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226 │COLUMBIA INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY 2017-2018│ COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
COM 3476
Script Writing
This is an introductory course to the art of writing for film and video production during which you will focus on structure, especially the
hero's journey, archetypes, genre, and story outline. You will develop a detailed treatment before creating a short film screenplay. (3)
Prerequisite: COM 3712
COM 3510
Christians, Media, and Culture
In this course you will examine the various aspects of the media, including TV, film, books, and music, and explore how our faith and
our culture is being presented both in positive and negative ways. You will also explore how faith, film, TV, and culture mutually influence
one another. You will be expected to engage in, view with discernment, and explore relevant alternatives to the process of media and
culture, with a focus on developing the ability to determine your impact on media and ultimately on culture and gaining perspective on
culture, its impact on media, and ultimately on the Christian. You will be challenged with developing an active perspective toward media
and its ability to create, influence, and support culture. The main skill you will practice in this course is theological criticism. (3)
COM 3712
Video Production
In this course you will be introduced to the fundamental principles of video production. From the techniques required to shoot
independent video to working for a television station, you will gain valuable insight into the production techniques required to become
a videographer. Emphasis will be placed on terminology, concepts, elements, and techniques of video production, lighting, camera
control, production, audio, writing, producing, and directing. (3)
COM 3717
Principles of Lighting and Cinematography
This course is an advanced study of lighting and cinematography techniques used in the film and television industry. Using both the
principles of and hands-on experience working with different kinds of lighting and grip equipment, you will gain experience in creating
different kinds of moods through lighting and filters. You will also explore different ways to choreograph moving camera shots and
examine different types of digital film and video cameras. (3)
Prerequisite: COM 3712
COM 3720
Webpage Design and Development
In this course you will develop a thorough and practical understanding of the standards and conventions used in creating usable and
accessible websites, while gaining the experience of creating a website using standards-compliant XHTML and CSS by incorporating
standard web-based design software. By the end of this course you will have developed an understanding of the functions and uses of
the web and be able to create business-suitable websites that are usable and accessible. (3)
COM 3721
Audio Production
This course will guide you through the process of audio production, including live sound reinforcement, field and studio recording, multi-
track studio recording and mixing, audio for video, and the basics of acoustics and studio design. While you will use audio theory as a
foundation for understanding key principles, you will focus on practical, hands-on experiences. (3)
COM 3888
Communication Study Tour
Section 1: Digital Media Major (NY); Section 2: Communication & Media Arts Majors (Orlando). This is a study tour (normally during
spring break) that emphasizes the use of media and creativity in culture and ministry. Students will travel to key media centers in order
to see and experience the integration of various aspects of media into professional ministries and organizations. Register through
TraveLearn.
COM 4250
Disney, Culture and Influence
The course will study the life of Walt Disney and the Walt Disney Company’s global media empire focusing on television, movies
(animated and live-action), theme parks, resorts, publications and professional sports. The course will focus on Disney’s influences
within popular culture, its impact on the visual arts in the 20th and 21st centuries and its effect on our everyday lives. Presented both
chronologically and thematically, students will engage the cultural presence of Disney in the U.S. and around the world.
COM 4400
Practical Skill Development in Communication
This course is designed to offer you ministry skills experience within the discipline, providing opportunity for you as an upperclassman
to gain competency and confidence within related vocations. Experiential learning requirements are defined by your program and
assessed by the program faculty. A minimum of 50 clock hours of direct experience is required for a unit of credit and advisor approval
is required. (1)
Repeatable
COM 4430
Professional Leadership Development
In this course you will examine the principles, skills, techniques, and ideas essential to developing the leadership capacity necessary
for achieving success in today’s world, focusing on both external relationships and understanding the tools necessary to develop a
confident, professional image. You will engage in understanding your core values, writing long- and short-term goals, and developing
a usable and efficient résumé. Time management, personal budgets, and the development of a philosophy of leadership will be
emphasized. (3)
COM 4450
Communication Senior Experience
You will gain valuable experience working in positions within CIU's diverse organization and university departments. Your role may
include participating as a media consultant, videographer, public relations coordinator, audio technician, marketing consultant, or
working in other communication/media-related fields. You will apply your classroom knowledge to real-world work experience, providing
CIU with concentrated attention from seniors who will give a fresh look at CIU's media and communication environments. Each student
will work under the supervision of a faculty and/or staff member. (3)
Repeatable, two-semester limit. Limited to seniors who have
earned a minimum GPA of 2.75 and are in good standing with the University. Authorization of Communication Department required.