An introduction to the process of communication as a critical element in human interaction and in society. Designed to enhance effective communication and informed use of the mass media.

This course examines basic verbal and nonverbal concepts affecting the communication process between individuals in various interpersonal contexts. Course also requires participation in written, oral, and visual communication activities designed to develop and improve interpersonal skills. Topics may include: perspective- taking, relationship and conversation management, effective listening, conflict management, communication climate, communication anxiety, and cultural/gender differences in interpersonal communication.

This course examines intercultural and co-cultural divides using a skills-based approach. Students will be exposed to cultural communication situations and will apply skills using lecture, discussion, and various media (e.g. news, radio, film, blogs), equipping them with more effective skills for communicating with other groups, communities, and cultures.

This course focuses on describing and explaining communication processes that occur within the context of close relationships. Three general topic areas include: (1) developing and escalating relationships, (2) satisfying relationships, and (3) coping with relational challenges.

This course will introduce students to the role of communication in creating, maintaining, and reducing disparities in health and achieving health equity. We will examine differences across groups in health status and health care access and availability throughout local, state, regional, national, and global levels. This course will place a particular emphasis on the role of communication in defining health problems and creating communication-based intervention solutions.

Designed to introduce students to basic concepts in the study of organizational communication. The course considers approaches to the practice and study of communication within organizational settings, including classical approach, human relations, human resources approaches, systems approaches, cultural approaches, and critical approaches. It also introduces specific issues within the study of organizational communication, including assimilation, decision-making, conflict, change, emotion, cultural diversity and communication technologies.

A study of the processes involved in technology mediated communication, including interactions between public figures and their fans and followers, with emphasis on the preparation and delivery of messages that directly impact identity management.

This course examines theory and research relevant to health communication including interpersonal, organizational, and mass communication approaches. Topics include the role of communication in general models of health and illness, the relationship between patients and healthcare providers, social support, and health campaigns.

This course will provide students with an introductory understanding of public health concepts through critical examination of popular cinema and instruction in basic public health principles, disease principles, and behavioral and social interactions related to the movie topics. A combination of lectures, readings and film viewing will enable students to understand the relationship between behavioral, environmental, biological and other risk factors with disease, injury or other health outcomes. The effect of social, economic and health systems context will also be examined.

An overview of healthcare system structure in selected countries with attention to their developmental history, financing, and delivery infrastructure.