Information and Communication Studies
Tom Reichert, Ph.D., Dean, College of Information and Communications
Lyda Fontes McCartin, Ph.D., Co-Director, Information and Communication Studies Unit
Damion Waymer, Ph.D., Co-Director, Information and Communication Studies Unit
Overview
Information & Communication Studies explores the intersection of information and communication disciplines, covering topics from interpersonal communication to digital media effects. The unit offers interdisciplinary programs like the Master of Data and Communication and the Master of Information Security and Cyber Leadership, preparing students for the evolving job market.
This cutting-edge academic initiative equips students with critical skills in collaboration, analysis of complex information issues, and information management. By combining strengths from information science and communication studies, the program positions graduates to excel in diverse professional contexts, setting them apart in their future careers.
COMM 101 - Introduction to Human Communication (3 Credits)
Concepts and processes relevant to the study of communication and human behavior and their application in a broad variety of contexts, including interpersonal relationships, small groups, organizations, health communication, social media, and media literacy.
COMM 201 - Applied Interpersonal Communication (3 Credits)
Focus on skills development in goal oriented two person conversations. Topics include an overview of the communication process in employment interviews, informational interviews, survey interviews, performance appraisals; recruiting interviews, persuasive interviews; counseling and health care interviews.
COMM 202 - Social Influence and Persuasion (3 Credits)
Introduction to theoretical and applied issues in interpersonal persuasion and persuasion campaigns. Presents an overview of the area with an emphasis on critical analysis about the creation and consumption of persuasive messages.
COMM 203 - Communication in Teams (3 Credits)
Introduction to the theoretical and applied issues to how individuals communicate in teams, how teams are created and defined through communication, and how teams communicate with other teams across organizations. Crucial to understanding and strengthening future teamwork experiences in organizations.
COMM 204 - Conflict and Negotiation (3 Credits)
Surveys a range of conflict settings, including communication in interpersonal, group, and organizational contexts. Focuses on the application of theory and research to help students develop the skills needed to manage conflict effectively in their personal and professional lives.
COMM 310 - Nonverbal Communication (3 Credits)
Presents a comprehensive introduction to nonverbal communication. Covers the evolutionary and socio-cultural foundations as well as the basic codes and functions of nonverbal communication as well as the applications of nonverbal communication concepts to everyday interactions.
COMM 332 - Communication Research (3 Credits)
Fundamentals of communications research methods and applications. Survey, observational and experimental research; primary research data-gathering techniques; secondary research sources; concept of data analysis; message and audience research measures.
COMM 399 - Research Experience in Communication (3 Credits)
Supervised communications research experience to develop student’s advanced research and analytical skills. Individual research contract developed in consultation with the instructor.
COMM 426 - Communication in Social and Personal Relationships (3 Credits)
Survey of concepts, theories, and research concerning communication across all phases of interpersonal relationships, focusing on both theoretical and practical applications.
COMM 436 - Communication in Complex Organizations (3 Credits)
Survey of the theoretical and empirical literature dealing with human communication behavior as it occurs within the context of complex organizations. Among the topics covered are superior-subordinate communication, communication networks, message distortion, feedback processes, communication climate, leadership and decision-making.
COMM 499 - Special Topics in the Scientific Approach to Media Effects (3 Credits)
Topics in communication and media effects. Individual topics will vary by title.
Prerequisites: C or better in COMM 332.
COMM 562 - Online Communication and Personal Relationships (3 Credits)
Examines how people form their identities and manage their personal relationships using new communication technologies (social network sites, online dating, mobile computing, video games). Topics include impression management, deception and trust, self-perception and identity, social support and relationship maintenance.
COMM 572 - Communication and Interethnic Behavior (3 Credits)
The relation of communication processes to interethnic and interracial attitudes and behavior. Psycho-social foundations of interethnic communication and conflict, group identification and communication processes, interpersonal communication and culture, communication about race and ethnicity, mass media content and effects.