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Show Course Descriptions

Please see the section on Course Description Symbols and Terms in the University Catalog for an explanation of course description terminology and symbols, the course numbering system, and course credit units. All courses are lecture and discussion and employ letter grading unless otherwise stated. Some prerequisites may be waived with faculty permission. Many syllabi are available on the Chico Web.

Displaying 1 - 55 out of 55 results.

SUBJ NUM Title Sustainable Units Semester Offered Course Flags
Effective oral communication. Introduction to human communication theory. Practice in gathering, organizing, and presenting material in speeches to persuade, inform, and interest. 1 hour lecture, 2 hours discussion. This is an approved General Education course. (002206)
Prerequisites: Acceptance into the Honors Program.
Effective oral communication. Introduction to human communication theory. Practice in gathering, organizing, and presenting material, with special emphases on evidence, reasoning, analysis, and argument. Oral advocacy of ideas with a focus on critical thinking. Open to Honors students only. 3 hours discussion. This is an approved General Education course. (002207)
This course examines communication in small group processes such as group development, group climate, leadership and roles, problem solving, and conflict. Participation in an in-class small group helps facilitate individual and group improvement. 3 hours discussion. This is an approved General Education course. (002208)
Using speeches developed for other communication classes, students will compete in a speech tournament held on a weekend designated at the beginning of each semester. Students will practice public speaking, argumentation and debate skills and will receive written feedback from a minimum of two different critics. This course is for students without any previous competitive public speaking experience. 1 hour lecture. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 2.0 units. Credit/no credit grading. (002209)
See description for CMST 139C below. 3 hours activity. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 8.0 units. (002212)
See description for CMST 139C below. 1 hour discussion, 3 hours activity. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 8.0 units. (002213)
Supervised preparation for participating in intercollegiate contests in debate, persuasion, informative speaking, oral interpretation, speeches to entertain, and similar events. No more than 8 units of Forensics (CMST 139 or CMST 339) may be counted toward total University requirements. 2 hours discussion, 3 hours activity. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 6.0 units. (002214)
This course offers students the opportunity to learn and develop critical knowledge and communication skills related to career development and employment searching. The course is offered as a two-day workshop where students attend individual seminars on topics such as Career Development (choosing the first job, how to build jobs into a career, how to select professional fields); Professional Expectations (business attire, communication, dining etiquette); Employment Research (company, industry, and job research, resume and cover letter writing, persuasion); Interview Preparation (communication, questions, research, follow up). Students learn about the many career options available to them after graduation, as well as how to prepare for and successfully meet their personal employment goals. 1 hour discussion. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 2.0 units. Credit/no credit grading. (020008)
This course is for special topics offered for 1.0-3.0 units. Typically the topic is offered on a one-time-only basis and may vary from term to term and be different for different sections. See the Class Schedule for the specific topic being offered. 1 hour discussion. (001998)
An introduction to the study of one-to-one relationships, focusing on the experience, behavior, and rules governing such interpersonal contexts as friendships, families, and employer-employee relations. Factors influencing communication are studied, such as language, perception, non-verbal, power, status, and roles. Problems of communication are identified and studied. Confidence in relating interpersonally is handled. 3 hours discussion. (002219)
Using both cognitive and experiential models, this course explores the relationships between gender and communication. Discussions focus on such topics as self-perceptions and images of men and women, language used by and about men and women, self-disclosure and self-assertion as communicative acts, gender differences in information processing and non-verbal communication, private and public contexts for gender communication, and gender communication in organizations. 3 hours discussion. This is an approved General Education course. (021189)
Focus is on the problems of communication between cultural groupings inside and outside of the U.S. Various historical and political contexts in which intercultural communication occurs are examined. 3 hours discussion. This is an approved General Education course. This is an approved US Diversity course. (021193)
Study of the nature of argument, including methods of analysis, research, patterns and fallacies of reasoning, use and tests of evidence, refutation, and debate as a practical application of argumentation. 3 hours discussion. This is an approved General Education course. (002221)
This course introduces students to the communication studies major or minor. It reviews and discusses the major theories, research, and related principles of the field to create general awareness for students new to the communication discipline and emphasizes the practical and professional applications of the field, enabling students to make connections among the discipline, their daily life, and potential career choices. 3 hours lecture. (002001)
Prerequisites: ENGL 130 (or its equivalent) with a grade of C- or better.
Writing skills course for communication studies majors that addresses issues in communication scholarship, including practical applications of theory and research in communication, communication journals and the publication process, how to conduct a scholarly literature review, how to write a scholarly research paper in communication studies, and how to write on a professional level. 3 hours lecture. (002216)
Examination, evaluation, and application of scientific methods of communication behavior analysis, especially those directly applicable to human communication. 3 hours lecture. (002023)
See description for CMST 339C below. 3 hours activity. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 8.0 units. (002225)
See description for CMST 339C below. 1 hour discussion, 3 hours activity. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 8.0 units. (002226)
Supervised preparation for participating in intercollegiate contests in debate, persuasion, informative speaking, oral interpretation, speeches to entertain, and similar events. No more than 8 units of Forensics (CMST 139 or CMST 339) may be counted toward total University requirements. 2 hours discussion, 3 hours activity. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 6.0 units. (002227)
Prerequisites: CMST 131, CMST 330, and CMST 331 with a garde of C- or higher.
Study of representative theories of rhetoric from classical to modern times. Emphasis is on continuing questions, trends, developments, and influence upon contemporary thought, and practical applications of theory to understanding and performing rhetorical criticism. 3 hours lecture. (002217)
Basic theories of persuasion, including variables, resources, and constraints affecting persuasive discourse in diverse situations. This course aims to develop students' abilities as an observer and informed practitioner of persuasive communication. 3 hours discussion. (002220)
Prerequisites: CMST 131, CMST 330, CMST 331 with a grade of C- or higher.
The study and survey of major content areas of organizational communication theory and research. Contemporary theories related to organizational environments are reviewed with an emphasis on technology in organizations and its relationship to communication process. Content areas include ethics, networks, diversity and cultures, changing employer-employee relations, feedback, groups, home-workplace tensions, and various emerging topics in the field. 3 hours discussion. (002222)
Prerequisites: CMST 131, CMST 132, CMST 330 all with a grade of C- or higher.
The course is designed for junior level communication studies majors to develop advanced public speaking skill while working concurrently on knowledge development in general career environments and/or specific professional contexts. Potential career choices and strategies for the communication major are identified and explored. This course challenges the student to prepare for the post graduation goals via knowledge accumulation, skill advancement, and development of communication competence. 3 hours discussion. Formerly CMST 482. (002244)
3 hours lecture. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 15.0 units. (002232)
This course is for special topics offered for 1.0-3.0 units. Typically the topic is offered on a one-time-only basis and may vary from term to term and be different for different sections. See the Class Schedule for the specific topic being offered. 1 hour discussion. (002020)
This course is an independent study of special problems offered for 1.0-3.0 units. You must register directly with a supervising faculty member. Special projects (research or production) in communication study. 9 hours supervision. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 6.0 units. Credit/no credit grading. (002234)
Prerequisites: CMST 131, CMST 330, CMST 331, CMST 350, and CMST 370 with a grade of C- or higher for CMST majors only.
This course is also offered as JOUR 424, POLS 424.
Analysis of major factors in group and individual opinion formation, with emphasis on politics, opinion measurement, and the role of mass media in the political process. 3 hours lecture. (002029)
Prerequisites: CMST 131, CMST 330, CMST 331, CMST 350, and CMST 370 with a grade of C- or higher for CMST majors only.
This course is also offered as JOUR 428, POLS 428.
An examination of the relationships of politics and the mass media. Topics may include politics, visual rhetoric, the public sphere studies, media analysis, public policy decisions, political media campaigns, and social movements. 3 hours seminar. (002246)
Prerequisites: ENGL 130 or JOUR 130 (or equivalent) with a grade of C- or higher; CMST 131, CMST 330, CMST 331, CMST 350, and CMST 370 with a grade of C- or higher; for CMST majors or by faculty permission for non-majors.
Study of freedom of speech, with attention to issues of dissent and responsible communication. 3 hours discussion. This is an approved Graduation Writing Assessment Requirement course; a grade of C- or higher certifies writing proficiency for majors. (020262)
Prerequisites: CMST 131, CMST 330, CMST 331, CMST 350, and CMST 370 with a grade of C- or higher; either CMST 334 or CMST 335.
This course introduces students to the theory/practice of health communciation as a context within which dyadic, small group, and organization communication occurs. Students examine topics such as provider-client communication, health communication and technology, diversity and culture as influences in health communication, and the role that the mass media plays in disseminating information about and impacting health communication. This lecture/discussion class examines relevant case studies and works with local health agencies in brief service learning projects designed to put theoretical knowledge to practical social use. 3 hours discussion. (002235)
Prerequisites: CMST 131, CMST 330, CMST 331, CMST 350, and CMST 370 with a grade of C- or higher.
This course provides an in-depth study of selected contexts and issues for rhetorical studies. 3 hours discussion. (020251)
Prerequisites: CMST 131, CMST 330, CMST 331, CMST 350, and CMST 370 with a grade of C- or higher for CMST majors or by faculty permission for non-majors.
In-depth theoretical approaches and research perspectives are studied from the field of organizational communication. Theories studied include classical to modern theories of organization, as well as contemporary and critical theories in the communication field. Research areas reviewed include network analysis, socialization, control practices, and others. Application of theory into research is also explored. 3 hours lecture. (002030)
Prerequisites: ENGL 130 or JOUR 130 (or equivalent) with a grade of C- or higher, CMST 131, CMST 330, CMST 331, CMST 350, and CMST 370 with a grade of C- or higher; CMST 132 for CMST majors or by faculty permission for non-majors.
This course represents an advanced exploration and application of leadership and associated decision making with particular focus on communication processes in a variety of contexts. Discussion topics include, but are not limited to, traditional and contemporary leadership theory, leadership communication competence, leadership and dissent, gender and cultural issues associated with leadership and decision making, followers as an integral part of the leadership equation, and ethical issues related to leadership communication. A group project offers students the opportunity to witness first-hand concepts discussed and to apply what they have learned. 3 hours lecture. This is an approved Graduation Writing Assessment Requirement course; a grade of C- or higher certifies writing proficiency for majors. (002247)
Prerequisites: CMST 131, CMST 330, CMST 331, CMST 350, and CMST 370 with a grade of C- or higher; CMST 132 for CMST majors or by faculty permission for non-majors.
This course extends students' interviewing knowledge and experience beyond job search interviews into complex contexts such as focus groups, needs assessments, performance appraisals, and employee counseling and disciplinary action. Attention is given to listening and nonverbal behavior in interview contexts, interview development and management, facilitation skills for group interviews, and analysis and interpretation of interview data. Technology as a medium for interviews is also explored. 3 hours discussion. (002248)
Prerequisites: CMST 131, CMST 330, CMST 331, CMST 350, and CMST 370 with a grade of C- or higher.
This course provides opportunities for advanced students in organizational communication to extend and apply their discipline knowledge, primarily using a case study method. Course topics focus on current issues in communication research related to organizational life, including but not limited to socialization, computer mediated communication, organizational transformation, ethics, technology, and others. Students are actively engaged in the content by reflecting on, analyzing, debating, and discussing case studies while presenting their work in both oral and written formats, individually as well as in groups. 3 hours discussion. (020250)
Prerequisites: CMST 131, CMST 330, CMST 331, CMST 350, and CMST 370 with a grade of C- or higher.
This course examines the communication concerns of the nonprofit, or third sector, and its changing role in society. Students extend their knowledge of communication theory, analysis, and presentation skills while examining topics such as internal and external communication at the national, state, and local levels of nonprofits, volunteer and other stakeholder communication, crisis and advocacy communication, and communicating for sustainability. Innovations in nonprofit organizing are also covered. 3 hours discussion. (020249)
Prerequisites: Completion of 18 units within either the Major Core, Organizational Communication Option, or Communication and Public Affairs Option.
To enroll in CMST 489, students must apply for an internship directly with the internship coordinator, who can be found through the CMST main office. Applications must be completed by the end of the second week of the semester and by the first day of a special session. The internship program provides students with a culminating experience that links their educational experience with practical organizational experience prior to graduation. Student learning objectives for the internship are jointly established by the student, the cooperating organization, the internship coordinator, and California State University, Chico. Students serve their internships under the direct supervision of a member of the cooperating organization. Students can only enroll in the course through the coordinator. This course is offered for 1.0-15.0 units, and only 3.0 units count toward graduation requirements in the organizational and human communication options. 10 hours discussion. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 15.0 units. Credit/no credit grading. (002039)
This course is for special topics offered for 1.0-3.0 units. Typically the topic is offered on a one-time-only basis and may vary from term to term and be different for different sections. See the Class Schedule for the specific topic being offered. 9 hours supervision. (002044)
Prerequisites: Faculty permission.
This course is an independent study of special problems offered for 1.0-3.0 units. You must register directly with a supervising faculty member. 3 hours supervision. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 6.0 units. Credit/no credit grading. (002253)
This course introduces graduate students to the field of communication studies and the philosophical and meta-theoretical debates that under gird communication research. The major forms of theory and research that represent the history of the field and current contemporary discourse in communication are surveyed. 3 hours seminar. (002045)
This course is designed to provide students with an understanding of research methods associated with the field of communication. The predominant focus is quantitative inquiry with attention to surveys, experiments, content analysis, and evaluation research. Also included is experience in computer analysis of statistical data and construction of a research proposal. 3 hours seminar. (002046)
Prerequisites: CMST graduate standing or faculty permission.
This course is an introduction to qualitative research methods in communication studies including: conceptualization, research design, data collection procedures, and analyses. The role of communication theory in guiding and informing research design in the field is emphasized, as are the ethical and political dimensions of conducting qualitative research. 3 hours seminar. (002254)
This course is also offered as POLS 604.
This seminar examines various political communication phenomena both in the United States and the international stage. Aspects of political communication research covered include: media and politics, image politics, visual rhetoric, and public sphere studies. The course emphasizes literature on political communication while simultaneously encouraging students to consider the boundaries of the political as it relates to the study of communication. 3 hours seminar. (002255)
This course is designed to acquaint students with classic and contemporary theories, and their associated research findings, in the area of interpersonal communication. The course explores a number of topics in the field of interpersonal communication and relationships that are currently generating research attention and/or have been influential in moving the field to where it is today. 3 hours seminar. (002256)
This course takes a communicative perspective to the study of organizations, and intends to help students develop familiarity with major communication theories, research orientations, and issues regarding both organizations and the relationship among individuals organizations, and society. 3 hours seminar. (002257)
Health communication is an emerging specialty in the field of communication. The course includes issues such as provider-client communication, provider-provider communication and education, intercultural health communication, alternative medicine, health ethics, and mass media health images. 3 hours seminar. (002259)
This seminar is intended to introduce students to some central topics of intercultural communication from diverse theoretical perspectives. Various intellectual, historical and political contexts in which intercultural communication occurs are examined. The seminar also addresses discussions about the relationship between self and other, identities and differences, nationalism (or nation-state), immigration, citizenship, and globalization with an explicit focus on communication in intercultural communication contexts. 3 hours seminar. (002260)
This seminar is intended to introduce students to classical and modern theories of rhetoric with an eye toward their value and applicability in the present day. The seminar focuses on critical examination of selected theories of rhetoric, with an emphasis on the relation of rhetoric to knowledge, power, deliberation, display, and action. 3 hours seminar. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 6.0 units. (002261)
This seminar provides an in depth examination of rhetorical criticism. Historically, the course covers rhetorical criticism from its break with English based literary criticism in the early twentieth century through contemporary developments in the study of rhetoric as a distinct field of study. Students in the course are expected to comprehend several methods and demonstrate mastery of at least one through the construction of a fully formed rhetorical criticism of significant communication artifacts, acts, and/or events. 3 hours seminar. (002262)
This course provides students with an introduction to the theories of social change offered by feminist theorists. These theories are approached from a rhetorical or communication perspective, one focused on the nature and function of symbol use, and is used to challenge and transform our understanding of human communication. 3 hours seminar. (002263)
A weekly seminar in the theory and practice of teaching. Designed for CMST teaching associates. 1 hour seminar. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 4.0 units. Credit/no credit grading. (020260)
This course is a graduate-level independent study offered for 1.0-3.0 units. You must register directly with a supervising faculty member. Research or creative project supervised by a faculty member and separate from the 699P or 699T terminal degree requirement. 3 hours supervision. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 6.0 units. (002266)
Course content varies but always focuses on an innovative trend and/or advanced area within the field of communication studies. 3 hours seminar. (002265)
A media project in lieu of the traditional research thesis (699T) as the terminal degree requirement. 9 hours supervision. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 6.0 units. Credit/no credit grading. (002267)
The terminal requirement for the master's degree. 9 hours supervision. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 6.0 units. Credit/no credit grading. (002268)
Catalog Cycle:12