The Department of Communication offers a variety of courses covering topics such as interpersonal communication, mass media, health communication, organizational communication and crisis communication. Specialized courses include sport communication, intercultural communication, digital media literacy and communication in relationships. The curriculum aims to develop skills in persuasive speaking, leadership, negotiation and research methods. Students can also engage in internships and independent studies to gain practical experience. Find course specifics below.
Applies to the UK Core requirement: Intellectual Inquiry in Social Sciences
Description
An introduction to the process of communication as a critical element in human interaction and in society. Designed to enhance effective communication and informed use of the mass media.
Learning Outcomes
• Introduce seminal communication theories that undergird our discipline
• Discuss the ethical and moral consequences of your communication decisions
• Refine and further develop your communication skills in both the private and public realms
• Enhance your writing and research skills
• Introduce cultural variables that affect human interaction in our multicultural society, i.e., race, gender, class, religion, etc.
• Facilitate the development of critical thinking within the context of human communication
• Illuminate the importance of public communication in maintaining an egalitarian and democratic society
• Encourage active self-analysis and invite critical adjustments in your communication behavior
• Develop consumer-advocacy skills in assessing the credibility of messages
• Highlight the power of discourse in constructing human reality and culture
Prerequisites
No prerequisites
Description
An examination of the interplay between the technology and content of the mass communication media.
Learning Outcomes
• Articulate a basic understanding of mass media through a historical perspective
• Explain the system of governing laws and regulations affecting mass media
• Describe the structure of mass media as an industry
• Distinguish the differences among the dimensions of mass media literacy including the cognitive, emotional, aesthetic and moral dimensions
• Critically evaluate a variety of mass media as communication
Prerequisites
CIS 110, CIS 111
Description
This writing-intensive course examines basic verbal and nonverbal concepts affecting the communication process between individuals in various interpersonal contexts. Course also requires participation in written and oral activities designed to develop and improve interpersonal skills. Topics may include: perspective-taking, relationship and conversation management, effective listening, conflict management, communication climate, communication anxiety and cultural/gender differences in interpersonal communication.
Learning Outcomes
• Students will understand the nature of foundational IPC theories and concepts (e.g., identity formation and management, perception, emotion, verbal and nonverbal communication, listening, relational dynamics and conflict management).
• Students will employ effective IPC skills (e.g., verbal and nonverbal communication, defensive and supportive communication, perception checking, empathic listening, conflict management, teamwork).
• Students will demonstrate the ability to conduct IPC-focused research (e.g., annotated bibliography, academic writing, APA style).
Prerequisites
No prerequisites
Description
A study of communication processes in small group situations. Topics include conflict, leadership and decision-making. Students will participate in group discussion and develop skills in analyzing group performance.
Learning Outcomes
• Understand the principles of group communication
• Explain and demonstrate team building
• Improve conflict management skills
• Learn appropriate ways to assume leadership roles
• Develop skills to understand, analyze and evaluate small group communication
• Understand individual group roles
• Improve problem solving and decision making skills
• Apply small group theory and research in a variety of team contexts
Prerequisites
No prerequisites
Description
A study of the processes involved in attitude change, with emphasis on the preparation and delivery of persuasive messages.
Learning Outcomes
• Increase the understanding of persuasive communication
• Develop an understanding and enact strategies of persuasive message construction
• Develop confidence and skills in public speaking
• Enhance writing and research skills
• Develop an understanding on the impact of audience and context on message construction and delivery
• Develop the ability to critically evaluate persuasive messages whenever they appear in media, organizations and social contexts
• Establish an understanding of the importance of effective communication skills in today’s professional and business environments
Prerequisites
CIS 110/WRD 110 or equivalent
Applies to the UK Core requirement: Intellectual Inquiry in Social Sciences
Description
This course helps students explore, understand and appreciate the patient-provider relationship through an examination and analysis of selected health communication case studies and related materials. It is also designed to improve communication skills with and among physicians, nurses and allied health professionals.
Learning Outcomes
• Explain, recognize, and evaluate the dynamics of patient-provider interaction
• Explain key communication theories and models to better understand and assess patient-provider interaction
• Analyze case studies to suggest more effective communication strategies
• Develop enhanced communication and health advocacy skills across a variety of health care contexts
Prerequisites
No prerequisites
Applies to the UK Core requirements: Community, Culture and Citizenship in US
Description
This course examines intercultural and co-cultural divides using a skills-based approach. Students will be exposed to cultural communication situations and will apply skills using lecture, discussion and various media (e.g., news, radio, film, blogs), equipping them with more effective skills for communicating with other groups, communities and cultures.
Learning Outcomes
• Understand their role in a society where they will co-exist with other cultures
• Demonstrate an ability to identify diverse cultures, ethically communicate and empathize with cultures that are not their own by critically evaluating films and media about other forms of popular culture.
• Apply knowledge from the course to understanding the nuances of intercultural communication including issues of social justice and civic responsibilities in historical and 21st century contexts
• Adjust their communication styles to effectively communicate in a diverse, multilingual world
• Understand the role that culture, power, inequality and diversity plays in being an engaged citizen
• Demonstrate an understanding of historical, societal and cultural differences, such as those arising from race, ethnicity, gender, sexuality, language, nationality, religion, political and ethical perspectives and socioeconomic class
• Participate in at least two assessable individual or group projects that focus on personal and/or collective decision-making that require students to identify and evaluate conflicts, compromises and/or ethical dilemmas in cultural communication
• Seek and evaluate sources through secondary research to understand multiple perspectives and inform
Prerequisites
No prerequisites
Applies to the UK Core requirement: Intellectual Inquiry in Social Sciences
Description
Focuses on describing and explaining communication processes that occur within the context of close relationships. Three general topic areas include: developing and escalating relationships, satisfying relationships and coping with relational challenges.
Learning Outcomes
• Identify areas of interpersonal communication in need of improvement in your own life
• Evaluate the quality of communication in relational contexts
• Apply this knowledge to become a more effective relational partner
• Translate interpersonal research findings for lay audiences
Prerequisites
No prerequisites
Applies to the UK Core requirement: Intellectual Inquiry in Social Sciences
Description
Provides an overview of research and theory related to the “dark side” of interpersonal communication and relationships. This course will cover topics such as secrets, bullying, cyber-stalking, verbal abuse and revenge between romantic partners, family members, friends and sometimes strangers.
Learning Outcomes
• Students will identify areas of dysfunctional communication that emerge in close relationships and explain the circumstances surrounding these events and the role of interpersonal communication in resolving those events.
• Students will demonstrate an ability to conduct secondary IPC-focused research (e.g., reflection papers, academic writing, APA style).
• Students will demonstrate an ability to use communication concepts to analyze human behavior and to apply those concepts to improve social and professional life.
Prerequisites
No prerequisites
Applies to the UK Core requirements: Community, Culture and Citizenship in US
Description
Understanding workplace communication in U.S. society requires an interdisciplinary approach in preparing students to developing an enlightened consideration of the complex and contextual nature of communication in organizations. The emphasis on community, culture and citizenship is designed to engage students using dynamic learning experiences such as debates and discussion over topics relevant to the role of communication and organizations in U.S. society.
Learning Outcomes
• Demonstrate up-to-date knowledge about the new realities of the workforce, including demographic, legislation and social policy trends in Kentucky, the U.S. and around the world
• Understand interdisciplinary theories of cross-cultural differences in interpersonal relations and communication in the workplace
• Develop critical thinking skills and synthesize research-based knowledge relevant to diversity and workplace communication issues which have a profound impact on U.S. society, both at the individual and collective level
Prerequisites
No prerequisites
Applies to the UK Core requirement: Global Dynamics
Description
This course will introduce students to the role of communication in creating, maintaining and reducing disparities in health and achieving health equity. We will examine differences across groups in health status and health care access and availability throughout local, state, regional, national and global levels. This course will place a particular emphasis on the role of communication in defining health problems and creating communication-based intervention solutions. Through a contextualized observation and practice students will develop skills to be health advocates and learn how communication can engender positive social change.
Prerequisites
No prerequisites
Description
Designed to introduce students to basic concepts in the study of organizational communication. The course considers approaches to the practice and study of communication within organizational settings, including classical approach, human relations, human resources approaches, systems approaches, cultural approaches and critical approaches. It also introduces specific issues within the study of organizational communication, including assimilation, decision-making, conflict, change, emotion, cultural diversity and communication technologies.
Learning Outcomes
• Understand of the role of communication in modern organizations
• Explicate different theories of organizational communication and the insights they can provide
• Identify common organizational communication problems and their solutions
• Develop attitudes and analytical abilities that can enhance your ability to navigate modern organizations in a creative and effective way
Prerequisites
Communication major; others need departmental approval
Description
Communication Strategies for Professional Excellence introduces students to a variety of technical and business theories and practices designed to be applicable to business communication in the real world. This course is focused on communication strategies to use once the job has been secured, rather than those to get the job (i.e., resume, cover letter, interviewing). Specifically, the course teaches the fundamentals of good business communication, including protocols for writing media notices/releases, marketing copy, business letters, memoranda, electronic mail, thank you notes, apology letters, persuasive messages and business plans. Throughout these writing assignments, students will also become acquainted with the strategies used by communication professionals such as functions of media, employee, community, government, investor and consumer relations. In addition, there will be instruction in oral presentation and in depth practice on both an individual and a collaborative basis. Finally, students will also learn tactics for running a business meeting, dealing with organizational conflict and finding ways to enhance their business communication through technically based media.
Learning Outcomes
• Identify and explain strategies for developing and sustaining professional excellence
• Demonstrate skills in preparing and delivering a persuasive communication proposal
• Demonstrate skills in writing, revising and proofreading business documents in a variety of formats (e.g., media release, memoranda, apology letter, thank you letter, marketing copy, meeting agendas)
• Identify advantages and disadvantages of the use of communication technology in the business
Prerequisites
Upper Division standing in the communication major. Additionally, completion of all COM BA/BS pre-major requirements. Specifically: COM 101, COM 249, COM 252, CIS or WRD 110, CIS or WRD 111.
Description
This course is designed to explore in depth the relationship between communication and sport. We will examine theories of communication and connect them to sport. The class will examine the relationship between sport and race, gender, class, violence, community and/or society throughout the United States and around the world.
Prerequisites
No prerequisites
Description
An introductory survey course covering the relationship between language and various social and communication phenomena. Topics include: child and adult language learning; language and cognition; language variation and change; language and social identity (e.g., ethnicity, nationality, gender, sexual orientation); language and intergroup relations; linguistic stereotyping, prejudice and discrimination; politeness and accommodation; linguistic biases. Emphasis is on a social-scientific, communication approach.
Learning Outcomes
• Identify and describe the different properties and qualities of language
• Understand how language is acquired and learned, and how it changes
• Explain how language influences cognition, how we use language to perform social actions and how we adjust our language for others
• Recognize and explain the social meaning and consequences of different types of language use
• Analyze, summarize and synthesize empirical research on language and communication
• Formulate predictions about the role and use of language in society
Prerequisites
No prerequisites
Description
Considers various theoretical perspectives which lead to a more thorough understanding of communication processes. Begins with discussion of the development of theory and inquiry. Includes perspectives of systems, cognitive, behavioral, affective, symbolic interactionist, dramatic, cultural and social reality, interpretive and critical theories.
Learning Outcomes
• Explicate the nature of theory in general and of communication theory in particular
• Trace the development of theoretical inquiry in the field of communication
• Evaluate the utility of theory by applying specific criteria and standards
• Distinguish among meta-theoretical assumptions and various approaches to communication theory
• Examine communication processes in a variety of contexts
• Apply communication theory in the development of an original project
• Hone student writing skills
Prerequisites
Upper Division standing in the communication major. Additionally, completion of all COM BA/BS pre-major requirements. Specifically: COM 101, COM 249, COM 252, CIS or WRD 110, CIS or WRD 111.
Description
With the proliferation of technologically advanced social media (e.g., Facebook, chat, Twitter) available at the fingertips of individuals through multiple channels (e.g., phone, iPad, laptop, online video games), interpersonal relationships are being affected. Negotiating this relatively new, understudied and quickly evolving terrain can present relational difficulties for a variety of relationships types. Students in this class will gain a thorough understanding of multiple communication platforms and the communication theory that can explain the interactions occurring in each platform, as well as improve their mediated communication skills to enhance interpersonal relationships.
Learning Outcomes
• Explain similarities and differences in communication across a variety of social media platforms
• Identify beneficial and harmful communicative practices in their own interpersonal relationships
• Develop and refine strategies to improve interpersonal communication via social media
• Apply communication theory to understanding communication through social media
Prerequisites
COM 252
Description
A study of the processes involved in technology-mediated communication, including interactions between public figures and their fans and followers, with emphasis on the preparation and delivery of messages that directly impact identity management.
Prerequisites
COM 327
Description
This course provides an introduction to the study and practice of leadership from a entrepreneurial and communication perspective. Course activities will cover the basic concepts essential to personal skills development and organizational leadership behavior, the theory component and the practical process of leadership and entrepreneurship. The course is designed to introduce students to leadership perspectives and the role communication plays in effective leadership and entrepreneurial strategies. The course explores communication variables involved when leaders attempt to influence members to achieve a goal. Topics include power, credibility, motivation, research on leader traits, styles and situations, innovation strategies, organizational dynamics, creative problem solving and current models of leadership. The different leadership challenges posed by different group and organizational types will also be explored.
Learning Outcomes
• Students will demonstrate knowledge of leadership concepts and theories.
• Students will transfer understanding of course concepts and theories to other settings through description, analysis and evaluation.
• Students will demonstrate critical thinking skills as observers of contemporary leaders and popular leadership theories.
• Students will analyze their personal leadership styles and develop leadership communication skills.
• Students will understand the importance of becoming effective team leaders and followers.
Prerequisites
No prerequisites
Description
Research and study of special topics in communication. The student proposes the specific study to be undertaken and formally contracts with a faculty supervisor for guidance and evaluation. Ordinarily, projects will require the production of written materials as a basis for the evaluation. May be repeated to a maximum of six credits.
Learning Outcomes
Check with Department of Communication director of undergraduate studies.
Prerequisites
Communication major, departmental approval and completion of learning contract prior to registration.
Description
Provides field-based experience in communication through work in industry, government, education, etc. Pass-fail only. May be repeated to a maximum of six credits. A maximum of three credit hours may be counted toward the communication major.
Learning Outcomes
Check with Department of Communication director of undergraduate studies.
Prerequisites
Consent of department internship director prior to registration and completion of departmental learning contract.
For more information on the COMM internships, click here.
Description
This course explores the role of communication in negotiation and conflict management in organizations. The course examines conflict theories and approaches, negotiation processes and third party intervention through the study of strategies and tactics, interaction processes, phases and stages of negotiation development and conflict framing. The course examines strategies and tactics used in exchange of offers and counteroffers, salary negotiations, buying and selling of products, team bargaining and multiparty negotiations.
Learning Outcomes
• To demonstrate an understanding of the different types of negotiation and acquire a repertoire of communicative strategies and tactics to use in conflict and negotiation situations
• To explain and develop communicative, diagnostic and intervention techniques for altering the course of negotiation and for achieving positive outcomes
• To identify and respond effectively to other negotiators in framing conflict situations, planning for interactions and developing working relationships
Prerequisites
COM 325 AND completion of the major graduation communication and composition requirement (COM 326 or COM 351).
Description
This course is designed to enhance students’ literacy regarding sport analytics through the examination of structured historical data and the interpretation of sport metrics.
Prerequisites
COM 326 or COM 351, and COM 327
Description
This course examines the relationship between the organization of modern society and its communication media with special emphasis on cultural processes and social change. The social-psychological bases of communication are studied within a context of theory and research.
Learning Outcomes
• Demonstrate an understanding of the foundational and most current theories surrounding the effects of media on the lives' of consumers
• Develop personal critiques on the role media has played in your social and psychological development
• Examine the rapidly changing and evolving context of today's media markets and hypothesize about future directions
• Develop of a hypothetical media campaign targeted at the social problem of your choice
Prerequisites
COM 326 or COM 351
Description
Examines current theory and research on the nature and development of interpersonal communication ability. Topics include: understanding strategic communicative relational communication elements and cultural and institutional influences on the development of interpersonal communication.
Learning Outcomes
• A comprehensive understanding of the relationship between communication and personal relationships
• A basic understanding of the most prominent theories and constructs of interpersonal communication
• Increased ability to manage your own personal and professional relationships by increasing your repertoire of interpersonal behavioral choices
Prerequisites
COM 326 or COM 351
Description
A course designed to examine theory and research related to criticism of the mass media and to the relationship of digital and mass communication to contemporary social issues.
Learning Outcomes
• Develop a greater understanding of the media’s influence in shaping society’s ideas of race, class, ethnicity, sexuality and gender
• Identify the salient theorists and be able to explain and apply theories informing critical and cultural media studies
• Explicate the ideological and hegemonic roles the media plays in normalizing and naturalizing ideas and practices that outline power and privilege in society
• Be more critical and discerning consumers of media messages, in all forms
• Develop a sophisticated understanding of the intersection between capitalism, democracy and American media
• Hone writing skills
Prerequisites
COM 351 or COM 326
Description
The primary objective of this course is to provide you with an understanding of the social and economic relationships that exist between sport industries and the effects those relationships have on sport media consumers’ daily lives.
Prerequisites
COM 326 or COM 351, and COM 327
Description
This course examines theory and research relevant to health communication including interpersonal, organizational and mass communication approaches. Topics include the role of communication in general models of health and illness, the relationship between patients and healthcare providers, social support and health campaigns.
Learning Outcomes
• Analyze how messages from interpersonal and media sources affect health beliefs and behaviors
• Evaluate the quality of communication in health and illness contexts
• Apply this knowledge to become a more active participant in your own healthcare
• Prepare an application for any number of the diverse career opportunities available to health communication professionals
Prerequisites
No prerequisites.
Description
This course examines theory and research of persuasion. Topics include message characteristics, credibility, compliance-gaining, decision- making and motivational appeals.
Learning Outcomes
• Define key terms used by social influence researchers and practitioners
• Explain major classic and contemporary social influence theories and models
• Identify common heuristics, or simple decision rules, that guide the decision making process
• Review how various source, receiver, situation and message characteristics impact the social influence process
• Demonstrate how to use and defend against the various social influence techniques discussed in class
• Discuss the ethical implications involved in the social influence process
Prerequisites
COM 326 or COM 351
Description
Examines theory and research relevant to understanding advanced issues in organizational communication. Topics may include strategies of innovation, organizing, networking, decision-making, globalization, technology, power and diversity.
Learning Outcomes
Varies based on special topics course
Prerequisites
COM 325 AND completion of the major graduation communication and composition requirement (COM 326 or COM 351)
Description
This course examines strategic risk and crisis communication research, theory and practices. Special emphasis is placed on crisis planning, media relationships, image restoration, ethical responses and organizational learning.
Learning Outcomes
• Describe how communication can prevent, cause, accelerate and assist in the recovery from a crisis event
• Create crisis plans based on appropriate risk assessment
• Examine the ethical implications of crisis planning and response
• Adapt messages to diverse audiences and vulnerable populations
Prerequisites
COM 326 or COM 351
Description
This course focuses on what and how popular culture entertainment media functions to communicate and persuade. Forms to be examined may include films/movies, television programs, music, cartoons and/or comics. Ultimately, students will be equipped with tools to make educated decisions as critical consumers of the messages conveyed in popular culture entertainment media.
Learning Outcomes
• Students will critically examine the messages (e.g., written, oral, visual) conveyed in a variety of entertainment media texts.
• Students will distinguish the major tenets of different rhetorical and critical/cultural theories.
• Students will identify and define the terms and tools used for examining contemporary rhetorical texts.
• Students will describe, interpret and evaluate various entertainment media texts using different rhetorical perspectives and methods.
• Students will construct and present effective analyses of messages conveyed in different entertainment media.
Prerequisites
COM 326 or COM 351
Description
This course is designed to explore how sport media communicate social values, social norms, cultural identification and cultural values. This approach will allow students to critically evaluate sport media, organizations and audiences.
Prerequisites
COM 326 or COM 351, and COM 327
Description
Examines theory and research relevant to the role of interpersonal communication in managing mental and physical health. Topics related to interaction in health contexts include: communicating identity in health and illness, health and personal relationships, health care provider/ patient communication, medical decision-making and interpersonal health education and prevention efforts.
Learning Outcomes
• Analyze how interpersonal messages affect a person’s health and how a person’s health affects their interpersonal communication
• Evaluate the quality of communication in managing health and illness
• Apply this knowledge by preparing an educational workshop on a communication issue for patients or providers.
Prerequisites
COM 471, and COM 326 or COM 351.
Description
This course focuses on the role of the mass media in contemporary public health campaigns. Most class sessions focus on the application of theory and research to the design of these campaigns. Earlier studies examining the role of the mass media in health campaigns indicated that the mass media played a small and rather insignificant role in changing health behaviors. However, more recent studies indicate that careful targeting combined with formative research often yield successful behavior change.
Learning Outcomes
• Identify and critique various theories/approaches concerning social marketing, targeting, social modeling, persuasion, message design, intervention and campaign message exposure
• Be knowledgeable regarding exemplar studies of intervention and campaign effects, and be able to engage in a detailed examination of specific techniques for modern campaigns and interventions
• Be able to apply this knowledge to the development of a hypothetical, theory-based health communication, community-based campaign utilizing best practices for message design, testing, implementation and evaluation
Prerequisites
COM 326 or COM 351
Description
Examines theory and research on the nature and development of small group communication. Topics include leadership, interpersonal relations and roles, goals and decision-making in multiple organizational contexts.
Learning Outcomes
• Master the concepts and vocabulary of leadership and team theory, and use that language appropriately
• Recognize and develop a more complex understanding of the theories and principles of group communication, especially systems and network analysis, that are the basis for a variety of teams and leadership situations and contexts
• Understand interdependence processes within and across groups in institutional contexts
• Develop analytical skills, especially for professions such as research, consulting and management
Prerequisites
COM 325 AND completion of the major graduation communication and composition in the communication major requirement (COM 326 or COM 351)
Description
Intensive study of a specialized topic area in communication
Learning Outcomes
Varies based on special topics course
Prerequisites
COM 326 or COM 351