Course Descriptions

Listed below are the course descriptions for the selected subject.
By clicking on the Search Current Course Schedule icon (opens in new window), you can search the current course schedule to see if a course you are interested in is being offered this semester.



COMMUNICATION STUDIES



CMST 1100 -- Introduction to Mass Communication,   3 credits Search Current Course Schedule
Common Course Outline
(Cross-listed as MCOM 1100)

(MnTC Goals 2 and 9)

This course is a survey of the history, structure, functions, and responsibilities of mass media (e.g. social media, television, radio, newspapers). It also includes discussion of media technology and critical analysis of mass media's role in society.


CMST 1110 -- Introduction to Communication,   3 credits Search Current Course Schedule
Common Course Outline
(MnTC Goals 1 and 2)

This course is designed to help students be more competent communicators in a variety of contexts. Students will be introduced to fundamental communication models, theories, concepts, and skills in the areas of interpersonal communication, group communication, and public speaking. Students will be expected to interact interpersonally, collaborate in small groups, and deliver at least one presentation.


CMST 1189 -- Topics:,   Search Current Course Schedule
Common Course Outline
This course has been developed as a potential permanent course. The course must follow all the same policies and procedures related to curriculum outlined by the college. It does not duplicate existing course offerings. Refer to course notes for specific course description.


CMST 2210 -- Intercultural Communication,   3 credits Search Current Course Schedule
Common Course Outline
(MnTC Goals 7 and 8)

This course explores intercultural communication within the individual, interpersonal, organizational, and societal context. Topics covered include cultural identity, verbal and non-verbal behavior, perception, dominant versus non-dominant cultural values and beliefs, present and historical cultural contexts, and other factors that facilitate or inhibit effective intercultural communication.


CMST 2215 -- Public Speaking,   3 credits Search Current Course Schedule
Common Course Outline
(MnTC Goals 1 and 2)

This course is designed to help students become more effective communicators in public speaking situations. Emphasis will be placed on research, organization, delivery skills, nonverbal communication, and the impact of language. Students will prepare and practice several different types of public speaking, as well as learn how to be effective listeners in public speaking situations.


CMST 2220 -- Interpersonal Communication,   3 credits Search Current Course Schedule
Common Course Outline
(MnTC Goals 1 and 7)

This course is designed to help students recognize and understand their communication behaviors, as well as those of others, in an effort to learn effective communication skills for improving their interpersonal relationships and interactions. Primary areas of study include communication theory, language, perception, self-concept, emotions, the impact of culture on communication, listening, conflict, and nonverbal communication. An individual speech presentation is required.


CMST 2251 -- Small Group Communication,   3 credits Search Current Course Schedule
Common Course Outline
(MnTC Goals 1 and 2)

Students in this course will learn the necessary skills to lead, participate, and follow effectively in community and workplace group settings. Students will apply small group communication theory in small, task-oriented groups and develop presentation skills to demonstrate the understanding of what it means to be an effective group member. Students will also learn how and why groups form and function, how norms and roles evolve within groups, procedures for planning and conducting meetings, problem-solving and decision-making approaches, and leadership styles and theories.


CMST 2299 -- Independent Study,   Search Current Course Schedule
Common Course Outline
Independent Study allows a student to earn credit while participating in a supervised learning experience in a community-based or work setting. Students must have successfully completed two courses in the discipline in which they want to undertake independent study. Forms are available in the Educational Services Office. All arrangements must be made prior to registration for the semester in which the project is scheduled and must be approved by the appropriate Dean of Educational Services. In addition, a project outline must be approved by the instructor who will supervise the student's work.