COM Communications Courses at Global Campus

This course serves as an introduction to the study of human communication. Students will examine classic and modern views of communication as well as theories and research relating to various sub-disciplines of communication such as interpersonal, group, organizational, mass and public communication. They will discuss and evaluate these theories and research findings and assess the impact of technology on the communication process. Relationship stages, theories, and contemporary views of “family” are examined, as well as the impact of family, culture, and gender on communication patterns. Types of groups and organizations are identified, as well as concepts of power and interaction in group, organizational, and public settings. Mass communication and its impact on individuals and society will be explored. In this class, students will also have an opportunity to examine the practical implications of these concepts in building their own communication skills as well as future career path.

This course introduces students to the foundational concepts and tools for building a professional digital presence. Students will explore personal branding, online identity, audience engagement, and content strategy across different modes of communication (e.g., podcast, video, written word, etc.) via multiple platforms. Emphasis is also placed on reflective analysis of both planning and content, ethical participation in digital spaces, and the creation of an initial digital presence plan that students can build on throughout their academic and professional journey. Prerequisites: SPE 103

This course is designed to aid students in understanding the dynamics of interpersonal relationships. Verbal and nonverbal communication patterns among people in personal, social, academic, and professional settings will be examined, within and between cultures, including both face-to-face and technologically mediated channels.  The nature of these interactions will be evaluated using contemporary communication theory. The course will enable students to identify their interpersonal communication skills and behaviors and to more critically evaluate their own oral communication and that of others. The primary goals of the course are to improve the quality of students’ communication in their personal and professional relationships, to enhance students’ experience and. confidence with oral communication, and increase awareness of the importance of interpersonal communication that is inclusive and equitable.

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.

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.

This course will teach students the importance of visual elements in communication, and how to effectively incorporate visual elements into messages for various media platforms. Students will also be introduced to communication fields’ standards related to the design of visual messages and the various software programs that are used.

Ethics in Communication introduces students to the ethical foundations and philosophies that shape communication practices across media and professional contexts. While drawing on journalism as a historical foundation, the course expands to include independent and entrepreneurial communicators such as content creators, freelancers, influencers, and digital media professionals. Students will examine major ethical theories and standards and apply them to case studies that explore truth-telling, transparency, privacy, representation, accountability, and the impact of digital platforms. Special attention will be given to the ethical dimensions of AI in communication, including issues of authorship, accuracy, disclosure, and responsible use of emerging tools. Emphasis is placed on ethical decision-making in real-world communication situations, particularly where individuals act without the oversight of traditional institutions. By the end of the course, students will be prepared to recognize ethical dilemmas, evaluate competing responsibilities, and apply ethical reasoning to guide their professional communication practice

This course introduces students to the process of, and conventions used in, print, broadcast, and digital media writing. Students will learn how to inform, entertain, and influence public opinion and consumer choices. Students will practice a range of skills necessary to be effective media content producers. Emphasis is on gathering information, writing styles, editing, and organization of written communication. 

Students will be introduced to communication fields’ standards related to the design of visual messages and the various software programs within the field. This course will teach students the importance of visual elements in communication, and how to effectively incorporate visual elements into messages for various media platforms.

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.