Students examine various qualitative communication research methods and designs. The focus of this course is on the identification and creation of communication research problems, the development of designs, data collection, and analysis procedures to address those problems.

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Students explore some of the darker aspects of communication, such as how negative behaviors can impact both the perpetrator and the victim of such behaviors. Topics may include bullying, criticism, complaints, verbal aggression, and revenge.

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Students explore current theories and research in the area of intercultural communication, mainly from an interpersonal perspective. Topics may include self-disclosure, interpersonal trust, mate selection, love, interracial relationships, and arranged marriage.

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Students develop essential communication skills by researching, organizing, and delivering informative and persuasive speeches for a variety of audiences and occasions. The course emphasizes strategies to manage speaker apprehension, analyze audiences, and use effective verbal and nonverbal techniques. Students build skills in critical thinking, message design, and professional presentation. These skills are valued in business, education, public service, civic life, and beyond.

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Students study theories and research in the field of communication with an emphasis on interpersonal and family communication. Students prepare reviews of literature as well as scholarly abstracts.

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Students explore communication theories and apply research-based strategies in professional settings such as interviewing, group decision-making, and business presentations. The course emphasizes interpersonal communication, leadership, listening, and nonverbal communication. Students develop career-ready skills in workplace communication, collaboration, conflict resolution, and professional presentation that support success in team-oriented and client-focused roles across industries. Not for COMS majors or minors. 
Prerequisite: Non-Majors only.

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Students investigate theories and research related to one-to-one communication in personal and professional relationships. Key concepts explored include listening, conflict management, self-disclosure, relationship development, verbal and nonverbal communication, and communication across various social and cultural settings. Students build transferable skills in emotional intelligence, active listening, relationship building, and conflict resolution that support success in the workplace, community, and daily life.

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Students examine how digital technologies influence human communication across interpersonal, group, and organizational contexts. Emphasis is placed on how technologies shape message construction, relationship development, identity negotiation, and cultural interaction. Topics may include computer-mediated communication, social networking, digital literacy, online conflict, and the impact of emerging platforms on communication norms. Through theory-driven analysis and practical application, students develop critical thinking and digital communication skills that are essential for effective interaction in technology-rich environments. Course Equivalents: COMS 2393.

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Students examine how popular culture shapes communication, individual identity, and social influence. They analyze messages in music, television, film, advertising, and celebrity culture to explore how the media reflects, and shapes social norms and cultural values. Popular culture offers meaningful ways to engage with complex topics through familiar characters and storylines, encouraging dialogue and reflection. Students apply communication theory to build skills in media literacy, cultural awareness, and interpersonal communication skills across personal and professional contexts.

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Students explore how humor functions as a communication tool across interpersonal, organizational, and public contexts. Emphasis is placed on applying communication theory and research to understand humor's role in building relationships, reducing conflict, influencing others, and shaping social commentary. Students gain practical insight into how humor can be used strategically to enhance communication and foster more effective interactions.

Prerequisite: Junior standing or consent of instructor.

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Students explore the theory, research, and practice of communication across cultural contexts, with emphasis on developing awareness of their own intercultural communication. Topics may include cultural similarities and differences, verbal and nonverbal differences, culture shock, prejudice, and racism. This course equips students with the communication skills necessary for effective communication across international and multicultural environments.

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Students examine the dynamics of conflict and negotiation in interpersonal and professional settings. Emphasis is placed on identifying the underlying causes of conflict, understanding communication patterns that escalate or de-escalate tension, and developing practical strategies for resolution. The course builds skills in active listening, perspective-taking, and collaborative problem-solving essential for managing conflict effectively in personal and workplace relationships.

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Students explore the principles and theories of persuasive communication with an emphasis on attitude and behavior change. The course may include theoretical frameworks such as the Elaboration Likelihood Model, Inoculation Theory, and the Theory of Planned Behavior. Topics may include persuasive strategies in interpersonal settings, political campaigns, advertising, and social movements. Students learn to critically analyze persuasive messages and apply techniques to create ethical and effective communication across a range of contexts. Course Equivalents: COMS 3382.

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Students explore communication processes in health-related interactions, with emphasis on patient-provider communication, social support, and identity management in illness. Topics may include survivorship, media influence, e-health, and communication across varied healthcare contexts. The course builds skills in supportive communication, message clarity, and relational sensitivity, all essential for navigating today's complex health environments. Course Equivalents: COMS 3372.

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Students examine key systems of nonverbal communication, including body language, vocalics, facial expression, and spatial behavior. The course emphasizes the role of nonverbal cues in shaping meaning, managing impressions, and enhancing relational communication. Students apply current theory and research to improve their own communication effectiveness in both social and organizational settings.

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Students explore the nature and function of deception across interpersonal, public, and organizational communication contexts. The course emphasizes empirical research, ethical considerations, and critical analysis of deceptive messages. Students examine both their own communication behaviors and the strategies used by others to better understand the role of deception in shaping trust, credibility, and relational dynamics. These skills are essential for navigating complex communication environments, making informed judgments, and fostering ethical communication practices in both professional and everyday interactions.

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Students analyze and apply major communication theories used to explain and evaluate human interaction in interpersonal, group, organizational, and mediated contexts. The course explores both foundational and contemporary theoretical frameworks. Theories covered may include Social Penetration Theory, Expectancy Violations Theory, Social Exchange, and Symbolic Interactionism. Emphasis is placed on understanding theoretical assumptions, assessing their application to real-world communication, and strengthening students' ability to think critically about communication processes.

Prerequisite: COMS2331 and 6 hours COMS completed.

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Students explore interpersonal communication processes within a variety of family structures. Topics may include conflict, relational roles, family storytelling, cultural influences, and communication across the family cycle. The course emphasizes the application of communication theories to understand how messages shape identity, maintain relationships, and manage change within family systems.  

Prerequisite: COMS2386

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Students examine communication processes within close personal relationships, with particular focus on romantic partnerships and friendships. Topics may include relationship development, conflict, emotional disclosure, long-distance and digitally mediated relationships, and communication strategies for sustaining connection. The course emphasizes theoretical application and skill building to improve relational quality, satisfaction, and resilience.

Prerequisite: Sophomore standing

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