratory. Lab fee: $40.

COM 263
SCRIPT ANALYSIS
3 CREDITS
The study of scripts from the perspective of a critical analysis of a dramatic work. Perspective and methodology facilitates the identification of dramatic elements, such as genre, style, event, character, architecture, action, obstacle and visual imagery.

COM 280
CONTENT DESIGN
3 CREDITS
This course introduces the student to the methodology of conceptualizing appropriate design for books, magazines, newspapers, Web sites, corporate annual reports and other commercial media.

COM 290
BRANDING
3 CREDITS
This course focuses upon the process of creating and establishing a brand. The complete life-cycle of the brand is studied as well as the profitability of branding.

COM 299
TOPICS IN COMMUNICATION
3 CREDITS
Specialized courses on cinema, various trends in radio, TV and new media or any other topic not covered in the existing courses but relevant to the study of communication and mass media.

COM 300
AUDIO PRACTICUM
3 CREDITS
An independent study of sound recording and its application in radio, television, film or the Internet. Audio projects vary in nature and scope. Prerequisite: COM 140.

COM 301 (MEETS UPPER-LEVEL DIALOGUE REQUIREMENTS)
INTERPERSONAL COMMUNICATION
3 CREDITS
This course examines the nature of the communication process as it occurs in the “one-on-one” (dyadic) context. Emphasizes the impact of socialization on the acquisition of language, beliefs and values, self-concept formation, relationship stages, conflict, etc.

COM 303
ACTING III
3 CREDITS
This advanced course gives the acting student experience in scene analysis and the subtleties of acting required in the performance of the classics of theater on the stage or for film. Classic works covered in the course include the plays of Shakespeare and Chekhov. Acting III furthers the acting student’s training in more advanced vocal and physical techniques and expression. Prerequisite: COM 203.

COM 304 (MEETS UPPER-LEVEL DIALOGUE REQUIREMENTS)
INVESTIGATIVE JOURNALISM
3 CREDITS
An examination of the role and practice of investigative reporters, producers and editors, including a review of the history of journalistic investigations that have brought societal and legislative changes in America. Considers ethical and legal responsibilities in investigative journalism, along with the use of hidden cameras, audio intercepts, libel and defamation, misrepresentation, “ambush” interviews and entrapment. Prerequisite: COM 110.

COM 305 (MEETS UPPER-LEVEL DIALOGUE REQUIREMENTS)
MEDIA AND SOCIETY
3 CREDITS
Investigation of social, psychological, political and economic implications of the mass media for a society and its subcultures.

COM 306
ADVANCED TELEVISION PRODUCTION
3 CREDITS
An advanced TV production course that focuses on the principles and techniques of producing studio and on-location programs. Students plan, script, storyboard, record and edit news packages, interviews, and narrative and dramatic programming. Lab fee: $40. Prerequisite: COM 145 and COM 255.

COM 307
ADVANCED FILM PRODUCTION
3 CREDITS
An advanced film production course focused on the creative and technical components of screenwriting, directing/shot selection, cinematography, casting and editing for a five-to-ten-minute narrative continuity film. Lab fee: $40. Prerequisite: COM 150 and COM 255.

COM 310
ONLINE AND PRINT JOURNALISM I
3 CREDITS
Workshop for planning, production and distribution of online and print news media. Students produce and publish Lynn University’s student newspaper, the iPulse.$40 Lab Fee.

COM 313 (MEETS UPPER-LEVEL DIALOGUE REQUIREMENTS)
THEATRICAL DESIGN AND PRODUCTION
3 CREDITS
Set construction, painting and techniques of mounting and shifting stage scenery. Knowledge of stage and theater terminology is stressed. Lab fee: $40.

COM 315
NARRATIVE WRITING FOR FILM AND TV
3 CREDITS
Art and craft of screenwriting for narrative film or long form television. Students study character development, scene writing and story structure. The final project is a screenplay in a professional format.

COM 320
INTERNATIONAL MEDIA
3 CREDITS
This comparative analysis of media around the world includes an in-depth study of different forms of control, access, ownership, distribution and uses of mass media and the role of international media in communication among and between nations and people.

COM 321
GENDER COMMUNICATION
3 CREDITS
This course examines a variety of relationships between communication and gender. It emphasizes how communication creates and maintains gender and power roles and how communication behaviors reflect, maintain and influence social and political conceptions of gender.

COM 323 (MEETS UPPER-LEVEL DIALOGUE REQUIREMENTS)
HISTORY OF THE THEATER
3 CREDITS
This course surveys the major periods of theater history from the origins of dramatic expression to contemporary drama. The plays of the course will be examined within their historical, social and cultural contexts. The course will focus on key figures – playwrights, actors, directors – as well as the history of the methods of dramatic production. Course work will consist of selected readings, video clips, group research, discussions and creative projects.

COM 325
WRITING FOR RADIO-TV-FILM
3 CREDITS
Art and craft of storytelling as it applies to film, television and radio formats. Students study the foundations for each form and write short original screenplays, sitcoms and documentary scripts.

COM 330
ORGANIZATIONAL COMMUNICATION
3 CREDITS
A study of communication within an organization as well as communicating with clients, competitors and regulatory agencies. Addressed are principles of communication in groups, effective leadership and empowerment as they apply to media organizations.

COM 335 (MEETS UPPER-LEVEL DIALOGUE REQUIREMENTS)
FILM HISTORY (1950-present)
3 CREDITS
Study of the motion picture industry after the decline of the studio system, the rise of independent film production and the interaction with television.

COM 336 (MEETS UPPER-LEVEL DIALOGUE REQUIREMENTS)
HISTORY OF RADIO, TELEVISION, INTERNET MEDIA
3 CREDITS
This course examines the history of radio, television and Internet media through their development, evolution, operation, economics, programming and internal and external control.

COM 340
ADVERTISING WRITING AND DESIGN
3 CREDITS
This course reviews the principles and guidelines established for writing and design of contemporary media advertisements. A practical approach is taken in order to study and execute the creation of ads as well as the planning and development of campaigns. Lab fee: $40.

COM 341 (MEETS UPPER-LEVEL DIALOGUE REQUIREMENTS)
PERSUASION AND PROPAGANDA
3 CREDITS
An analysis of the forces that shape public opinion and spread ideas, including a discussion of the positive and negative aspects of propaganda.

COM 343
DIRECTING THE ACTOR
3 CREDITS
This course covers the skills in the art of theater and film directing through the study of the elements and processes of directing, short scene projects in staging using personal materials and plays from an anthology of contemporary plays, short reports on the work of prominent directors, planning and staging a longer scene from a play, and critiquing the work of others.

COM 345
TELEVISION PRACTICUM
3 CREDITS
Students develop, write, produce and edit special projects for specific clients. Projects vary in nature and scope. Prerequisites: Junior standing and COM 306.

COM 350 (MEETS UPPER-LEVEL DIALOGUE REQUIREMENTS)
COMMUNICATION LAW AND ETHICS
3 CREDITS
Legal and ethical aspects of mass communication practices, including libel law, advertising law, invasion of privacy, copyright and trademark law, First Amendment aspects, the Freedom of Information Act and broadcast regulation.

COM 353
ACTING FOR THE CAMERA
3 CREDITS
This course offers instruction and practice in the techniques of acting for both television and film productions. Emphasis is placed on truthful acting within the medium of the camera. Students study both the practical and artistic issues that must be taken into consideration when acting for the camera, such as continuity problems, hitting their mark, toning down their projection and displacing scenic reality. Students gain knowledge of equipment, terminology and protocol.

COM 355
FILM PRACTICUM
3 CREDITS
Students develop, write, produce and edit a film. $40 Lab Fee. Prerequisites: Junior standing, COM 150 and COM 255.

COM 356
MEDIA AESTHETICS
3 CREDITS
A study of aesthetics in media, including video, television, motion pictures and the Internet. Explores the major aesthetic elements – light and color, space, time, and motion and sound – and their use in media.

COM 360 (MEETS UPPER-LEVEL DIALOGUE REQUIREMENTS)
COMMUNICATION THEORIES
3 CREDITS
Discussion of the process of communication theory construction, including a survey of social science paradigms and major humanistic theories of communication.

COM 363
DRAMA PRACTICUM
1 CREDIT
Students participate in a theatrical production through acting, set, costume, lighting and sound design. This course may be repeated twice.

COM 365
MAGAZINE PRODUCTION
3 CREDITS
Study of the nature and types of magazines, their construction, their place in society and in the media industry.

COM 370
PROGRAMMING STRATEGIES FOR RADIO, TELEVISION AND INTERNET MEDIA
3 CREDITS
Categories and sources for selecting materials used in radio, television, cable and the Internet to attract, build and sustain the audience.

COM 373
VOICE AND MOVEMENT
3 CREDITS
This course provides students an examination of vocal production and articulation, as well as movement and relaxation methods that pertain to performing as an actor. Students study tools of the craft, such as freeing the body and voice, liberating emotional and creative power and practicing self-discovery through acting. Students analyze poems, scenes and monologues to discover new ways to bring literature to life with the use of their voice and physical body.

COM 375 (MEETS UPPER-LEVEL DIALOGUE REQUIREMENTS)
ADVERTISING, PUBLIC RELATIONS AND SOCIETY
3 CREDITS
This course examines history, organization and the role of advertising and public relations in American society. Advertising and public relations media such as newspapers, magazines, radio, television, cable and the Internet are explored.

COM 380
DOCUMENTARY PRODUCTION
3 CREDITS
An examination of American and international nonfiction film. The study and practice of documentary production from script to screen. Lectures and laboratory. $40 Lab Fee.

COM 381
COMMUNICATION ANALYSIS AND CRITICISM
3 CREDITS
This upper-level course studies the skills of communication criticism in social, cultural and political domains of communication. The course interprets the meaning of communication events and social transactions and assesses their significance through rhetorical criticism.

COM 385
ONLINE AND PRINT JOURNALISM II
3 CREDITS
Advanced workshop for planning, production and distribution of online and print news media. Students produce and publish Lynn University’s iPulse. $40 Lab Fee. Prerequisite: COM 310.

COM 390
PHOTOJOURNALISM
3 CREDITS
Study of pictorial narrative and the process of capturing the critical visual experience. Concentrates on developing the photo essay through digital technology. Lab fee: $30.

COM 399
ISSUES IN COMMUNICATION
1-9 CREDITS
A variable topic seminar dealing with research and issues in mass communication.

COM 410 (MEETS UPPER-LEVEL DIALOGUE REQUIREMENTS)
FILM THEORY
3 CREDITS
This course examines the basic concepts and core writings that have laid the foundation to contemporary discourse of film theory and criticism. Students analyze theoretical essays that demonstrate the evolution of film theory with an emphasis on its international nature. Prerequisite: COM 130.

COM 421 (MEETS UPPER-LEVEL DIALOGUE REQUIREMENTS)
COMMUNICATION AND SOCIAL CHANGE
3 CREDITS
This course examines the role of language in shaping social, political and cultural institutions in contemporary American society. It looks at how organized collectives can come together to bring about or resist a program of change, especially with the use of new media technologies. The course considers a variety of approaches to studying social change and applies these approaches to both historical and contemporary social movements.

COM 423
THE BUSINESS OF DRAMA
3 CREDITS
This is a final preparatory course for students entering the dramatic industry for film, television and/or theater. Auditioning, networking, union affiliation, fiscal responsibilities, marketing and employment opportunities within the industry are studied.

COM 430
INTERNATIONAL FILM
3 CREDITS
A sociopolitical overview of the development of cinema in Europe, Russia and Asia. Special attention is paid to forms in narrative, structure, genre and aesthetic.

COM 435
MEDIA MANAGEMENT
3 CREDITS
An introduction to the business aspect of the communication industries. Topics include human resource management, marketing, operations management, finance, accounting and ethical concerns in managing a print, broadcast or new media service.

COM 440
PUBLIC RELATIONS PRACTICES
3 CREDITS
This course defines and conceptualizes the history, ethics and techniques for molding and cultivating favorable public opinion through print and non-print mass media. Includes relationships among publicity, public relations and mass media. Prerequisite: COM 115.

COM 450
PROJECTS IN RADIO-TV-FILM PRODUCTION
3 CREDITS
An experiential learning course. Students complete professional quality radio and video productions. Lab fee: $40. Prerequisite: COM 306, COM 307 or COM 300 and 75 credits completed.

COM 451
INTERCULTURAL COMMUNICATION
3 CREDITS
A study of the influence of culture on communication, this course examines worldwide perception and symbols as the basic units of culture and contact, and interaction and behavior as the basic units of communication. The course also offers a professional practicum in research, counseling management and education for the management of productive intercultural relationships and functional intercultural systems.

COM 475 (MEETS UPPER-LEVEL DIALOGUE REQUIREMENTS)
SENIOR COMMUNICATION SEMINAR
3 CREDITS
A capstone course that enables students to apply theoretical and practical knowledge to develop either a research paper or a video or dramatic project that serves as an e-portfolio item. Students complete a comprehensive e-portfolio. Prerequisites: COM 101 or COM 105 and 75 credits completed.

COM 480
INTERNSHIP
1-9 CREDITS
Practical work experience in a mass communication business such as a radio or television station, production facility, advertising or public relations agency, or serving in program development, production, advertising or marketing. Instructor and sponsor oversee and evaluate student work. Prerequisites: Permission of college internship liaison and/or college approval, COM 101 or COM 105, 2.5 or higher GPA and Senior standing.

COM 492 (MEETS UPPER-LEVEL DIALOGUE REQUIREMENTS)
STRATEGIES IN ADVERTISING RESEARCH
3 CREDITS
Examines the theoretical and practical concerns underlying procedures commonly used in advertising research including content analysis, survey research, historical research, legal research and secondary analysis.

COM 498
INDEPENDENT STUDY IN COMMUNICATION AND MEDIA
1-9 CREDITS
Opportunity for students to study areas of special interest in communication and media. Student registration dependent on approval of a written course proposal. Prerequisite: Permission of college dean.

GVC 105
DRAWING
3 CREDITS
A course designed to help students visualize their thoughts in drawings, beginning with the basics of drawing to free-hand drawing of three-dimensional objects.

GVC 120
DESIGN
3 CREDITS
An introduction to the study of line, form, color and texture with emphasis on the organization of these elements into composition.

GVC 220
COMMERCIAL LAYOUT AND DESIGN
3 CREDITS
An examination of the principles of commercial layout and design through the use of industry-standard software applications. Emphasis is placed on basic design composition utilizing digital imagery and its relationship to typography. $40 Lab Fee.

GVC 230
GRAPHICS I
3 CREDITS
The basics of design are used to develop two-dimensional designs that serve specific commercial needs. Prerequisite: GVC 120.

GVC 235
WEB DESIGN AND INTERACTIVE MEDIA
3 CREDITS
Explores basic procedures and design strategies for developing interactive content for Web/Internet delivery. Focus on audio, video, still images and animation.

GVC 240
COLOR THEORY
3 CREDITS
Through the use of acrylics and various tools and techniques, basic technical skills and color relationships are studied.

GVC 265
PHOTOGRAPHY
3 CREDITS
Fundamentals of digital photography, including picture taking, camera technique and digital printing. $40 Lab Fee.

GVC 275
DIGITAL IMAGING
3 CREDITS
This course focuses on the use of photo-based software and its application in visual communication with an emphasis on photographic manipulation techniques for the graphic arts as well as advertising design.

GVC 300
THREE-DIMENSIONAL COMPUTER MODELING
3 CREDITS
This course is an introduction to 3-D computer modeling and animation. It provides a basic understanding of the skills and techniques employed by 3-D designers in a wide-range of applications. The course covers several methods of modeling, applying textures and material to 3-D objects, lighting, animation and rendering and provides a foundation for further study in architectural, engineering and theatrical modeling and game design.

GVC 305
THREE-DIMENSIONAL COMPUTER ANIMATION
3 CREDITS
The course guides students through various intermediate animation techniques in a computer generated environment with a focus on character motion. The project-based course enables students to study computer directed principles of movement and timing and creates animated movies and visual effects projects for film, TV and Internet.

GVC 315
LIFE DRAWING
3 CREDITS
Through the use of the live model and lectures in basic anatomy, the course uses drawing as a finished work. Figure drawing stresses the use of light and pro-portion. Lab fee: $40. Prerequisite: GVC 105.

GVC 330
GRAPHICS II
3 CREDITS
Intermediate study of the materials and methods of graphic design. Prerequisites: GVC 230

GVC 335
ILLUSTRATION
3 CREDITS
An advanced drawing class stressing personal and creative use of tools and techniques to illustrate products, packaging, books and magazines. Prerequisite: GVC 105.

GVC 340
DIGITAL ILLUSTRATION
3 CREDITS
In this course the student uses a vector-based program in the creation of digital line art. In addition to technical proficiency, design and craft play a strong role in the course objectives. Projects ranging from basic form to commercial graphics are explored. $40 Lab Fee.

GVC 350
ADVERTISING DESIGN AND PRODUCTION
3 CREDITS
This course concentrates on “real world” applications of design, principles and thought. Effective interaction with classmates are developed and employed as a resource in the conceptual and technical processes. Professionalism and attention to detail are emphasized and refined. Students study the management of projects for commercial printing applications. Time is given to improvement of ads from verbal direction as well as the design and production components. $40 Lab Fee. Prerequisite: GVC 230.

GVC 362
HISTORY OF GRAPHIC DESIGN
3 CREDITS
This course explores the visual language invented and re-invented by human beings throughout history and covers the work of historically significant graphic designers and typographers. Prehistoric mark-making and the development of the written word are covered as well as revolutionary technological changes such as the invention of the printing press, moveable type and the digital information era.

GVC 365
COLOR PHOTOGRAPHY
3 CREDITS
Advanced study in the use of color in photography. Coordinated work with certain other art and fashion classes is required. $40 Lab Fee. Prerequisite: GVC 265.

GVC 370
CORPORATE ID
3 CREDITS
This course allows students to research and develop design elements that identify and advertise a corporation or business. Logo/trademarks, corporate collateral, uniforms and vehicle identification are explored and researched. All projects are carried through to final portfolio quality. $40 Lab Fee. Prerequisite: GVC 220.

GVC 375 (MEETS UPPER-LEVEL DIALOGUE REQUIREMENTS)
HISTORY OF PHOTOGRAPHY
3 CREDITS
A chronological survey of photography from the early technical developments to contemporary digital imaging with emphasis on conceptual and thematic aspects, as well as the impact on society.

GVC 380
THREE-DIMENSIONAL DESIGN
3 CREDITS
Development of basic skills for building three-dimensional, conceptual and presentation models of products, furniture and buildings.

GVC 385
HISTORY OF ANIMATION
3 CREDITS
A chronological survey of the evolution of animation in the visual media of film, TV and computer games.

GVC 390
TYPOGRAPHY
3 CREDITS
Typographical forms are studied as both visual and verbal means of communication. $40 Lab Fee. Prerequisite: GVC 330.

GVC 395
VISUAL COMMUNICATION THEORY
3 CREDITS
This course explores the language of visual communication and theories of perception and attention as applied to print and electronic forms.

GVC 399
ISSUES IN GRAPHIC AND VISUAL COMMUNICATION
1-9 CREDITS
A seminar with variable topics, dealing with issues in graphic and visual communication, such as: motion graphics, senior design studio, advanced computer graphics, computer animation, etc.

GVC 430
GRAPHICS PRACTICUM
3 CREDITS
Students complete individual projects in advertising and graphic design; the instructor acts as client and critic. Students progress from proposal and contract to final presentation. Lab fee: $30. Prerequisite: Permission of instructor.

GVC 445
APPLIED PHOTOGRAPHY
3 CREDITS
The application of photographic principles in studio and on-site settings. Students utilize graphic elements in the preparation of digital imagery. $40 Lab Fee. Prerequisite: GVC 265.

GVC 450
ADVANCED GRAPHIC DESIGN
3 CREDITS
Design as it relates to visual communication. Typography, symbol, image and visual organization are considered in the context of contemporary practice. $40 Lab Fee. Prerequisite: GVC 390 or permission of instructor.

GVC 455
ADVANCED PHOTOGRAPHY
3 CREDITS
Advanced study of photography as an art form; includes use of color in photography, experimentation in composition and techniques in large format printing. $40 Lab Fee. Prerequisite: GVC 265.

GVC 480
VISUAL COMMUNICATION SEMINAR
4 CREDITS
A capstone course that enables students to apply theoretical and practical knowledge to develop a digital graphics, photography or animation project that serves as an e-portfolio item. Students complete a comprehensive e-portfolio. Prerequisite: Major in GVC academic program and 75 credits completed.

GVC 485
INTERNSHIP
1-3 CREDITS
Under the direction of the Graphic and Visual Communication faculty, the student has the opportunity to pursue experience with practicing professionals. Prerequisite: Permission of college internship liaison and/or college approval, 2.5 or higher GPA and Senior standing. Course may be taken two times.

GVC 493
PROFESSIONAL PRACTICES
3 CREDITS
This course addresses the transition from student study to the professions of graphic design, photography and computer animation. Working in small groups, students design, prepare and present portfolios and resumes. Prerequisite: 75 credits completed.

GVC 498
INDEPENDENT STUDY IN GRAPHIC AND VISUAL COMMUNICATION
1-9 CREDITS
Opportunity for students to study areas of special interest in graphic and visual communication. Student registration dependent on approval of a written course proposal. Prerequisite: Permission of college dean.

Graduate Courses

COM 500
THEORIES IN COMMUNICATION AND MEDIA
3 CREDITS
Comparison of theories of communication and media. Examines history and development of interdisciplinary theories about media processes and effects as well as roles, functions and consequences of media communication in society.

COM 505
HISTORY OF COMMUNICATION AND MEDIA
3 CREDITS
An examination of the historical development and cross-media influence with a focus on the creation, adoption and evolution of newspapers, books, magazines, radio, film, television, cable media and the Internet.

COM 510
COMMUNICATION AND MEDIA TECHNOLOGIES
3 CREDITS
Studies the development, implementation, role and impact of technology in communication and media with a focus on emergent technologies and how they are adopted by the mass media.

COM 515
MEDIA LAW AND REGULATION
3 CREDITS
Examines the development and impact of media communication law, including the international and domestic regulation of the electronic media.

COM 520
RESEARCH METHODS FOR COMMUNICATION AND MEDIA
3 CREDITS
Introduces students to the research process, planning and design. Focuses on methods most relevant to communication and media, including experimental design, content analysis and survey research and examines the historical development of media communication studies in social sciences, humanities and legal areas.

COM 525
INTERNATIONAL MEDIA
3 CREDITS
This course addresses two areas of international media: A comparative analysis of media systems across national borders and an examination of international media systems and services. Focuses on the relevance of journalism and mass communication in international affairs.

COM 540
TOPICS IN COMMUNICATION AND MEDIA I
3 CREDITS
Specialized course on a variable topic relevant to the study of media and communication. Topics may include advertising, public relations, journalism, film, broadcasting, media delivery systems, media management and emergent media technologies.

COM 545
TOPICS IN COMMUNICATION AND MEDIA II
3 CREDITS
Specialized course on a variable topic relevant to the study of communication and media. Topics may include advertising, public relations, journalism, film, broadcasting, media delivery systems, media management and emergent media technologies.

COM 550
MEDIA AND CULTURE
3 CREDITS
This course offers an overview of media research on cultural differences relating to domestic and international concerns. Theories and research pertaining to international media and multicultural communication are reviewed.

COM 555
MEDIA, PUBLICS AND SOCIAL CHANGE
3 CREDITS
This course emphasizes the function of communication in promoting social change. The role of media is considered in the understanding of forces promoting or resisting social change. Special attention is given to marginalized groups and their attempts to influence the public sphere.

COM 560
GRADUATE MEDIA PRACTICUM I
3 CREDITS
Provides an opportunity for students to apply theoretical concepts to the process of media communication. Working in small groups, students identify an area in media utilization and develop and apply procedures that enhance or facilitate the communication process. Students present progress reports and defend program activities and decisions. $40 Lab Fee.

COM 565
GRADUATE MEDIA PRACTICUM II
3 CREDITS
Provides an opportunity for students to apply theoretical concepts to the process of media communication. Working individually, students identify an area in media utilization and develop and apply procedures that enhance or facilitate the communication process. Students present progress reports and defend program activities and decisions. $40 Lab Fee.

COM 590
CREATIVE PROJECT/THESIS SEMINAR I
3 CREDITS
Under the guidance of creative project/thesis chair and committee, students prepare a proposal.

COM 595
CREATIVE PROJECT/THESIS SEMINAR II
1-3 CREDITS
Under the guidance of chair and committee, students complete their creative project/thesis. Consecutive enrollment in this course is required until the creative project/thesis is completed. Credits are conferred upon successful completion/defense of the creative project/thesis.

GVC 540
TOPICS IN DIGITAL MEDIA I
3 CREDITS
This course develops an appreciation for the need of a wide range of 3-D modeling techniques. Students gain an in-depth knowledge of specialized computer modeling techniques and applications. The course fosters an understanding and appreciation of new trends and technology in 3-D graphics.

GVC 545
TOPICS IN DIGITAL MEDIA
3 CREDITS
This course provides an understanding of the principles of animation to gain an in depth knowledge of specialized animation techniques and applications. It develops observational skills that aid in understanding motion.

GVC 560
GRADUATE DIGITAL MEDIA  PRACTICUM I
3 CREDITS
This course focuses on the developments of research and application of 3-D animation tools.

GVC 565
GRADUATE DIGITAL MEDIA PRACTICUM II
3 CREDITS
This course includes principles of compositing theory to gain an in-depth knowledge of specialized compositing tools and techniques. It allows students to understand and appreciate new trends and technology in 3-D graphics.

GVC 590
CREATIVE PROJECT SEMINAR I
3 CREDITS
GVC 590 and GVC 595 are taken consecutively to allow students to independently express ideas through time-based media. Students develop a working plan for successful completion of creative project and strategies for time management.

GVC 595
CREATIVE PROJECT SEMINAR II
1 - 3 CREDITS
GVC 590 and GVC 595 are taken consecutively to allow students to independently express ideas through time-based media. Students design the 3-D animation and digital media production workflow from concept to final. Consecutive enrollment in this course is required until the creative project is completed. Credits are conferred upon successful completion/defense of the creative project.