Undergraduate Program

Principles and concepts of various types of human communication including interpersonal, small group, organizational, public and mass communication. Two hours lecture, 1 hour lab.

(Also offered as MA 110)

Study of the development of the mass media with emphasis on television in the areas of programming, policy, regulations, economics, and technology. Examination of the social, cultural, and political impact of the mass media on contemporary society.

An introduction to communication among people from different cultural backgrounds, emphasizing intercultural relations. The class seeks to identify, honor and enhance the strengths of different cultural perspectives.

A performance course that deals with the analysis, preparation and presentation of speeches.

Meets New Mexico Lower-Division General Education Common Core Curriculum Area I: Communications (NMCCN 1113).

Practical introduction to journalism, emphasizing journalistic conventions and the gathering and writing of news for the print and broadcast media. Language and typing skills required.

Prerequisite: ENGL 120 or ACT English =>29 or SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing =>700.

Concepts and practices of interpersonal, small group and public communication pertinent to classroom teachers at the elementary, middle and secondary levels of education.

Analysis of a variety of interpersonal communication concepts, with special emphasis on the application of communication skills in different situations.

Meets New Mexico Lower-Division General Education Common Core Curriculum Area I: Communications.

Basic characteristics and patterns of communication in small groups. Includes attention to role theory, conflict resolution and creative decision-making methods.

Verbal and nonverbal performance and message preparation skills related to both the audio and video components of the mass media. Emphasis on fundamentals of prepared, extemporaneous and interpretive speaking for radio and television.

Introduction to theories of mass media and their influences.

Exploration of visual images in the mass media, with emphasis on the design and theory of mediated imaging. Includes some practical training in still photography and video.

Prerequisite: 171L.

Pre- or corequisite: 466 and STAT 145.

Continuation of CJ 171L with increased emphasis of how to write on platforms available to the modern journalist. Writing workshop for web, broadcast, print and magazine.

Prerequisite: 171L.

Pre- or corequisite: 466 and STAT 145.

Introduction to writing and designing electronic publications using personal computers and online publishing software. Emphasizes use of graphics and text to communicate with users of the Internet. Competency with personal computers required.

Internships and service projects for students at the lower level. Cannot have credit if already taken 492 or 495 or 496 or 497 or 498 or 499.

Restriction: permission of instructor.

Study of the nature of communication theories and theory development, theories of meaning, information processing and influence with applications to selected communication contexts.

Prerequisite: 101L.

Quantitative and qualitative methods useful in investigation of communication processes and effects; concepts and techniques used in research design, data analysis, reporting and critically evaluating research.

Prerequisite: 101L.

Explores how culture and communication inform, shape, and shift our relations with "the environment." We consider local, regional, and global cultures and discourses, focusing on sustainability issues in human-nature relations.

Examines cultural influences in communication across ethnic and national boundaries.

Pre- or corequisite: MATH 121 or MATH 129 or MATH 150 or MATH 153 or MATH 162 or MATH 180 or MATH 215 or STAT 145 or UHON 202.

Cultural focus on communicative systems related to national, ethnic, gendered, class, religious, regions, corporations, and institutions. Research on mediation, intergroup dialogue, and community development focuses on three international sites.

Examination of the influence of language on perception, evaluations, mass media, creativity and interpersonal relations.

Pre- or corequisite: MATH 121 or MATH 129 or MATH 150 or MATH 153 or MATH 162 or MATH 180 or MATH 215 or STAT 145 or UHON 202.

(Also offered as ANTH 310; LING 359)

Examination of the interrelations of language and speech with other selected aspects of culture and cognition.

Prerequisite: ANTH 110 or LING 101 or LING 301.

Overview of communication theories of conflict and conflict-management processes, including an introduction to mediation.

Pre- or corequisite: MATH 121 or MATH 129 or MATH 150 or MATH 153 or MATH 162 or MATH 180 or MATH 215 or STAT 145 or UHON 202.

Theory, analysis and practice of a variety of nonverbal messages, including body movement and appearance, vocal cues and environmental cues.

(Also offered as WMST 326)

Study of the relationship between gender and communication with specific attention to how gender affects language, verbal and nonverbal communication practices and how women’s movements have attempted to transform gendered communication practices.

Analysis, practice and evaluation of principles of attitude change for a variety of interpersonal and public communication situations.

Pre- or corequisite: MATH 121 or MATH 129 or MATH 150 or MATH 153 or MATH 162 or MATH 180 or MATH 215 or STAT 145 or UHON 202.

Examines historical and contemporary theories of argumentation. Emphasis placed on development of effective advocacy and criticism of arguments.

Analysis, preparation and presentation of speeches common in business and professional settings.

Focuses on the written and presentation skills needed to succeed in a professional environment. Lessons emphasize writing reports and proposals, acquiring social information, social interaction skills, the influence of audience on message design and business etiquette.

Focuses on the theory and practice of political communication in speech making, campaigns, debates and town meetings, as reported through the mass media and via new technologies.

Historical survey of major contributors and contributions to the development of contemporary rhetorical theory.

The course examines the ways we communicate about the environment and how this, in turn, impacts the way we view and treat the natural world.

Examines current theories of organizational behavior with emphasis on communication patterns and practices. Attention to superior-subordinate communication, formal and informal communication networks, authority and power.

Theory and practice of interviewing for informational, journalistic, employment and decision-making purposes.

Pre- or corequisite: MATH 121 or MATH 129 or MATH 150 or MATH 153 or MATH 162 or MATH 180 or MATH 215 or STAT 145 or UHON 202.

Covers the fundamentals of journalistic film and video shooting, editing, and sequencing. Introduces basics of news packages. 

Prerequisite: 269 and 278.

Camera reporting, color photography, weekly news assignments, scaling photos for reproduction and advanced black and white darkroom techniques.

Restriction: admitted to B.A. Communication or B.A. Journalism and Mass Communication.

The course will explore the development of communication media in the United States and the social and cultural contexts within which media emerged and evolved over time.

Prerequisite: 171L.

Pre- or corequisite: STAT 145. 

Basics of content creation: text, audio, images, and video. Information on available social media platforms, importance of open online discussions to further business goals of organization/personal brand, debate application/importance of business theories in social media.

Students will learn how to use journalism practices and ethics to record and edit audio, voice scripts, and produce various audio story formats including newscast spots, Q&As, vox pops, podcasts, postcards, and features.

Prerequisite: 466.

The process of writing and marketing fiction and non-fiction for magazines.

Introduction to print design through the study of visual communication, principles of design, elements of design and practical application of those principles and elements in various forms of print collateral. Use of Adobe InDesign.

Emphasis on reporting public affairs, the news feature story, developing and covering beats, and computer-assisted reporting.

Prerequisite: 278.

This course is designed to provide insights into the management and ownership aspects of running a media company. Attention will be given to leadership skills and the complex operations of media companies.

A writing-intensive course with emphasis on history, practice, ethics, professional opportunities, and challenges of the field. Strong emphasis on understanding contemporary global strategic communication perspectives and diversity issues.

Prerequisite: 171L and 327 and 374 and STAT 145.

Focuses on theories, strategies and practices in developing visuals/copy across the media. Provides the formats/structure to write, design and produce collateral pieces and promotional events utilizing conceptual and creative thinking.

Prerequisite: 171L and 387.

A specialized course in strategic writing, including creating material in strategic communication subfields of public relations, advertising, and integrated marketing communication, with emphasis on writing for outlets including print and broadcast media and the Internet.

Prerequisite: 387.

Focuses on social media strategy, selection, and content development for use in targeted communication efforts by businesses and non-profit organizations. Emphasis placed on critical analysis and strategic use of a variety of social media platforms.

Prerequisite: 387.

In this capstone course, seniors assess the theories, concepts and skills learned throughout their communication major and apply them to real-world situations as well as to the fulfillment of professional, personal and social goals.

Prerequisite: 300 and 301 and (332 or 333).

Intensive study of theory and research in intercultural communication concerning interactions between members of specific cultures chosen by the instructor. Content varies from semester to semester, may be repeated with different content.

Prerequisite: 314.

Advanced analysis of theories and research in interpersonal communication with emphasis on communication processes, relational development and conflict resolution.

Prerequisite: 221.

Using historical trials as case studies, the course investigates the various communicative functions of litigation including media coverage, opening statements, direct and cross-examination, closing arguments, judge’s instructions and appellate arguments.

(Also offered as SUST *438)

This course introduces and experientially explores the theoretical lenses of environmental communication, culture, sustainability, and restorative change through collaborative hands-on student preservation and growth of community food gardens.

Intensive study of one area of theory and research in organizational communication chosen by the instructor, e.g., conflict and negotiation, information technology, organizational cultures. Content varies from semester to semester; may be repeated with different content.

Prerequisite: 340.

Identification and analysis of communication problems in organizations. Attention to problems and requirements of communication training and development in organizational settings.

Concepts and strategies for preventive health communication in such contexts as provider-patient interaction, health campaigns, social marketing, health images in the mass media and communication in health care organizations.

Continuation of CJ 360. Students create longer, more elaborate programs with their own documentary segments, essays and in-studio interviews.

Prerequisite: 360.

Evaluation of radio/television programming content from the perspective of the journalistic and academic critic. Examination of theoretical issues and production elements as they affect programming genres.

Intensive study of one area of theory and research in mass communication chosen by the instructor, e.g., rating systems, programming, economics, regulation, social effects. Content varies from semester to semester; may be repeated with different content.

Longer form multimedia journalism emphasizing advanced production and journalism techniques.

Prerequisite: 360.

Intersection of journalism and mass communication with society and its ethical standards and laws. Focus on news media and ethical and legal issues in advertising, public relations and management.

Prerequisite: 171L.

Pre- or corequisite: STAT 145.

(Also offered as WMST 469)

Exploration of how gender, race, class, sexual orientation, ethnicity and other social positions affect media coverage, portrayals, production and reception. The course focuses on theories, methods of analysis and topics of current interest.

Emphasis on multimedia reporting. The creation and maintenance of a news Web site. The understanding of software, in-depth reporting, and multimedia platforms to produce news information in all forms.

Prerequisite: 360 and 375.

Introduces media theories in the context of professional research settings. Covers media content research conducted for political purposes and advertising, PR and media firms.

Prerequisite: 171L and STAT 145.

Capstone. Focuses on applying theories/principles/practices in a team environment. Emphasis placed on strategic planning, research, and creative development. Students work with actual clients to pitch their strategic and campaign plans. 

Prerequisite: 389 and 390 and 391.

Restriction: permission of department chairperson.

Review of recent developments in course content, teaching materials and instructional strategies; simulated classroom experience with analysis of teaching behavior using media.

Restriction: permission of department chairperson.

Internships in communication arranged with individual faculty members.

Offered on a CR/NC basis only.

Prerequisite: 2.5 overall GPA and completion of 9 hours in CJ, to include at least one 300-level course. Six hours maximum of any CJ internship credit is allowed.

Restriction: permission of instructor.

Internships in strategic communication arranged with individual faculty members. Maximum of 3 credit hours per semester.

Offered on a CR/NC basis only.

Prerequisite: 2.5 overall GPA and 9 credit hours in CJ to include at least one 300-level course.

Restriction: permission of instructor.

Internships in multimedia journalism arranged with individual faculty members. Maximum of 3 credit hours per semester.

Offered on a CR/NC basis only.

Prerequisite: 2.5 overall GPA and 9 credit hours in CJ to include at least one 300-level course.

Restriction: permission of instructor.

Survey and analysis of concepts, models and perspectives in the development of theories of communication; attention to philosophical, critical, historical and scientific bases for the study of communicative processes. Required of all M.A. students.

Introduces contemporary critical and cultural studies from a historical perspective. Analysis and criticism of cultural practices, including discourse, allocation of resources, political interests, and the structural organization of society.

Intensive study of selected relevant subjects in communication focusing on one area of theory, research, methods, or combinations thereof. Content varies depending on instructor.

This course explores critical and cultural studies methodologies to understand and apply analysis of texts (from media and everyday spoken texts to the body and environment) in order to reveal cultural productions and transformative possibilities.

Designing empirical research in communication, with special reference to applications of experimental design to communication research, methods of data analysis and developing a research report.

Develops a range of professional competencies by focusing on a particular topic, such as presenting and publishing research, landing the academic job, ethics, research funding, and attaining and maintaining academic-life balance.

Offered on a CR/NC basis only.

Restriction: admitted to M.A. Communication or Ph.D. Communication.

An overview of the trajectory of theory and research in intercultural communication, which includes questions and critiques of diversity in and across local, national, and global contexts. 

An overview of theory and research in culture, identities, and subjectivities with special emphasis on the faculty member's expertise, which may include: nationality, race, gender, ethnicity, sexuality, class, multivocality, intersectionality, positionality, agency, etc.

An overview of theory and research in culture, places, and spaces with special emphasis on the faculty member's expertise, which may include: transnationalism and globalism, migration, borderlands, social activism and change, sustainability, etc. 

Intensive study of theory and research in one area of intercultural communication chosen by the instructor. Content varies from semester to semester, may be repeated with different content.

Concepts and strategies for preventive health communication in such contexts as provider-patient interaction, health campaigns, social marketing, health images in the mass media and communication in health care organizations.

Intensive study of theory and research in one area of health communication chosen by the instructor. Content varies from semester to semester, may be repeated with different content.

Focuses on the design, implementation and evaluation of communication programs for addressing health issues. Provides an overview of relevant theory and research and opportunities to study, design, implement, and evaluate actual health communication campaigns.

Covers the influence of culture on health beliefs, values, and health care practices. How beliefs and values impact communication in health care settings.

Surveys theories dealing with the production, content, and reception of mediated communication. Analyzes the theories and their metatheoretical assumptions in light of their structural/functional, cultural/critical, behaviorist/effects, and postmodern paradigmatic characteristics. 

This course critically examines the central role digital/social media technologies play in culture and society, providing the structures in which individual identity forms, social relations manifest, political discourse occurs, and economic power flows. 

The course explores the power relations, structures, and social/cultural practices that mutually constitute the production, distribution, and consumption of mediated content. 

Focuses on key theoretical debates that have shaped the field of media studies, with emphasis on application to the critique of mediated communication and technological trends and their impact on society, culture, and identity construction. 

This course is designed to train and support Communication and Journalism graduate teaching assistants. Through a variety of workshops we engage techniques that facilitate innovative instruction and practice, mentoring skills, and ongoing pedagogical development.

Offered on a CR/NC basis only.

Restriction: admitted to M.A. Communication or Ph.D. Communication.

A student-instructor arranged intercultural immersion experience featuring grounded learning, collaborative research and service, or similar meaningful interactions with people from a culture or subculture different from one's own, with "intercultural" defined broadly.

Restriction: permission of instructor.

Independent study on questions and issues beyond those covered by regularly approved seminars. Plan must be prepared and approved by a faculty member who agrees to direct the study. Approval by department chairperson required.

Plan II students only. Having registered for the project plan, the student must continue to register for a minimum of 1 hour of 598 during each regular semester (exclusive of summer) until the project is completed and approved.

Offered on a CR/NC basis only.

Restriction: permission of advisor.

Plan I students only. Having registered for the thesis plan, the student must continue to register for a minimum of 1 hour of 599 during each regular semester (exclusive of summer) until the thesis is approved.

Offered on a CR/NC basis only.

Advanced study of the modern history and philosophical foundations of the study of human communication with attention to contributions of both humanistic and social science traditions and consideration of contemporary controversies concerning theory and research.

Reviews historical and contemporary theorizing and research programs addressing cultural and intercultural communication.

Introduction to history, assumptions, logic, and methods of qualitative inquiry, with emphasis on field methods of data collection. 

Approaches and techniques for the analysis of qualitative data. Explores the relationships among paradigm, theory, method, and interpretation. Focuses on research design and human-subject protection as well as data analysis. 

The steps of the qualitative research process from conceptualization of research questions to the production of a written report. Synthesization of the various stages of communication research.

Advanced study of methods, techniques and instruments useful in investigations that employ quantitative analysis of human communication processes.

Introduces the students to mixed methods research, including designs for data collection, analysis and integration.

Prerequisite: 501.

Having registered for the dissertation, the student must continue to register for a minimum of 1 hour of 699 during each regular semester (exclusive of summer) until the dissertation is completed and approved.

Offered on a CR/NC basis only.

Restriction: permission of advisor.