COM 201 - Communication Theory

3 Credits

This course introduces students to a broad range of fundamental mass communication theories and models. Students will examine the historical development of major paradigms of mass communication theory including direct effects, limited effects, and critical/cultural studies. Emphasis will be placed on the analysis and application of various categories of theories including audience-centered, sociological perspectives, normative, and interpretive theories. By the end of this course, students will be able to apply key mass communication theories to explain societal issues, human behavior and social phenomena as they relate to media and communication contexts.