Department of Communication, Language, and Literature

An introduction to the foundations of the field of communication and the communication process. Topics will focus on varied areas of communication, communication theories, and how communication affects society and research in the field.

An exploration of the role of nonverbal artifacts such as food, music, dance, costume, and color in reflecting cultural values and practices. This brief course includes mandatory all-day attendance at the Folklife Fair at the Trailing of the Sheep Festival in Hailey, Idaho. In one class period before and one class after the fair, students will discuss the parts of nonverbal communication that are especially highlighted by this cultural event and what makes the profession of sheepherding share behaviors and norms across cultures. Class will be a combination of discussion, class activities, and some lecture. A five-page paper is required to complete the course. Fulfills a General Education Cultural Competency (CC) requirement.

An introduction to verbal communication, listening, and public speaking. Emphasis will be placed on speaking, delivery issues, speech construction, audience connection, and the communication process. Students will write and deliver a variety of speeches and learn to speak with "clarity, coherence, and persuasiveness." This course satisfies the NNU General Education Speech outcome with a grade of C- or higher.

This course is an introduction to the intellectual, emotional, and aesthetic aspects of literature. Emphasis is placed on analysis and presentation of literature as it communicates to the listener. Performances include prose, poetry, and drama.

An approach to small group communication theory with emphasis on identifying and developing appropriate communication strategies for various group situations. The course focuses on the principles and processes of small group communication, attitudes and skills for effective participation and leadership in small groups, small group problem solving, and decision-making. The primary goal of this course is to apply concepts learned through reading and discussion to practical situations in a small group setting.

A study of the history, structures, technologies, genres, theories and influences of the mass media on individuals and society. Designed to prepare students to be media literate, critical, and responsible producers and consumers of the mass media.

Interpersonal Communication is the study of theories and practice in verbal and nonverbal communication with a focus on interpersonal relationships. Emphasis is on improving interpersonal skills and increasing communication competence in everyday social exchanges. Topics include perception, listening, online relationships, friendships, and family relationships. This course satisfies a General Education Social Science requirement.

Opportunities for Communication majors as well as non-majors to prepare for and participate in a variety of communication activities approved by the department. Class instruction focuses on competitive speech and debate. Students may complete other approved independent work for class participation hours. May be repeated for credit.

An introduction to the theory, research, and practical aspects of public relations. Emphasis will be placed on understanding and preparing strategic plans and how public relations function in business, industrial, educational and social organizations.

Supervised internship or research in communication. A student may complete an approved professional internship with 50 clock hours per credit required. Internships must be related to an area of communication and have a qualified mentor or supervisor. The internship is designed to be a learning opportunity for the student, as well as a benefit to the outside organization. This activity concludes with a formal written and oral presentation. May be repeated for credit upon approval by the advisor. 

The study of the nature and function of communication within the organization. Emphasis will be on group process, networks, discussion, decision-making, message creation and organizational climate and culture. The course is designed to enhance your understanding of the role of communication in modern organizations, explore approaches and theories of organizational communication and leadership, identify common organizational communication problems and their solutions, and develop attitudes and analytical abilities that can enhance your ability to navigate modern organizations in a creative, effective and ethical way. 

The study of the types and effects of nonverbal communication in our lives including: touch, space, physical appearance, movement, facial expression, vocalics, and artifacts. Emphasis will be placed on nonverbal theories and research on nonverbal communication in interpersonal interaction.

A concentrated study of one area in the field of communication. Examples include but are not limited to Sports Communication, Relational Communication, Leadership Communication, and Conflict Negotiation Communication. May be repeated for credit.

Advanced opportunities for students majoring in areas of communication arts & science, as well as non-majors, to participate in a variety of communication activities approved by the department. Class instruction focuses on competitive speech and debate. Students may complete approved independent work for class participation hours. May be repeated for credit.

This course introduces students to the complex field of intercultural communication by looking at the practical applications of theory and research from critical, cultural, and social scientific perspectives. The course explores challenges of intercultural interaction and relationships in a number of contexts. Topics include individual perceptions, communication and culture, the role of linguistic differences, dimensions of culture, stereotyping and prejudice, adaptation to new cultures, and culture shock. A combination of theory, application, and experience will be included. Successful completion of the course requires students to engage in at least 15 hours of contact with individuals who are from international cultures other than their own. Fulfills a General Education Cultural Experience (CE) requirement.

A course designed to enable students to improve their public speaking techniques beyond basic skills. Emphasis will be placed both on skill development and speaking outside of the classroom in more professional settings. This satisfies the NNU General Education Speech outcome with a grade of C- or higher. 

An introduction to verbal communication in groups, listening, and public speaking focused on the unique challenges of public speaking for those in technical and scientific fields. Emphasis will be placed on speaking, delivery issues, speech construction, audience connection, and the communication process. Recommended for students who have completed at least 12 credits in their major field. This course meets the NNU General Education Speech outcome with a grade of C- or higher.

Designed for Public Relations (PR) majors to meet the expectations of the Public Relations Society of America for PR education, this course engages students in a variety of PR-specific writing skills. Includes study, critique, and editing of both student and professional work.

A practical and theoretical approach to the study of psychological and rhetorical principles vital to influencing human behavior. Topics include major social science theoretical perspectives, expertise, trustworthiness, likability, use of emotions, and sequencing of messages.

Theory and practice of argumentation and debate including research, analysis, reasoning, evidence, preparation of briefs, organization, and delivery. Intercollegiate tournament participation is encouraged, but not required.

A skills-based class designed to help the student practice the skills required for communicating through the broadcast media in areas such as press conferences, reporting, online media, newsroom situations, podcasting, and sports broadcasting. 

Strategies appropriate to this subject field. Includes instructional materials and tools and curricular structure common to the subject in the secondary school. Includes opportunities for students to assist and teach a minimum of 20 hours. (See EDUC3650)

A concentrated study of one area in the field of communication. Examples include but are not limited to Sports Communication, Relational Communication, Leadership Communication, and Conflict Negotiation Communication. May be repeated for credit.

An in-depth study of the theory and practice of public relations in the U.S. Emphasis will be placed on analyzing and assessing case studies in public relations problems and in designing and executing a professional public relations campaign. Students will engage in reading, criticism, analysis, and design activities.

Explores classical and modern perspectives of rhetoric. Includes a study of classical and modern rhetoricians and their contributions to the art of rhetoric.

Study of communication theories and the influence of communication on individuals and society. This course includes a survey of selected topics, research designs and methods in communication. The course culminates with a mix of original student papers and group research projects.

An ethics course designed specifically for the unique challenges and situations faced by communication experts in the fields of public relations, health communication, broadcasting, communication research, and other related fields. Students will encounter multiple scenarios, case studies of actual situations, and practice responding to ethically difficult situations.

A study of the field of health communication. The course will employ case studies, lecture, discussion, and experiential learning. Relevant theory, research, and skills associated with communicating in various care contexts will be addressed. This will include communication among providers, family caregivers, patients, healthcare organizations, and in mediated messages. Issues related to marketing and promotion of health information and the politics of health care will be covered.

Supervised internship or research in communication. A student may complete an approved professional internship with 50 clock hours per credit required. Internships must be related to an area of communication and have a qualified mentor or supervisor. The internship is designed to be a learning opportunity for the student, as well as a benefit to the outside organization. This activity concludes with a formal written and oral presentation. May be repeated for credit upon approval by the advisor. 

This course is designed to allow students to conduct a self-directed project resulting in an original work related to their specific areas of communication studies. This outcome could include (but is not limited to) conducting a full research study, preparing a public relations plan for an outside client, designing a health campaign, and/or writing a major paper. This process culminates with a public senior defense of the work produced. Required of all majors in the department with the exception of co-majors and pre-counseling majors. This course may be repeated for credit.

A senior level course that reviews the university outcomes and major theories and research methods of the field of communication and prepares the student for a future in communication professions. Other topics include a review of the student's senior project, resume building, interviewing techniques, development of student portfolio, and preparation for graduate school. This course can be taken by students not majoring in an area of Communication Studies but must have instructor permission. Satisfies the General Education Capstone requirement.

Recommendation: Students should take this course in their first year.

A course that introduces students to the rigors of academic writing. Key elements include practicing the critical reading and summary of texts; finding and using evidence correctly; developing lines of inquiry; analyzing complex claims; and applying the rhetorical strategies that lead to successful academic writing. Students will also develop a metacognitive understanding of their reading, writing, and thinking processes.

This course will teach students basic reporting and news writing skills, focusing on Associated Press writing style. Additionally, students will be introduced to the best journalism practices dealing with news value and judgment.

Building on the analytical, research, and writing skills gained in ENGL1040, students will strengthen their ability to write critically, engagingly, and knowledgeably to a specific audience. Courses will be offered as topics courses and are designated in the course schedule with a letter after the W.

An advanced writing course emphasizing the thinking and writing skills necessary to develop an effective prose style. A general course appropriate for advanced students in any area, it is especially recommended for potential graduate students. This course fulfills the general-education "W" requirement.

Principles, techniques, and practice in writing both fiction and non-fiction, including small-group work, critique, and revision. This course fulfills the general-education "W" requirement.

Principles, techniques, and practice in writing poems. Emphasis on individual writing and small-group activities. ENGL2050 recommended prior to taking this course.

Principles, techniques, and practice in writing nonfiction, through small-group critique and revision.

Students will analyze audience, persuasion strategies, and communication ethics in this course. Emphasis is on document design, effective use of graphics, working collaboratively, and oral presentation. Students will produce formal business documents such as memos, reports, and proposals.

An examination and application of research-based methodologies for teaching the writing process. Candidates learn how to incorporate the writing process across all content areas. Focus is on creating authentic writing opportunities that encompass a range of tasks, purposes, and audiences. This course meets a portion of the Idaho Comprehensive Literacy Coursework requirements of the Idaho Department of Education. (See EDUC3090)

A study of representative plays through reading, viewing, and discussing comedies, tragedies, and histories. This course fulfills the general-education "W" requirement.

A study of literature written for children and young adults, from preschool age onward. The course samples a variety of types of literature and will prove valuable for general students, prospective teachers, or parents who wish to enrich their own background in children's and young adult literature and to develop qualitative judgment skills.

Students will work at least 100 hours in a professional writing situation, such as a newspaper, on a schedule convenient to the needs of the business or office and the students' own course work. The writing situation will be selected in consultation with the Communication, Language, and Literature Department Chair. Students will have opportunity to observe and participate in all facets of the business. A supervisor in the business situation will agree to serve as editor, instructor, and supervisor, and be approved by the Language and Literature Department Chair. Credit and grade will depend upon the completion of the hours in a dependable, professional manner as verified from the supervisor to the professor.

A course studying the literature of American cultural minorities. Course content may be either multi-cultural or monocultural. May be repeated for credit. This course fulfills the general-education "W" requirement and fulfills a General Education Cultural Competency (CC) requirement.

For students who have less than two years of high school French. These courses are designed to be taken in sequence. Objective: to help students acquire an active command of the four basic communication skills (speaking, oral comprehension, writing, reading) in French as well as an awareness of how French language and culture are intimately intertwined. 

A continuation of FREN1010. For students who have less than two years of high school French. These courses are designed to be taken in sequence. Objective: to help students acquire an active command of the four basic communication skills (speaking, oral comprehension, writing, reading) in French as well as an awareness of how French language and culture are intimately intertwined. 

For students who wish to begin the study of Spanish. The acquisition of basic vocabulary, sounds and structures with emphasis on conversation. An introduction to Spanish and Hispanoamerican cultures. Fulfills a General Education Cultural Competency (CC) requirement.

A continuation of SPAN1010. For students who wish to begin the study of Spanish. The acquisition of basic vocabulary, sounds and structures with emphasis on conversation. An introduction to Spanish and Hispanoamerican cultures. Fulfills a General Education Cultural Competency (CC) requirement.

For students who have had at least two years of high school Spanish or one year of college Spanish. A refinement of basic skills and structure with continued emphasis on conversation and increasing emphasis on composition and reading. Fulfills a General Education Cultural Competency (CC) requirement.

A continuation of SPAN2010. For students who have had at least two years of high school Spanish or one year of college Spanish. A refinement of basic skills and structure with continued emphasis on conversation and increasing emphasis on composition and reading. Fulfills a General Education Cultural Competency (CC) requirement.

Extensive conversation with lesser emphasis on composition. Spanish-language media such as television and internet provide or supplement topics for discussion and writing. Counts for cultural or linguistic credit. May be repeated for credit once. Fulfills a General Education Cultural Competency (CC) requirement.