College of Communication

Undergraduate Courses

A one-semester course in the College of Communication is valued at 4 credits for purposes of internal University records, such as the computation of grade point indices, the assessment of transfer credit, and the assessment of tuition charges.

The following keys are used to designate course, department, and level:

Freshman/Sophomore Core Courses

COM CO 101 The World of Communication

Introduces students to many core disciplines in the liberal arts and in the field of communications that are essential to professional communicators. Lectures are presented by the COM deans and professors from the College of Arts and Sciences and the College of Communication. In the course students learn about the relationship between the liberal arts, fine arts, and communication. Presentations by COM professors and alumni from the communication industries focus on the major fields of study and concentrations in communications. 4 cr, 1st sem.

COM CO 201 Introduction to Communication Writing

Prereq: CAS WR 100 or equivalent. COM CO 201 is the College of Communication's core undergraduate writing course. Students refresh their grammatical and stylistic skills and apply those skills to professional writing assignments. This course prepares students to write with clarity, conciseness, precision, and accuracy for the communication fields. 4 cr, either sem.

Interdisciplinary Courses

COM CO 401 Radio Station Practicum

This is a seminar for students interested in managing the student-run radio station, WTBU. It is open to students who serve on the executive board of WTBU. Students will manage all facets of the radio station including music programming, sportscasting, news reporting, promotions, underwriting, website management, and technical equipment. Students will learn how to accomplish specific goals in improving the professionalism of the station and increasing the audience of WTBU. 2 cr, either sem.

COM CO 510 Special Topics

Prereq: only when specified. An interdisciplinary range of topics intended to be of broad interest to students is offered. Details are made available by the specific department offering a special topics course each semester. Topic varies with the instructor. 4 cr, either sem.

COM CO 525 The Art of Narrative Non-Fiction

Introduces advanced students to the "higher journalism" of literary non-fiction, in which the techniques of fiction—plot, character, scene, dialogue, and theme—are used in writing about actual events, people, and issues. Based originally on the "new journalism" of the 1960s and 1970s, this approach employs narrative devices to illuminate a wider world, and is the basis for much long-form contemporary non-fiction—magazine features and books. Students will be expected to read and critique a wide range of magazines, stories, and book excerpts that illustrate the techniques of non-fiction storytelling. Authors studied include Joan Didion, Tom Wolfe, and Henry Louis Gates. Limited to 15 students. 4 cr, either sem.

Film and Television

COM FT 303 Introduction to the Television and Radio Industry

An introduction to the broadcasting and cable industries in America. Topics include the history of commercial and noncommercial radio, television, and cable; the regulatory framework; management structures; business principles and practices, including network and local programming, advertising, marketing, and audience measurement. 4 cr, 1st sem.

COM FT 304 Film Industry

A survey of current business trends in the motion picture industry. Focuses on script development; studio structure; agents, attorneys, and contracts; independent filmmaking; and distribution. 4 cr, either sem.

COM FT 310 Screenwriting I

Required of all students in the Film Program. An introduction to the principles of screenwriting, which are: proper uses of film form, creation of characters, narrative, and Act and Block division of both the short and feature film. 4 cr, either sem.

COM FT 314 Writing for Television

Required of all students in the Television Program. The theories and techniques underlying writing for the principal radio and television forms. Emphasis is on the relationship between writing and production, establishing sound aesthetic bases for all broadcast writing, and the writer's social and ethical responsibilities. Weekly writing assignments, lectures, and critiques. May be taken in the sophomore year. 4 cr, either sem.

COM FT 325 Producing I

Required of all students in the Television Program. Introduces students to the various stages of production, beginning with concept and ending with full-fledged, camera-ready proposals. Students are introduced to issues of finance, scheduling, and organization; they learn to keep budget and concept on track. May be taken in the sophomore year. 4 cr, either sem.

COM FT 351 Film Production I

Prereq: COM FT 310. A practical, hands-on introduction to film production techniques. Using 16mm cameras, each student is given an opportunity to write, produce, direct, shoot, and edit a series of short (three-to-seven-minute) nonsynchronous films. This course provides a rigorous introduction to the essence of film language and narrative structure across genres. Students are expected to pay for all film stock and production costs; the department provides the equipment. 4 cr, either sem.

COM FT 353 Video Production I

Required of all students in the Television Program. Provides a theoretical and practical introduction to studio and electronic field video production. Practice with basic video tools and technology as necessary to translate creative concepts into effective video programs. 4 cr, either sem.

COM FT 360 Understanding Film

Required of all students in the Film Program. An introduction to the art of film. How do films make meaning? How do audiences understand them? Explores some of the ways in which movies teach us new ways of knowing. May be taken in the sophomore year. 4 cr, either sem.

COM FT 363 The Television Revolution

Required of all students in the Television Program. Provides a foundation of knowledge about the origins and development of television as a medium of communication. What makes television special? Why is it revolutionary? Students examine major turning points in the growth of the medium through experiencing its most significant programs, including early radio, early live drama, the first presidential debates, and innovative programs. 4 cr, either sem.

COM FT 402 Video Production II

Prereq: COM FT 353. Continuation of the study of digital video field production and postproduction editing. Students develop, produce, direct, shoot, record, and edit longer form, single-camera, location productions. Emphasis on the development of storytelling in narrative and nonfiction production. 4 cr, either sem.

COM FT 403 Film Production II

Prereq: grade of B– or better in COM FT 351. Working in small crews and using sophisticated production equipment, students write and produce short, synchronous sound and color films. Students may choose to work in either narrative or documentary styles, with the majority of shooting done on location. Students pay for film stock and processing; the department provides state-of-the-art 16mm cameras and digital postproduction facilities. Two-hour production workshops are added to weekly course hours to increase students' familiarity with production equipment. 4 cr, either sem.

COM FT 408 Television, Culture, and Society

Reviews the critical and research literature concerning the social and cultural relationship between television and society, including the study of particular audiences. Issues may change from semester to semester. Lectures, discussions, seminars, screenings, student papers, and oral contributions. 4 cr, 1st sem.

COM FT 410 Seminar: Television, Culture, and Society

Using a seminar format and selected screenings, the course constructively explores topics that have given rise to public debate about television. Issues may change from semester to semester but include violence, sexuality, commercialism, stereotyping, children's programs, and specific controversial genres, such as cartoons, action/adventure, and news. Students contribute their own discussion papers and audiovisual materials. 4 cr, offered occasionally.

COM FT 411 Screenwriting II

Prereq: COM FT 310. Each student will develop and write the first act of a feature-length screenplay. First-draft material will be discussed in class and will be revised for the final project. Students will be advised to either work on a major rewrite of act one or complete the remainder of the script. 4 cr, either sem.

COM FT 412 Screenwriting III

Prereq: COM FT 411. Each student will develop and write a feature-length screenplay. First-draft material will be discussed in class and will be revised for the final project. 4 cr, either sem.

COM FT 428 Interactive/Broadband TV

The course introduces television and film undergraduates to the tools and techniques used to produce multimedia works. Students learn multimedia concepts, elements, platforms, and production. Training in the use of computer-based hardware and software for multimedia creation. 4 cr, either sem.

COM FT 456 Acting for Directors and Writers

Develops the director's knowledge and understanding of actors as the "human equipment" of filmmaking through direct acting experience. Students learn the language and tools of the craft through sensory exercises, improvisation, text analysis, and scene study. 4 cr, either sem.

COM FT 457 American Masterworks

Subjects vary with the instructor. Directors discussed include D. W. Griffith, Charlie Chaplin, Buster Keaton, King Vidor, Frank Borzage, Victor Fleming, Howard Hawks, Frank Capra, Alfred Hitchcock, John Ford, John Huston, Elia Kazan, George Cukor, Orson Welles, Robert Altman, John Cassavetes, and Woody Allen. 4 cr, 1st sem.

COM FT 458 International Masterworks

Subjects vary with the instructor. Directors discussed include Carle Dreyer, Satyajit Ray, Sergei Eisenstein, V. I. Pudovkin, Jean Renoir, Rene Clair, Andrzej Wajda, Jean-Luc Godard, Michelangelo Antonioni, Federico Fellini, Ingmar Bergman, Akira Kurosawa, Bernardo Bertolucci, and Luis Bunuel. 4 cr, 2nd sem.

COM FT 465 Video Production III

Prereq: COM FT 402 or 403. Emphasizes the conceptual aspects of advanced program development and production design. Students produce longer form, single camera productions. Advanced workshops and class critiques of various stages of production provide support for students' independent creative works. 4 cr, 2nd sem.

COM FT 468 Film Production III

Prereq: COM FT 403. Enrollment limited to sixteen seniors who have done outstanding work in COM FT 403 Film Production II. Students complete a total of 120 minutes of short films during the spring semester. Conferences and workshops provide support and guidance, emphasizing the thorough execution of every step of preproduction, principal photography, and postproduction. Maximum running time for each film is fifteen minutes; there is no set minimum. 4 cr, 2nd sem.

COM FT 491, 492 Directed Studies

Prereq: consent of instructor. Individual, supervised study for advanced students wishing to undertake a screenplay or research project, or to develop an in-depth reading program. 4 cr, either sem.

COM FT 493, 494 Internship

Prereq: senior standing and an overall GPA of 3.0. Opportunity for students to gain professional experience at television and radio stations, film and video production houses, and other media institutions. Responsibilities vary. Availability depends on market needs. 2 cr and 4 cr internships available, either sem.

COM FT 502 Sound Design for Film and Television

Prereq: COM FT 351 or COM FT 353. A comprehensive technical examination and creative analysis of sound as an emotional motivator and major storytelling component in both fiction and nonfiction films. Covers location sound recording, acoustic theory, track building, foley and dialog replacement, and mix preparation, as well as a discussion of music editing and composition. Introduces a variety of postproduction pathways and technologies, with current digital innovations in the field and in audio postproduction, as well as providing an ongoing workshop for solving editing and track-building problems. 4 cr, either sem.

COM FT 504 Video Postproduction I

Prereq: COM FT 353. This course teaches all aspects of video post production including window dubbing, rough cuts, A/B editing, non-linear editing, digital graphics, digital sound, and the integration of all of these processes and technologies that apply to the post production completion of video projects. Familiarity with Macintosh computers is desirable. Experience with video time code editing is a necessity. 4 cr, either sem.

COM FT 505 Television Production Hothouse

Prereq: COM FT 325; 353, or 351; 504 or 565. Students will hone their producing skills as they develop projects from proposals to pilots. Proposals, brought to the table by faculty, outside clients, and students, will include documentaries, dramas, series, children's programs, and PSA's for local TV stations. 2 or 4 cr, either sem.

COM FT 507 Television Studio Production

Prereq: COM FT 353. Continuation of the study of television studio production, and the development of those formats that are best suited to it. Emphasizes the creative use of studio technology. 4 cr, either sem.

COM FT 510 Television Aesthetics

Encourages students to think creatively about the future of the medium. Studies television as an art form and its relation to other arts. Considers how television affects the way people see themselves and their surroundings. Lectures, screenings, and discussions. 4 cr, 2nd sem.

COM FT 512 Writing Episodic Drama

Prereq: COM FT 310, 314, or 709. Deals with the process and techniques of writing a dramatic series for network and cable television. Students will write a full one-hour script. Lectures will be given on one-hour story structure, genres, and character development. View and analyze series from the past and present focusing on character development and relationships, story structure, and plot lines. 4 cr, 1st sem.

COM FT 514 Advanced Writing for Television

Prereq: COM FT 522 or COM FT 512. Explores the development and creation of the television series pilot. Each student will pitch a concept and write a treatment and a finished pilot script for an original series, either comedy or drama. Emphasis on premise, story structure, characterization, and originality. Lectures, screenings, script readings, written assignments, and critiques. 4 cr, either sem.

COM FT 515 International Television

Survey of telecommunications in various nations; analysis of the impact of cultural, economic, demographic, and political factors on both their internal and external operation. Also explored is the dynamic international telecommunications field, its impact on understanding and commerce between nations, and its meaning for the United States. 4 cr, offered occasionally.

COM FT 517 Television Management

Prereq: COM FT 303. The responsibilities associated with management positions at radio and television stations and cable outlets. Lectures, readings, case studies, and visits from persons now working in these positions develop the student's understanding of a variety of managerial functions and the challenges these functions entail. 4 cr, 2nd sem.

COM FT 522 Writing Situation Comedies

Prereq: COM FT 314 or COM FT 310. Intensive exploration in the key elements of the sitcom: character development, story structure, pitching, formats, writing, and polishing. Successful participants will have a completed "spec" script for the current television market. 4 cr, either sem.

COM FT 523 Understanding Marketing and Sales

A comprehensive look into the business of television and radio sales and marketing. Respected professionals occasionally guest-lecture on this important and ever-changing area. 4 cr, either sem.

COM FT 525 Producing II

Prereq: COM FT 325; grad prereq: COM FT 727. Course takes the student through the process of creating a fictional program or film. The course covers comedy and drama series and movies-of -the-week from development through production and post-production. The student learns the complexities of the industry, the layers of decision makers to be dealt with, the place of agents, the nature of negotiation, and the requirements of sponsors, networks, and others for commercial time or commercial intent. 4 cr, either sem.

COM FT 526 Directing the Theatrical and Television Film

Prereq: COM FT 456 or CFA DR 123 or consent of the instructor. Students learn all aspects of directing, including script analysis, preproduction planning, casting and rehearsing actors, shooting styles, blocking, composition and camera placement, working with the editor, and use of the musical score. 4 cr, either sem.

COM FT 527 Lighting

Prereq: COM FT 351. An intensive combination of lecture, demonstration, and hands-on work in lighting. Film and video systems, from the camera to the transfer, are explained, explored, and used. Guest lecturers and field trips to production facilities and shooting locations are part of this course. 4 cr, either sem.

COM FT 533 American Independent Film

A survey of cinema from the past three decades originating outside of the studio system. Though the screening list changes from semester to semester, filmmakers to be dealt with include Elaine May, Barbara Loden, John Cassavetes, Robert Kramer, Mark Rappaport, and Charles Burnett, among others. 4 cr, 2nd sem.

COM FT 535 Film Analysis

Focuses on a particular director (Godard, Hitchcock, Altman, Losey, Bergman, etc.), period, or style (film noir, suspense), and studies how meaning is structured and perceived in the screen image. Includes viewing and analysis of narrative strategies in selected films. 4 cr, 1st sem.

COM FT 536 Film Theory and Criticism

An introduction to classical and contemporary film and media theory. Topics include montage theory, realism, structuralism, post-structuralism, semiotics, psychoanalysis, phenomenology, and cultural studies. The course includes screenings of films that have contributed to critical debate and those that challenge theoretical presuppositions. 4 cr, 2nd sem.

COM FT 542 Advanced Screenwriting

Prereq: COM FT 412. The student will write a first-draft screenplay and two sets of revisions. 4 cr, either sem.

COM FT 543 Television Comedy

Examines the forms comedy has taken in television and determines critical methods for evaluating and judging this particular form of entertainment. 4 cr, 1st sem.

COM FT 545 Television and Childhood

Examines the important role played by television in child development and culture, with special reference to the provision and content of programming for children of different ages, from preschool to adolescence. 4 cr, 1st sem.

COM FT 551 Designing the Short Film

This course explores the aesthetic and technical parameters of the short film format, with the goal of celebrating short form as a genre in and of itself. 4 cr, 1st sem.

COM FT 552, 553, 554 Special Topics/Various

Prereq: only when specified. Details are available from the Department of Film and Television. Topics vary with the instructor. Recent offerings have included the films of Mike Leigh, American films of the '60s, introduction to interactive television programming, multimedia for television producers, and women directors. 4 cr, either sem.

COM FT 555 Narrative Documentary Practicum

Prereq: B+ in COM FT 402, FT 403, or FT 850. This course, designed for advanced film and television production students, focuses on the highly specialized filmmaking techniques demanded of the narrative documentary; that is, films about real people set within classic fiction structures. The practicum also traces the narrative documentary's rich legacy: from Vertov in the '20s through the Direct Cinema movement of the '60s, and on to the present day wealth of forms brought on by digital filmmaking technology. 4 cr, 1st sem.

COM FT 560 The Documentary

Surveys the history of the documentary and the changes brought about by the advent of television. Examines the outlook for the documentary idea in national and international markets. Periodic highlighting of special areas such as the portrayal of war, historical events, drama-documentary, and propaganda. Students develop critical and professional skills. Lectures, screenings, discussions. 4 cr, either sem.

COM FT 561 Television Drama

Surveys the history of television drama from its `live' beginnings in the 1950s to contemporary taped and filmed series, mini-series, and specials. The critical evaluation of such forms as sitcoms, soap operas, and regularly scheduled dramatic series from the perspective of the producer, writer, and director. Lectures, screenings, writing reviews, and discussions. 4 cr, 2nd sem.

COM FT 563 French New Wave

A comprehensive survey of the most important directors and films of this vital film movement which arguably changed the course of world cinema. Directors include Godard, Charbol, Rohmer, Truffaut, Resnais, Varda. In addition to class screenings, some outside viewing may be required. 4 cr, offered occasionally.

COM FT 565 Digital Editing

Prereq: COM FT 403 or COM FT 402. This course is designed for film students with prior editing experience. Students edit a variety of scenes from feature films and dramatic television shows to develop advanced editing skills and to acquire a high level of proficiency on the Avid. 4 cr, either sem.

COM FT 567 Film Styles

"Style" is a term that crops up routinely in discussions of film, but does it really mean anything? Through the careful study of a broad variety of films, we will compile a catalog of stylistic components which critic and filmmaker alike can use to think more clearly about this slippery concept. How does one create a style? How does style influence narrative? What tools does a director use to create distinctive style? Using feature films and film clips, this course will answer these and other questions about film style. 4 cr, 1st sem.

COM FT 573/574 BUTV

Provides students with the opportunity to develop and produce television programs for student television station BUTV10, and for student-operated production group Growling Dog Productions. 2 cr, either sem.

COM FT 593 Cinematography

Prereq: COM FT 351. Based on a fundamental knowledge of technical and creative procedures of film production, this course pays deeper attention to important elements of cinematography such as composition, raw stock, sensitometry, lighting, movement, colors, and space. Emphasis is on a conscious usage of pictorial elements in the picture-building process. 4 cr, either sem.

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Journalism

Courses preceded by (**) are not counted in the COM limit of 11 journalism courses.

COM JO 301 Production and Design

Principle and laboratory practice in newspaper and magazine production and design. Analysis of principles of layout; particular attention to typography, graphics, and headlines. 4 cr, either sem.

COM JO 307 Newswriting and Reporting I

Prereq: CAS WR 150 or CAS EN 201 and COM CO 201. Required entry-level course for all journalism students. Examines the fundamentals of newswriting and news gathering. Stresses the elements of style, structure, and syntax in writing clear and concise copy on deadline. 4 cr, either sem.

COM JO 308 Newswriting and Reporting II

Prereq: COM JO 307. Advanced newswriting, with emphasis on street and beat reporting. 4 cr, either sem.

COM JO 309 Feature Writing

Prereq: COM JO 308. Writing feature articles for newspapers. Covers markets open to free-lance writers, published articles, newspaper feature sections, and Sunday supplements. 4 cr, either sem.

COM JO 357 History and Principles of Journalism

Surveys the evolution of the American press and electronic journalism and their influence in our democracy. Includes freedom of the press, ethics, professional goals, technical developments, social responsibilities, and literature. 4 cr, either sem.

COM JO 403 Magazine Writing and Editing

Prereq: COM JO 308. Students learn to research, write, and edit lengthy articles of national magazine quality. 4 cr, either sem.

COM JO 408 Magazine Workshop

Prereq: COM JO 308. Students conceptualize, write, edit, design, and publish two magazines, using desktop technology. Students should know Microsoft Word for Macintosh or a comparable program. Although PageMaker instruction is included in the class, PageMaker tutorials from Personal Computing Support Services are recommended. PageMaker tutorial disks are also available in the Mac labs and students are encouraged to use them. 4 cr, 1st sem.

COM JO 411/412 Journalism Internship

Prereq: COM JO 307 and COM JO 308; B average in COM courses; must be a junior or senior. Valuable on-the-job practice of journalism skills. Provides student with portfolio of professional work. The student works 150 hours per semester or summer at the internship. Assistance in placement; instructor must approve project. Comprehensive paper, employer evaluation, and portfolio required at end of semester. 2 or 4 cr, either sem.

COM JO 415 Advanced Reporting and Research Methods

Prereq: COM JO 308. A thorough grounding in more advanced reporting and writing methods, including records searches, use of online databanks, and other investigative techniques. 4 cr, either sem.

COM JO 490 Directed Studies

Prereq: consent of instructor. Students work with faculty on individual research, professional training, or special studies. 4 cr, either sem.

COM JO 500 Media Criticism

This challenging course prepares the student to review the products of journalism with a critical eye by exploring real events, how they are described in news reports and essays, and how these reports stand up to the highest standards of accuracy, fairness, and truth. 4 cr, either sem.

COM JO 501 Introduction to Business and Economic Reporting

Prereq: COM JO 308. Comprehensive training in writing business and economics stories, using articles in The Wall Street Journal and other publications as examples. Emphasis on developing clear, simple language to describe complex issues. No prior background in business or economics is required. The material covered is useful to all journalism beats, from sports to politics and the arts. 4 cr, either sem.

COM JO 502 Special Studies

Prereq: COM JO 308. Every year, several courses have been created under this category to examine current journalism issues in seminar format. Course titles include Arts Criticism, Investigative Reporting, and Social Aspects of American Journalism. 4 cr, either sem.

COM JO 503 Journalism Basic Research Methods

Covers online reportorial and research techniques. 4 cr.

COM JO 506 Columns and Editorials

Prereq: COM JO 308. This is a course in writing with a point of view. It includes instruction in op-ed columns as well as personal columns, which are short personal essays. 4 cr, either sem.

COM JO 507 Advanced Newspaper Writing

Aims to develop a critical sensibility, to teach some of the rudiments of critical theory and practice as it applies to journalists, and to provide practice in the craft. 4 cr, 1st sem.

COM JO 509 Literary Journalism

Prereq: COM JO 403, other COM upper-level writing course, or consent of instructor. Seniors and graduate students. An overview of journalism as literature. Students read, analyze, and discuss works of nonfiction by writers working in the book, newspaper, and magazine areas. Students analyze both form and content and produce a major article in one of four forms: the profile, the critical essay, personal journalism, or the "place" piece. 4 cr, either sem.

COM JO 514 Sports Journalism

Prereq: COM JO 308. A specialized writing course for students interested in a career in sports journalism. Covers game stories, features, columns, and profiles, as well as examining sport as a commercial enterprise. 4 cr, either sem.

COM JO 516 Foreign Reporting

Prereq: COM JO 308 or consent of instructor. See description in "Broadcast Journalism" section. 4 cr, either sem.

COM JO 518 Advanced Online Journalism

Prereq: COM JO 540. Selected students define, design, report, and publish a bi-weekly Internet multimedia website. 4 cr, 2nd sem.

COM JO 519 Advanced Radio

Students further develop radio journalism and production skills utilizing digital audio editing facilities. 4 cr, either sem.

COM JO 520 Advanced Production and Design

Students learn advanced typography, visual composition, and enhancement of communication through visual language. 4 cr, either sem.

COM JO 523 The Presidency and the Media

Students follow the week-to-week interaction of the president and the media, while examining the evolution of relations between journalists and American presidents from FDR to Bush. 4 cr, either sem.

COM JO 525 Media Law and Ethics

An examination of the many ethical issues and dilemmas that face reporters, editors, and producers and how to resolve them with professional integrity. Danger of actions for contempt or defamation, laws of copyright and intellectual property. 4 cr, either sem.

COM JO 533 The Essay

Intensive study and writing of essays. 4 cr, either sem.

COM JO 538 Feature Writing

Writing feature articles for newspapers. Course open only to graduate students in 1st semester. Graduates and undergraduates can enroll in 2nd semester upon completion of COM JO 308 or 721. 4 cr.

COM JO 539 Electronic Copy Editing

Covers copy editing, page design, and pagination for newspapers and magazines. 4 cr, either sem.

COM JO 540 Multimedia Publishing

Open to COM seniors and graduate students with Macintosh familiarity and consent of instructor. Each student creates an interactive journalistic project using computers. Students use their individual writing, reporting, photography, and audio/video skills to develop a concept, produce separate elements, and assemble a complete project. 4 cr, either sem.

**COM JO 545 Reporting Military Affairs

The role of the press in covering international conflicts, as well as the responsibilities of the press to cover military policies, procedures, and programs during peacetime. 4 cr, 2nd sem.

COM JO 546 Filing for Newspapers

Part of the Boston Statehouse Program. Prereq: previous news writing and reporting courses. Students follow a daily routine of communicating with their editors. Assignments and story ideas are discussed and plotted. Students are assigned to Massachusetts daily newspapers and are required to generate two to three stories a week. 8 cr, both semesters.

Broadcast Journalism

COM JO 351 Writing and Reporting for Broadcast News

Prereq: COM JO 307. Introductory writing and reporting for both television and radio using audiotape recorders and television electronic news-gathering equipment as reportorial tools. 4 cr, either sem.

COM JO 357 History and Principles of Journalism

See description under Journalism.

COM JO 413 Broadcast Journalism Internship

Prereq: consent of instructor and junior standing. On-the-job observation and training at a television or radio station. Comprehensive paper/employer evaluation required at end of semester. 2 cr, either sem.

COM JO 431 Enterprise Reporting

Prereq: COM JO 451. Broadcast journalism majors only. Transferring various forms of investigative news stories into broadcast terms. Field reporting, fashioning material into news broadcast format, and intensive research and writing. 4 cr, 2nd sem.

COM JO 435 Radio Journalism

Prereq: COM JO 307 or consent of instructor. Students produce a half-hour radio newscast which airs live on the student radio station, WTBU, at the end of each class. Students learn to work as producers, writers, reporters, sportscasters, and engineers under deadline pressure. They report live from around the city with breaking news reports. 4 cr, either sem.

COM JO 451 Television Newsroom

Prereq: COM JO 351 and consent of instructor. Portapak and reporting skills used to produce an evening television newscast under realistic deadlines and pressure. Complete use of production facilities and television studios. 4 cr, 1st sem.

COM JO 491 Directed Studies: Broadcast Journalism

Prereq: consent of instructor. Students work with faculty on individual research, professional training, or special studies. 4 cr, either sem.

COM JO 516 Foreign Reporting

Techniques and problems of foreign correspondents in print and broadcast journalism. Studies coverage of major international events, personalities, and perspectives. 4 cr, either sem.

COM JO 519 Advanced Radio Journalism

Prereq: COM JO 435 or consent of instructor. Students learn National Public Radio style reporting, writing, and interviewing skills. Students produce longer narrative style stories using state-of-the-art digital audio recording and editing equipment. Students are encouraged to submit their stories to public radio programs for regional or national broadcast. 4 cr, either sem.

COM JO 534 Broadcast News for Nonmajors

Basic instruction in broadcast techniques for nonbroadcast students. 4 cr, 2nd sem.

COM JO 709 TV News Management

Prereq: senior standing, consent of instructor. Students examine the profession of management as it relates to broadcast news operations. In-depth analysis of news organizations, both network and local, budgets, personnel management, policy development, and ethical considerations with practical case study approach. 4 cr, 1st sem.

Photojournalism

COM JO 305 Basic Photography

Introduction to still photography. Using a 35 mm camera, students learn the fundamentals of black-and-white photography and darkroom skills, including processing film and making prints. 4 cr, either sem.

COM JO 312 Introduction to Photojournalism

Prereq: COM JO 305. An introductory course for students interested in pursuing a career in photojournalism. Students photograph assignments under working press conditions, and advance their skills in both film-based and digital 35 mm photography. 4 cr, either sem.

COM JO 410 Advanced Photography for Non-Majors

Prereq: COM JO 305. A course for non-photojournalism majors interested in advancing their skills in all forms of photography. 4 cr, 2nd sem.

COM JO 502 Professional Portfolio

Prereq: COM JO 312. A course preparing students for entry into a career in photojournalism. Weekly assignment work is designed to build a professional-quality portfolio, and to advance critical journalism skills including story development, writing, and meeting deadlines. 4 cr, 2nd sem.

COM JO 513 Advanced Photojournalism

Prereq: COM JO 312 and consent of instructor. An intensive course designed to give students the skills to produce professional-quality work meeting publication standards. Weekly assignments require students to produce self-generated picture packages, complete with written story and captions. 4 cr, either sem.

COM JO 515 Photo Editing

A course introducing students to the responsibilities and duties of the professional picture editor with emphasis on skills needed for production of Internet-based multi-media packages. By working in teams on multi-media projects, students learn layout and design, digital imaging, and sound recording and editing. 4 cr, either sem.

COM JO 537 Digital Fundamentals

A course allowing students to develop expertise in the use of digital photo technology including digital cameras, image management, remote transmission of photos, output to printers, and use of photos on a website. 4 cr, 2nd sem.

Mass Communication, Advertising, and Public Relations

COM CM 301 Principles and Practices of Public Relations

An introduction to the field of public relations: its theoretical origins, its scope, and its principles. Discussion focuses on researching problems, setting objectives, identifying audiences, designing messages, choosing communication channels, and evaluating results for all types of organizations. Ethical decision making, online communication, and career opportunities are also analyzed through the use of case studies in the field. The format is a combination of lecture and small-group discussion, case analysis, and guest lecture. 4 cr, either sem.

COM CM 303 Organizational Structure and Behavior

Principles and practices in organizing and directing human effort in light of current findings from sociology, psychology, and industrial management studies. Leadership, motivation, goal attainment, and other concepts against a background of organizational theory. 4 cr, either sem.

COM CM 311 Oral Presentations

Introduces students to theories and skills of effective public address through an intensive battery of practical public speaking assignments. Key course topics include clear, reasoned organization of messages; effective use of evidence; audience analysis and adaptation; skilled verbal, nonverbal, and audio/visual delivery; group communication; principles of persuasion and argument; critical listening and evaluation of public address. 4 cr, either sem.

COM CM 313 Corporate Communication

Prereq: COM CM 301. Explores the trends and issues affecting corporations, crisis management, public affairs communication, consumer affairs, employee relations, environmental problems, and issues of multinationals. Uses case studies. 4 cr, either sem.

COM CM 317 Introduction to Advertising

The history, nature, function, and social and economic aspects of advertising: ethical responsibilities, psychological appeals, marketing, media research, product analysis, creative strategies, and agency operation. Students prepare comprehensive advertising plans including marketing strategy and speculative advertising campaigns. 4 cr, either sem.

COM CM 321 Mass Communication Research

Introduction to the philosophy and process of social-scientific research and the most common methods used to study mass communication. Includes a variety of research methods, an examination of data-analysis procedures, and an analysis of mass communication issues. 4 cr, either sem.

COM CM 323 Design in Communication

The power of the visual image in advertising and public relations. Students analyze the aesthetics of graphic images: color, line, tone, and shape. How logos, visual images, and graphic design are used to persuade the audience. Students create print ads, brochures, and collateral materials used by the public relations and advertising industries. 4 cr, either sem.

COM CM 331 Writing for Communication

Intensive exposure to some of the basic writing formats in communications: news releases, letters, features, and profiles. Lead writing, editing, and techniques of interviewing. Extensive writing and rewriting. Develop basic writing skills for various audiences. 4 cr, either sem.

COM CM 345 Public Relations in Nonprofit Settings

Prereq: COM CM 301. Focus on the role of managed communication and marketing in public relations problems unique to health, education, and human and public service organizations. Analysis of organizational structure, publics, public relations and communication programs, and fund-raising practices of these agencies. 4 cr, either sem.

COM CM 380 Theory and Process of Communication

Focuses on the processes and consequences of both interpersonal and mass communication and how they differ. Discussions include the nature of verbal and nonverbal communication and the role of language in cognitive processing. Review of the factors that have shaped the nature of contemporary media, their content, and their audiences. Examines theories of the process and effects of mass communication and how these relate to the goals and activities of professional communicators. 4 cr, either sem.

COM CM 405 Advertising Media Planning and Buying

Prereq: COM CM 317. Examines media planning, buying, and sales as performed by advertising agencies, clients, and the media. Research sources providing data on media audiences and product usage are evaluated. Examines contemporary trends in communications media and their effects on advertisers. 4 cr, either sem.

COM CM 409 Persuasion and Public Opinion

The theories, strategy, and techniques of persuasion as a means of shaping public opinion and attitudes. How individuals, business, government, and institutions craft messages and communicate through the press, entertainment media, advertising, and public relations. Ascertaining and understanding the beliefs, attitudes, and values of groups and society. 4 cr, either sem.

COM CM 411 Art Direction

Prereq: COM CM 317, CM 331, and CM 417. A course for students intending to pursue careers as advertising art directors. The fundamental skills and understanding required to communicate a strong, effective conceptual idea will be covered in this class. Focusing on the print medium, it will be a hands-on, idea-driven class involving students in typography, photography and illustration selection, and layout and design decisions. The art director's role in other media such as broadcast will be explored as well. Experience with the industry graphics software QuarkXPress and Adobe Photoshop will be helpful. 4 cr, either sem.

COM CM 412 Account Planning

Prereq: COM CM 317. Explores how to arrive at consumer insights that lead to better advertising and promotion. The course focuses on the set of skills necessary to create breakthrough advertising, including qualitative research, observation, interviewing skills, mapping, and presentation tools. Students learn to write effective, creative briefs. 4 cr, either sem.

COM CM 416 Problem Solving in Advertising

Prereq: COM CM 317. Explores the impact of current advertising and marketing issues from business, economic, political, social, legal, and ethical perspectives. Modified case method, with lectures from experts on selected issues. 4 cr, 2nd sem.

COM CM 417 Advertising Copy and Design

Prereq: COM CM 317 and CM 331. Writing advertising copy and designing effective layouts based on clients' advertising strategies. The course teaches the foundations for the development of effective advertising: creative concepts, big ideas, building campaigns, writing, and preparing layouts. Emphasis on print advertising. 4 cr, either sem.

COM CM 419 Advertising Management

Prereq: COM CM 317. Administration of a complete advertising program. Case-study method used to explore the marketing mix, budgeting, medial strategy, planning, coordinating advertising with promotion, working with client or agency, and the social responsibility of advertisers. 4 cr, either sem.

COM CM 420 AdLab

Prereq: COM CM 317. Experience in student-run, full-service advertising agency. Students organize, manage, and perform all functions: solicit business, perform market and consumer research, contact clients, write plans, create advertising campaigns, evaluate media, and prepare campaign evaluations. Work is for community-service agencies. 2 cr per semester, either sem.

COM CM 423 Portfolio Development for Advertising

Prereq: COM CM 317, 331, and 417. A course for students intending to work in the creative area of the advertising industry. Throughout the semester, students develop a portfolio of advertising campaigns for presentation during their search for employment at advertising agencies. Print and broadcast ads are designed to provide solutions to the clients' marketing problems. 4 cr, either sem.

COM CM 441 Media Relations

Prereq: COM CM 301 and 331. Students study a variety of publicity tactics (news conferences, feature placements, special events, and media tours), which they combine into publicity campaign plans. Involves lectures, in-class discussions, video cases, and individual take-home cases. Students are encouraged to plan campaigns in their area of interest. 4 cr, either sem.

COM CM 471 Communication Internship

Prereq: senior status, COM CM 331, and a COM GPA of 3.0 or higher. Students are placed in advertising and public relations agencies, communication departments of firms, sales departments of firms, sales departments of media, and sales promotion agencies. Minimum of 15 hours per week during school semesters, or full time during the summer. Instructor and sponsor oversee student work. A comprehensive final report completes coursework. 4 cr, either sem.

COM CM 473 PRLab

Prereq: COM CM 301 and CM 331. A full-service, student-run public relations agency. Students work professionally on an individual basis with nonprofit clients to develop, assist, and implement public relations programs. Course provides students with hands-on experience. Minimum of 6 hours per week working in the field. 2 or 4 cr, either sem.

COM CM 474 Directed Study

Prereq: consent of instructor and advisor. Individual or group project on specific problems in communication. Variable cr, either sem.

COM CM 481 Law of Communication

Study of the laws that apply to communication practitioners. Topics covered include the First Amendment, defamation, invasion of privacy, copyright, regulation of advertising, obscenity, indecency, and the Internet. 4 cr, 2nd sem.

COM CM 508 Video Production for Advertising and Public Relations

An introduction to the techniques and principles used in designing and directing video productions for advertising and public relations purposes. Use of videography, composition, color, lighting, editing, sound, and special effects in producing news releases, interviews, talk shows, and commercials. 4 cr, either sem.

COM CM 510 Computers in Communication

Introduction to the personal computer as a tool for human communication. Shows how computers are used to design, produce, and deliver communication in publishing, advertising, entertainment, and education. Students learn to use basic computer tools to build works of communication in a variety of media, including text, images, numbers, sound, and video. 4 cr, either sem.

COM CM 513 Investor Relations

Prereq: COM CM 301. Students examine the challenges of marketing a company to the financial community. The course is broken down into three areas: the development of IR as a profession; the tools of the trade, such as bonds and stocks; and the field's communication techniques. Students prepare case analyses as a way of understanding various SEC disclosure requirements, communication with analysts and the media, and financial marketing techniques. Core public relations requirements should be fulfilled before taking this course. 4 cr, 1st sem.

COM CM 514 New Communication Technologies

Course prepares students for careers in an environment of constant technological development and institutional change. Provides an overview of current and near-future developments in telecommunications; a theoretical base and exercise in systems analysis for assessing the potential uses and importance of these technologies in media-related institutions; and consideration of legal, regulatory, and social issues that these technologies and their uses may raise for telecommunications and media industries and society in general. 4 cr, 1st sem.

COM CM 515 Community Relations

Prereq: COM CM 301. A complete examination of the evolution of community relations, the theory behind it, and the techniques employed by its professionals. Using a case-study approach, students learn how to select a site for expansion; conduct a community relations audit; work with state, local, and federal governments; and develop sound relationships with the media and with advocacy groups in the corporate and nonprofit arenas. 4 cr, 2nd sem.

COM CM 518 Creating Broadcast Advertising

Prereq: COM CM 317, 331, and 417. Techniques for creating television advertising that attract viewer attention and hold it. Students create advertising concepts, write commercials, prepared story boards, and consider the problems of casting, directing, editing, and testing. 4 cr, either sem.

COM CM 519 Interactive Marketing Communications

Prereq: COM CM 317. An overview of the theories, practices, and techniques in the emerging field of interactive marketing communications (IAMC). Students gain an understanding of the strategy and tactics of IAMC and its place in the more comprehensive business of marketing communications. In addition, students review IAMC's relationship to and its effects on society, culture, and the economic system. 4 cr, either sem.

COM CM 523 Designing Interactive Communication

Prereq: COM CM 414, COM JO 540, or COM CM 716. Focuses on designing communications that combine several media and are interactive on the computer. Using the software tools that are used in the multimedia industry, students learn to conceptualize, design, prepare, and program works for eventual publication on CD-ROM and Internet. Topics include planning, animation, user interface design, prototyping, permissioning, and usability testing. 4 cr, either sem.

COM CM 527 Creative Solutions in Advertising

Prereq: COM CM 317, CM 331, and CM 417. This course is designed to help you address specific creative challenges you will face in an agency, such as introductory, food, fashion, brand image, and product life cycle problems. You'll learn which creative approaches work best in certain business situations, and you will write and design your own print advertising suitable for your portfolio. 4 cr, either sem.

COM CM 531 Intercultural Communication

Examines communicative problems that arise in contact between people from different cultural backgrounds in everyday life, social service encounters, business and international service. Uses interdisciplinary approaches to study how verbal and nonverbal presentation, ethnic, gender, and cultural differences affect communication. 4 cr, 1st sem.

COM CM 534 Communication Strategies in Negotiation and Conflict Resolution

Addresses both strategies and theories of negotiation and conflict resolution. Emphasis on communication skills necessary in everyday business situations, including labor management disputes, confrontation between interest groups, international disputes, and resolution of conflict between an organization and its stakeholders. In addition to readings, there is an emphasis on case analyses, role play, and guest lectures. 4 cr, either sem.

COM CM 535 Political Campaigning

Critical evaluation of political campaign strategies and tactics within the sociopolitical environment. The roles of campaign managers, media consultants, pollsters, press secretaries, and field operatives are studied. Analysis of the impact of press coverage, political advertising, and candidate debates on the electorate. 4 cr, either sem.

COM CM 555 Advanced Promotional Writing

Prereq: COM CM 331. In-depth focus on client-based promotional writing. Course includes developing story ideas, angles and writing feature stories for trade, business, and special interest magazine markets, as well as researching and writing a brochure/video package. Also includes multimedia workshops and guest lecturers and clients throughout the semester. 4 cr, either sem.

COM CM 561, 562 Specialized Areas of Communication Practice

Prereq: consent of instructor. Intensive exploration of specialized applications of communication skills. Offerings announced at time of registration. Variable cr, either sem.

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22 October 2007
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