COM 500 Independent Study 3-6 credits A research project concentrating in one area of communications. Offered as students qualify. Students in the course collaborate on several production projects as well as analyze examples of documentary formats in film and television. COM 502 Public Relations in Modern Media 3 credits A course designed specifically for communications majors. Introduction to the basic skills and creative techniques employed in the development of public relations campaigns.
Special emphasis is placed on the creation of messages and the selection of media.
Examples examined are drawn from government, industry, and politics. The goal of the course is to present the public relations function against a backdrop of social dynamics and essential communication processes contributing to its effectiveness. Prerequisite COM 308 . Areas of exploration include leadership, participation, roles, norms, conflicts, cohesiveness, consensus, productivity, member satisfaction, group formats, problem-solving agenda systems, and group discussion techniques. Prerequisite COM 203 .