APPLIED COMMUNICATION COURSES | FILM STUDIES COURSES | JOURNALISM COURSES | MEDIA COMMUNICATION COURSES | MUSIC MANAGEMENT COURSES | THEATRE AND CINEMA PEFORMANCE COURSES
APPLIED COMMUNICATION COURSES
COM 130 (3) The Cultural Influence of Mass Media
Students develop their public speaking and critical thinking skills by examining how mass oratory and media impact culture. Starts with public speaking skills then analyzes contemporary messages in news, television entertainment, film, and the internet. Emphasis given to recognizing the cultural formation aspects of mass media and becoming better consumers of media by evaluating messages in the light of Biblical instruction and ethics.
COM 150 (3) Introduction to Communication
An exploration of the communication field with emphasis on various strands of communication study such as interpersonal; small group; media; and the preparation, composition, and presentation of public speeches. Examines the central role of communication in our society, our culture, and our individual identities, and also our role as critical evaluators of the messages we receive.
COM 211 (3) Fundamentals of Media Performance (Same as THA 211)
A study of the theories and techniques of performance in film, audio, video, and public address. Students will be given opportunities for performance in studio and other public communication settings. The course will acquaint students with the media performance industry, with emphasis on personal marketing and tools for employment.
COM 220 (3) interpersonal Communication
The primary goal of Interpersonal Communication is to provide increased student understanding of communication behaviors and increased potential for improved communication capabilities. Prerequisite: COM 150.
COM 221 (3) Narratives and Ideologies of Hollywood
Stories shape society, and the medium used shapes the stories. Blends mass media and narrative theory with theology as it looks at how stories are told in film, various television genres, radio, newspapers, magazines, and advertising. Emphasis given to understanding what Hollywood teaches theologically, how mass media stories shape modern culture, and then analyzing and creating stories for moral purposes.
COM 230 (3) Introduction to Leadership
Course will focus on leadership as a field of study and on the personal leadership development of each student. The course introduces students to several styles, characteristics, and practices of leadership, and examines dimensions of leadership in varied contexts. The course is preparatory for students placed in positions of designated or collaborative leadership.
COM 240 (1) Intercollegiate Forensics
For students who desire to participate in the intercollegiate forensic program. Practice in persuasion, extempore and impromptu speaking, oral interpretation and duo acting will be given. No more than three hours may be earned toward graduation and no more than one hour may be earned per semester.
COM 251 (3) Intercultural Communications
Focuses on introducing the fundamental topics, theories and theorists, cultural values models, concepts and themes that are at the center of research in intercultural communication. The application of that information will focus on identifying, understanding, and being able to effectively apply knowledge so as to increase ones cultural intelligence, particularly in the educational and business world.
COM 271 (3) Introduction to Communication Theory
An introductory, yet diversified, examination of various theories analyzing and describing the human communication process from different perspectives. Systematic examination of models, structural components, content, audiences and effects of communication and their interaction.
COM 311 (3) Strategies in Intercultural Communication (same as MIS 311)
Focuses upon the development of skills needed for effective, cross-cultural communication of the Gospel. Attention is given to strategic concerns such as the understanding of one's target audience, the task of identification with that target audience, and the effects of cultural differences on the communication process.
COM 331 (3) Group Communication and Leadership
The course is a study of the structure and dynamics of small groups with participation in the specialized forms of group discussion. Students will learn about the dynamics of group interaction with emphasis on leadership, subordinate participation, and problem solving, to encourage efficient and productive small group discussions.
COM 341 (3) Communication of the Gospel
This course is primarily designed to introduce the student to the art of teaching and preaching. It deals with the principles of interpreting Scripture, the relationship of theology to proclamation, the preparation of sermons, and other types of Christian proclamation.
COM 350 (3) Organizational Communication
A study of the methods and practice of key theories, propositions, and directions of communication patterns within organizations. (alternate years)
COM 351 (3) Persuasion
Contemporary theories and practices of persuasion. Analysis of persuasive communication as a form of social influence in interpersonal and mass audience contexts. Considers how persuasion works within human beings with emphasis on shaping behavior primarily by the spoken word.
COM 391 (1-3) Directed Study
A directed and supervised investigation of a selected research problem or issue in the field of applied communication. Reading and preparation of a scholarly paper or special project is included. Juniors may take 391, seniors 491; course credit for the major may be received only once. Contract.
COM 392 Directed Study
A directed and supervised investigation of a selected research problem or issue in the field of applied communication. Reading and preparation of a scholarly paper or special project is included. Juniors may take 392, seniors 492; course credit for the major may be received only once. Contract.
COM 393 (3) Seminar
The study of various issues in the fields of communication and theatre arts, with special emphasis on trends and issues of contemporary communications. Topics will be determined and announced for each semester the course is offered.
COM 431 (3) Public Relations Management and Case Studies
Integrates public relations knowledge with practice. Focuses on PR management and application. The class will act somewhat as a Public Relations firm, providing research, strategies, writing, customer interaction,and PR evaluation for external customers. Includes case studies. Prerequisite: JRN 281.
COM 435 (3) Internship
A supervised, work experience of one academic semester with a previously approved business firm, private, academic, or government agency. Work experience of 120 hours will be expected plus a journal and final paper. Prerequisites: junior standing, Communications major, 12 hours completed within the major, and departmental approval. Contract.
COM 442 (3) Communication Campaigns
Examines the intentional communication processes designed to influence a designated audience over a specific period of time. Communication processes such as campaign cycles, campaign development and maintenance, and campaign strategies for commercial, political, and social action campaigns. (alternate years)
COM 475 (3) Senior Seminar
A capstone course designed to allow students to apply course work to professional issues. Course content includes in-depth readings in communication journals to gain a broader understanding of the discipline, the nature of employment access, post-graduate study options, completion of portfolio, and student assessment testing. Seniors will also participate in departmental assessment testing.
COM 491 (1-3) Directed Study
A directed and supervised investigation of a selected research problem or issue in the field of applied communication. Reading and preparation of a scholarly paper or special project is included. Juniors may take 391, seniors 491; course credit for the major may be received only once. Contract.
FILM STUDIES COURSES
FS 325 (3) Hollywood Production Workshop
Students work collaboratively in groups to create a festival-ready piece, including all the legal documentation and rights to enable the finished production to qualify for festival submission. The course offers students the opportunity to make a motion picture production using Hollywood locations, resources, and protocol. Students participate in a competitive vetting process of scripts, pitches, and meetings much like the process of the professional industry.
FS 330 (4) Faith, Film and Culture
Encourages the development of the necessary skills for analysis of the culture of Hollywood, its role in popular culture and the theological intersections therein. Seeks theological engagement with the culture of Hollywood and cinema by investigating some of the social, ethical, and psychological implications of film upon theology. Presented in four modules: an analysis of the culture of Hollywood; a study of theology/Bible and engagement with Hollywood and cinema; Christian ethics and the culture of Hollywood; and capstone examination of Christian vocation in Hollywood.
FS 340 (3) Introduction to Filmmaking
Intense, hands-on course in short film production. Students individually write, shoot, direct and edit their own projects. Visual storytelling is achieved through developing skills in directing, cinematography and editing. Designed to enable both novice and advanced students to develop their integration of story with technical skill.
FS 350 (3) Professional Screenwriting
Contemporary screenwriting, including an understanding of dramatic structure, character and dialogue development, and the writing process. Students complete a full-length screenplay for a feature film or "movie-of-the-week." Whether novice or advanced, students are expected to develop and improve their skills. Emphasis is given to the role of Christian faith and values as they relate to script content.
FS 391 (3) Independent Study
Course may be setup by special request and arrangement. In order to be considered students may submit a portfolio and a project proposal. Students with approved projects will be appointed a mentor who is a professional in the Hollywood industry to supervise the project. Projects could include further development of a portfolio or reel, critical research, or a senior thesis project. Contract.
FS 435 (3) Internship: Inside Hollywood
Students participate in an internship experience in some aspect of the Hollywood entertainment industry. These are nonpaying positions primarily in an office setting such as development companies, agencies, management companies, post-production facilities, etc. Students work 20 to 24 hours a week, spread over a three day schedule and accumulate 200-250 hours for the semester. Orientation to the internship includes an overview of the creative and operational aspects of the Hollywood entertainment business, including the Christian's role working therein
JOURNALISM COURSES
JRN 211 (3) Journalism and Culture
An overview of the ways American journalists create texts to complement graphics and photos which inform society in a changing marketplace of ideas. Course includes analysis and discussion of how Americans seek out and filter journalistic information within ever-changing currents of culture. Students must enroll concurrently in JRN 212.
JRN 212 (1) Journalism Practicum
Field experience in campus media. Students write for the campus weekly newspaper or for on-campus public relations publications to produce a final portfolio of finished work suitable for use in seeking competitive internships. Serves as writing style lab complement to JRN 211 and must be taken concurrently.
JRN 225 (3) Interactive Media (same as MC 225)
Provides an overview of new multimedia technologies and their impact on human communication as well as cultural, ethical, and industry implications. Emphasizes basic design principles for effective digital information architecture and offers a hands-on introduction to building web sites and creating multimedia presentations. Fee.
JRN 280 (3) Ethics and Media
Provides a Christian and historical perspective for ethical decision making at both Christian and secular newspapers and magazines in America, as well as corporate communications and electronic media. Covers ethics of media used in advertising, marketing, public relations, entertainment, and sports.
JRN 281 (3) Public Relations Theory and Practice
Examines the theories and practice of contemporary public relations. Practical analysis of public relations problems confronting business, church, professions, government and institutions. Applies "public relations" principles to chosen vocations and personal life. Fee.
JRN 302 (3) Writing Magazine Articles and Feature Stories
A study of the process followed in writing features for magazines and newspapers. Topics include originating and developing ideas, writing, rewriting and marketing.
JRN 305 (3) Magazine, Book, and Newsletter Publishing
Building on the foundation of magazine and feature writing established in JRN 302, uses readings, discussion and hands-on projects to take students from idea-inception to market-planning to creation of a proto-type publication. Students will also examine production aspects of book and newsletter publishing.
JRN 332 (3) Newsgathering
Teaches fact-finding, deadline-writing of news and news-features for print audiences. Includes news approaches to interviewing and profiling aided by basic public records. Overview of newsgathering by newspapers, newsmagazines, TV, radio, and web news sites. Fee. Prerequisites: JRN 211 and 212.
JRN 335 (3) Depth Reporting and Editorial Research
A thorough grounding in advanced reporting, use of records databases and electronic databases, advanced interviewing and polling methods. Makes application to specialty reporting in sports, business, courts/government or education beats in remote locations. Applicable to TV and online news. (alternate years) Fee. Prerequisite: JRN 332
JRN 342 (3) Photojournalism
Introduction to journalistic communication by visual images. Stresses story-telling by means of photo projects using slides as well as negative film and digital-camera images scanned into imaging software. Examines similarities and interactions between still-photography and videography and includes online journalism. Briefly considers documentary photojournalism and photojournalism-related careers. Assumes basic familiarity with SLR photography. Students provide own 35 mm camera and flash. Fee. Prerequisite: ART 266
JRN 351 (3) Creative Writing-Fiction (same as ENG 352)
Introduction to the writing of fiction through the study of professional models, specific writing assignments, and instructor critique.
JRN 352 (3) Creative Writing-Poetry (same as ENG 351)
Introduction to the writing of poetry through the study of professional models, specific writing assignments, and instructor critique.
JRN 380 (3) Opinion Journalism
Examines analytical argument and critical thinking applied to the journalistic essay and editorial pages of newspapers and magazines. Students will read and study editorials and opinion pieces, examining their implications for change in public policy and popular culture. Students will also examine elements of editorial pages including letters to the editor, guest opinion columns, supplemental graphics, and editorial cartoons. Prerequisite: JRN 211
JRN 390 (3) Creative Non-Fiction
This course, integral to students’ understanding of journalism pursued as an art form, draws on the foundations of Nineteenth Century British Literature. Students will read and examine the writing and stylistic approaches of a variety of authors, producing their own writing in the context of the course. Prerequisites: JRN 211
JRN 391 (1-3) Independent Study
A directed and supervised investigation of a selected research problem or issue in the field of Journalism. A student may not take more than four (4) hours of independent study. Contract.
JRN 393 (3) Seminar
A seminar focusing on one or more significant areas of journalism such as advocacy journalism, editing, pictorial journalism, journalism history, propaganda/persuasion in the media, devotional writing, review writing for books, plays, films, and records. Topics chosen by instructor. For students having completed two three hour journalism courses. Credit may be given more than once.
JRN 411 (3) Editing and Design
Equips students with management and leadership skills in guiding writers, photo staffers, and design-desk staff to create pages and entire publications. Includes writer-coaching, photo selection, copyediting, basic applied typography, and modular page design. Applicable to many types of publications. Prerequisite: JRN 211. Fee.
JRN 435 (1-3) Internship
Students work in an independent study capacity under supervision of a faculty member and an on-site editor or media manager. Requires regular meetings with a faculty member, journal and time log, portfolio of finished, independently-produced journalistic work, and a final analytical paper tying the experience to industry-related issues. Prerequisites: JRN 211, 212 and junior status or by approval of the department head based on significant prior media experience. Contract.
JRN 475 (1) Senior Seminar
Designed to prepare the journalism student for entrance into the professional world. Topics include pursuing advanced degrees, developing a resume and portfolio, and developing a strategy for future employment in journalism-related fields.
MEDIA COMMUNICATION COURSES
MC 101 (3) Media and Society
Development, functions, processes, control, and effects of mass media. A survey of the media industry, its socio economic role in American society, and the impact of mass media in society, as well as society's influence on the media. Fee.
MC 120 (3) Radio Production
Develops knowledge of the radio frequency spectrum and the characteristics of radio which are unique to the medium. Students will gain a basic understanding of audio equipment used for radio production and live broadcasting. Course provides experience and knowledge of the principles and techniques of producing radio commercials, news, documentaries, interviews and magazines. Participation in live broadcasting on WACW campus radio. Fee.
MC 121 (3) Audio Production
Studies the technique and philosophy of audio recording as it’s used in radio and television as well as in fields of music, multimedia and advertising. This course provides experience in the writing, production and performance of radio commercials, news, documentaries and interviews. Field and studio audio recording principles are also discussed and demonstrated. Fee.
MC 211 (3) Fundamentals of Media Performance (same as THA 211)
A study of the theories and techniques of performance in film, audio, video, and public address. Students will be given opportunities for performance in studio and other public communication settings. The course will acquaint students with the media performance industry, with emphasis on personal marketing and tools for employment.
MC 212 (3) Writing for the Media
Examines a variety of techniques and formats including broadcast news, web/interactive media, television commercials/public service announcements, industrial/non-profit video, documentaries, and screenplays. Practical emphasis on improving writing/editing skills and developing writing strategies. Prerequisite: ENG 110 or 251. Fee.
MC 225 (3) Interactive Media (same as JRN 225)
Provides an overview of new multimedia technologies and their impact on human communication as well as cultural, ethical, and industry implications. Emphasizes basic design principles for effective digital information architecture and offers a hands-on introduction to building web sites and creating multimedia presentations. Fee.
MC 252 (3) Media Programming
Strategies for programming of radio, cable and television stations, as well as online audio and video sites. Fee. (alternate years)
MC 261 (4) Multi-Camera Television Production
Survey of the theory, process, and technique of television production including the planning, preparation, and production of various types of studio and remote programs. Includes three-hour lecture and a lab. Fee.
MC 300 (3) Script to Screen
Provides 12 students with an opportunity to step through the entire process of motion picture narrative production. Working in teams of two, they will conceptualize a story idea, pitch a treatment, write a script, cast the parts, choose their production crew, shoot, edit, promote, and submit their final work to the annual Asbury Film Festival. The emphasis here is on story, not technology. Requires application including short essay to professor. Video production experience is a plus. Basic video production kit provided. Not open to freshman. Prerequisite: MC 212 or THA 282.
MC 331 (3) Advanced Audio Production
Explores advanced audio production techniques including microphone positioning, multi-track recording and digital audio. Course covers theory and practical hands-on applications in audio, radio and/or television. May be repeated with a different course emphasis. Fee.
MC 342 (3) Mass Communication Theory
A study of mass communication theory with emphasis on electronic media. Fee.
MC 345 (3) Broadcast Management and Sales
A study of the structure and methods of broadcast management, focusing on legal and technical issues facing radio, television and cable management. The course will also acquaint students with the methodology and research techniques used in broadcast advertising and advertising/promotional campaigns. Fee.
MC 354 (3) Graphic Design I (same as ART 354)
Fundamental design principles within the context of graphic design. Two-dimensional visual communication is reinforced, along with typographic principles and a survey of graphic design processes, through problem solving projects and exercises. Introduction of industry-standard page layout and digital image-editing software. Fee.
MC 362 (3) Digital Field & Post-Production
Techniques in television field production. Special emphasis on single-camera, film-style shooting, field lighting and audio, producing, budgeting, working with clients, and post-production editing. Prerequisite: MC 261. Fee
MC 370 (3) Animation Design (same as ART 370)
A hands-on study of 3D computer animation. Basic concepts and techniques of model building, mapping, lighting, and animation. Prerequisite: ART 354 & 452. Fee.
MC 371 (3) Media Ministries (same as CM 371)
Overview of the many intersections between media and the gospel, including media uses in the local church and in missions, religious broadcasting history, portrayals of Christ and Christians in film/television, and ways Christians can influence media organizations as “salt and light.” Prerequisite: THA 382 for Theatre and Cinema Performance majors Fee.
MC 372 (3) Interactive Media II
An advanced study of design, organization and creation of interactive multimedia. Covers the process of developing media elements and authoring a stand-alone application for digital distribution. Prerequisite: ART 354, MC 225. Fee
MC 380 (3) Remote Television Production
The study and application of multi-camera remote field television production techniques. Field production areas that will be highlighted include directing, producing, camera and audio. Students will apply classroom-learned theory and techniques to a variety of remote productions. Prerequisite: MC 362. Fee. (on occasion)
MC 382 (3) Film Production
Students work collaboratively to shoot, direct and edit a narrative short or feature digital film production. This is an intense, hands-on course that requires each student to fulfill one of the key roles in the film production process. Acceptance into this class is by application. Students must specifically apply for one of the fifteen crew positions.
MC 391 (1-4) Directed Study
An opportunity for research, special projects and readings in the field of media communication. Juniors may take 391, seniors 491; course credit for the major may be received only once. Fee. Contract.
MC 393 (3) Seminar
The study of various issues in the field of communication, with special emphasis on trends and issues of contemporary communication. Topics will be announced for each semester the course is offered. Credit for this course may be given more than once. Fee.
MC 411 (3) Broadcast News
A study of the broadcast news process primarily emphasizing television news. Content includes writing, reporting, news editing and the news production. Prerequisite: MC 212 and 362 or permission of the instructor. Fee.
MC 435 (1-4) Internship
Broadcast or related industry experience under auspices of cooperating organization, with paper submitted detailing internship experiences. Fee. Contract.
MC 452 (3) Graphic Design II (same as ART 452)
Builds on ART/MC 354 in considering critical analyses in graphic design and its larger cultural impact. Introduces vector graphics software and further study of page layout and digital image-editing tools. Prerequisite: ART/MC 354. Fee.
MC 472 (3) Media Law
Develops understanding of the legal system in the United States and the legal issues and litigation most often confronting media institutions: first amendment, libel and slander, privacy, obscenity, access, and shield law. Fee. (alternate years)
MC 475 (.5) Senior Seminar I
Designed to prepare the media communication student for entrance into the professional world. Topics include pursuing advanced degrees, developing a resume and portfolio, and developing a strategy for future employment in communication-related fields. Fee.
MC 476 (.5) Senior Seminar II
Continuation of MC 475 with increased emphasis on a completed portfolio for performance, production, film, multi-media or management. The course is also used for assessment testing in the student's senior year. Fee.
MC 491 (1-4) Directed Study
An opportunity for research, special projects and readings in the field of media communication. Juniors may take 391, seniors 491; course credit for the major may be received only once. Fee. Contract.
MUSIC MANAGEMENT COURSES
MM 310 (3) Faith, Music & Culture
Help students develop a Christian approach to the creation, marketing, and consumption of contemporary music. While engaging in studies of theory, history, and criticism, students explore the concept and nature of popular culture, examining popular art and music in contemporary aesthetic, social, cultural, and industrial contexts.
MM 312 (1) Practicum
Participation in an intensive week-long practicum at record companies, artist management firms, booking agencies, and recording studios.
MM 320 (3) inside the Music Industry
Studies the structure and methodologies of the music industry as well as career possibilities. Includes analysis of U.S. record companies, including A&R, marketing, radio promotion, public relations, sales & distribution, product development, art, manufacturing and business affairs.
MM 330 (3) Artists & Repertoire
Techniques in creating a business plan for a music artist. Analyze and forecast trends in popular music; assemble a successful artist roster; and, in tandem with artists, plan, budget, and produce recording sessions.
MM 340 (3) Music Marketing & Sales
Analyzes the marketing and sale of recorded music, including the role of packaging, retail point-of-purchase materials, publicity, advertising, radio and video promotion, Internet marketing and tour support. Students develop comprehensive marketing plans for each semester’s student artists.
MM 435 (3) Internship: Artist Management
In concert with CMC staff, music management students will help student artists identify their gifts and develop a long-term career plan. Students will prepare materials to pitch an artist to a record company and negotiate a recording contract.
THEATRE AND CINEMA PEFORMANCE COURSES
THA 101 (1) Theatre/Cinema Practicum
Performance or crew assignment (40 clock hours) in theatre production or student film. May be repeated for a maximum of 4 credit hours.
THA 211 (3) Fundamentals of Media Performance
A study of the theories and techniques of performance in film, audio, video, and public address. Students will be given opportunities for performance in studio and other public communication settings. The course will acquaint students with the media performance industry, with emphasis on personal marketing and tools for employment.
THA 221 (3) Acting I
A study of the basic principles of acting based on the Sanford Meisner technique. An emphasis will be placed on Stanislavky's "Communion" of acting as it relates to connection, commitment, and communication.
THA 251 (3) Acting II
The sequential continuation of Acting I involving the organic gesture and emotional and physical imagination, further developing the actors' impulses. Prerequisite: THA 221
THA 272 (3) Acting for the Camera
Study of performance techniques for camera and interpretation of comedy and drama for television, film, and emerging technologies. Single and multiple camera productions. Prerequisites: THA 251 or MC 211
THA 282 (4) Screenwriting Fundamentals
A writing course in film and television. Original screenplays will be developed. Includes lab for script development and discussion of three act structure and story development based on Aristotle's Poetics and Lajos Egri. May be repeated twice for credit.
THA 285 (4) New Works Seminar
This course is for the development of new works for stage or to explore new approaches to existing scripts. The development process centers around text analysis, readings, blocking, and movement rehearsals. Students must submit story ideas which will then be work shopped and developed with actors in a laboratory setting. Includes lab for script development through rehearsal, readings, and blocking.
THA 325 (3) Fundamentals of Directing for Theatre and Cinema
A study of the structural analysis of stage and screenplays, rehearsal problems and procedures, composition visualization, movement and rhythm on stage and screen. Prerequisite: THA 251 or instructor approval. Fee.
THA 331 (3) Religion and the Theatre
A study of the distinctions between and correlations among secular, religious, and "Christian" drama, with particular emphasis placed on religious-literary criticism. (alternate years)
THA 362 (3) Approach to Design for Theatre and Cinema
Conceptualization and visualization of the elements involved in creative design for theatre, television, and film; strong emphasis on script analysis and formation of visual concepts.
THA 382 (3) World Theatre Forum
A survey of the historical background and significant cultural developments in World Theatre 1650-Present.
THA 391 (1-3) Directed Study
Work may be in technical design, acting, and directing. A maximum of three hours applicable toward graduation. Contract.
THA 393 (1-3) Seminar
Study of various issues in the fields of communication and theatre arts, with special emphasis on trends and issues of contemporary communications. Topics will be determined and announced for each semester the course is offered. Credit for this course may be given more than once. (on occasion)