Course Descriptions

COM 101 - Introduction to Mass Media
An introduction to communication theory and practice, the history of mass media, and an examination of the business of the American mass media. Additional topics will include media support industries, such as advertising and public relations. 3 Credits.

COM 114 - Communication Theory
A broad overview of principles and theories of human communication and rhetoric, this course explores communication processes in a variety of contexts, including intrapersonal, interpersonal, group, and mass communication. 3 Credits.

COM 115 - Computer Generated Images
This course presents introductory hands-on experiences in exploring the potential of multimedia computer software, special graphic effects and computer imaging techniques as a creative medium. The focus of the course is on exploring how computers and traditional photographic and video technologies are coming together as tools for creating unique graphic images. 3 Credits.

COM 118 - First Year Seminar in Communication
This introduction to the Communication and Media Studies program provides the foundation and resources to support student success and transfer to a 4-year school to pursue a communication career. Students will be introduced to the MCC culture, resources and technology, along with success strategies and coping skills in time management, critical thinking and problem solving, personal accountability, commitment and engagement. Additional focus will be placed on writing in the discipline, information literacy, and research skills with an emphasis on developing academic, financial and career plans to meet their goals. A student can only enroll and earn credit for one college orientation course. 3 Credits.

COM 142 - Broadcast Performance
Practice in devising and participating in various kinds of radio and television performances, including news, sports, commercials, promotional announcements, and interviews. 3 Credits.

COM 150 - Video Production I
A combination lecture/lab course designed to introduce students to creating video productions on location. Emphasis is placed on the use of portable video cameras, various lighting and audio equipment, and non-linear editing software. Through preproduction assignments and the critical examination of various productions, students will utilize learned videographic and editing skills to create various lab based videos. 3 Credits.

COM 167 (see AAD 167) -
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COM 202 - Techniques of Television I
Introduction to the basic aspects of technical and production techniques of television and related audio systems used in the medium. Emphasis will be placed on theory and use of television equipment, direction, lighting, television graphics, scripting, basic engineering, distribution systems, and studio personnel. In addition to the student-produced and directed assignments, members of the class will participate in production crews. 3 Credits.

COM 203 - Compositing and Visual Effects
This intermediate course focuses on the study of live action video manipulation. Working with contemporary hardware and software, students will begin learning about and creating common audio and visual effects. The student will examine and explore historical uses of video effects to guide them in the creation of their own classroom projects. 3 Credits.

COM 204 - Audio Production
An introductory exploration of audio productions techniques using digital audio editing tools as well as microphones and other audio sources. This course will cover production of audio projects as well as exercises using recording devices and digital editing software and new media technology. 3 Credits.

COM 211 - Practicum in Media I
A course designed to allow students to complete significant experiences within their discipline of study, including communication, art, music, and interior design. Students will be expected to spend a minimum of eight (8) hours per week in supervised contract learning situations. Students will work with the appropriate Visual and Performing Arts Department faculty member to identify, design, and complete contract learning opportunities. 3 Credits.

Prerequisite: Permission of a VaPA Department faculty member.

COM 212 - Techniques of Television II
Advanced techniques in the technical and production aspects of television programming. Emphasis will be placed on studio and control room operation, engineering experience, program planning and organization production and direction of individual assignments. Experience and theory of video recording will be given. Principles of TV signal distribution will be discussed. 3 Credits.

Prerequisite: COM 202.

COM 220 (see AAD 220) -
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COM 230 - Scriptwriting
Review and practice of the requirements for writing professionally formatted scripts used in short and feature films. Emphasis will be placed on writing short-form scripts and analyzing and discussing long-form dramatic scripts. 3 Credits.

Prerequisite: ENG 101 or ENG 200.

COM 235 (formerly COM 120) - Media Literacy
An introduction to the critical consumption of media that will focus on the ability to access, analyze, evaluate, act upon, and produce media messages, while developing effective communication and critical thinking skills. This course will investigate strategies in the creation of media messages, the power and influence of the media, and the influences on the audience when processing and acting on these messages. 3 Credits.

COM 240 (formerly COM 131) - Principles of Journalism
This course provides an overview of journalism principles and practices. Information covered includes discussion and interpretation of what is news, news reporting today, beat reporting, feature writing, and writing for the web. Students will learn to work alone and in teams to conduct interviews, find sources, and prepare news leads, news stories, and profiles. They will demonstrate their ability to write and edit balanced, accurate journalistic stories on deadline. 3 Credits.

Prerequisite(s): ENG 101 or ENG 200

COM 242 (formerly COM 130) - Media Writing
Media writing explores the different styles of writing for print media, broadcast media, the Web, advertising copy, and public relations materials. Students will learn how to gather information, write for specific audiences, and check for accuracy. This course will also discuss the legal implications of writing for the media. 3 Credits.

Prerequisite(s): ENG 101 or ENG 200

COM 244 - Social Media Strategies
This course will introduce students to the forms and applications of social media. Students will become familiar with a range of social media tools; analyze and discuss their uses and implications; and explore the ethics, psychology, and practice of social media. The course will examine each from user and creator standpoints, with a focus on how journalists, public relations professionals, and businesses use social media. 3 Credits.

COM 245 (formerly COM 109) - An Introduction to Public Relations
A survey of the roles and responsibilities of the public relations professional in private and public organizations. Examination of the importance of the audience and audience research in public relations program planning, how public relations differs from advertising and the use of traditional publicity tools like press releases and press kits to reach targeted audiences. Exploration of the use of the Internet to reach key stakeholders and its use as a distribution channel for publicity. Recognition of the importance of ethics, integrity and relationship building as a cornerstone of public relations. 3 Credits.

COM 247 - Organizational Communication
Communication within organizations flows through both formal and informal processes. This course introduces both the theories and practices applied to organizational communications. Students will examine the role of internal and external communication as it applies to the structure, goals, culture, leadership, conflicts and successes that exist within a variety of organizations. 3 Credits.

Prerequisite(s): ENG 101

COM 264 - Video Production II
An intermediate course that provides a continuation of the principles learned and practiced in Video Production I (COM 150) as they relate to camera operation. The student will add to their skills through advanced techniques in image acquisition with increased emphasis on editing of live-action video footage. Working with contemporary non-linear editing systems, the emphasis will be placed on the structure and pacing of a finished video project. 3 Credits.

Prerequisite: COM 150.

COM 267 - Video Editing
Students will be concentrating on advanced tools and techniques used to make high quality video clips and sound tracks. This will involve working with contemporary non-linear editing software. Real-time video editing, waveform sound editing and other methods of audio/video production will be stressed. 3 Credits.

Prerequisite(s): COM 150 or permission of instructor.

COM 270 - Media and Society
An examination and analysis of American mass media and the forces that influence them. Emphasis will be placed upon basic legal principles, the role of government in attempting to regulate the media, and the media's influence on our society. 3 Credits.

Prerequisites: COM 101