Course Descriptions
MPC 6010 - Introduction to Graduate Study and Communication Theories (3)
This course provides a survey of major theoretical perspectives in the field of communication with an emphasis on how theory can be applied in interpersonal, group, organizational and mass communication contexts. Students also learn about the logic of communication inquiry, the nature and expectations of graduate study, and techniques for conducting literature searches and writing literature reviews.
MPC 6100 - Team Building and Facilitation (3)
Creating, facilitating and coaching effective workgroups and teams is one of the hardest soft skills for organizational professionals to master. This course examines the impact that different structures and communication processes have on group and team collaboration effectiveness, as well as the central role competent communication plays in effective group and team facilitation. It investigates structural and process issues of team building, interpersonal and group communication, and effective problem solving and decision-making skills in collaborative environments. Students should have a greater understanding of their own collaborative teaming abilities upon completion. The purpose of this course is to teach–and have students experience–strategies and tactics for building, working effectively within, and facilitating collaborative teams in the workplace.
Pre-requisite: MPC 6010 or permission of MPC program director.
MPC 6150 - Writing for Professional Communicators (3)
Good writing skills are critical to achieving a professional image. Individuals and organizations are judged by the quality of written documents they produce. In this course, students learn to plan and organize, to write clearly, concisely and correctly, and to develop polished final projects. Students undergo an intensive review of basic writing and editing principles and then apply them to specific writing projects. Genres of writing may include funding proposals, yearly reports, executive plans, organizational descriptions, Web sites, social networking messages, and marketing materials.
MPC 6210 - Presentational Speaking in the Workplace (3)
The professional work environment benefits from the communication competency of its members. This course is designed to enhance the communication skills required by the professional communicator across a broad set of communication media: oral presentations, written texts, and digital interactions. Primary emphasis will be placed on combining strategic thinking with powerful writing to produce a variety of effective messages aimed at different audiences. In addition, students will develop a broad-based understanding of how each of these modes of communications function both separately and interdependently to produce a coherent organizational message.
Prerequisite: MPC 6010 or permission of MPC program director.
MPC 6250 - Interviewing (3)
This course will explore various types of interviews conducted in work and personal situations: recruiting, performance appraisals, informational, survey, persuasion, counseling, and health care. While core communication skills are important across types of interviews, interviewing strategies can differ greatly based on different contexts, specific situations, and personalities of interviewers and interviewees.
MPC 6300 - New Media in Professional Communication (3)
New media allow all individuals and organizations to effectively interact with their audiences on an ongoing basis. This course addresses how new and emerging media technologies such as social networks, social media, blogs, podcasts, video sites, search engine management tools, and even virtual worlds can be leveraged by communication professionals in order to further meaningful relationships with their internal and external audiences. This course will give students greater understanding of new media required to allow a rethinking of the overall communication process. As a result students will develop effective communication strategies specifically geared toward the needs of their organization or field of interest.
Prerequisite: MPC 6010 or permission of MPC program director.
MPC 6350 - Visual Communication in the Workplace (3)
Visual messages are a powerful way to inform, persuade and educate. Within the workplace, the ability to effectively communicate goals, ideas and client information through combinations of visual and textual elements is an invaluable skill. This course introduces students to philosophical and theoretical perspectives that enable effective visual presentation in the organization. It also exposes them to practical design principles, skills, and tactics that generally guide effective screen and print design. Additionally, students will learn how to critically analyze visual communication materials and aids according to standards that reflect sensitivity to fairness, diversity, good ethics and effectiveness.
MPC 6400 - Leadership Communication (3)
Communication is the core of organizational leadership. This course is designed to explore both the theoretical and practical aspects of leader- and followership embedded in complex environments with an emphasis on recognizing and managing change. Leadership in organizations will be examined from a variety of perspectives including historical, ethical and critical. Key topics include leadership traits and skills, leadership roles and behaviors, power and influence, theories of leadership, leading change, ethical leadership, and developing leadership skills. The course includes experiential activities using cases, role plays, and action learning projects to develop relevant skills.
Prerequisite: MPC 6010 or permission of MPC program director.
MPC 6450 - Advanced Organizational Communication (3)
This course provides a graduate-level overview and introduction to the discipline of organizational communication in a global world. Class readings and discussions will include topics such as: organizational structure/process, rationality and decision-making, (sub)cultures and socialization, individual and collective identities, networks, leadership, teams, power/control, conflict, change, technologies, and ethics. Case studies from current events and guest speakers will be used to apply theoretical concepts to actual organizational life.MPC 6500 - Topics in Professional Communication (3) variable title
The study and application of professional communication in contemporary society is dynamic and ever changing. This course will provide students with opportunities to explore specialized topics in a seminar format. This course may be taken twice as elective credit with different titles and topics.
Prerequisite: MPC 6010 or permission of MPC program director.
MPC 6600 - Strategic Communication (3)
Effective strategic communication and planning is essential to any organization. This course helps students to understand and develop skills to create and manage internal and external messages for different situations, industries, and locations. Students prepare for effective strategic communication by asking and answering the right questions about the goals of the organization, its members, stakeholders and others who impact its operation, such as regulatory bodies. Effective strategic communication and its planning consist of the optimal use of people, budgets, tactical elements, and media in a chaotic, changing world.
Prerequisite: MPC 6010 or permission of MPC program director.
MPC 6620 - Conflict Resolution & Mediation (3)
Communication is at the center of any negotiation or mediation process. It is in and through communication that resolution becomes possible. This class will explore the key interpersonal skills that are central to managing the processes of conflict resolution and mediation competently.
MPC 6700 - Qualitative Communication Research & Analysis
Research skills are essential for answering questions and solving problems. This course reviews qualitative investigations in communication. In this course, students will learn to read, interpret, and critically evaluate qualitative communication research. Students will be exposed to qualitative concepts, research designs, and the fundamentals of conducting and analyzing research using interviewing, ethnography, constant comparative analysis, and content analysis. In addition, students will design and execute their own research study, which entails: an appropriate qualitative design, data collection, data analysis, and a formal research report.
Pre-requisite(s): MPC 6010 or permission of MPC program director.
MPC 6710 - Communication Survey Design and Analysis
Research skills are essential for answering questions and solving problems. This course reviews quantitative communication research methods, with an emphasis on survey design and statistical analysis, and explores vocational/professional applications of communication research. In this course, students will learn to read, interpret, and critically evaluate quantitative communication research reports. Students will be exposed to basic social science concepts, research designs, and the fundamentals of conducting and analyzing research. In addition, students will design and execute their own research study, which entails: a survey design, data collection, data analysis, and a formal research report.
Pre-requisite(s): MPC 6010
MPC 6840 - Data Visualization & Storytelling
This course teaches students the skills necessary to be effective data storytellers. Students taking this course will study the fundamentals of compelling data-driven storytelling and become familiar with associated Visual Communication tools. Moreover, students will learn how to detect and articulate the stories behind datasets and how to tell data stories in different ways for different audiences and stakeholders. Finally, students will sharpen their skills to evaluate data visualizations and visual analysis tools.
MPC 6900 - Thesis/Project I (3)
In this course, students will begin their theses or projects under the direction and with the support of their faculty committees. They will write, present and have their thesis or project prospectus approved. Prerequisite: MPC 6010 or permission of MPC program director. This course may be repeated 2 times for a maximum of 9 credit hours. *Please note that students who, for any reason, do not finish their thesis or project or program of courses within the two-year framework suggested in this program, must pay continuing enrollment and tuition the semester they defend their thesis or project.
MPC 6950 - Thesis/Project II (3)
This course will allow students to complete their workplace project or traditional academic thesis. Students will prepare, present and defend their projects or thesis during this semester for review and approval. This course is repeatable for a total of 2 times for a total of 9 credit hours of which only 3 will apply to degree completion. Prerequisite: MPC 6010 or permission of MPC program director. *Please note that students who, for any reason, do not finish their thesis or project within the two-year framework suggested in this program, must pay continuing enrollment and tuition the semester they defend their thesis or project.
MPC 5080 - Intercultural Communication (3)
Explores theoretical perspectives in intercultural communication. Through analysis of various intercultural theories, students will become aware of cultural influences on communication in both international and domestic cultures.
This course may not apply toward graduate degree requirements if an undergraduate course of the same name or content has been used for undergraduate credit. Prerequisite: Permission of MPC program director.
MPC 5090 - Gender and Communication (3)
This course is designed to help students understand the influence that communication has upon the shaping of gender and the influence that gender has in shaping communication interactions. Students become aware of, sensitive to, and more experienced in the issues, implications and skills necessary to successfully and meaningfully communicate with males and females, and about males and females, in a wide range of communication contexts.
This course may not apply toward graduate degree requirements if an undergraduate course of the same name or content has been used for undergraduate credit. Prerequisite: Permission of MPC program director.
MPC 5100 - Small Group Facilitation and Leadership (3)
Theories and practical communication processes are examined and applied to develop fundamental attitudes and skills for facilitating and leading effective groups. This course may not apply toward graduate degree requirements if an undergraduate course of the same name or content has been used for undergraduate credit. Prerequisite: Permission of MPC program director.
MPC 5220 - Editing (3)
Develops editing knowledge and skills for print and online publications. Covers copy editing, content editing and page editing.
This course may not apply toward graduate degree requirements if an undergraduate course of the same name or content has been used for undergraduate credit. Prerequisite: Permission of MPC program director.
MPC 5440 - Public Relations Media and Campaigns (3)
Apply communication principles to internal and external public; research, plan and evaluate social interrelationships; study of the controlled and uncontrolled media and their role in public relations; prepare a major public relations campaign for a selected client. This course may not apply toward graduate degree requirements if an undergraduate course of the same name or content has been used for undergraduate credit. Prerequisite: Permission of MPC program director.
MPC 5500 - Topics in Communication (3) variable title
The study and application of communication in contemporary society is dynamic and ever changing. This course will provide students with opportunities to explore specialized topics in contemporary journalism, electronic mediated communication, human communication studies, and public relations in a seminar format.
This course may not apply toward graduate degree requirements if an undergraduate course of the same name or content has been used for undergraduate credit. Prerequisite: Permission of MPC program director.
MPC 5550 - Organizational Communication (3)
Study of communication organizations from various theoretical perspectives with an emphasis on the organizational culture perspective. Includes topics such as communicating with external audiences, decision-making, conflict resolution, and power relationships. This course may not apply toward graduate degree requirements if an undergraduate course of the same name or content has been used for undergraduate credit. Prerequisite: Permission of MPC program director.
MPC 5650 - Communication Law (3)
First Amendment origins, interpretations and philosophy underlying regulation of the mass media.
This course may not apply toward graduate degree requirements if an undergraduate course of the same name or content has been used for undergraduate credit. Prerequisite: Permission of MPC program director.
MPC 5820 - Persuasive Communication (3)
Study of theories and principles of persuasion from classical to modern times. Examines persuasion as a means of influence in interpersonal communication, public speaking, public relations, advertising, politics, and other contexts.
This course may not apply toward graduate degree requirements if an undergraduate course of the same name or content has been used for undergraduate credit. Prerequisite: Permission of MPC program director.
MPC 5850 - Advertising (3)
A practical and theoretical study of advertising. Course is designed for students planning careers in advertising, as well as for those who are simply lifelong consumers of advertising and want to understand its role in the economic system.
This course may not apply toward graduate degree requirements if an undergraduate course of the same name or content has been used for undergraduate credit. Prerequisite: Permission of MPC program director.
OTHER MASTER’S COURSES:
MBA 6110 - Fundamentals of Ethical Leadership (3)
This course is designed to be taken at the beginning of formal course work in the MBA program. Students will explore various aspects of moral reasoning and apply these concepts to common ethical issues faced in business. Students will work individually and in groups to explore issues of personal values, self-awareness, teamwork, communication, managing differences, and career management. Students in this course will be introduced to analytical, communication, and technological tools used throughout the program. (Generally taught each semester).
MBA 6120 - Organizational Behavior (3)
This is a course for graduate students who have already been exposed to the principles of management and organizational behavior and who are now seeking a more advanced preparation for the behavioral role of the manager. It offers a critical review of the factors that influence behavior within the organizational setting. Behavioral concepts are emphasized which particularly relate to group dynamics, interpersonal relations, and ultimately, organizational effectiveness. In short, this course deals with the human aspects of management–the kinds of problems most frequently experienced in day-to-day interaction with others. The format will include discussions, group and individual exercises, case studies, and student reports. (Generally taught in Spring and Fall).
MBA 6140 - Marketing Management (3)
This course centers on creating customer value profitability in competitive markets. In an integrative fashion, it covers analyzing customer needs and preferences; estimating market potential; assessing market opportunities and threats in view of the focal company’s and its competitors’ resources and capabilities; developing market and marketing strategies; making astute product, pricing, distribution, and promotion decisions; and measuring marketing performance. Pedagogical vehicles include lectures, reading assignments, and case-based discussions and reports. (Generally taught in Spring and Fall).
MBA 6440 - Strategic Leadership (3)
This course will expose students to the strategic nature of leadership. Students will evaluate and discuss key principles and frameworks of leadership through the case method. Students will study leadership styles, situational leadership, personal leadership, and power & influence, as they relate to strategy. (Generally taught in Fall).
MBA 6450 - Leadership Through People Skills (3)
This course will provide a highly applied introduction to the interpersonal dynamics of leading and motivating others. Emphasis will be placed on the development and acquisition of key behaviors, skills, techniques and mental models for influencing others through sound people skills. By means of hands-on application, role-playing and “learning-by-doing” activities, students will learn to listen for understanding and insight; gain commitment rather than compliance; manage conflict; adapt their style to different people; apply influence skills in all directions; and develop insights into their impact on others. (Generally taught in Fall and Spring).
MBA 6530 - E-Business (3)
The Internet has become an important influence in the world. Business on the internet, in terms of operations, marketing, security, etc., has increased concomitantly in influence. This course will provide a foundation for understanding the possibilities and potential pitfalls for doing e-business. (Generally taught in Spring).
MBA 6540 - Negotiations (3)
The purpose of this course is to provide opportunities for class participants to develop their negotiating abilities for use in organizational and other settings. The course is premised on the assumption that negotiating concepts are best learned through practice which is grounded in rigorous analysis and reflection. While theoretical principles and concepts from various reference disciplines (such as social psychology, sociology, and economics) will be presented through lectures and readings, this course will focus primarily on improving practical skills. Class participants will not only learn to enhance their individual abilities in dyadic and group situations, but also to analyze contexts for the most effective application of these skills. (Generally taught in Summer).
MBA 6580 - Project Management (3)
This course is a study of topics involved with managing projects. It examines the roles and skills of the project manager and the project office. Students will study the phases of the project life cycle, specifically the activities, requirements, methodologies, and tools common in project management.
Note: Course offerings are subject to change. (Generally taught in Spring).
MBA 6850 - Business Development and Entrepreneurship (3)
Students will learn how to effectively come up with an idea, iterate around that idea, and validate customers around their final direction so that they can learn how to successfully launch an idea into a business with low risk, low capital, and higher degrees for success. In addition, if a student is interested in learning how to be a better “intrapreneur” this course will help them use some of these same skills in a corporate or employee environment. Being innovative and creative is always valuable. (Generally taught in Summer).
MED 6110 - Introduction to Classroom Management (3)
This course serves as an introduction to classroom management for those who have not had classroom experience or have been hired by a school district on a “letter of authorization,” (hired without a license). The focus will be on current issues, methodology, and application of a variety of approaches for behavior change, discipline, and management of diverse learners in the context of classroom environments. Classroom management as a function of good teaching will be examined. (Generally taught each semester).
MED 6120 - Advanced Classroom Management (3)
Eclectic review of the popular teacher-pupil interaction models as they are classified into ideological camps and effect, and management and strategies for the classroom.
May be repeated up to four times. (Generally taught in Fall).
MED 6220 - Current Problems in Education (3)
A survey course which identifies and gives opportunity to research current problems in education at national, state, and local levels. Solutions and responses are developed from the research to address problems. (Generally taught in Summer).
MED 6230 - Instructional Technology for Teachers (3)
This course allows students to apply existing technology literacy into educational environments to promote use of technology for teaching and instructional support in learning environments. The curriculum is based on teacher skills required to teach Utah State Educational Technology Standards. (Generally taught in Spring and Fall).
MED 6380 - Values Education (3)
Designed for teachers, administrators, parents and community leaders. Examines the developmental processes of socialization and moral development. Four separate approaches of values education are evaluated. (Generally taught in Summer).
MENG 6730 - Creating Writing Forms and Crafts (3)
This course will investigate the relationship of form and function in creative work and explore how the underlying structure affects the impact of the work. This course will examine a variety of work to examine the effect of formal choices on readers’ response. The course will then put these strategies and insights to work by drafting, workshopping, and revising students’ own original writing.
May be repeated 2 times and up to 9 credit hours. (Generally taught in Fall).
MENG 6730 - Creating Nonfiction Writing (3)
In this course, students will study the art and craft of writing creative nonfiction. Along with writing their own original work, students will read a variety of contemporary texts and will critique their peers’ writing. (Generally taught in Spring).
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