Undergraduate Strategic Communication Emphasis Courses
COM 223 Persuasion in Communication
3 Credits
Students will learn to apply persuasion theories to create and evaluate persuasive messages. This course focuses on the various contexts for persuasion, the importance of identifying the audience, and the central role of culture. Students will explore a range of reasoning processes, motivational appeals, and ethical considerations to enhance their critical thinking skills and become more informed citizens and consumers in a media age.
COM 325 Communication & Conflict
3 Credits
In this course, students explore the central role of communication in conflict and conflict resolution. Students will analyze the many constructive and destructive dimensions of conflict, apply communication concepts to conflict scenarios, explore the ethical dimensions of conflict, evaluate conflict resolution techniques for their effectiveness, and examine the role of culture in conflict, at the interpersonal, small group, and organizational levels. Prerequisites: ENG 121 and ENG 122 or equivalents.
COM 370 Intercultural Communication
3 Credits
This course introduces students to the key elements of intercultural communication and provides them with tools they can use to understand both their own culture and those of others. Learners will come to comprehend culture's role in presenting and understanding ourselves, understanding and interacting with others, accomplishing common goals, and resolving problems. By reading scholarly articles, watching videos, and engaging with classmates, students will better understand culture as a force and the values, beliefs, and customs on which cultures are built. Students will develop a deeper understanding of their identities, group affiliations, and the cultural dynamics of verbal, nonverbal, and symbolic communication.