Communication

Presidential speeches … conversations with friends and co-workers … newspaper articles … radio banter … TV ads … Hollywood movies … the flood of information on the Internet. Communication in all its forms permeates our lives, shapes our interpersonal relationships and structures the way we view the world. Studying communication can help you understand how communication processes work, and give you the knowledge and skills you’ll need to be an engaged citizen and successful professional in the 21st Century.

We offer two majors:

  • Organizational Communication 
  • Speech Communication

Our graduates have become radio DJs, trial lawyers, actors, sound engineers, teachers, writers, television producers, CEOs and scholars. They’ve accomplished so much because their studies here at North Central trained them to be effective communicators.

As a student in our department, you’ll study:

  •  Public speaking and debate
  •  Radio programming and performance
  •  Communication within, across and between cultures
  •  Video production
  •  Face-to-face and small group communication
  •  Screenwriting and writing for broadcast news
  •  Persuasive communication and propaganda
  •  Communication law and media policy
  •  The politics, economics and social impact of the mass media

We’ll work with you to hone your writing, speaking and reasoning abilities. And we’re devoted to rigorous instruction in a responsive, small class environment.

Communication Studies, B.A.

Communication studies focuses on the intersection of theory and practice in a variety of contexts.  Students are led to understand, to use, and to critique communication as it is presently practiced in society and to develop critical thinking regarding communication strategies and analysis.

For additional programs and courses in this department, see Communication and Media Studies.

Core Courses

Electives

Two courses from the following:

Advanced Electives

One course from the following:

Foreign Language

Students must demonstrate elementary competence in a foreign language. For more information, see the B.A. Degree Requirements within the Academic Regulations section of this catalog.

Eight credit hours from the following:

Interactive Media Studies, Convergent-Media Track, B.A.

For additional programs and courses in this department, see Communication and Media Studies.

Core Courses

Web Design

Practica

Two semesters from any of the following:

Capstone

One of the following:

Convergent Media Courses

One of the following:

Multimedia Production Skills

Three of the following, no more than two from the same department:

Advanced Analysis, Context and Writing

Two of the following, no more than one from the same department:

Students must demonstrate elementary competence in a foreign language. For more information, see the B.A. Degree Requirements within the Academic Regulations section of this catalog.

Interactive Media Studies, Interactive Media Technology Track, B.A.

For additional programs and courses in this department, see Communication and Media Studies.

Core Courses

Practica

Two semesters from any of the following:

Capstone

One of the following:

Technology Courses

Technology Electives

Four of the following, at least one at the 300-level or above:

Students must demonstrate elementary competence in a foreign language. For more information, see the B.A. Degree Requirements within the Academic Regulations section of this catalog.

Journalism and Media Communication, B.A.

Journalism and Media Communication prepares students to become modern media practitioners, practiced in the art of storytelling using a variety of platforms and technologies. Depending on the specific courses selected, students are equipped for careers in the journalism, radio, television, video production, social media, advertising and digital content creation.

Majors in Journalism and Media Communication are encouraged to complete at least one internship in the media-related area of their choice.  Students should work closely with faculty to identify appropriate internship opportunities.

For additional programs and courses in this department, see Communication and Media Studies.

Core Courses

Production Fundamentals

Three of the following:

Advanced Production

Two of the following:

History and Theory

One of the following:

Media Practicum

Four semesters of the following:

Students must demonstrate elementary competence in a foreign language. For more information, see the B.A. Degree Requirements within the Academic Regulations section of this catalog.

Organizational Communication, B.A.

Organizational Communication focuses on how people communicate in diverse organizational contexts.  Students learn to think critically about communication practices in organizations, as well as develop specific skills for the development, presentation, and analysis of messages for different organizational stakeholders.  Depending on the specific courses selected, as well as recommended coursework in a minor, students are prepared for positions in business, industry, non-profit, health care, community and governmental organizations, and may take career paths in internal corporate communication, human resources, training and development, media and community relations, public relations, sales and marketing, customer/client service, community advocacy, technical communication, and management.

Because the major is compatible with a number of fields, and in order to develop expertise in a subject related to their career goals, students are strongly encouraged to pursue a minor. Please consult with Communication faculty and your academic advisor.

The Communication faculty also highly recommend that majors incorporate field experience working in a professional environment by completing at least one internship.  Students should work closely with faculty and Career Services to identify appropriate internship opportunities.

For additional programs and courses in this department, see Communication and Media Studies.

Core Courses

Communication Context

One of the following:

Advanced Communication

Two of the following:

Note:

*Completion of COMM 100 or CARD 102 is assumed; it is a prerequisite for several core courses.

Writing Courses

Two of the following:

Foreign Language

Students must demonstrate elementary competence in a foreign language. For more information, see the B.A. Degree Requirements within the Academic Regulations section of this catalog.

Philosophy Course

Applied Communication Minor

Applied communication focuses on communication practice in a variety of contexts. Students are led to understand, to use and to critique communication.

For additional programs and courses in this department, see Communication and Media Studies.

A minimum of 20 credit hours, including:

Public Speaking

One of the following:

Audience/Context

One of the following:

Structure and Delivery

One of the following:

Intercultural Communication

Advanced Elective

One of the following:

Interactive Media Studies Minor

For additional programs and courses in this department, see Communication and Media Studies.

A minimum of 24 credit hours, to include:

Core Courses

One of the following:

Electives

A minimum 12 credit hours from the IMS Convergent Track listed below, at least one at the 300-level or above and no more than one course from a single subject prefix:

Journalism and Media Communication Minor

Journalism and Media Communication prepares students to become modern media practitioners, practiced in the art of storytelling using a variety of platforms and technologies. Depending on the specific courses selected, students are equipped for careers in journalism, radio, television, video production, social media, advertising and digital content creation.

For additional programs and courses in this department, see Communication and Media Studies.

A minimum of 20 credit hours, including:

Core Courses

Production Fundamentals

Two of the following:

Advanced Production

One of the following:

Media Practicum

One of the following:

Note:

Practicum courses may be taken for zero credit hours.

Organizational Communication Minor

For additional programs and courses in this department, see Communication and Media Studies.

At least 20 credit hours to include:

Two of the following:

Public Relations Minor

Public relations focuses on the flow of information and relationships between organizations and their stakeholders. Graduates with minors and coursework in public relations go on to work in a variety of contexts including journalism, public relations, copy writing, media planning and marketing. Students who pursue a minor in public relations are those looking to develop and showcase their writing competency including Communication and Media majors. A minor in Public Relations provides valuable supplemental skills for non-communication majors including Marketing, Political Science and English.

For additional programs and courses in this department, see Communication and Media Studies.

Electives

One of the following:

Applied Communication Concentration

Communication skills can enhance any field of study, and this streamlined program allows students of any major the opportunity to further develop those skills.  Students take courses from a tightly focused selection of skills-intensive courses that stress practice, repetition, and self-analysis.  Students will learn to communicate more effectively in a variety of contexts and with diverse audiences.  Upon successful completion of the program, students earn a formal transcript designation to indicate to future employers that they have achieved a level of proficiency in communication.

For additional programs and courses in this department, see Communication and Media Studies.

Students must take three courses from the following:

Note:

The Applied Communication Concentration is designated only for students who are not majoring/minoring in one of the communication programs.

 

  • COMM 100 - Introduction to Public Speaking

    4.00 credit hours - An introductory course examining fundamental public speaking skills, including the preparation, presentation and evaluation of informative and persuasive speeches. Particular focus on audience awareness and the organization of an oral message for comprehension. This course may not be taken after completing CARD 102.

 

  • COMM 119 - Forensics Performance

    0.00-2.00 credit hours - For debaters, oral interpreters and public speakers. Offered to all students who wish to participate in intercollegiate forensics. Instructor approval needed for 2.0 credit hours. This is a graded course, regardless of credit.

 

  • COMM 120 - Dating Communication and Social Well Being

    2.00 credit hours

    The impact of communication on well being to understand how people use communication to effectively build health; equitable, resilient, and sustainable romantic relationships cannot be understated. This course introduces and explores the communication tactics that impede the healthy development and maintenance of interpersonal relationships in romantic dyads. Attention will be paid to how negative communication behaviors manifest in different channels, specifically comparing face-to-face and mediated messaging.

    Cardinal Directions Designation(s): Well Being.

 

  • COMM 150 - Public Relations Practicum

    0.00-2.00 credit hours - Students work with real-world clients to develop and apply public relations skills. Emphasis is placed on creating collateral (e.g., white papers and media kits), earned media and social media. Instructor approval required for 2 credit hours. This is a graded course, regardless of credit.

    Prerequisite(s): COMM 250 or instructor consent.

 

  • COMM 185 - Global Media in a Digital Age

    4.00 credit hours - A survey of the development, structure, economics and regulation of the major media with a special emphasis on digital communication and the rise of the internet. Though the primary focus of the course is on media in U.S., some time and attention is devoted to global media industries. The sociological and cultural impact of media on society and civic life will be a central theme throughout the course. 

    Cardinal Directions Designation(s): Social Science, Global Understanding, U.S. Power Structures.
    iCon(s): Engaging Civic Life, Innovating Our World.

     

  • COMM 200 - Interpersonal Communication

    4.00 credit hours - An introductory study of the theory and practice of human communication within diverse relationships and contexts. The emphasis will be on dyadic (one-on-one) communication and the basic verbal and nonverbal strategies affecting perception and comprehension within the communication process. Key subtopics will include nonverbal communication, verbal styles, relationship development and conflict management. Requires participation in written and oral activities designed to develop and improve interpersonal skills. 

    Cardinal Directions Designation(s): Social Science.
    iCon(s): Being Human.

     

  • COMM 214 - Group Interaction

    4.00 credit hours - Students are introduced to the theory and practice of small group communication and decision-making. The course features an extensive group project, where students develop their abilities to participate, observe, analyze, evaluate and intervene in small group communication. 

    Cardinal Directions Designation(s): Social Science, Community Engaged Learning.
    iCon(s): Being Human.

     

  • COMM 250 - Introduction to Public Relations

    4.00 credit hours - An introductory course familiarizing students with core public relations concepts, historical underpinnings, foundational theory and careers in PR. An overview of the functions, practices and growing application of public relations in private industry and the public sector, the course examines the nature and role of public relations, activities of public relations professionals, the major influences impacting organizational behavior and the ethics of public relations. 

    iCon(s): Innovating the World, Thinking Globally.

     

  • COMM 280 - Business and Professional Communication

    4.00 credit hours - An intermediate course in which students develop the skills and strategies for use in written, face-to-face and electronic communication in professional settings. Students learn fundamentals of writing and presenting in professional contexts and may investigate organizational communication practices such as interviewing, performance feedback, training and meeting management. 

    Prerequisite(s):  CARD 102 or COMM 100; Junior standing.
    Cardinal Directions Designation(s): Career Preparation.

     

  • COMM 285 - Argumentation and Debate

    4.00 credit hoursAn intermediate course that addresses both theory and practice in argumentation. Through preparation and participation in debates, students learn the basic principles of debate, emphasizing the development of research, critical thinking and oral presentation skills. 

    Prerequisite(s): CARD 102 or COMM 100. 
    Cardinal Directions Designation(s): Humanities, Ethical Dimensions.
    iCon(s): Engaging Civic Life.

     

  • COMM 287 - Advanced Public Speaking

    4.00 credit hours - Building upon the fundamentals learned in COMM 100, students refine their skills in impromptu, manuscript and extemporaneous speaking in applied settings. The class includes communication theory as well as speech preparation and delivery techniques for speeches that include variations of informative, persuasive and special occasion speeches, as well as emphasis on oral interpretation of texts. This advanced skills course serves Communication majors as well as other students who are seeking to improve their presentation skills. 

    Prerequisite(s): CARD 102 or COMM 100. 
    Cardinal Directions Designation(s): Arts.

     

  • COMM 295 - Research Practicum

    0.00-4.00 credit hours - Students work in collaboration with faculty on ongoing research. Activities vary according to project needs and student background, but may include recruitment of participants, data collection, data coding and entry, bibliography construction, literature review or statistical analysis. This course is graded pass/no pass. May be taken more than once for up to four total credit hours. 

     

  • COMM 297 - Internship

    0.00-12.00 credit hours - Valuable professional experiences supplement classroom instruction and allow students to apply theories and concepts to broader issues and system. Students explore career options within a specific area of study and critically reflect on the experience in a structured manner. May be repeated with different professional experience.

     

  • COMM 299 - Independent Study

    1.00-12.00 credit hours - Individual studies undertaken with guidance of a faculty member. May be repeated with different content.

     

  • COMM 301 - Rhetoric and Public Discourse

    4.00 credit hours - Students develop an understanding of rhetorical communication in the public sphere. The course explores historical and contemporary rhetorical theory, which students use to critique the rhetoric of current public issues. In addition to developing an understanding of the integral role rhetoric plays in civic life, students develop their abilities to analyze, critique and contribute to public discourse. 

    Prerequisite(s): CARD 102 or COMM 100. 
    Cardinal Directions Designation(s): Humanities.
    iCon(s): Engaging Civic Life.

     

  • COMM 317 - Intercultural Communication

    4.00 credit hours - A study of the basic components involved in intercultural communication. Topics considered include, but are not limited to: cultural biases, cultural determinants of experiences and backgrounds, social perception, verbal interaction, nonverbal interaction and opinion leadership. 

    Prerequisite(s): Junior standing. 
    Cardinal Directions Designation(s): Social Science, Global Understanding.
    iCon(s): Challenging Inequity, Thinking Globally.

     

  • COMM 330 - Organizational Communication Theory

    4.00 credit hours - Students develop an understanding of the major theoretical perspectives contributing to the study of organizational communication, from classical management through cultural, critical, feminist, postmodern and constitutive approaches. Students conduct basic field research and learn how to employ theoretical perspectives for analyzing communication practices in organizations. 

    Prerequisite(s): COMM 214 and four additional credit hours in Communication. 
    Cardinal Directions Designation(s): U.S. Power Structures, Writing Intensive.

     

  • COMM 335 - Freedom of Expression

    4.00 credit hours - Examines the First Amendment’s protection of freedom of speech, religion, press and association, and its role as a cornerstone of American democracy. Students study foundational U.S. Supreme Court cases that have defined and delimited these freedoms. They learn how to analyze legal and moral arguments and conduct basic legal research. They also develop an understanding of the political and philosophical conflicts surrounding the exercise of First Amendment freedoms. 

    Prerequisite(s): Junior standing. 
    Cardinal Directions Designation(s): Ethical Dimensions.
    iCon(s): Engaging Civic Life.

     

  • COMM 350 - Public Relations Strategy

    4.00 credit hours - An advanced-level course in PR examining organizational principles, applied theory and strategic planning practices- including social media integration-underscoring the effective management of public relations. Team-based applications of PR research planning, tactics and implementation for real-world clients. The course also emphasizes best practices in PR writing across platforms. 

    Prerequisite(s): COMM 250 and MEDI 225. 

 

  • COMM 355 - Public Relations Writing

    4.00 credit hours - Students develop advanced writing skills applicable to the public relations industry. More specifically, the course focuses on professional writing across a variety of platforms including print, electronic media, social media, sales and promotion, campaigns and direct marketing.

    Prerequisite(s): MEDI 225.

  • COMM 367 - Persuasion Theory

    4.00 credit hours - An introduction to the study of persuasive communication from a social scientific perspective. Theories examines the characteristics of source, message and audience. Topics covered include strategic planning and organization of persuasive messages, audience analysis, motives and values, effective use of language, the role of context and purpose, propaganda and the abuse of persuasion, campaign planning and brand messaging. Students present and analyze persuasive materials orally and in writing as a way of developing communication and critical abilities. 

    Prerequisite(s): CARD 101; CARD 102 or COMM 100; Junior standing. 
    Cardinal Directions Designation(s): Social Sciences.

     

  • COMM 370 - Health Communication

    4.00 credit hours - Summative course examining the intertwining of communication with issues of health and medicine. Emphasis on the unique cultural, media, political-legal, interpersonal and organizational factors influencing communication in healthcare settings. 

    Prerequisite(s): COMM 200 or COMM 214; Junior standing. 
    Cardinal Directions Designation(s): Social Sciences.
    iCon(s): Being Human, Examining Health.

     

  • COMM 389 - Gender, Sexuality and Mass Media

    4.00 credit hours - (Same as:GSST 389.) An advanced introduction to the complex relations between gender and the mass media. Special emphasis is placed on the social construction of gender and sexuality, representations of the body and feminist theories of media. 

    Prerequisite(s): Junior standing. 
    Cardinal Directions Designation(s): Humanities, U.S. Power Structures.
    iCon(s): Being Human, Challenging Inequity.

     

  • COMM 390 - Seminar in Communication

    4.00 credit hours - Examination of special topics within the area of communication studies. 

    Prerequisite(s): Eight credit hours in Communication. 

     

  • COMM 397 - Internship

    0.00-12.00 credit hours - Valuable professional experiences supplement classroom instruction and allow students to apply theories and concepts to broader issues and system. Students explore career options within a specific area of study and critically reflect on the experience in a structured manner. May be repeated with different professional experience.

     

  • COMM 399 - Independent Study

    1.00-12.00 credit hours - Individual studies undertaken with guidance of a faculty member. May be repeated with different content.

     

  • COMM 400 - Communication Theory and Research

    4.00 credit hours - An advanced study of the different traditions of communication theory and their epistemological, normative and ontological assumptions. The focus of this course is on student comprehension of the breadth of thinking within the field of communication and on the responsibility for positioning oneself as a scholar or professional within this field of thought. 

    Prerequisite(s): 20 credit hours in Communication and Junior standing. 
    Cardinal Directions Designation(s): Writing Intensive.

     

  • COMM 412 - Media Criticism

    4.00 credit hours - An advanced survey of theoretically-informed approaches to media criticism, with an emphasis on news media, television and film. Students learn to use the conceptual tools media scholars employ to analyze the content, form and effects of media messages. Ethical and political questions raised by media texts are also examined. 

    Prerequisite(s): COMM 185 and Junior standing. 
    Cardinal Directions Designation(s): U.S. Power Structures, Writing Intensive.
    iCon(s): Engaging Civic Life.

     

  • COMM 415 - Media Institutions

    4.00 credit hours - A study of the business practices, institutional forms and production and distribution processes of major media industries in the U.S. and around the world. Surveys the impact of technology, media policy and regulation, globalization and broader political economic forces on both the individual media enterprise and national and transnational media systems. Examines the unique work routines and labor relations that tend to prevail within media industries. Special emphasis is placed on the advantages and disadvantages of commercial, for-profit media and their various alternatives (state-run public service media, citizen journalism etc.). 

    Prerequisite(s): COMM 185 and Junior standing. 
    Cardinal Directions Designation(s): Global Understanding, Writing Intensive.
    iCon(s): Thinking Globally.

     

  • COMM 430 - Advanced Organizational Communication

    4.00 credit hours - This capstone course bridges theory and practice by emphasizing key organizational communication activities. With particular emphasis on contemporary research and current practices, students discuss topics such as superior-subordinate and peer interaction, stakeholders and decision-making, socialization, gender, globalization, emotion, conflict, identity, image, technology and change. Through individual and collaborative projects, students continue to develop their abilities to analyze, critique and practice organizational communication. 

    Prerequisite(s): COMM 330 and Junior standing. 

     

  • COMM 490 - Seminar in Communication

    4.00 credit hours - Examination of special topics within the area of communication studies. 

    Prerequisite(s): Eight credit hours in Communication. 

     

  • COMM 497 - Internship

    0.00-12.00 credit hours - Valuable professional experiences supplement classroom instruction and allow students to apply theories and concepts to broader issues and system. Students explore career options within a specific area of study and critically reflect on the experience in a structured manner. May be repeated with different professional experience.

     

  • COMM 499 - Independent Study

    1.00-12.00 credit hours - Individual studies undertaken with guidance of a faculty member. May be repeated with different content.

     

  • MEDI 101 - Introduction to Broadcasting

    4.00 credit hours - An introduction to the legal, economic, logistical and technological considerations shaping the day-to-day operations of broadcast media. Special attention is given to the management and programming of TV and radio stations and networks. Among the topics covered include: news and public affairs, sports broadcasting, audience analysis, advertising, programming research and other areas related to both commercial and non-commercial programming practices. Recommended for students interested in careers in radio and/or television. 

    iCon(s): Engaging Civic Life, Innovating the World.

     

  • MEDI 113 - Video Practicum

    0.00-2.00 credit hours - Hands-on video field production workshop designed to allow students to develop their video production and storytelling skills. Emphasis is placed on news and public affairs content. Instructor approval required for 2 credit hours. This is a graded course, regardless of credit. 

     

  • MEDI 117 - Radio Practicum

    0.00-2.00 credit hours - Offered to all students who wish to work at the campus radio station, WONC-FM. The following positions are available: music show host, newscaster, news reporter, news magazine host, sportscaster, sports reporter, sports play-by-play announcer, traffic reporter, news writer, copywriter, music research specialist, promotions assistant, production assistant, board operator. Instructor approval needed for 2 credit hours. This is a graded course, regardless of credit. 

     

  • MEDI 152 - College News Practicum

    0.00-2.00 credit hours - Hands-on experience on the staff of the college news organization, The Chronicle/ncclinked.com. Students work as writers or editors, web and social media content creators, photographers, artists or designers. Registration for credit requires a minimum of four hours of work on the publication per week. Instructor approval needed for 2 credit hours. This is a graded course, regardless of credit. 
     

     

  • MEDI 200 - Digital Media Writing

    4.00 credit hours - Digital media writing introduces students to writing on different types of platforms including the web, applications and social media. Students learn to write in a variety of different genres including blog writing, online news and public relations. The course also hones writing and research skills for digital writing. 

    Cardinal Directions Designation(s): Humanities, U.S. Power Structures.
    iCon(s): Innovating the World.

     

  • MEDI 222 - Video Storytelling I

    4.00 credit hours - An introduction to the elements of video production and the principles of editing with an emphasis on story as well as technique. Basic camera and microphone operation is introduced and use of video editing software to create video projects is explored. This course is a combination of lectures, demonstrations and projects. 

    Prerequisite(s): One of the following: MEDI 101, MEDI 113, MEDI 117, MEDI 152, MEDI 225 or FILM 100. 

     

  • MEDI 225 - Newsgathering I

    4.00 credit hours - Introduction to journalistic writing and reporting techniques. Topics covered include conducting interviews, story selection and research. New technologies and the evolving state of journalism are also discussed. 

     

  • MEDI 240 - Media Law and Ethics

    4.00 credit hours - A practical introduction to the legal restraints placed upon media communicators and the ethical concerns raised by various forms of media communication. Includes discussions and material related to the First Amendment, libel, invasion of privacy, freedom of information, copyright, obscenity and political broadcasting. The course is also intended to engage students in a conversation about the ethical issues facing the media today. 

    Cardinal Directions Designation(s): Social Science, Ethical Dimensions, U.S. Power Structures.
    iCon(s): Engaging Civic Life.

     

  • MEDI 250 - Copy Editing

    4.00 credit hoursBasic techniques and responsibilities of a publications editor. Topics include editing for both style and content, working with photos, writing photo captions and writing headlines. Course includes a review of libel law and attention to the ethical dilemmas facing journalists. 

    Prerequisite(s): MEDI 225. 

     

  • MEDI 255 - Social Media

    4.00 credit hours - Examines social media as an evolving, complex system of channels used to communicate, exchange messages and persuade. This class focuses on the crafting of messages for distinct social media channels and audiences. Among the things that we will consider are the uses of social media in advertising, social movements, and political campaigns. 

    Cardinal Directions Designation(s): Social Science.

     

  • MEDI 261 - Sports Media

    4.00 credit hours - This course introduces students to sports media as an industry and as a career. Students learn about the distinct roles played by reporters, athletes, coaches, sports information directors, teams, athletic conferences and league officials in the creation and dissemination of sports news and narratives. They study the factors that have contributed to the rise and popularity of a sports media globally. They develop practical skills in interviewing, reporting, covering athletic events, working with statistics as they produce sports stories and coverage for a variety of different media and platforms. 

    Prerequisite(s): CARD 101 and CARD 102 or equivalent. 

     

  • MEDI 262 - Introduction to Digital Audio

    4.00 credit hours - The preparation, production and direction of various digital audio program materials (such as commercial spots, news packages, music specials, station promos, podcasts, and dramas). Students learn how to use professional digital audio editing software. Sometimes uses WONC-FM production studios as a laboratory. 

    Prerequisite(s): MEDI 117. 

     

  • MEDI 265 - Photo Journalism

    4.00 credit hours - An introductory course in photo journalism with an emphasis on multimedia. The course is taught as a hands-on workshop. Instruction progresses from basic camera operation to more comprehensive visual storytelling that may incorporate audio, video or other multimedia components. 

    Prerequisite(s): MEDI 225. 

 

  • MEDI 297 - Internship

    0.00-12.00 credit hours - Valuable professional experiences supplement classroom instruction and allow students to apply theories and concepts to broader issues and system. Students explore career options within a specific area of study and critically reflect on the experience in a structured manner. May be repeated with different professional experience.

     

  • MEDI 299 - Independent Study

    1.00-12.00 credit hours - Individual studies undertaken with guidance of a faculty member. May be repeated with different content.

     

  • MEDI 315 - History of Journalism

    4.00 credit hours - Survey of the development of journalism in America. Course covers the major eras and figures in U.S. journalism history. 

    Prerequisite(s): Junior standing.
    Cardinal Directions Designation(s): Humanities, Writing Intensive.

     

  • MEDI 322 - Video Storytelling II

    4.00 credit hours - A continuation of the skills learned in MEDI 222 Video Storytelling I with more emphasis on longer-form video projects. Topics include: advanced camera operation, lighting, composition, editing transitions, mixing and synchronizing audio, graphics, logging video and working with B-roll. Professional editing packages are used to produce long-form projects in formats suitable for delivery over DVD, Web, broadcast television and cable. 

    Prerequisite(s): MEDI 113 and MEDI 222. 

     

  • MEDI 325 - Newsgathering II

    4.00 credit hours - Explores advanced writing and reporting techniques and the production of multi-source, in-depth articles. Also introduces students to literary and investigative journalism. 

    Prerequisite(s): MEDI 225. 

     

  • MEDI 345 - Digital Journalism

    4.00 credit hours - Analysis of the technological convergence that has occurred in the modern news environment, and the creation of content that is effective across a range of media platforms. Emphasis on analyzing and selecting the proper medium to suit the message. 

    Prerequisite(s): One of the following: MEDI 222, MEDI 225 or MEDI 262. 

     

  • MEDI 366 - Broadcast News

    4.00 credit hours - An intensive study of the writing, editing and production of news for radio and television. Students learn to write for broadcast, how to conduct interviews for radio and television and how to integrate audio and video elements into news stories. 

    Prerequisite(s): MEDI 225; One of the following: MEDI 101, MEDI 222 or MEDI 262. 

     

  • MEDI 370 - Screenwriting

    4.00 credit hours - The research, writing and pre-production of television and motion picture screenplays with an emphasis on script structure and format, plot analysis and character development. Behind-the-scenes relationships with producers, directors, screenwriters and agents are studied. Also discussed: Writers Guild of America formatting guidelines, screenwriting software choices, securing a literary agent, soliciting producers and deciphering options and contracts. 

    Prerequisite(s): CARD 102 or COMM 100; Junior standing. 

 

  • MEDI 377 - Introduction to Podcasting

    4.00 credit hours - Introduces students to the basics of podcast production, distribution and marketing. Students will learn about the different podcast genres and gain the skills needed to produce their own podcast.

    Prerequisite(s):  MEDI 117 or MEDI 262. 

 

  • MEDI 385 - Computer and Electronic Music

    4.00 credit hours - (Same as: MUSI 385.) Concepts and techniques of computer music research, composition, and performance. Topics include digital audio signal processing, MIDI, computer programming for music, sound analysis and synthesis, algorithmic processes and various stylistic approaches to making electronic music. Students with advanced programming skills are allowed to focus on software development and those with a stronger interest in musical creation may focus on various software and performance techniques. 

    Cardinal Directions Designation(s): Arts.
    iCon(s): Innovating the World.

     

  • MEDI 390 - Special Topics in Journalism and Media Communication

    4.00 credit hours - Exploration of a topic of current interest. Topics vary depending on student and faculty interest. May be taken more than once with different content. Potential topics include sports media, data visualization, public affairs journalism, etc. 

    Prerequisite(s): 8 credit hours in communication or media studies. 

     

  • MEDI 397 - Internship

    0.00-12.00 credit hours - Valuable professional experiences supplement classroom instruction and allow students to apply theories and concepts to broader issues and system. Students explore career options within a specific area of study and critically reflect on the experience in a structured manner. May be repeated with different professional experience.

     

  • MEDI 399 - Independent Study

    1.00-12.00 credit hours - Individual studies undertaken with guidance of a faculty member. May be repeated with different content.

     

  • MEDI 405 - Advanced Digital Audio Production

    4.00 credit hours - The preparation and direction of digital audio programs (such as podcasts, commercial spots, station promos, sales presentations, documentaries, etc.) on an advanced level. Students learn the techniques of sophisticated radio and audio production, including field recording, multi-track recording, mixing, editing, mastering, and sound design for other media. Uses WONC-FM production studios as the laboratory. 

    Prerequisite(s): MEDI 262. 

     

  • MEDI 415 - TV Studio Production

    4.00 credit hours - An introduction to television studio production. Students learn about different genres of studio production and have an opportunity to create a variety of programs (a talk show, a newscast and a small individual project). Course meets at the studios of Naperville Community Television (NCTV-17). 

    Prerequisite(s):  MEDI 101 or MEDI 222; MEDI 113. 

     

  • MEDI 485 - Multimedia Production Capstone

    4.00 credit hours - Students create an in-depth capstone project that brings together a variety of media production skills, knowledge and research methods. The topic is determined by the student in consultation with the instructor. Additionally, students create a web portfolio. 

    Prerequisite(s): Junior standing. 

     

  • MEDI 490 - Seminar in Journalism and Media Communication

    4.00 credit hours - Exploration of a topic of current interest. Topics vary depending on student and faculty interest. May be taken more than once with different content. Potential topics include sports media, data visualization, public affairs journalism, etc. 

    Prerequisite(s): Junior standing. 

     

  • MEDI 497 - Internship

    0.00-12.00 credit hours - Valuable professional experiences supplement classroom instruction and allow students to apply theories and concepts to broader issues and system. Students explore career options within a specific area of study and critically reflect on the experience in a structured manner. May be repeated with different professional experience.

     

  • MEDI 499 - Independent Study

    1.00-12.00 credit hours - Individual studies undertaken with guidance of a faculty member. May be repeated with different content.

     

  • WONC - Volunteer at WONC-FM 89.1, considered to be one of the top college radio stations in the country. No other station has won as many Marconi awards for excellence in college radio. 
  • Forensics - Participate in North Central’s nationally known, highly ranked intercollegiate speech team. Travel across the country competing in team and individual events in such areas as oral interpretation, public speaking and debate. Scholarships available.
  • Cardinal Video/NCTV17 - Help write, shoot and edit North Central’s new student-produced show “NCC Today” for local cable station, NCTV17.  A great way to learn TV production techniques. 
  • Mock Trial - Argue a criminal or civil case and compete against major college and university teams in the American Mock Trial Association. Work with local lawyers, judges and crime scene investigators.
  • Internships - Intern at Chicagoland radio or TV stations, with local businesses, with nonprofits and churches, or with government agencies.
  • Field trips - Join classmates on visits to an editorial board meeting at the Chicago Tribune, to a screening at the Chicago International Film Festival or to a taping of the “Oprah Winfrey” show.
  • Study abroad - Enroll in our own Costa Rica, London and Japan/China programs, or participate in any number of international exchanges programs from other institutions. 
  • Independent research - Design your own research project and apply to obtain a Richter Independent Study Fellowship for travel funding and project development. Present your research at the Rall Symposium.

News