The Communication Arts Major| Degree Requirements | Course Descriptions
Faculty | Theater Department | Upcoming Productions | Success Stories | Back to Department List |

AR201 3-D Sculpture (3 credits)
Basic concepts of design with three-dimensional materials are explored. The use of mass, space, movement, textures, line, plane, volume, color and scale are used to create three-dimensional work.


AR202 Painting (3 credits)
An introduction to the basic oil painting concepts of color, value, intensity, color theory, mixing and the preparation of the canvas. Still life and reproduction of a masterwork will be explored.


AR203 Travel Seminar: Art History (3 credits)
Taught as a travel seminar, this course surveys the history of Western art, focusing on the visual as a language for communicating ideas and values. Covers a range of forms, both fine arts genres like drawing and painting, sculpture, and architecture, as well “artisanal” products like pottery, utensils, jewelry, coins and other metal works. Progresses chronologically, covering highlights of Greece and Rome, the medieval and Renaissance (Early Modern) periods, and major European movements such as the Baroque, Rococo, Empire, Impressionism, Expressionism and Modernism and post-Modernism. In every era, we will discuss the technologies for producing images, with some emphasis on the rise of mass-production technologies such as woodcuts and engravings, associated with the rise of the print culture that shaped our own society. Travel destinations vary. In 2005-06, the course will be held in Munich, Germany.
Fulfills intercultural requirement


CO110 Fundamentals of Speech (3 credits)
Effective public speaking skills are required in every field of study and career. Students are introduced to the basic building blocks of speech writing and effective delivery.


CO120 Introduction to Speech Communication (3 credits)
The study of public speaking, the listening process, audience analysis, speech topic selection, outlining and organization, visual aid and presentation styles, speaker credibility, delivery skills, and informing and persuading an audience.


CO198 Drama as Ministry (3 credits)
A course combining theory and practice to introduce the student to a variety of dramatic experiences and expressions which can be vehicles for accomplishing the five basic ministry functions of the local church: worship, Christian education, fellowship, service and outreach.
Offered in January term


CO199, CO299 Contemporary Practices in Communication Arts (3 credits)
A course addressing a variety of contemporary topics and practices, designed as introductory January courses for first and second year students exploring the major. Content varies so the courses may be elected more than once, but CO199A, CO299A and CO299B are offered regularly.


CO199A Creative Drama (3 credits)
Drama techniques can be applied in a variety of majors including business, social work, religion, psychology, education and communications. Students will actively investigate the relationships among dramatic play, theatre, education and human development. Performance techniques include improvisation, role-play, puppetry, movement, masks, storytelling, and theatre games. No prior actor training is required.
Offered in January term


CO199B Theatre: Behind the Scenes (3 credits)
A hands-on exploration of the tasks, techniques and technology which go into mounting a theatre production.
Offered in January term


CO201 Theatre and Culture (3 credits)
This course provides a foundation for exploring theatre in communication and community. Students will examine the collaborative process of play production including the roles of playwrights, directors, actors and designers. The course will include play readings of various literary genres, critical analysis and response to theatrical performances, theatre as a reflection of culture and an introduction to performance studies. An essential component to the course will be practical experience in an area of a current ENC production.

C0205 Media, Religion and Popular Culture (3 credits)
The primary objective of this course is to introduce the concepts and methods of studying popular culture and the media and apply them to the presence and operation of religion in American culture. The course will compare and contrast postmodernism with the American Judeo-Christian tradition with an emphasis on the Wesleyan tradition and Evangelicalism. The course will also examine the influence and relation ship of American popular culture and religious belief in other parts of the world.


CO211 Introduction to Mass Communications (3 credits)
A complete overview and description of the mass communication industries introducing the student to all areas of professional work in radio, television, journalism and other mass communications, and to illuminate for the student the importance of communication in society.


CO212 Voice and Articulation (3 credits)
Introduces students to the study of voice mechanisms for quality speech production. A variety of majors including broadcasting, acting, education, religion and business will benefit from the exploration of how to increase vocal range, develop or minimize dialects, improve breath support and control vocal production problems. Emphasis will be on self-analysis and development.
Offered in alternate years


CO215 Writing for News Media (3 credits)
An introductory approach to the fundamental aspects of print and broadcast journalism, focusing on the processes involved in print media. Offered in alternate years.
Prerequisite: EN103, EN104


CO220 Interpersonal Communications (3 credits)
An experience-based introduction to interpersonal communication. The course will cover theories of perception, self-concept, assertion, needs, beliefs, attitudes and values, listening, language, nonverbal communication, relationships, roles and trust, interpersonal tension management, and conflict resolution. Students will have the opportunity to put theories to work with the skills of applying them to human interaction through group activities and individual projects. Students will also have the opportunity to consider Christian, Biblical, and spiritual perspectives. Fulfills social science requirement


CO230 History of American Film (3 credits)
A study of the development of cinema in the United States, this course is a broad overview of American film making; topics including genre, the relationship of film to art, politics, religion and society, and the treatment of ethnic groups and women by Hollywood.


CO251 Acting I: Introduction to Acting (3 credits)
Students will explore various methods of character development such as voice, movement, concentration and awareness to find emotional truth. The course emphasizes the development of individual and ensemble performance through both improvised and scripted scenes with a focus on contemporary styles and plays. Students from all majors will develop confidence, poise and sharpen their interpersonal communication skills. No prerequisite required.
Offered in alternate years


CO252 Acting II: Scene Study and Styles (3 credits)
Students will continue to build upon basic vocal and physical skills, character development and textual analysis through extensive scene study and workshop performances. A variety of actor training techniques will also be introduced with emphasis on performance styles needed to work with classical to contemporary texts.
Prerequisite: CO251 or permission of instructor; Offered in alternate years


CO260 Television Production (4 credits)
The application of television theory to program production and utilization of technology, i.e. studio, ENG, EFP, etc. Offered in alternate years.
Prerequisite: Permission of instructor


CO271 Technical Theatre Practices (3 credits)
A practical course exploring the tools, methods and materials used behind the scenes in theatrical production. Emphasis in theatre safety, set construction and stage management. Students will design individual projects and gain invaluable hands-on experience working on an ENC production. Production lab hours required.

C0272 Theatrical Design (3 credits)
This course is an introductory study in the collaborative process of creating visual representation for a production. Examines the theories and principles used to design scenery, costumes, lighting and makeup for the stage. Students will design individual projects and gain invaluable hands-on experience working on an ENC production. Production lab hours required.


CO280 Introduction to Photography (3 credits)
This is an introductory course in basic black and white 35 mm photography. Students will be taught practical hands-on application and critical analyses of exposure, developing, printing and displaying photographs. Darkroom techniques are emphasized. A darkroom lab fee applied.


CO291 Video Practicum (1-2 credit hours)
Entry level directed experiences in TV production.
Prerequisite: Permission of instructor


CO292 Radio Practicum (1-2 credit hours)
Entry level directed experiences in radio production.
Prerequisite: Permission of instructor


CO294 Studio Recording Techniques (3 credits)
Understanding and implementation of the theory and practice of studio recording. This course will provide hands on experience in the digital eight-track recording lab. Each student will be allocated lab time on a weekly basis to work in the recording studio. Students will record and mix multiple track assignments and complete written exams and quizzes based on lectures, the individual recording units and the textbook.


CO295 Lighting Design: Stage, Screen and Studio (3 credits)
Students develop a working knowledge of the equipment, terminology and techniques most commonly used in theatre, film and television lighting. Practical experience with the design process is emphasized, from concept to light plot, instrument schedule and cue sheet. Theatre production lab hours required.


CO297 Intercultural Performance (3 credits)
Students will be introduced to theories of culture and performance by exploring dramatic literature and theatrical practices of Africa, India, China and Japan. The course will also examine cultural influences of international and American playwrights. Related areas of study include politics, religion, gender, identity, society, and aesthetics.
No prerequisite; Offered in alternate years


CO305 Communication Law and Ethics (3 credits)
The course examines the major principles and trends in communication law. Content will focus on free speech as they pertain to the first amendment to the US Constitution, copyright laws, broadcast regulations, commercial speech, free press/fair trial and prior restraint. The course will also look at the ethical consideration of the communication industry with a special emphasis on Christian ethics and the media.


CO310 Creative Writing (3 credits)
Lecture and discussion focusing on the techniques of writing poetry, short fiction, and drama. Individualized apprentice training in workshop milieu.
Prerequisites: EN103, EN104


CO311 Advanced Writing (3 credits)
This course will focus on writing for the electronic media: radio feature writing, ENG/EFP scriptwriting and documentary video writing.
Prerequisites: EN103, EN104


CO312 Oral Interpretation (3 credits)
This course fosters an appreciation of literature and develops creative skills in public speaking and performance. Students will analyze various literary forms (poetry, novels, plays, the Bible, songs, letters, diaries, etc) as texts for performance. Class exercises will introduce vocal, physical and other performance techniques to effectively communicate a point of view. Students will also explore oral traditions and other non-literary sources and events as performance material. Offered in alternate years.
Prerequisite: CO110 or CO120


CO313 Theories and Processes of Communication (3 credits)
Developmental theory of mass communications, its processes and effects on society in relation to sources, media, message, audience and content variables.
Prerequisite: CO211 or permission of instructor


CO315 Feature Writing and Beat Reporting (3 credits)
A focus on feature writing and beat reporting, emphasizing the reporter’s multiple roles in developing contacts and sources, developing trend stories in science, religion, education, and other beat reporting.
Prerequisite: EN103, EN104, and CO215 or permission of instructor; Offered in alternate years

C0316 News Editing and Newspaper Design (3 credits)
A focus on editing feature and breaking news proving the premise that good editing is the key to good writing and reporting. The course will also focus on the layout and design of the newspaper.


CO322 History of Broadcasting (3 credits)
This course examines the origin, development and impact of radio and television from the 1920s to the present. The course will also examine the development of religion and public broadcasting.
Prerequisite: C0211


CO323 Contemporary Issues in Broadcast, Cable and the Web (3 credits)
Examines the current controversies and constant changes in the electronic media business. Special emphasis on the growth of media conglomerates, decision making of the Federal Communications Commission, merging of the Internet and television, and the growth of wireless communications.


CO330 Public Relations (3 credits)
An introduction to the field of public relations: its theoretical origins, scope, and principles. Discussion focuses on researching problems, setting objectives, identifying audiences, designing messages, choosing communication channels, and evaluating results for all types of organizations. The format is a combination of lecture and small group discussion, case analysis, and guest lecture.
Prerequisite: CO211 or permission of instructor


CO331 Introduction to Advertising (3 credits)
The history, nature, function, and social and economic aspects of advertising: ethical responsibilities, psychological appeals, marketing, media research, product analysis, creative strategies, and agency operation. The influence of advertising on American culture is also examined. Students prepare comprehensive advertising plans, including marketing strategy and advertising campaigns.
Prerequisite: CO211 or permission of instructor


CO332 Photojournalism (3 credits)
Examines application of functions performed by pictures, how photography developed, essential techniques used by professional photographers and editors.
Prerequisite: CO280 or permission of instructor; Offered in alternate years


CO333 Shakespeare (3 credits)
The study of twelve plays, including histories, comedies, tragedies, and romances. Participants will investigate the main problems and contemporary theories of interpretation of Shakespeare.
Prerequisite: CO240; Offered in alternate years


CO340 Graphic Design/Desktop Publishing (3 credits)
The basics of graphic design and layout, with an emphasis on practical skills in manual design techniques and desktop publishing.


CO352 Advanced Television Production (4 credits)
The application of television theory to remote program production and utilization of electronic news gathering and field production technologies.
Prerequisite: CO324 or permission of instructor; Offered in alternate years


CO362 Writing for Stage and Screen (3 credits)
A seminar approach to the study and practical application of techniques, styles and conventions of writing for stage and screen. Writing exercises, workshops and play and readings will provide students opportunities to both create, share and receive feedback.
Prerequisite: EN103, EN104; Offered in alternate years


CO370 Advanced Public Speaking (3 credits)
This course builds upon a basic understanding of the communication process and delivery skills. The course emphasizes audience analysis, adaptation of materials to various organizational patterns, analytical evaluations of speeches and the role of public speaking in American society. A wide range of practical assignments will afford students the opportunity to develop as poised and effective speakers.
Prerequisite: CO110 or CO120


CO399 Travel Seminar: The London Stage (3 credits)
A travel seminar based in London and Stratford-Upon Avon, which examines the historical development and current disposition of British Theatre, various plays and their performance representative of changesn dramatic form, and British Theatre in Education techniques.
Prerequisite: Permission of instructor; Offered in January term


CO399C Travel Seminar: The New York Stage (3 credits)
This course is a January travel seminar in New York City. The course will focus on current Broadway and Off-Broadway productions. Why is The Lion King one of the longest running shows on Broadway? What does theatre say about who we are and what we value as a society? Students will examine plays and musicals from concept to performance with special emphasis on various aspects of the professional theatre business. This course will also include creative projects, backstage tours, and sessions with guest artists.
Prerequisite: Permission of instructor; Offered in January term


CO410 Persuasion and Argumentation (3 credits)
An advanced course designed to deepen the understanding and sharpen the skills of effective argumentation and debate. Practical application of persuasive speaking and writing techniques are emphasized.
Prerequisite: CO370 or permission of instructor

C0411 History of American Musical Theatre (3 credits)
The development of this popular entertainment can be studied as a reflection of American popular culture. This musical form finds its antecedents in minstrel shows and vaudeville. It developed into the integrated book musical and recent innovations in contemporary musicals. Students will examine the history of musicals on stage, television and film with special emphasis on understanding performance and production components and cultural influences. Performance is not required.
Offered in alternate years

C0412 Theatre History and Dramatic Literature I: Origins to the Renaissance (3 credits)
The study of theatre history offers a reflection of cultural and societal issues of politics, ethnicity, gender and religion. Students will examine theories on the origins of theatre and analyze a wide variety of plays from noting the reciprocal effects of scenic and production techniques on dramatic form. Special emphasis is given to historical and cultural issues influencing the rise and fall of new dramatic forms and practices. Historical periods and countries include Classical Greece and Rome, medieval religious drama of Europe, classical theatre of Japan, commedia dell’arte of the Italian Renaissance, Spanish Golden Age, and Elizabethan and Jacobean drama. Theatre attendance will supplement the course.
Prerequisites: CP240 and CO201 or permission of instructor; Offered in alternate years

C0413 Theatre History and Dramatic Literature II: Renaissance to Modern Theatre (3 credits)
Students will analyze plays from the Renaissance to modern realism, noting the reciprocal effects of scenic and production techniques on dramatic form. Special emphasis is given to historical and cultural issues influencing the rise and fall of new dramatic forms and practices. Historical periods include the Shakespearean stage, French neoclassicism, English Restoration, Enlightenment, Romanticism, 19th century melodrama and the beginnings of modern theatre. Theatre attendance will supplement the course. May be taken before CO412.
Prerequisites: CP240 and CO201 or permission of instructor; Offered in alternate years


CO430 Directing I: Introduction to Directing (3 credits)
Storytelling is the central role of the director. This course provides students with basic theories, aesthetic principles and techniques of directing that can be applied to both stage and screen. Student directors will learn how to effectively tell a story by communicating with a production team, actors and the audience. The course will culminate with a final directing project created through the process of textual analysis, concept development, casting, and application of aesthetic principles, use of various rehearsal techniques and presentation of a scene to an audience. Students will attend area plays and gain practical experience in an ENC production.
Prerequisite: CO201, CO252 or permission of instructor; Offered in alternate years


CO431 Directing II: History, Theory and Styles (3 credits)
Building upon their experiences in Directing I, students will further explore directing theories and be encouraged to develop their own personal directing style. Emphasis is also placed on the historical role of the director and leading innovators in directing for the stage. Students will also consider the stylistic demands of playwrights such as Sophocles, Shakespeare and Stoppard. Exercises and projects will highlight approaches to actor coaching and the staging of plays in a variety of settings including arena stage and nontraditional spaces. Students will attend area plays and gain practical experience in an ENC production. The course culminates with the public performance of student directed scenes or one acts.
Prerequisite: CO430; Offered in alternate years


CO490A Theatre Practicum: Performance (.5 -2 credit hours)
Students may earn credit for the rehearsal and performance of a role in an ENC production. Auditions for ENC productions are open to the college community. Once cast, a student may register for practicum credit. The practicum may be repeated and is available to all majors.
Prerequisite: Consent of director


CO490B Theatre Practicum: Technical Theatre (.5 -2 credit hours)
Students may earn credit for involvement in the production aspects of an ENC production including design, stage management, and technical crews. The technical director will make assignments based on student interest and experience. Students will be required to fulfill a minimum of 20 hours on a production. Schedules will be arranged with the technical director based on desired amount of credit hours. The practicum may be repeated and is available to all majors.
Prerequisite: Consent of technical director


CO491 Practicum: Video Production (1-2 credit hours)
Advanced directed experiences in television production. Usually involves work on series production.
Prerequisite: Permission of instructor


CO492 Practicum: Radio Production (1-2 credit hours)
Advanced directed experiences in managing or producing radio programming. Involves work in leadership capacity with WENC, the campus radio station.
Prerequisite: Permission of instructor


CO494 Theatre in Education (3 credits)
An overview of materials and methods available for teaching drama, and for its use as a teaching strategy in other academic fields or in youth groups. Practical application of techniques and approaches will be stressed in the development of workshops, lesson plans and units, and a final educational production. Offered in alternate years.
Prerequisites: CP240 and permission of instructor


CO495 Seminar in Communication Arts (3 credits)
An advanced course often offered in January and designed to deal extensively with a specialized area of the Communication Arts. Content varies, so the course may be elected more than once.
Prerequisite: Permission of instructor.


CO498 Advanced Media Workshop (3 credits)
This intensive “hands-on” course focuses on the technical and esthetic aspects of single-camera “film style” video production. Students will be given the opportunity to work on a major project as they explore the skills necessary to write, produce, direct and edit a documentary or dramatic work.
Offered in January term


CO499 Praxis: Internship in Communication Arts (2-6 credit hours)
Professional internship experience in any of the related fields of Communication Arts - radio, television, public relations, advertising, theatre, etc. A formal internship application procedure and preparatory coursework for the required job skills must be completed with the department. May be repeated for experience in varying areas.
Prerequisite: Permission of instructor

Cove Fine Arts Center
23 East Elm Avenue, Quincy, MA 02170
(617)745-3715

[Back to top]