Communication Studies Courses & Descriptions
CMST& 101 Introduction to Communication • 5 CR
Previously SPCH 100 Basic Principles of Oral Communication
Explores effective communication in one-to-one, small group, and one-to-many settings. Students analyze their communication skills and practice techniques to become more effective. Format includes public speaking experience.
CMST& 102 Introduction to Mass Media • 5 CR
Previously COMM 150
Examines the structure and operation of American mass media, including television, radio, newspapers, magazines, and film. Students analyze media influence on society and the relationships among media, audience, and government. Same as AMST 150. Either CMST& 102 (prev COMM 150) or AMST 150 may be taken for credit, not both.
CMST 103 Communication & Culture A • 2 CR
Previously SPCH 103
Course studies the effect that culture has on the communication process. Students learn why and how cultures differ and how the differences affect the communication process. Students demonstrate competencies through group projects, email learning journals, and classroom activities. Prerequisite: Completion of English Language Institute Level 5, Integrated Skills, with a grade of A or B, or completion of Level 4 or 5, Integrated Skills, with a 493 or 497 on the TOEFL plus teacher recommendations or special recommendation by the ELI (or equivalent for students not studying at BC or an international student visa issued through the ELI.)
CMST 104 Communication & Culture B • 3 CR
Previously SPCH 104
Course studies the effect that culture has on the communication process. Students learn about the different elements of cultural patterns, cultural orientation, and communication styles. Students practice skills that contribute to intercultural competence. This competence is demonstrated through computer presentations, email journals, and classroom activities. Prerequisite: Completion of English Language Institute Level 5, Integrated Skills, with a grade of A or B, or completion of Level 4 or 5, Integrated Skills, with a 493 or 497 on the TOEFL plus teacher recommendations or special recommendation by the ELI (or equivalent for students not studying at BC or an international student visa issued through the ELI.)
CMST 112 Video Foundations • 5 CR
Previously COMM 112
Introduces the basics of video production utilizing a personal camcorder and video editing equipment. Students study video technologies, basic equipment operation, video composition, basic lighting and audio, production planning, and visual storytelling. Students work in groups to create video projects utilizing post-production editing. Same as VIDEO 112. Either CMST 112 (prev COMM 112) or VIDEO 112 may be taken for credit, not both. Prerequisite: MEDIA 109 at BC with a C- or better.
CMST 115 Visual Storytelling • 5 CR
Previously COMM 115
Provides an introduction to key digital storytelling principles and message design for the interactive, rich media environments of the 21st Century. Covers these principles through an examination of media history, architecture, comics, theatre, cinema, visual language, information design, storytelling, and videogames. Prerequisite: ENGL& 101 (prev ENGL 101) recommended.
CMST 119 History of Animation • 5 CR
Previously COMM 119
Provides an overview and study of the history of animation, from the early magic lantern shows of the late nineteenth century to current and emerging digital animation technologies. The history of early film animation is compared and contrasted with the history of animation for the web, showing how the two types of animation often parallel each other in style and development. Course includes a series of lectures, discussions, and a variety of film and video clips of both classic and digital animation.
CMST 120 History of Cinema 1880-1945 • 5 CR
Previously COMM 120
Course examines the historical origins of cinema from 1880 to 1945, including the developments in film making from Europe, to Russia to Hollywood. Course looks at the different uses of and roles played by film including the use of movies as ideological tools. Recommended: ENGL& 101 (prev ENGL 101) and completion of any CMST Theory course.
CMST 121 Exploring the Documentary Film • 5 CR
Previously COMM 121
Examines the theory, practice, history and ethics of documentary film making.
CMST 131 Exploring the Digital Future • 5 CR
Previously COMM 101
Surveys the history and future of global communication technologies. Students discuss the effects of the computer revolution and digital communication on society and explore career opportunities in digital communication fields.
CMST 132 Techniques & Technology of Propaganda • 5 CR
Previously COMM 102
Examines tools and processes for targeting information to specific audiences for specific purposes. Students analyze how film, video, and multimedia can be used to influence opinions, generate sales, etc. Students test persuasion techniques with simple media presentations.
CMST 133 Media & Messages • 5 CR
Previously COMM 103
Gives insight into media aesthetics through the study of production techniques. Students develop interpretive skills by analyzing lighting, editing, color, sound, and interactivity. Class format includes lectures, media clips, and guest speakers.
CMST 134 Multicultural Media Messages • 5 CR
Previously COMM 104
Analyzes electronic and digital media images from students’ personal and multicultural perspectives. Students practice critical viewing skills and review the history of global media networks and their effect on multicultural society.
CMST 136 Writing for the World Wide Web • 5 CR
Previously COMM 106
Introduces the cognitive and creative tools needed to create text for the World Wide Web. Students practice new styles of writing for nonlinear media. Recommended: BTS 109 or ENGL& 101 (prev ENGL 101).
CMST 138 Media Digital Law and Ethics • 5 CR
Previously COMM 108
Explores the legal and ethical issues raised by modern communication technologies. Specific topics include copyright, free speech, pornography, and universal internet access. Students analyze how the U.S. justice system responds to emerging technologies. Class format incorporates lectures, discussions, case studies, and media clips.
CMST 141 Introduction to Media Writing • 5 CR
Previously COMM 141
Emphasizes observation skills and choice of language, structure, and source material to communicate events and ideas to selected audiences. Students learn interviewing, basic research, effective expression, and editing through note taking, interviewing, drafting, and revision. Students write regularly for the BC student newspaper, The Jibsheet. Either CMST 141 (prev COMM 141) or ENGL& 101 (prev ENGL 101) meet a written communication course requirement at BC. Prerequisite: Placement by assessment into ENGL& 101 (prev ENGL 101) or ENGL 092 or 093 with a C- or better, or entry code.
CMST 143 Editing Techniques • 3 CR
Previously COMM 143
Applies the techniques and responsibilities of newspaper editing. Students practice copy reading and headline writing. Requires additional time outside class. Prerequisite: CMST 141 (prev COMM 141) or ENGL& 101 (prev ENGL 101) or entry code.
CMST 144 Newspaper Design • 3 CR
Previously COMM 144
Applies newspaper design and coverage strategies. Topics include headline schedules, page makeup, assignment planning, and picture editing. May be repeated for a maximum of 6 credits. Requires additional time outside class. Prerequisite: CMST 141 (prev COMM 141) or ENGL& 101 (prev ENGL 101) or entry code.
CMST 145 Advertising Staff • 3 CR
Previously COMM 145
Covers typography, paste-up, design, and sales. Students gain practical experience working on student newspaper. Requires additional time outside class.
CMST 146 News Staff • 3 CR
Previously COMM 146
Continues CMST 141 (prev COMM 141) with further skills development and practical applications. Students typically complete 10 major reporting assignments per quarter. May be repeated for a maximum of 6 credits. Requires additional time outside class.
CMST 161 Basic Broadcasting • 5 CR
Previously COMM 161
Develops skills in announcing and audio operations. Students review radio history and regulations and get an introduction to commercials, news, production, and station organization.
CMST 163 Radio Operations: Announcing/Production • 5 CR
Previously COMM 163
Develops broadcast voice and production skills. Students practice tape editing and mixing and develop production values through class projects. Prerequisite: CMST 161 (prev COMM 161) and permission of instructor.
CMST 195 Special Topics in Communication • V1-10 CR
Previously SPCH 195 Special Topics in Speech
Allows specialized study of a subject supplementing the speech communication curriculum. Topics are announced in the class schedule. May be repeated for a maximum of 15 credits.
CMST 201 History of Communication • 5 CR
Previously COMM 201
Surveys the development of communication from prehistoric times to the present. Students analyze the influence of communication on historical, social, and technological changes in the U.S. and worldwide.
CMST 202 Survey of Speech Communication • 5 CR
Previously SPCH 202
Introduces a variety of communication processes to give a basic understanding of speech communication. Students explore interpersonal, small group, and intercultural communication. Same as SPCH 102 and SPCH 202.
CMST& 210 Interpersonal Communication • 5 CR
Previously SPCH 200
Focuses on interpersonal communication in relationships. Students explore perception, language, self-concept, self-disclosure, listening, and conflict resolution management, and experience the concepts through class activities.
CMST 216 Scripting for Film Video & Multimedia • 5 CR
Previously COMM 216
Students learn the mechanics and format used for film and television as well as the writer’s job in pre-production and production. In addition, students are introduced to non-linear writing for new interactive multimedia technologies. Prerequisite: CMST 141 (prev COMM 141) or ENGL& 101 (prev ENGL 101) or ENGL& 235 (prev ENGL 270) ENGL 271 or ENGL 272 or equivalent English course at another college with a C- or better, or an entry code.
CMST& 220 Public Speaking • 5 CR
Previously SPCH 220 Introduction to Public Speaking
Presents the essentials of effective public speaking. Students explore topic selection, research methods, organization, analysis of material and audience, and use of visual aids, and practice preparing and delivering various types of speeches.
CMST& 230 Small Group Communication • 5 CR
Previously SPCH 225
Explores effective communication in small groups. Students examine aspects of group process, including leadership, conflict management, decision-making, conformity, and critical thinking. Students work in groups to test theories and practice skills. Fulfills social science course requirement at BC.
CMST 240 Oral Interpretation of Literature • 5 CR
Previously SPCH 240
Course focuses on the study of literature through analysis, performance, storytelling, writing, and discussion. Students examine a variety of literature that explores the human social condition and the complex relations among individuals, community, and culture. Recommended: ENGL& 101 (prev ENGL 101) or ENGL 201 or ENGL& 235 (prev ENGL 270) or ENGL 271 or ENGL 272.
CMST 241 News Features & Magazine Writing • 5 CR
Previously COMM 241
Intended for intermediate writers to focus on non-fiction writing for magazine, newspaper investigative features, and online publication. Covers research and interview techniques, editing and revision, and strategies for “pitching” and perfecting articles for publication. Prerequisite: CMST 141 (prev COMM 141) or ENGL& 101 (prev ENGL 101) with a C- or better or entry code.
CMST 245 Practicum in Journalism • 5 CR
Previously COMM 245
Provides practical experience in community journalism. Students work 10 hours per week at a local newspaper under an editor’s supervision. Enrollment only by arrangement with the Communication Studies Program. Prerequisite: Permission of instructor.
CMST 260 Art of Cinematography & Lighting • 5 CR
Previously COMM 260
Covers the aesthetics of lighting to create mood, intensify drama and enhance the visual narrative.
CMST 261 Radio News Broadcasting • 5 CR
Previously COMM 261
Covers writing, editing, producing, and delivering news for radio. Prerequisite: CMST 141 (prev COMM 141) and CMST 161 (prev COMM 161) or permission of instructor.
CMST 266 Practicum in Broadcasting • 5 CR
Previously COMM 266
Provides work experience in a local broadcast outlet. May be repeated for a maximum of 10 credits. Prerequisite: CMST 161 (prev COMM 161) or entry code.
CMST 280 Intercultural Communication • 5 CR
Previously SPCH 230
Examines the effect of culture on the communication process. Students learn about the influence of culture on communication styles, language, and non-verbal communication. Students practice skills that contribute to intercultural competence.
CMST 285 Nonverbal Communication • 5 CR
Previously SPCH 285
Examines non-verbal behavior and its role in the communication process. Topics include body language, space, touch, dress, and cultural norms. Students analyze their own non-verbal communication techniques.
CMST 291 Making Movies • 5 CR
Previously COMM 291
Students work together creating a dramatic motion picture, gain experience in pre-production and production work, and work as part of a crew documenting the making of the dramatic piece. Students receive a copy of the finished work. Recommended: CMST 216 (prev COMM 216).
CMST 294/295/296/297 Special Topics in Communication • V1-10 CR
Previously COMM 294/295/296/297
Allows specialized or in-depth study of a subject supplementing the Communications curriculum. Student interest and instructor expertise help determine the topic. Prerequisite: Permission of instructor.
CMST 299 Special Projects in Communication • V1-5 CR
Previously COMM 299
Covers individual projects in broadcasting, journalism, and advertising, which complement a student’s work in other communications courses. May be repeated for a maximum of 15 credits. Prerequisite: Permission of instructor.
CMST 330 Intercultural Communication for the Professional Practitioner • 5 CR
Previously SPCH 330
Examines how a professional practitioner may positively engage in oral communication with a culturally dissimilar client or person in a variety of contexts. Students practice intercultural communication strategies and skills. Prerequisite: Acceptance to the program or permission of instructor.