MLA-Communication

Nature of public relations practices in business, education and government. Emphasis on public relations strategies, identifying target public, press relations, cost management and planning public relations programs.

Practical application of public relations theories and strategies; students develop hypothetical persuasive campaigns of “professional” quality.

Grounded in a Catholic humanist perspective, this course studies advanced concepts in the field of interpersonal communication, such as: the phenomenology and semiotics of interpersonal interaction, understanding, and meaning; the interpersonal development and maintenance of conceptions of selfhood; the sociocultural background of interpersonal action; the technologically mediated character of contemporary social interactions; and the ethics of dialogue and friendship.

Advanced Digital Media enhances student understanding of all the elements of digital media production (in the studio and in the field), such as camera placement and operations, camera color balancing, camera optics, light levels and the use of special filters, lighting techniques, including existing light and three-point lighting. Also included are elements of effective visual composition, an understanding postproduction, along with the ability to critique the strengths and weaknesses of digital media production.

This course explores the reciprocal relationship between digital media, society, and technology. Drawing from Marshall McLuhan's theories and the concept of media ecology, students examine how digital media shapes and is shaped by active audience engagement. Through theoretical readings, case studies, and discussions, topics such as identity formation, social relationships, and cultural production are explored. Students gain insights into the holistic nature of media ecosystems and develop a nuanced understanding of the dynamic interplay between digital media and society. The course focuses heavily on the socio-cultural, ethical, moral, and humanistic questions that arise with the advent of new technologies. Practical assignments allow for hands-on exploration of digital media phenomena, equipping students with critical thinking skills for navigating the everevolving digital landscape.

This course provides an intensive, hands-on experience in documentary media production, including logistics, research, planning, project-management, and delivery/exhibition. Working in teams, students conceptualize, develop, and implement a documentary film, video, or digital media project over the course of the semester. All students will receive training in core aspects of the documentary production process, but the course will culminate in a team project with students filling specific crew roles based on prior coursework and individual experience – research, producing, directing, cinematography, production sound, and editing.

This is a project-based practicum course that focuses on design thinking, leadership/teamwork, and the real-world application of academic and professional skills. Students work in teams of 4-5 to execute an industry sponsored project with the guidance of a faculty mentor. The course consists of a series of structured class meetings, followed by a field practice period of approximately 9 weeks. During the fieldwork phase, students meet weekly to debrief in small groups with a faculty or industry advisor. Students maintain a weekly progress report, as well as an ongoing self-assessment of performance and lessons learned. The course culminates in a Leadership Project Review, which includes a written overview and an oral presentation on the overall project experience and learning outcomes.

The class gives students a deep understanding of what propaganda is, how it differs from persuasion and what role it has in societies, both past and present. Students gain insights of the historical and social contexts in which various types of propaganda have occurred from a mass communication and media filtered perspective. Students also analyze and research various topic-specific case studies in propaganda, both past and current. Emphasis is also placed on the role of film and documentary making in various propaganda campaigns.

Practicum or on-the-job experience under guidance of practicing specialists in the communication field. To be supervised individually by a department faculty member with the approval of the chair. May be repeated for a maximum of 6 credit hours. Fall, Spring, Summer.

Student research on a selected problem in the field pursued under the guidance of an assigned member of the faculty. Substantial research paper or audio/video production required. May be repeated for a maximum of 6 credit hours. Prerequisite: Department Consent.

Selected topics of mutual interest to the faculty member and students.