CMS 107 - Media and Society

3-0-3
Credit Hours: 3

This course provides analysis of mass media in the United States, with a focus on the development of mass media institutions and the role of media in society. Particular attention is placed on theory, law, ethics, effects, economics, emerging technologies, and audiences.

Prerequisite

ENGL 101, which may be taken concurrently. 

Course Offered Online: Yes

General Education Fulfillment: Cultural Analysis and Interpretation



CMS 122 - Writing and Reporting for Media

3-0-3
Credit Hours: 3

This introductory course teaches students basic newswriting skills for print, digital, audio, and visual platforms. Students will learn the form and content of news stories and how to write them using Associated Press style and other conventions used by professional news organizations. Students will also learn the laws and ethics associated with writing and reporting for the media. 

Prerequisite

ENGL 101 with a grade of "C" or better.

Course Offered Online: Yes



CMS 140 - Communication Technology for the Workplace

3-0-3
Credit Hours: 3

This course is an introduction to communication technologies for the workplace. Students create documents, spreadsheets, and presentations. A premium is placed on digital communication at work through virtual presentations, social media usage, and emerging business communication tools.



CMS 180 - Social Media & Digital Cultures

3-0-3
Credit Hours: 3

The Social Media & Digital Cultures course focuses on understanding the impacts of social media and digital culture in political, historical, and social contexts. Students will develop an understanding of the role and importance of digital media in society. We will explore key aspects of social media through the lens of history, ethics, globalization, democracy, and social change.

Prerequisite

ENGL 097 which may be taken concurrently.



CMS 216 - Relational Communication

3-0-3
Credit Hours: 3

This course provides an advanced engagement in interpersonal communication theory and research associated with communication in various stages of platonic and romantic relationships including initiation, maintenance, and dissolution.

Prerequisite

ENGL 115 with a grade of "C" or better and CMS 107 or ENGL 116 with a grade of "C" or better



CMS 220 - Representation in the Media

Credit Hours:

This course critically examines historical and contemporary media representations of identity in television, news, advertising, magazines, popular music, film, and social media. Students will engage in textual analyses of media and reflect on issues of socioeconomic inequality in society and their impact on media institutions.

Prerequisite

CMS 107 and CMS 180



CMS 220 - Representation in the Media

3-0-3
Credit Hours: 3


CMS 254 - Writing for Sports Media

3-0-3
Credit Hours: 3

Writing for Sports Media provides students with the practical skills and industry knowledge needed to succeed in the sports journalism field. Through hands-on assignments, students learn to write compelling and accurate stories in formats such as features, profiles, podcasts, and on-deadline pieces, all while applying the Associated Press (AP) Style. The course emphasizes the art of interviewing to capture unique perspectives and explores the ethical challenges of covering sports with fairness and professionalism. Students utilize digital platforms and social media to enhance their storytelling and build audience engagement.

Prerequisite

CMS 122 or ENGL 122



CMS 255 - Writing for Digital Media

3-0-3
Credit Hours: 3

This course teaches students to write for digital media, with a focus on the use of social media in journalism. Students will learn how to write for various digital platforms such as vlogging, blogging, social media, and podcasting, in a professional context. This course also emphasizes the political, ethical, and social implications of digital media writing.

Prerequisite

CMS 122 or ENGL 122



CMS 270 - Media and Globalization

3-0-3
Credit Hours: 3

This course explores media through the lens of globalization. Students will explore how history, political systems, economics, and cultural values influence media around the world. Students will study media systems and genres in Latin America, Africa, Asia, and Europe.

Prerequisite

CMS 107 and CMS 180



CMS 290 - Communication and Media Studies Capstone Experience

1-15-3
Credit Hours: 3

This course provides students an opportunity to connect the relationship between principles and theories taught in the Communication and Media Studies curriculum and apply those principles to practices in the workplace. Under supervision, students get hands-on, professional work experience in communication, media, journalism, advertising, public relations and/or other related industry internships.

Prerequisite

CMS 114, CMS 122, and CMS 220.