Any experimental courses offered by JL MC can be found at: registrar.iastate.edu/faculty-staff/courses/explistings/
Courses
Courses primarily for undergraduates:
(3-0) Cr. 3. F.S.SS.
Communication theory models and their application to the mass media; the mass communication process; organization, characteristics and responsibilities of the mass media; media literacy process.
(1-0) Cr. 1. F.S.
Orientation to professional and pre-professional opportunities, writing for the mass media and curriculum requirements in the Greenlee School. Basic media writing preparation.
Offered on a satisfactory-fail basis only.
(2-2) Cr. 3.
Prereq: Greenlee majors only or departmental permission. Credit or concurrent enrollment in JL MC 110.
Generating story ideas, exercising news judgment and gathering information via interviews, observation and documentary sources to produce news and informational material for the mass media. Emphasis on analyzing and organizing information, as well as accuracy and principles of good writing. Use of AP Style.
Cr. 3. F.S.
Analysis of journalism industry and specific audiences served by print, electronic, visual and digital media. Introduction to core values of journalism and guiding principles that encompass literacy, ethics, law, history, the economy and cultural and societal implications.
(3-0) Cr. 3. F.S.
Understanding and analysis of the visual message. Visual perception, visual communication theory, design syntax, design elements and how they are applied in mass communication.
Cr. 3.
Understanding science communication in the media. Exploring audience perceptions, media portrayals, underlying theories and social controversies related to communication of science and technology.
(2-1) Cr. 3. F.S.
Prereq: Minimum of C+ in JL MC 201
Introduction to studio production using professional equipment. Course focus on visual concepts, maintenance and practical operation of studio equipment.
(2-2) Cr. 3.
Creation of video productions for use as communication tools in advertising, promotions, short documentaries and public relations. Technical and artistic fundamentals of video production including planning, scripting, shooting, lighting and digital editing.
(2-2) Cr. 3.
Prereq: Minimum of C+ in JL MC 201.
Field techniques in single-camera video production used to shoot and edit visual stories. Introduction to broadcast news gathering.
(2-2) Cr. 3. F.S.
Prereq: Minimum of C+ in JL MC 201
Basic photojournalism techniques. Includes camera operation, lighting, composition and photo reproduction techniques for print or computer-mediated applications. Emphasis on using the camera as a reporting tool. Basic use of digital imaging and editing software. Ethical issues involving photojournalism.
Cr. 3.
Basic photographic techniques for publication. Includes smartphone operation, lighting, composition and historical overview of photography and use in digital platforms. Basic use of image editing software. Ethical issues involving photo publication in media platforms. A smartphone camera is required.
Credit in JL MC 311 may not be applied toward requirements for degree by ARTIS majors.
(2-2) Cr. 3. Alt. F., offered irregularly.Alt. S., offered irregularly.
Prereq: JL MC 310 or Permission of Instructor
Advanced techniques and problem solving, both ethical and technical, for photographers who seek to be members of newsgathering teams. Photographic storytelling using a combination of audio and still photography techniques to report stories for print and web publications. Hands on experience with latest digital imaging technology. A digital SLR camera is required.
(2-2) Cr. 3. F.S.
Prereq: JL MC 308 or JL MC 310 or JL MC 316
Identify and critically evaluate multimedia elements in journalistic storytelling. Produce audio, photographic and video story packages for a variety of outlets. Choose and work with appropriate digital tools. Learn economic, social and ethical issues that influence media today. Computer design proficiency recommended.
(2-2) Cr. 3. F.S.
Prereq: Minimum of C+ in JL MC 201
Beginning techniques in layout, photo editing, and vector artwork. Application of visual principles and creative problem-solving to digital, social media, and print design projects. Use of industry-standard tools such as Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign.
(2-2) Cr. 3. S.
Prereq: JL MC 316
Creating, designing and publishing content for mobile devices through use of industry-standard tools. Exposure to animation and HTML. Computer design proficiency recommended.
(2-2) Cr. 3.
Prereq: Minimum of C+ in JL MC 302, JL MC 303 or P R 321
Reporting and writing short- and long- form stories for magazines, newspapers, corporate communication and the Web. Focus on departmental stories, personal essays, trend or conflict articles and personality profiles. Emphasis on immersion reporting.
Majors may not apply both 344 and Engl 303 toward graduation.
(2-2) Cr. 3.
Prereq: Minimum of C+ in JL MC 302, JL MC 303 or P R 321
Reporting and writing about government, business, and other institutions; identification of and access to public records; investigative reporting techniques; developing major stories about government and nonprofit organizations; and ethical issues.
(Dual-listed with JL MC 547). (3-0) Cr. 3.
Prereq: JL MC 347: C+ or better in JL MC 302, JL MC 303 or P R 321. Nonmajors and minors by permission of instructor. JL MC 547: Graduate classification.
Understanding and practicing science communication. Emphasis on building skills to report on science topics, telling science stories using different kinds of media, and understanding factors that impact how different audiences interpret scientific information. Explorations of science communication products relevant to health, natural resources, social science, and technology.
(2-2) Cr. 3.
Prereq: Minimum of C+ in JL MC 302, JL MC 303 or P R 321
Editing content for multiple platforms, including websites, magazines, newspapers, and newsletters. Adapting material for audiences, including selection and organization of text and visuals, grammar, punctuation, usage, logic and accuracy. Designing print and online layouts. Using search engine optimization and social media to promote content.
(Cross-listed with ADVRT, P R). Cr. 1-3. Repeatable, maximum of 6 credits. F.S.
Prereq: Minimum of C+ in JL MC 201; other vary by topic. Instructor permission for non-majors.
Check with Greenlee School for course availability.
(Cross-listed with ADVRT, P R). Cr. 1-3. Repeatable, maximum of 6 credits.
Focused short courses on timely concepts. Check with Greenlee School for course availability.
Offered on a satisfactory-fail basis only.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
Prereq: Junior classification
Theory and research in mass communication processes and effects; the scientific process; methods of measuring, evaluating and reporting mass communication research.
(Dual-listed with JL MC 506). (3-0) Cr. 3.
Prereq: JL MC 406: Junior classification. JL MC 506: Graduate classification or Permission of Instructor
Decision-making functions of media. Basic media market analysis, media organization and management, circulation and audience development, technological developments affecting management decisions, and relationships with labor and regulatory agencies that affect media operations.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
Prereq: JL MC 110 and minimum of C+ in JL MC 201; junior classification. Nonmajors by permission of department.
First Amendment law, libel, privacy, obscenity, contempt, copyright, trademark, the Federal Communications Act; laws affecting advertising, legal publication, and other business activities of the media.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
Prereq: Junior classification
Role of the mass media, including advertising and public relations, in shaping the social, economic and political history of America; impact of change in these areas on the development, traditions and philosophies of the media.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
Prereq: Junior classification
A study of journalism's impact on literary writing and literature's impact on journalism, as seen through the works of esteemed American author-journalists.
(Cross-listed with ADVRT, P R). (3-0) Cr. 3. F.S.
Prereq: Junior classification
The strategic use of social media, from both an advertising and public relationship standpoint, to the advantage of a client or organization. Examination and analysis of the social media space from a business perspective. Best practices in the areas of strategic planning, tactical execution, and measurement of social media platforms.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
Prereq: Junior classification
Examination of historical and current communication technologies, including how they shape and are shaped by the cultural and social practices into which they are introduced.
Meets International Perspectives Requirement.
(Dual-listed with JL MC 576). (3-0) Cr. 3.
Prereq: JL MC 476: Junior Classification. JL MC 576: Graduate classification or instructor permission.
World communication systems and social, political, and economic factors determining flow, character, and volume of news. Impact of media information, advertising and public relations on nations and societies. Comparative analysis of role and impact of traditional modes of communication, the mass media and computer-mediated systems.
Meets International Perspectives Requirement.
(3-0) Cr. 3. F.S.SS.
Prereq: Junior classification
Portrayals of ethnic groups, gender, sexual orientation and social class in the media in news, advertising, information and entertainment; the effects of mass media on social issues and population groups.
Cr. arr.
Prereq: Junior classification; Permission of Instructor
Projects during which students may study problems associated with a medium, a professional specialization, a philosophical or practical concern, a reportorial method or writing technique, or a special topic in their field. Credit is not given for working on student or professional media without an accompanying research component.
No more than 3 credits of ADVRT/JLMC/PR 490 may be used toward a degree in the Greenlee School.
(Cross-listed with ADVRT, P R). Cr. 1-3. Repeatable, maximum of 6 credits.
Prereq: Junior classification
Seminars or one-time classes on topics of relevance to students in communication. See Schedule of Classes for topics.
Cr. 1-3. F.S.SS.
Prereq: ([JL MC major; JL MC 110; minimum of C+ in JL MC 302 or JL MC 303] or [ADVRT major; JL MC 110; ADVRT 301 or P R 301; minimum of C+ in JL MC 201] or [P R major; JL MC 110, ADVRT 301 or P R 301; minimum of C+ in P R 321]); Advisor Approval
See ADVRT/JL MC/P R 499A or 499B.
Offered on a satisfactory-fail basis only.
Cr. 3. F.S.SS.
Prereq: ([JL MC major; JL MC 110; minimum of C+ in JL MC 302 or JL MC 303] or [ADVRT major; JL MC 110; ADVRT 301 or P R 301; minimum of C+ in JL MC 201] or [P R major; JL MC 110, ADVRT 301 or P R 301; minimum of C+ in P R 321]); Advisor Approval
Initial, required internship. A 400-hour (for 3 credits) internship in the student's specialization. Assessment based on employer evaluations, student reports and faculty reviews. Available only to Greenlee School majors.
Offered on a satisfactory-fail basis only.
Cr. 1-3. F.S.SS.
Prereq: ([JL MC major; JL MC 110; minimum of C+ in JL MC 302 or JL MC 303] or [ADVRT major; JL MC 110; ADVRT 301 or P R 301; minimum of C+ in JL MC 201] or [P R major; JL MC 110, ADVRT 301 or P R 301; minimum of C+ in P R 321]); Advisor Approval
Optional internship in the student's specialization. Assessment based on employer evaluations, student reports and faculty reviews. Available only to Greenlee School majors.
Offered on a satisfactory-fail basis only.
Courses primarily for graduate students, open to qualified undergraduates:
(3-0) Cr. 3.
Prereq: Graduate classification or instructor permission.
Historical overview of mass communication theories. Examination of major areas of research activity and theoretical development related to organization, functions, and effects of mass communication.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
Prereq: JL MC 501 or concurrent enrollment.
Research methods in journalism and mass communication, including problem selection, sampling, hypothesis formulation, research design, data collection and analysis. Designing a research strategy appropriate for a variety of communication-related questions and assessing the appropriateness, validity, and generalizability of research results.
(Dual-listed with JL MC 406). (3-0) Cr. 3.
Prereq: JL MC 406: Junior classification. JL MC 506: Graduate classification or Permission of Instructor
Decision-making functions of media. Basic media market analysis, media organization and management, circulation and audience development, technological developments affecting management decisions, and relationships with labor and regulatory agencies that affect media operations.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
Prereq: JL MC 501 or instructor permission
The process of developing professional communication and persuasion strategies, with emphasis on problem definition, behavioral objectives, situation analysis, strategy formulation, and justification through application of communication theories and research.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
Prereq: Graduate classification or instructor permission.
Overview of dominant theories and research methods applied to the study and practice of public relations.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
Prereq: Graduate classification or instructor permission.
Explores the theoretical frameworks in visual communication, including concepts of perception, visual language, visual persuasion, and the social, political and cultural implications of the use of images. Understanding the function of images in changing knowledge, attitudes and behavior.
(Dual-listed with JL MC 347). (3-0) Cr. 3.
Prereq: JL MC 347: C+ or better in JL MC 302, JL MC 303 or P R 321. Nonmajors and minors by permission of instructor. JL MC 547: Graduate classification.
Understanding and practicing science communication. Emphasis on building skills to report on science topics, telling science stories using different kinds of media, and understanding factors that impact how different audiences interpret scientific information. Explorations of science communication products relevant to health, natural resources, social science, and technology.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
Prereq: Graduate classification or instructor permission.
Study of risk communication principles, models and theories applicable to any risk communication situation. Emphasis on science, technology and risk issues, such as food, health, agriculture and the environment. Examines roles of scientists and communicators in cultivating a public informed about scientific and technological issues.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
Prereq: Graduate classification or instructor permission.
Media roles and functions in society including interrelationships between the media and a variety of social actors and forces. Theories and practices regarding social networking and communication via social media; influence of social media and social networking.
(3-0) Cr. 3.
Prereq: Graduate classification or instructor permission.
Personal, organizational, and social implications of the use of communication technologies. Includes theories and empirical research across the continuum of perspectives, from techno-utopianism through an anti-technology stance.
Meets International Perspectives Requirement.
(Dual-listed with JL MC 476). (3-0) Cr. 3.
Prereq: JL MC 476: Junior Classification. JL MC 576: Graduate classification or instructor permission.
World communication systems and social, political, and economic factors determining flow, character, and volume of news. Impact of media information, advertising and public relations on nations and societies. Comparative analysis of role and impact of traditional modes of communication, the mass media and computer-mediated systems.
Meets International Perspectives Requirement.
Cr. arr. Repeatable.
Prereq: Permission of instructor
Cr. arr. Repeatable.
Prereq: Permission of instructor
Cr. arr. Repeatable.
Prereq: Permission of instructor
Cr. arr. Repeatable.
Prereq: Permission of instructor
Cr. arr. Repeatable.
Prereq: Permission of instructor
Cr. arr. Repeatable.
Prereq: Permission of instructor
Cr. 1-2. F.S.SS.
Prereq: Permission of instructor
Supervised internship experience.
Offered on a satisfactory-fail basis only.
(1-0) Cr. 1.
Prereq: Graduate classification in JL MC.
Overview of advanced study in journalism and mass communication with special emphasis on requirements for obtaining the master of science degree.
Cr. 1-3. Repeatable, maximum of 3 credits.
Prereq: graduate classification or instructor permission.
Seminar in Mass Communication.
Cr. 1-3. Repeatable.
Prereq: Graduate classification or instructor permission.
Cr. 1-3. Repeatable.
Prereq: Graduate classification or instructor permission.
Cr. 1-3. Repeatable.
Prereq: Graduate classification or instructor permission.
Cr. 1-3. Repeatable.
Prereq: Graduate classification or instructor permission.
Cr. 1-3. Repeatable.
Prereq: Graduate classification or instructor permission.
Cr. 1-3. Repeatable.
Prereq: Graduate classification or instructor permission.
Cr. 1-3. Repeatable.
Prereq: Graduate classification or instructor permission.
Cr. 1-3. Repeatable.
Prereq: Graduate classification or instructor permission.
Cr. 1-3. Repeatable.
Prereq: Graduate classification or instructor permission.
Cr. 1-3. Repeatable.
Prereq: Graduate classification or instructor permission.
Cr. 1-3. Repeatable.
Prereq: Graduate classification or instructor permission.
Cr. 1-3. Repeatable.
Prereq: Graduate classification or instructor permission.
Cr. 1-3. Repeatable.
Prereq: Graduate classification or instructor permission.
Cr. 1-3. Repeatable.
Prereq: Graduate classification or instructor permission.
Cr. 1-3. Repeatable.
Prereq: Graduate classification or instructor permission.
Cr. 1-3. Repeatable.
Prereq: Graduate classification or instructor permission.
Cr. 1-3. Repeatable.
Prereq: Graduate classification or instructor permission.
Cr. arr. Repeatable.
Prereq: Approved creative component proposal
Courses for graduate students:
Cr. arr. Repeatable.
Prereq: Approved thesis proposal