*The 100-level internship may only be taken as an addition to at least 5 elective hours (e.g., a combination of any of the other electives equaling 5 hours). The class may be repeated.
COMM 040 Interpersonal Communication (3 hours)
An introductory study of theories, models, and key variables of communication within the context of interpersonal relationships. Using primarily an experiential approach, the course covers topics including verbal and nonverbal processes, listening and feedback, communication competence, and goals.
COMM 050 Intercultural Communication (4 hours)
This course is designed to provide students with an understanding of the uniqueness of cultures and the resulting variations in communication styles and preferences and to provide strategies and skills for successfully communicating across cultural differences. Students will spend at least 20 hours during the semester working with community agencies serving clients from diverse cultures.
COMM 130 Communication Theory (4 hours)
This course is intended to serve as a general introduction for majors and interested students to the theories and research questions investigated by social scientists interested in the processes of human communication.
COMM 136 Experiencing the Culture of Tuscany (3 hours)
This course will provide students a direct encounter with the culture of Tuscany in Italy. Specifically, students will study cultural indicators of Florence such as verbal and nonverbal communication, food, transportation, business climate, politics, religious beliefs, and interpersonal relationships. Students live in apartments, read texts, listen/give presentations, view art, attendconcerts, experience the culture of Florence through walking, watching, eating, shopping and navigating the city and reflect on these experiences.
COMM 140 Communication and Leadership (4 hours)
This course explores leadership from a communication perspective. Students will explore definitions, theories, skills and behaviors. Special focus is given to application of course concepts.
COMM 145 Family Communication (2 hours)
Family Communication is designed as an introduction to communication phenomena in the context of the family. The overall goal of the course is to help students understand how, through communication, we develop, maintain, enhance, or disrupt family relationships. Students will be exposed to research and theory which focus on the communication patterns and practices that shape family life.
COMM 155 Mass Media (3 hours)
A study of the development of types of media including books, newspapers, magazines, radio, television, and film. The interaction of these media and their impact on society and the individual are included.
COMM 180 Communication Through Dialogue (4 hours)
This course is designed to help students develop theoretical and practical understanding of dialogic communication. Students will develop the skills necessary to effectively participate in and facilitate transformational dialogue. In addition to developing a comprehensive understanding of current dialogic research, students will have several opportunities to practice their facilitating skills by helping NWU and/or Lincoln community groups engage impasse through dialogue.
COMM 197 Internship (2-3 hours)
On-the-job training for communication majors and minors wishing to explore career options prior to their senior year or for students not majoring or minoring in communication who desire experience in communication-related organizations and positions. Students will arrange for their positions according to department guidelines, and each internship will be designed to the satisfaction of the sponsor, faculty coordinator, and student.
Pass/Fail only.
Prerequisite(s): Junior standing and permission of the department chair.
(Normally offered each semester and summer.)
COMM 225 Persuasion (4 hours)
A study of theories and practices of persuasion within a variety of communication contexts. Students will be expected to apply these concepts to out-of-class persuasive situations.
COMM 232 Public Relations (3 hours)
The course in Public Relations is a study of the nature of public relations, the persons involved, its relationship to public opinion, and the channels communication that are used. Special attention is given to the application of public relations strategies for particular events or organizations.
COMM 250 Communication and Gender (4 hours)
This course offers an exploration of theories of the creation and perpetuation of gender and gender roles through communication. In turn, students will consider the question of the impact of gender on communication. Students will examine gender in a variety of contexts including families, friendships, romantic relationships, and media.
COMM 260 Principles of Advertising (3 hours)
This broad-based course overviews the history and criticism of advertising, as well as the fundamental aspects of targeting, positioning, media selection, and creative strategy. The culminating project involves working with a client to develop a full advertising campaign.
