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    May 20, 2024  
American University Catalog 2019-2020 
    
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American University Catalog 2019-2020 [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Course Descriptions

 

Communication (Undergraduate Courses)

Note: The program track or tracks of each undergraduate professional course are noted in the course descriptions below: (BJ) Broadcast Journalism, (CS) Communication Studies (FM) Film and Media Arts, (PJ) Print Journalism, (PC) Public Communication. Media Studies courses are identified by (MS).
  

  • COMM-447 Multicultural Strategic Communication Campaigns (3)

    This course addresses the conceptual and practical tools of strategic communication to effectively communicate with diverse domestic target audiences. Through the analysis of multicultural communication campaigns, the course examines how rapidly changing U.S. demographics and media landscapes are affecting strategic communication. Crosslist: COMM-647 . Usually Offered: spring. Grading: A-F only. Restriction: minimum 2.5 GPA.
  
  

  • COMM-453 Web and Mobile Development (3)

    This course gives students an overview of the theoretical structures behind informational design for the Internet and of web development using code and development tools. Students learn basic HTML programming and static site development and how the skills can be applied as a communication medium, as well as how to create their own online content and web site. Crosslist: COMM-653 . Prerequisite: COMM-105  or COMM-301  or COMM-305 . Restriction: minimum 2.5 GPA.
  

  • COMM-454 Motion Graphics and Effects (3)

    This course focuses on the creation of motion graphics using animation and compositing programs. Through discussions of concepts and design, students learn techniques to creatively use software tools to achieve dramatic and artistic effects. Current software and concepts used for cutting edge motion graphics and compositing in motion pictures, television, commercials, and music videos are introduced and examples of outside work are presented and analyzed in class. Students are encouraged to learn from each other’s examples, problems, and solutions. Students should expect to spend additional time in the lab outside of the scheduled class time. Crosslist: COMM-654 . Usually Offered: fall. Prerequisite: COMM-250  or GDES-220 . Restriction: minimum 2.5 GPA.
  

  • COMM-455 Motion Compositing (3)

    Through the discussion of theory, concepts, techniques, protocols, and hands-on projects, students improve their design, compositing, and animation craft. Hands-on work enables students to become proficient in intermediate compositing and animating skills and in current software and concepts used for cutting-edge motion graphics and compositing in motion pictures, television, commercials, and music video. Examples of outside work are presented and analyzed in class. Additionally, students rely on the individual and collective imagination and creativity of the class to complete their work. Crosslist: COMM-655 . Usually Offered: spring. Prerequisite: COMM-454 .
  

  • COMM-456 Dramatic Production (3)

    (FM) Techniques of 16mm sound-film production: lighting, sound recording, cinematography, and post production. Crosslist: COMM-656 . Usually Offered: fall and spring. Prerequisite: COMM-282  and COMM-434 . Restriction: Communication: Film and Media Arts (BA)  and minimum 2.5 GPA.
  

  • COMM-457 Strategic Communication in Advertising (3)

    This course explores advertising and its critical role in the field of strategic communication. The course examines the principles behind effective advertising, the planning involved in advertising campaigns, the strategies used to reach target audiences, the creative process involved in producing an ad, and the art of creative briefs. Crosslist: COMM-657 . Usually Offered: fall. Grading: A-F only. Restriction: Public Relations & Strategic Communication (BA)  and minimum 2.5 GPA.
  

  • COMM-458 Strategic Communication Campaigns: Advertising Lab (3)

    It is important for public relations practitioners to understand the role that advertising plays within the context of a strategic communication campaign. This course teaches students how advertising plays a role in the creative process by reviewing creative development, creative strategy, and creative execution. Crosslist: COMM-658 . Usually Offered: spring. Grading: A-F only. Restriction: Public Relations & Strategic Communication (BA)  and minimum 2.5 GPA.
  

  • COMM-463 Techniques and Aesthetics of Editing (3)

    This course surveys the techniques and aesthetics used in fiction, documentary, and experimental film and video, including Soviet montage, classical Hollywood style, discontinuity, associational, spatial montage, and contemporary narrative. Through a series of exercises, students develop editing strategies for both narrative and non-narrative work. Students receive in-class and written critiques examining the development of each editing exercise. Students edit the final project using their choice of editing strategies covered in the course. Projects develop with increasing complexity and enable students to apply their ideas about editing to the material in order to develop their own style and aesthetic. Crosslist: COMM-663 . Usually Offered: fall. Prerequisite: COMM-434 .
  

  • COMM-464 Directing Actors for Camera (3)

    (FM) This intensive course focuses primarily on the director’s work with actors. The goal is to demystify the process, sharpen students’ communication skills, and give them the tools to design, assess, and shape performance. Covers the basic principles of acting, script analysis, rehearsal techniques, as well as strategies for successful auditions and trouble-shooting on set. Designed as a director’s laboratory where students are exposed to a variety of skills and approaches. Crosslist: COMM-664 . Prerequisite: COMM-282  and COMM-331 . Restriction: Communication: Film and Media Arts (BA)  or Foreign Language and Communication Media (BA) ; and minimum 2.5 GPA.
  
  

  • COMM-466 Writing the Feature Film (3)

    Emphasizes fiction film scriptwriting. Students are expected to write a feature-length screenplay during the course of the semester, with attention to structure, character development, visual storytelling, dialogue, and theme. Students also read and review professionally-written screenplays. The workshop format includes lectures, discussions, guest speakers, and critiques of student work. Crosslist: COMM-666 . Usually Offered: fall. Repeatable for credit. Prerequisite: COMM-282 . Restriction: minimum 2.5 GPA.
  

  • COMM-467 Communication, Copyright and Culture (3)

    This course focuses on the social, political, and cultural implications of copyright law. The course examines questions including how creative works became commodified, what impact this has on the way we view the world, and how this changes in light of the rapid innovations in the way cultural is produced and consumed. Crosslist: COMM-667 . Usually Offered: fall. Grading: A-F only. Restriction: minimum 2.5 GPA.
  

  • COMM-468 Musical Cultures and Industries (3)

    This course explores the cultural history and social role of music as a form of communication. It also examines the economics and cultural politics of the music industry, tracing its roots in the nineteenth century through current digital disruptions and innovations. Crosslist: COMM-668 . Usually Offered: spring. Grading: A-F only. Prerequisite: junior standing. Restriction: minimum 2.5 GPA.
  

  • COMM-469 Digital Strategic Communication Analytics and Certifications (3)

    Today’s strategic communication professionals are required to understand the integral role digital and social strategy plays for organizations. This course prepares students to obtain certification in social media monitoring and digital analytics platforms, such as Meltwater and Google Analytics. Students also learn the theory and strategy of digital and social measurement. Topics include using data to craft communications planning, messaging, and campaigns. Crosslist: COMM-669 . Usually Offered: fall. Grading: A-F only. Prerequisite: COMM-301  and COMM-380 . Restriction: Public Relations & Strategic Communication (BA)  and minimum 2.5 GPA.
  

  • COMM-470 Organizational Communication (3)

    (PC) Communication practices in complex organizations. Formal and informal communication networks and problems associated with each. Forms of communication used in organizations. Field research project in a Washington-area organization. Restriction: minimum 2.5 GPA.
  

  • COMM-471 Film Technology and Practice (6)

    Part of the AU Abroad Semester in Prague. Introduction to concepts in visual communication through the use of still picture, Hi-8 video, and 16mm non-sync sound film in color. Camera technology, exponometry, studio lighting, editing and sound recording, accompanied by analytical screenings and site visits to labs, with a series of sessions with supervising directors, and script consultations. Students edit work-print and magnetic sound on final films. Usually Offered: fall and spring. Prerequisite: COMM-331 . Restriction: minimum 2.5 GPA. Note: May substitute for COMM-402  or COMM-478 , and COMM-434  or COMM-464 , for Communication: Film and Media Arts (BA) , Foreign Language and Communication Media (BA) , or Photography (BA) .
  

  • COMM-473 Reputation Management (3)

    Reputation management is a fairly recent phenomenon in the field of communication, and there is increasing consensus among corporate leaders regarding its importance. This course introduces students to the standard definitions of reputation, reviews the value it holds for corporations, and provides an overview of current practices used in reputation management. Crosslist: COMM-673 . Usually Offered: spring. Grading: A-F only. Prerequisite: COMM-301 . Restriction: Public Relations & Strategic Communication (BA)  and minimum 2.5 GPA.
  

  • COMM-474 The Business of Television (3)

    (FM) This course gives students a macro look at the prime-time network and cable television business and investigates the various players in the business, including studios, networks, producers, agents, and advertisers. It examines the different roles and relationships in the development and production of television programming, including what makes a good idea for a television series; the role of the studios; the various economic models; the “showrunner” or executive producer; how an agent works; why advertisers are so important; what the ratings mean; and the future of television. Crosslist: COMM-674 . Usually Offered: fall.
  

  • COMM-476 Photojournalism and Social Documentary (3)

    (FM) Course teaches basics of visual language and how it is used and manifested in the craft of photojournalism. Students learn the importance and power of visual image in communicating ideas and information. They develop understanding of photojournalism as a craft unto itself or as part of a progression toward video and film. Crosslist: COMM-676 . Prerequisite: COMM-330 . Restriction: minimum 2.5 GPA.
  

  • COMM-477 History of Photography (3)

    (CS, FM) (MS) A survey of the development of photographic imagery from its advent in the early nineteenth century through contemporary twentieth century work. Includes history of photography globally. Emphasis is on viewing work in Washington galleries and museums. Includes field trips and guest speakers. Crosslist: COMM-677 . Usually Offered: spring. Restriction: minimum 2.5 GPA.
  

  • COMM-478 Advanced Portfolio: Large Format and Commercial Photography (3)

    A professional skills course which introduces the 4x5 view camera and studio electronic flash. Both sections are integrated and explore the unique characteristics of the equipment through extensive technical and shooting assignments. Crosslist: COMM-678 . Usually Offered: spring. Repeatable for credit. Prerequisite: COMM-476  or COMM-479  and senior standing. Restriction: minimum 2.5 GPA.
  

  • COMM-479 Fine Art Photography (3)

    A refinement of photographic skills emphasizing a synthesis of craft and expression. Students study the history and theory of fine art photography as well as learning how to use alternative processes as a mode of expression. Course includes both film and digital practices. Crosslist: COMM-679 . Usually Offered: fall. Prerequisite: COMM-330 . Restriction: minimum 2.5 GPA.
  

  • COMM-481 Entertainment Communication (3)

    (PC) This course examines the implications and practice of strategic communication in the U.S. entertainment industry, including TV, digital, music, film, and live arts. It also explores the theoretical foundations that explain the impact of entertainment on U.S. culture and audiences. Crosslist: COMM-681 . Usually Offered: spring. Prerequisite: COMM-301 . Restriction: minimum 2.5 GPA.
  

  • COMM-483 Writing the Documentary Film (3)

    This course emphasizes writing for documentary film, through all phases and for a wide range of documentary genres and styles. Students examine case studies, screen and discuss films, and explore the writing process from idea to treatment, from shooting script to final script. A series of shorter assignments culminates in each student writing a half-hour original documentary script. Guest speakers share their experience with the class. Crosslist: COMM-683 . Usually Offered: spring. Prerequisite: COMM-282 , COMM-325 , COMM-337 , COMM-385 , or LIT-402 .
  

  • COMM-484 Writing the Episodic TV Series (3)

    A workshop that simulates the collaboration experience of a studio writing staff. Students learn to pitch and develop stories for ongoing prime-time shows while polishing skills in story development and characterization. A portfolio-quality “spec” script is the end product. Crosslist: COMM-684 . Usually Offered: fall. Repeatable for credit. Prerequisite: COMM-282 . Restriction: minimum 2.5 GPA.
  

  • COMM-485 Strategic Communication and Content Creation (3)

    The sheer volume of content creation on social media is astounding. To stand out, communications professionals need to create meaningful and effective visual content that will hold the short attention spans of online audiences. This course introduces the non-designer to technological and theoretical aspects of content creation and visual storytelling. Crosslist: COMM-685 . Usually Offered: fall and spring. Grading: A-F only. Restriction: Public Relations & Strategic Communication (BA)  and minimum 2.5 GPA.
  

  • COMM-486 Documentary Production (3)

    (FM) Designed to fine tune students’ exposure to and practice in a variety of contemporary documentary techniques. Each student produces a final project, but during the semester works in teams on a variety of documentary genres, including observational, web docs, nonprofits, historical, narrated, and mockumentary. Crosslist: COMM-686 . Usually Offered: every two years. Prerequisite: COMM-434 . Restriction: minimum 2.5 GPA.
  

  • COMM-489 Communication, Culture, and the Environment (3)

    (PC) Research and principles that inform public communication about science, technology, and the environment. Course topics and case studies include climate change, energy, stem cell research, food biotechnology, the environmental movement, science and religion, evolution, animal welfare, genetic medicine, pharmaceutical marketing, and nanotechnology. Crosslist: COMM-689 . Usually Offered: spring. Restriction: minimum 2.5 GPA.
  

  • COMM-490 Independent Study Project in Communication (1-6)

    Restriction: minimum 2.5 GPA. Permission: instructor and division director.
  
  

  • COMM-496 Selected Topics: Non-Recurring (1-6)

    Topics vary by section. Repeatable for credit with different topic. Restriction: minimum 2.5 GPA.

Communication (Graduate and Advanced Undergraduate Courses)

Note: The program track or tracks of each undergraduate professional course are noted in the course descriptions below: (BJ) Broadcast Journalism, (CS) Communication Studies (FM) Film and Media Arts, (PJ) Print Journalism, (PC) Public Communication. Media Studies courses are identified by (MS).
  

  • COMM-096 Selected Topics: Non-Recurring (0)

    Topics vary by section. Repeatable for credit with different topic.
  

  • COMM-503 Broadcast and Multimedia Journalism Management (3)

    (BJ) (MS) Students gain an understanding of the functions and economic structure of broadcast and multi-media journalism management at the local, national, and international level. Students also learn the challenges for commercial, cable, and public broadcasting include news management, programming, and distribution issues across traditional and new media platforms, in the United States and internationally. Usually Offered: spring. Restriction: minimum 2.5 GPA.
  

  • COMM-506 Writing the Short Film (3)

    This course examines the basic principles of story development as they apply to the short form. The class focuses on screenwriting fundamentals such as dramatic structure and plot development, characterization, visual scene writing, and how to write effective dialogue. Students learn through practice by writing several short scripts, as well as studying great examples of the short form. Usually Offered: spring. Grading: A-F only. Prerequisite:   or  .
  

  • COMM-509 Politics and the Media (3)

    (BJ, CS, PC, PJ) (MS) Examination and analysis of the intersection of media and politics today. This course focuses on how media in all forms, from mainstream TV and newspapers to blogs, political ads and web sites, have an impact on politics; how political actors seek to promote their messages and campaigns; and how the intersection of politics and media influences public opinion and public policy. Usually Offered: fall. Restriction: minimum 2.5 GPA.
  

  • COMM-514 Censorship and Media (3)

    (BJ, CS, PC, PJ) (MS) A survey of the history of censorship in the U.S. in the newspapers, magazines, radio, movies, publishing, and television. International comparisons are drawn, and the problem of censorship in the schools is given special attention. Usually Offered: fall. Restriction: minimum 2.5 GPA.
  

  • COMM-520 History of Animation (3)

    (CS, FM) (MS) A survey of the history, theory, and practice of animating visual imagery from the pre-cinematic forms to the present day. Lectures, screenings, and discussion examine the evolution of the medium in America, Europe, and Asia in terms of technology, artistic trends and national culture. Restriction: minimum 2.5 GPA.
  
  

  • COMM-524 Producing Environmental and Wildlife Films (3)

    (FM) This course focuses on the art of producing: being creative, selecting and researching issues, writing a film treatment, telling effective and fascinating stories, finding compelling characters, pitching powerfully, speaking effectively in public, marketing, distributing, conducting outreach, raising money, thinking ethically, and working with NGOs. Usually Offered: fall and spring. Restriction: minimum 2.5 GPA.
  

  • COMM-528 Community Documentary: Stories of Transformation (3)

    Using new media tools, students learn the methods and production of a four-minute autobiographical digital story, first by creating their own and then assisting community members. These first-person video narratives can be used in public meetings, on websites, etc. to build and mobilize communities, and empower the storytellers themselves. Usually Offered: fall. Prerequisite: COMM-434  or COMM-631 .
  

  • COMM-533 Ethics in Strategic Communication (3)

    (PC) Provides students with an ethical context for the practice of public communication and a concept of the ethical issues surrounding the activities of the practitioner. Students have the opportunity to investigate America’s value system, the values of American public relations and the relationship between public relations, the media, and business. Restriction: minimum 2.5 GPA.
  

  • COMM-537 Sports Communication (3)

    (PC) Examines the role of public relations and mass media in sports communication. The role of sports in American society and how publicists, agents, and sports marketers perform their jobs at all levels of sports. Hands-on training in the tools and technology of sports PR is combined with an analysis of the public’s relationship with athletes and sports. Usually Offered: spring. Restriction: minimum 2.5 GPA.
  

  • COMM-538 Contemporary Media Issues (3)

    Rigorously explores questions of media influence and media performance, within contemporary and historical contexts. Issues of digital media are among the topics examined in a discussion-based seminar. Includes a significant research component and student presentations. Usually Offered: fall. Restriction: minimum 2.5 GPA.
  

  • COMM-540 Social Marketing for Social Impact (3)

    (PC) This course explores the principles of social marketing, which is the systematic application of marketing and strategic communication principles to achieve human behavior change toward a social purpose or social good. Students study consumer research techniques and definitions of social marketing, and analyze social marketing and strategic communication campaigns. Restriction: minimum 2.5 GPA.
  

  • COMM-542 Media Relations (3)

    (PC) This course focuses on the principles and practices of media relations, the vital link between public relations and journalism. The material covers the symbiotic link between journalists and PR professionals, providing the latter with the theory and practical skills necessary to become ethical and effective practitioners in an era of digital convergence. Prerequisite: COMM-301  or COMM-640 . Restriction: minimum 2.5 GPA.
  

  • COMM-543 Speechwriting (3)

    (PC) Speechwriting plays a central role in politics, business, and organizations whose leaders speak often. It is also important for careers that require public speaking, such as law and marketing. In this course students analyze different types of speeches, study effective speechwriting methods, write speeches, and learn how to craft sound bytes and applause lines, use humor and anecdote, and persuade through words. Usually Offered: spring. Restriction: minimum 2.5 GPA.
  

  • COMM-544 Foreign Correspondence (3)

    (MS) This course prepares students to work as journalists, photographers, documentary makers, and social media producers in foreign countries and provides research skills and training applicable in business, non-profit, non-governmental organizations as well. It examines the structure/process of news/information gathering and journalistic standards. Students build a “Trip File” with analysis and story ideas to execute overseas. Restriction: minimum 2.5 GPA.
  

  • COMM-545 Business and Economic Journalism (3)

    (PJ) Current economic and business issues and their coverage by the news media. The performance of the media in providing the necessary depth of business and economic reporting. How journalists can improve their knowledge and skills. Usually Offered: spring. Restriction: minimum 2.5 GPA. Permission: school.
  

  • COMM-551 Grassroots Digital Advocacy (3)

    (PC) This course examines advocacy communication campaigns that use digital strategies and techniques. Students explore how social media, mobile technology, and online activist tools raise awareness for causes, candidates, and issues; analyze campaigns within the context of digital commination theories; and consider the impact of technology on grassroots advocacy. Restriction: minimum 2.5. GPA.
  

  • COMM-556 Cross Cultural Film and Video Production (3)

    (FM) In this interdisciplinary course students learn about the challenges of producing films internationally. Students work both independently and in small production teams and with students from Tecnologico de Monterrey University in Mexico and other universities to produce documentaries of cultural, social, and environmental interest. Students have the opportunity to travel and work as international production teams in Mexico, Costa Rica, Cuba, Wales, or another location determined by professor during spring break. Usually Offered: alternate springs. Restriction: minimum 2.5 GPA.
  

  • COMM-557 Art of Visual Storytelling: From Concept to Storyboards (3)

    (FM) This course offers students a comprehensive approach to envisioning and communicating visual stories through a variety of techniques, from conceptual presentations to storyboards, to enhance students’ preproduction skills in film, video, and media arts. The course focuses on building skills for visual media pitches, concept approval, film and video production, blocking shots, directing, envisioning re-creations, and adapting creative works to visual media. The course is geared to those working with narrative films, documentaries, historical re-creations, commercials, public service announcements, and other forms of visual storytelling. Some background in film and media arts terminology is recommended, but art and design skills are not required. Restriction: minimum 2.5 GPA.
  

  • COMM-558 Survey of American Cinema (3)

    (CS, FM) (MS) Origins and historical development of American cinema, specifically the theatrical feature-length fiction film from the nineteenth century to 1970. Hollywood films as mythic representations of the way Americans viewed themselves. Films are watched, discussed, and analyzed. Screenings are scheduled in addition to class sessions. Usually Offered: fall. Restriction: minimum 2.5 GPA.
  

  • COMM-560 Backpack Documentary (3)

    (FM) This course reflects the transformation in visual storytelling made possible by technological advances. It is built on the premise that a properly trained practitioner can tell powerful character-driven stories using hand-held cameras for more intimate, more immediate communication than with conventional camera and crew. It includes the tools and techniques used by journalists and documentary filmmakers for effective backpack journalism. Usually Offered: fall and spring. Restriction: minimum 2.5 GPA. Permission: instructor.
  

  • COMM-564 Documentary Storytelling for Social Change (3)

    In this course students learn about the tradition of documentary storytelling for social justice work. The course provides a foundation about the theoretical understanding of the role of narrative/storytelling and persuasion; examines case studies that provide evidence of research, story, and social change strategy; and teaches students how to create their own work involving the intersection of social issues, nonfiction storytelling, and social advocacy and grassroots engagement strategy. Usually Offered: spring. Permission: instructor.
  

  • COMM-567 Communication and Social Change (3)

    (BJ, PJ, PC, FM) An intensive, hands-on course for film and media arts, journalism, and public communication students to develop a social issue media campaign. The primary goal of the class is the production of various forms of communication media to address a major social issue. Prerequisite: COMM-301  or COMM-320  or COMM-331 /COMM-631  or COMM-640  or COMM-724 . Restriction: minimum 2.5 GPA.
  

  • COMM-568 Environmental Filmmaking for Public Television (3)

    (FM) In this course filmmakers write, produce, shoot, and edit a 30-minute program for Maryland Public TV and other PBS stations around the Chesapeake Bay. Students gain an understanding of what it takes to produce a professional, entertaining documentary for television that is ethically sound and educationally powerful. Prerequisite: COMM-301 , COMM-434 , or COMM-631 . Restriction: minimum 2.5 GPA.
  

  • COMM-569 Executive Suite (3)

    (PC,FM) (MS) survey of the upper echelon management of the entertainment, public relations, new media, and related fields. The course looks at decisions and decision makers who determine what media consumers view, read, and buy. Usually Offered: spring. Restriction: minimum 2.5 GPA.
  

  • COMM-570 Film and Digital Media Institute (1-6)

    (FM) Topics vary by section. Current practices and trends in the film, video, and television professions. The institute schedule allows students to select courses in film and video production, direction, writing, design, and management, post-production editing, and other related fields. Small class sizes and active participation are stressed. Usually Offered: summer. Repeatable for credit with different topic.
  

  • COMM-573 Visual Design in Strategic Communication (3)

    In this course students develop critical analytical skills related to graphics and design with the goal of using images and visuals in strategic communication campaigns and understanding how images communicate. They also learn the visual approaches and techniques used by designers to enhance message exposure, awareness, and behavioral change in products such as newsletters, brochures, posters, press kits, and web sites. Restriction: Public Relations & Strategic Communication (BA) , Global Media (MA) , or Strategic Communication (MA) , and minimum 2.5 GPA.
  

  • COMM-579 Political Advertising (3)

    This course surveys the crucial and increasing role advertising plays in political campaigns. While broadcast ad campaigns still invest billions of dollars trying to influence voters, the Internet is now a force in fundraising and raising awareness and support. Emphasis is on TV and web-based commercials. Usually Offered: spring. Grading: A-F only.
  

  • COMM-580 Strategic Health Communication (3)

    People learn more about health from the media than from their doctors, friends or family. But who decides what makes health “news”? Through the use of case studies, in-class discussions, guest speakers, and hands-on multimedia projects, this course provides the skills for communicating health messages. Permission: minimum 2.5 GPA.
  

  • COMM-587 Playful Cities (3)

    Play on urban streets shapes sense of place, communicates history, and introduces neighbors. Students in this course create, prototype, and playtest original games using simple tools for place-based design, including physical objects and text messaging. The course examines the implications of play for tourism, race relations, and urban media systems. No programming is required. Restriction: minimum 2.5 GPA.
  

  • COMM-588 Race, Ethnic, and Community Reporting (3)

    This course prepares students to report, write, and produce multimedia stories about increasingly diverse populations involving race and ethnicity at the local level. Students study race in the media, including cultural bias, and approaches to non-mainstream communities, and then apply those concepts by creating multimedia profiles of Washington, D.C., area neighborhoods. Usually Offered: fall and spring. Prerequisite: COMM-320  or COMM-621 .
  

  • COMM-596 Selected Topics: Non-Recurring (1-6)

    Topics vary by section. Repeatable for credit with different topic. Restriction: minimum 2.5 GPA.

Communication (Graduate Courses)
  

  • COMM-050 Boot Camp for Journalists (0)

    This non-credit course introduces students to the MA in Journalism program, to Washington, D.C., and to basic digital skill sets. The intense schedule focuses on information gathering, writing, reporting and producing for a variety of media platforms. Emphasis is on fundamentals of critical thinking news judgment, interviewing, ethics and verification - all against a backdrop of a changing media industry. Usually Offered: summer. Restriction: graduate journalism program.
  
  

  • COMM-602 Digital Media Literacy and Skills (3)

    This course serves as an introduction to the basic aesthetic, theoretical, and technical aspects of graphics for digital media. Using Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator as the primary software programs, the course challenges students to create effective visual communication designs. Online lectures and assignments introduce students to basic Photoshop techniques.
  

  • COMM-603 Web Portfolio (3)

    Students learn an overview of the theoretical structures behind informational design for the Internet. In addition, they learn basic HTML programming and static site development, as well as how the skills can be applied as a communication medium. This course provides students with an overview of web development using code and development tools. Students create their own online content and website.
  

  • COMM-604 Dynamic Content (3)

    In this course students learn about creating, publishing, modifying, and maintaining a blog as a dynamic publishing platform. The class uses XHTML and CSS knowledge to create, edit, and customize a blog focused on an area of interest. Prerequisite: COMM-603 .
  

  • COMM-605 Video for Social Media (3)

    Students learn the theory and impact of digital media as a communication tool. Students also learn and apply video skills for a variety of platforms, including web and mobile phones. Permission: program director.
  

  • COMM-606 Capstone: Digital Media Project (3)

    Students work on a short digital media project and website and create a portfolio. Prerequisite: COMM-604 .
  

  • COMM-607 International Investigative Reporting (3)

    This course dives into the history and trends in international investigative journalism, where journalists are uncovering government and corporate corruption, human rights abuses, environmental degradation, and threats to health and safety. Students learn investigative techniques and complete a semester-long project. Usually Offered: fall. Grading: A-F only. Restriction: graduate journalism program.
  

  • COMM-608 Social Media Strategies and Tactics (3)

    This course focuses on understanding how organizations, including corporations, nonprofits, and the government employ digital strategic communications in their public relations outreach. Search engine marketing, mobile communications, and viral campaigns are examined. The course features case studies, use of social media tools, and experts in social media from various fields. Crosslist: COMM-408 . Usually Offered: fall, spring, and summer. Prerequisite: COMM-640 .
  

  • COMM-609 Journalism Ethics (3)

    This course provides students with a fundamental understanding of the professional responsibilities journalists owe to society. It also provides practical training in ethical decision making. Discusses how best to meet professional obligations on a day-to-day basis and looks ahead to future ethical issues on the horizon. Crosslist: COMM-409 . Grading: A-F only.
  

  • COMM-610 Principles of Video Production (3)

    This course instructs students in the core fundamentals of digital filmmaking. Focusing on a digital skill set, students work on practical exercises to gain experience with basic camera, lighting, and sound equipment and have the opportunity to improve their technical skills working with specialized equipment. The course concentrates on camera and lighting, location and post-production audio, and non-linear editing (NLE) skills to be applied in film program coursework. Usually Offered: summer. Grading: A-F only. Restriction: Film and Media Production (MA) , Film and Media Arts (MFA) , or Games and Interactive Media (MFA) .
  

  • COMM-611 History of Documentary (3)

    Development of the documentary form from early cinema to the digital era. Explores documentary in terms of aesthetic strategies, ethical issues, and economic and historical context. Crosslist: COMM-411 . Usually Offered: fall.
  

  • COMM-612 Social Documentary (3)

    Study of approaches to social issue documentary as a tool for public knowledge and action, including a focus on audience engagement strategies and impact research. Students develop proposals for social documentary projects. Crosslist: COMM-412 . Usually Offered: spring.
  

  • COMM-613 Producing Film and Video (3)

    The business of fiction and nonfiction filmmaking with an emphasis on intellectual property/copyright, the development of a proposal, fundraising, marketing and distribution; practical work on scheduling, budgets and other production management topics such as unions and guilds, hiring a crew, releases, and music rights. Crosslist: COMM-413 . Usually Offered: fall and spring. Prerequisite: COMM-631  or COMM-682 .
  

  • COMM-614 History of Cross-Cultural Cinema (3)

    Cross-cultural analysis of film and video, drawing primarily on examples of feature production from Asia, Latin America, Africa, and the Middle East and focusing on the theme of cultural and ethnic identity. Film and video viewings, papers, lectures, and discussion. Crosslist: COMM-414 .
  

  • COMM-615 Children, Youth, and Digital Culture (3)

    Explores the roles that children, adolescents, and young adults are playing in contemporary media culture. Provides a historical overview of scholarship and policy debates over children and television, as well as technological, social, political, and economic forces that have shaped, and are shaping, the digital media system. Crosslist: COMM-415 .
  

  • COMM-616 Topics in Film and Media Arts (3)

    Topics vary by section. Rotating topics in the business, history, or analysis of film, photography, and digital media from a variety of perspectives. Crosslist: COMM-416 . Usually Offered: fall, spring, and summer. Repeatable for credit with different topic.
  

  • COMM-617 The Fundamentals of News Design (3)

    This course explores publication design and visual storytelling, including the display of quantitative informational graphics. The course covers design principles, photography and video, mapping, color and typography. Students learn the Adobe Creative Suite as well as open-source tools to create projects on a variety of topics. Crosslist: COMM-417 . Usually Offered: spring.
  

  • COMM-618 Data-Driven Journalism (3)

    This course reviews the history and trends in computer-assisted reporting. The course provides students with the basic skill in using spreadsheets, databases, programming, and data visualization in a journalistic context. Crosslist: COMM-418 . Usually Offered: spring. Grading: A-F only. Restriction: graduate journalism program.
  

  • COMM-619 In-Depth Journalism (3)

    Introduces students to the history, purposes, power, and responsibilities of investigative journalism. Also introduces students to the specialized reporting and interviewing techniques of investigative reporting and requires students to develop these skills while participating in a group investigative journalism project. Crosslist: COMM-419 . Restriction: graduate journalism program.
  

  • COMM-620 Topics in Mass Media (1-3)

    Topics vary by section. Rotating topics in the analysis and working methods of specialized areas of mass media. Crosslist: COMM-420 . Repeatable for credit with different topic.
  

  • COMM-621 Community News Reporting (3)

    Students learn basic storytelling, copyediting skills and AP style, headline writing, good news judgment, story and visual selection, and how to produce multimedia stories, with a focus on community news reporting. The course includes discussion of legal and ethical issues and trends in news coverage and audiences. Restriction: Communication: Journalism and Public Affairs (MA) .
  

  • COMM-622 Writing and Editing for Convergent Media (3)

    This course covers the unique demands of digital news writing, reporting, and editing for multiple platforms, with a special emphasis on concise, accurate, and verified journalism. Crosslist: COMM-422 . Grading: A-F only.
  

  • COMM-623 Computer Techniques for Communication Professionals (3)

    Provides training in computer skills and social and ethical analysis of new mass communication technologies. Includes hands-on training and rigorous examination of the social and political impact of new media technologies. Course covers use of Internet and other online resources, basic use of bibliographic and statistical databases in the news business, and examination of the impact of computers and broadband technologies on mass communication and society at large. Usually Offered: spring. Permission: school.
  

  • COMM-624 Boot Camp for Journalists (3)

    This course introduces students to the MA in Journalism program, to Washington, D.C., and to basic digital skill sets. The intense schedule focuses on information gathering, writing, reporting and producing for a variety of media platforms. Emphasis is on fundamentals of critical thinking news judgment, interviewing, ethics and verification - all against a backdrop of a changing media industry. Usually Offered: summer. Restriction: graduate journalism program.
  

  • COMM-625 Innovation and the Media Industry (3)

    This course explores how new ventures and established media/communication companies have been successful in the digital environment. The course equips students with the tools of media entrepreneurship focusing on ideation, monetization, competitive scan, and the beginning of a business plan. Usually Offered: fall. Restriction: Media Entrepreneurship (MA)  or Journalism and Digital Storytelling (MA) .
  

  • COMM-626 Media Technology Management (3)

    Entrepreneurial success requires a grasp of the basics of technology behind multiple digital platforms. For students who want to run a media startup or lead innovation at their media-related company, this course is a broad survey of how to manage communication technology. Topics include managing budgets, vendors, workflow, hardware, software, and production. Usually Offered: summer. Restriction: Media Entrepreneurship (MA) .
  

  • COMM-627 Capstone: Media Entrepreneurship (3)

    In a lab-like environment, MA in Media Entrepreneurship students develop a final project and/or proposal with the goal of presenting it to a panel of potential investors or industry leaders. Students drill down on the final steps of their projects in class sessions with experts in funding, resource technology, and presentation. Usually Offered: spring. Restriction: Media Entrepreneurship (MA) .
  

  • COMM-628 Proseminar in Political Communication (1)

    This introduction to political communication examines the role of communication in politics and the interplay of news, politics, advocacy, and public policy. The course provides students with the opportunity to process, analyze, and discuss current events through a political communication prism. Usually Offered: fall. Grading: Pass/Fail only. Restriction: Political Communication (MA) .
  

  • COMM-629 Capstone in Political Communication (3)

    This seminar is the culmination of the Political Communication (MA)  and provides support for the required capstone project. This project involves development of an original question, critical thinking, and extensive research and analysis leading to a logical and defensible conclusion and/or recommendations for further study. Usually Offered: spring. Prerequisite: completion of 27 credit hours. Restriction: Political Communication (MA) .
  
  

  • COMM-631 Film and Video Production and Direction (3)

    Core skill sets, aesthetic considerations, and narrative structures involved in visual storytelling. Covers all aspects of production and direction, from preproduction to production and post. Students work individually and in small teams. This intensely hands-on course allows each student the opportunity to explore fiction and nonfiction filmmaking. Usually Offered: fall. Restriction: graduate film program.
  

  • COMM-632 Backpack Video Journalism (3)

    Instruction in shooting, editing, and producing of video stories; merging of script, video, and graphics into the final product. Working alone or in small teams, students learn to use digital cameras, microphones, lights, tripods, field shooting techniques, and nonlinear editing. Students produce a video résumé reel as a capstone project. Usually Offered: spring. Restriction: graduate journalism program.
  

  • COMM-635 Television Studio Production (3)

    A hands-on laboratory course. Teaches basic studio skills, including director, technical director, audio engineer, teleprompter operator, floor manager, and camera operator as well as original production planning. Teamwork and professionalism are emphasized in the creation of an original short webisode series for NBC-4 or another client and an original television series. Crosslist: COMM-435 . Usually Offered: fall and spring.
  

  • COMM-637 Multimedia Storytelling (3)

    This course teaches writing, reporting, and editing stories for both audio and video platforms and integration with content management systems. Audio styles range from commercial radio to NPR, video reports include both narrative and non-narrative assignments. Students also learn non-linear audio and video editing. Usually Offered: fall. Grading: A-F only. Restriction: graduate journalism program.
 

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