Catalog Entries |
Fall 2019
Mar 16,2025 |
|
 |
||
 | Select the Course Number to get further detail on the course. Select the desired Schedule Type to find available classes for the course. |
| COMM 100 - INDEPENDENT STUDY: COMMUNICATION ARTS |
|
Limited opportunities to enroll for course work on an Independent Study basis are available. A student interested in this option should obtain an Independent Study Registration Form from the Registrar, have it completed by the instructor and school dean involved, and return it to the Registrar's Office. Consult the current Schedule of Classes for policies concerning Independent Study.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Independent Study Communications Department |
| COMM 101 - EFFECTIVE SPEAKING |
|
The course will develop skills in diction, reading aloud, speaking before groups, techniques of discussion, and listening. Emphasis will be placed on the development of self-confidence and understanding and conveying meaning to an audience.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Hybrid, Lecture, Online Course Communications Department |
| COMM 102 - SPEAK SMART |
|
During the "course" of events of this course, students (hereinafter referred to as "speakers") will travel through the world of fear, anxiety, perspiration, and agita, slowly but surely finding ease and confidence in their ability to communicate via the spoken word. Speakers will run the gamut of "anchoring" their own TV news broadcast, to creating their own commercial "voiceover", to delivering an "off-the-cuff" impromptu Speech -- all activities designed to help engender confidence in the novice speaker and, as well as strengthen and bolster skills of the more seasoned speaker.
0.000 TO 2.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 2.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Lecture Communications Department |
| COMM 110 - FOUNDATIONS OF VISUAL COMMUNICATION DESIGN |
|
Foundations of Visual Communication Design introduces students to the core concepts and language of visual design studies and practices and prepares them for the next level of VCD production studio courses. These
core concepts include: Ways of seeing, visual literacy, principles of design, design theory, concept design, design research, design’s role in society, and creative process. The course balances core concepts, theory, and practice while working with visual elements. Students synthesize what they learn by actively creating projects and exercises related to the weekly topic. Design
process is also explored as well as creative design problem-solving. Each week is structured to include lecture/presentation, activity, and reflection.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Hybrid, Lecture, Lecture/Online, Online Course Communications Department |
| COMM 190 - TOPICS: |
|
The descriptions and topics of this course change from semester-to-semester, as well as from instructor-to-instructor. Prerequisite: varies with the topic offered.
COMM 190 INTRO TO 2D DESIGN: Explores the language, principles, and practice of graphic design as a form of purpose-driven visual expression. Students learn to solve visual problems by developing skills in design research, observation, sketching, and typography.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Hybrid, Lecture, Online Course Communications Department |
| COMM 198 - TRANSFER ELECTIVE |
|
This course designation describes a transfer course from another institution where an equivalency to a Ramapo College course has not been determined. Upon convener evaluation, this course ID may be changed to an equivalent of a Ramapo College course or may fulfill a requirement.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Lecture Communications Department |
| COMM 199 - TRANSFER ELECTIVE |
|
This course designation is used to describe a transfer course from another institution which has been evaluated by the convener. A course with this course number has no equivalent Ramapo course. It may fulfill a requirement or may count as a free elective.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Lecture Communications Department |
| COMM 200 - INDEPENDENT STUDY: COMMUNICATION ARTS |
|
Limited opportunities to enroll for course work on an Independent Study basis are available. A student interested in this option should obtain an Independent Study Registration Form from the Registrar, have it completed by the instructor and school dean involved, and return it to the Registrar' Office. Consult the current Schedule of Classes for policies concerning Independent Study.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Independent Study Communications Department |
| COMM 201 - DIGITAL LITERACY |
|
The advent of the digital computer, along with technologies such as the World Wide Web, has caused profound changes in the way we communicate and create. This course will examine the computer as a medium. Hands-on learning will give the student the technical skills to survive in the new digital culture, while critical readings and assignments will give them the cognitive skills to understand it. Instead of working for the computer, we shall make it work for us. Lab Fee.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Hybrid, Lab, Lecture, Online Course Communications Department |
| COMM 202 - FUNDAMENTALS OF INTERACTIVE MEDIA |
|
This course is an introduction to using the computer to design for print and the web. It will cover the fundamental principles of using the Macintosh; the basics of manipulating digital images; using page-layout software; and designing for the web. Students will explore these topics through hands-on assignments and through reading which will investigate the principles of interaction. Creative assignments will use digital photography, print media, and the web to explore the concepts of the self-portrait in the digital age. This course is recommended for any student who wants to work in digital media, and is required for students in the Design and Interactive Media concentration in Communication Arts.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Hybrid, Lab Communications Department |
| COMM 203 - FILM REPRESENTATION: RACE, CLASS AND GENDER |
|
This course analyzes how American films have represented race, ethnicity, class and gender since the early 20th century. Through readings, class discussion, film screenings and special projects, students gain insights into the ways that different groups of American people have been depicted in both mainstream and alternative films. The course looks at the interaction of form and content in film, and how these are to create meaning.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Hybrid, Lecture, Online Course Communications Department Course Attributes: MJ-Amer-Artistic Expression, OLD GE-INTERCULT NORTH AMERICA |
| COMM 204 - MEDIA LITERACY |
|
Media Literacy is the study of the language, technology and economic structure involved in the creation of messages in different mediums. This course is designed to acquaint students with the following areas: (1) the features and forms of mediated influence most commonly observable today, (2) the relationships between structural hierarchies and representations in the media, and (3) the key and current controversial issues related to mass media. Finally, students are expected to cultivate the ability to critically evaluate the media and develop media literacy.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Hybrid, Lecture, Online Course, Screening Communications Department |
| COMM 205 - INTERPERSONAL COMMUNICATION |
|
A study of the human communication process with particular attention given to characteristics of the encoder of a message, the transmission medium, the decoder of the message, and factors which reinforce or interfere with successful communication. Special emphasis will be given to understanding the influence of culture upon such things as self identity, values, patterns of speech, and non-verbal communication habits.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Hybrid, Lecture, Online Course Communications Department |
| COMM 206 - FUNDAMENTALS OF AUDIO |
|
An introduction to the design, use, and operation of all the basic audio equipment used in sound recording, video, film, and broadcasting: microphones, signal processing, noise reduction, mixing, editing, and recording. This course is a prerequisite for further production courses in recording, radio, and electronic music. Introduces students to non-linear audio production and editing.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Studio Communications Department |
| COMM 207 - FUNDAMENTALS OF TV STUDIO PRODUCTION |
|
A study of the history, theory, and technological development of television created using multiple cameras. Students learn operation of and skills with cameras, special effect generator, character generator, lights, audio, and other production tools through lectures, demonstrations, exercises, and assignments leading to the creation of short projects. There is an emphasis on developing strong discipline and technical abilities as well as the conceptual application of material. There will be numerous writing assignments, public presentations, and objective tests. Lab Fee.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Studio Communications Department |
| COMM 208 - NEWSWRITING |
|
Newswriting introduces students to the fundamentals of reporting and writing. Students will learn the basic tenets of the journalist's craft, including developing news judgment, ethics and understanding what makes a good news or feature story. The course will cover the elements of reporting and writing a basic news story or feature, including pitching a story idea, identifying sources, conducting interviews as well as story construction using AP Style. Students will be required to do field reporting. Lab Fee.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Lab Communications Department Course Attributes: WRITING INTENSIVE |
| COMM 209 - HISTORY OF TV AND NEW MEDIA |
|
This course will provide an in depth study of electronic media and telecommunications in America by tracing and researching media-telecommunications infrastructures from an historical perspective. Further, the course will examine convergence of the broadcast-telecommunications and related on-line media industries including, but not limited to, the traditional radio-television-cable systems, computer companies, telephone systems and emerging personal and industrial wireless media infrastructures. Additionally, the course will explore historical perspectives and trends in programming, media economics, ownership-media executives, audiences concerns and responsibilities, industry ethics, regulation, and an introduction to select global media infrastructures and regulation.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Hybrid, Lecture, Online Course Communications Department Course Attributes: WRITING INTENSIVE |
| COMM 210 - PERFORMANCE FOR ELECTRONIC MEDIA |
|
A study of announcing, acting, and related activities for radio, television, and non-broadcast media. Students learn effective presentation of scripted and improvisational narratives, basic makeup and wardrobe considerations, hand signals, and working with directors and media crews. There will be lectures, screenings, class exercises, and projects leading to audio and video tapes of performances. Students will be introduced to basic techniques using audio, radio, and video equipment. Lab Fee.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Studio Communications Department |
| COMM 211 - ORGANIZATIONAL COMMUNICATIONS |
|
A study of communications in organizations. Areas to be covered include supervisory style and roles, leadership development, organizing and prioritizing, effective meetings, participation by management, organizing volunteer groups, fund raising, brainstorming techniques, and work-life programs.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Hybrid, Lecture, Online Course Communications Department |
| COMM 212 - FUNDAMENTALS OF RADIO AND NEW MEDIA |
|
An historical overview of radio broadcasting and the art and science of radio technology. Introduction to radio station management, operations, and programming. Course covers review of FCC rules and regulations, professional analysis of new technology, audience research, career opportunities, and emerging satellite radio, digital audio broadcast, and online radio systems. Course also includes writing assignments and introduction to the process of developing, researching, writing, and producing radio programming. Lab Fee.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Studio Communications Department |
| COMM 213 - DESIGN THEORY AND CRITICISM |
|
This course explores the scope of visual communication through the lens of history, theory and criticism. Students examine technological innovations and zeitgeists that continue to affect the practice of graphic design. Based on topics and themes covered in weekly lectures, students engage in activities that include group discussion, creation of visual projects and writings that demonstrate their understanding of visual theory and history. This course is Writing Intensive (WI) and will include two ten-page research papers. Additional course work includes quizzes, exams, and discussions. Emphasis will be placed on work from the last 100 years, including contemporary design.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Hybrid, Lab, Lecture, Online Course Communications Department Course Attributes: WRITING INTENSIVE |
| COMM 214 - CONTEMPORARY BRITISH MEDIA |
|
(Study Abroad) This course aims to broaden students' perception of the possibilities of the mass media by exposing them to the varieties of British Media. This should enable them to reflect critically on the media in general and to reflect on their own practices in the media. Key themes will be the way in which the different regimes of power in the media inflect the kind of content and intentions the media have.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Hybrid, Lecture, Online Course Communications Department Course Attributes: OLD GE-INTERNATIONAL ISSUES, MJ-INTL-Intl Comparative 'West |
| COMM 215 - VISUAL STORYTELLING |
|
Visual Storytelling studies the dynamics of visual language and its interaction with other elements in the narrative, such as dramatic structure, audio elements and content. The courses includes three key elements: (1) students read and discuss selected media articles and analyze a series of films and videos, emphasizing structure, visual and audio design and the interaction of content and form; (2) after a series of practical exercises they develop a short video project from initial idea to finished script; and (3) students use both traditional art materials and new computer software to design a full storyboard based on their script. Additional time outside the classroom is required to fulfill the production components for the course. Lab Fee
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Hybrid, Lab, Lecture, Online Course Communications Department |
| COMM 216 - MEDIA AND CINEMA STUDIES |
|
Contemporary culture is dominated by film, television, video, and related media that convey information, provide entertainment, and influence both belief and action. Media/Cinema Studies is an introduction to the discipline of media and cinema studies and their influence. The course will introduce students to the critical terms and methods required for reading and writing about these media and related cultural texts, with an emphasis on developing skills in the close reading of such texts and the writing of critical responses to them. Media/Cinema Studies is intended as a foundation for further courses in the Communication Arts major while also serving as a general interest course to students in other programs. The course deals with Hollywood movies past and present; international cinema and media; television; video; and emerging forms of new media. This course will examine images as well as the institutions that produce them in order to show why and how the production and consumption of media have become a defining characteristic of contemporary culture.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Hybrid, Lecture, Online Course, Seminar Communications Department Course Attributes: MJ-Amer-Artistic Expression, OLD GE-TOPICS ARTS&HUMANATIES, WRITING INTENSIVE |
| COMM 217 - DIGITAL POST PRODUCTION |
|
This is an intensive course on the theory and practices of editing that incorporates digital post-production using Final Cut Pro software. In this course, students review the history of filmmaking, analyzing different editing practices, including editing action sequences, comedy, documentaries and experimental work. Through media analysis, we study the use of editing as a filmmaking tool to shape meaning and influence audiences. A series of hands-on exercises are designed to make the students familiar with editing processes such as maintaining continuity, achieving smoothness, and controlling the timing, as well as understanding the connotation of different editing techniques in affecting the meaning of a sequence.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Lab, Studio Communications Department |
| COMM 218 - FUNDAMENTALS OF DIGITAL FILMMAKING |
|
This course will introduce the language of filmmaking and develop the theoretical knowledge and practical skills students need to explore the field of Digital Filmmaking. Students will learn about the interaction of form and content through a series of practical exercises, analysis of film and class critiques of their work. The practical exercises are designed to incorporate new skills in each project culminating with a final project that will incorporate all the stages of filmmaking from initial idea to finished product. In addition to develop technical skills through a series of film analysis, lectures, readings and class discussions students will learn about the history and new trends in digital cinema and the impact that technological, political and social changes have in it. This theoretical understanding will further develop their film language and enable them to apply it in their own work. The weekly classes are divided into several sections: Theory/Aesthetics, Technique, Practical Exercises and Evaluation. This course is designed to emphasize critical thinking, creativity, initiative, expression of ideas, technique development and a committed and disciplined way of working. All of these qualities are extremely important in the exciting but also demanding field of filmmaking.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Lab, Studio Communications Department Course Attributes: Gen Ed 18-Culture & Creativity |
| COMM 219 - IDEA DEVELOPMENT |
|
This writing intensive course explores structured processes used to recognize, cultivate, and transform ideas into working prototypes. Working in teams, students learn to employ innovative approaches to creative problem solving, using methodologies that include lateral and convergent thinking, and design thinking, a human-centered model used in both the public and private sectors.
Research, critical thinking, writing in the discipline, and presentation skills will be developed in this course. Students actively learn strategies to solve human centered design problems that exist on both local and global levels. “Design” and “design thinking” in this course refers to inspiration, insight, ideation, and implementation—methods adopted from multiple design disciplines to strengthen creative problem-solving skills and provide structure to the idea development process.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Hybrid, Lecture, Online Course Communications Department Course Attributes: WRITING INTENSIVE |
| COMM 220 - STORY STRUCTURE: DOCUMENTARY AND FICTION FILM |
|
This course is an introduction to the principles and techniques of writing and research for non-fiction and narrative scripts for video, television, and film. Students will gain experience in script development from initial concept, proposal/treatment writing, research (print, electronic, interview, and visual), script outlines, and final scripts. Computer research and screenings of selected examples of media will also be included.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Hybrid, Lecture, Online Course, Seminar Communications Department Course Attributes: WRITING INTENSIVE |
| COMM 221 - SPEECH FOR COMMUNICATION ARTS |
|
This course is intended to introduce students in the Communication Arts major to the various contexts in which they will give speeches and presentations, including pitches, position statements, individual speeches, and collaborative group presentations. Special emphasis will be placed on the process of speech making: from conceptualizing an idea, to researching the topic, to organizing the message, to effective delivery.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Hybrid, Lecture, Online Course Communications Department |
| COMM 222 - PUBLIC SPEAKING |
|
A study of theory and actual practice in various types of speaking situations to inform, persuade, and entertain. Speeches for special occasions will also be emphasized. Traditional Aristotelian proofs and modern subliminal experiences will be included.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Hybrid, Lecture, Online Course Communications Department Course Attributes: OLD GE-TOPICS ARTS&HUMANATIES |
| COMM 226 - COPY EDITING |
|
Students learn the basic principles and skills of copy editing. Copy editing entails reading, correcting, and rewriting text for publication; review of grammar, syntax, and punctuation; and practice to improve writing style. While the course focuses on print media, skills are applicable to all writing. Lab Fee.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Lab Communications Department Course Attributes: WRITING INTENSIVE |
| COMM 227 - THE PRESS: HISTORY'S FIRST DRAFT |
|
This General Education course examines the evolution of news and how American journalists have chronicled the history of our nation. The course covers practices, technologies, achievements, ethical confrontations and abuses through a prism of time and evolving media from the 17th Century to the present. Students will develop news literacy skills by analyzing news values journalists use to determine coverage and understand the role of journalism in a democracy and its influence in society. Students will analyze how news and information have always been shaped by technology, economics, politics and culture. They will examine how mainstream journalists have historically used the power of the press to persuade mass audiences to act on movements of the day, and have also systemically left communities out of coverage leading to the rise of an ethnic and alternative press.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Hybrid, Lecture, Online Course Communications Department Course Attributes: Gen Ed 2018, Gen Ed 18-Historical Prspctve, OLD GE-TOPICS ARTS&HUMANATIES |
| COMM 229 - WORLD CINEMA MOVEMENTS |
|
Born more than a century ago, circa 1895, film was the medium of the 20th century; and, by all indications, moving pictures will continue to dominate our culture in the 21st century. Among the fine arts, however, cinema is distinct— in addition to its understanding as an an form, film developed into a powerful mass entertainment medium. This course offers a historical survey
and cultural analysis of some of the major cinema movements that have contributed to the development of cinematic grammar, style, and form, from late 19th-century pre-cinema optical experiments to today’s digital films and web experiments. Students learn the critical technical vocabulary of film — the elements of film form, language, technique, and style, and how to “read”
a film — and develop ways to explore and analyze diverse films from around the globe, with special attention paid to the varying international movements and their films’ historical contexts and social and cultural functions, and the way these films address and explore national, cultural, and ethnic identities.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Hybrid, Lecture, Online Course, Screening Communications Department Course Attributes: Gen Ed 18-Global Awareness, OLD GE-INTERNATIONAL ISSUES |
| COMM 230 - CREATIVE WRITING |
|
A workshop exploring the tools of creative writing, including characterization, narrative voice, dramatic structure, description, dialogue, etc. Students will produce several polished pieces of work after mutual critiques and repeated editing. There will also be some analysis of exemplary works of fiction.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Online Course, Seminar Communications Department |
| COMM 231 - MEDIA ISSUES AND ETHICS |
|
This course is devoted to an examination and discussion of current issues and ethics faced by media professionals. Designed to prepare students for ethical situations they will confront in their chosen area of the communications field, the course will examine various case studies from print and digital journalism, photojournalism, public relations and advertising. By the end of the course, students will have an understanding of professional media standards and how to apply them to situations which arise within the various media.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Hybrid, Lecture, Lecture/Online, Online Course Communications Department Course Attributes: Gen Ed 2018, Gen Ed 18-Values and Ethics, OLD GE-TOPICS ARTS&HUMANATIES |
| COMM 234 - INTERCULTURAL COMMUNICATION |
|
The primary intent of this course is to use a critical lens to examine culture as it influences
our selves, our relations, our media, and our understanding of society. Through this course
students will become familiar with issues like what constitutes culture, whose culture
counts and how these constructions shift over time. Simultaneously, students will be able
to examine, evaluate cross-cultural interactions, and ultimately become more effective in
their own ability to communicate interculturally/ across cultural differences. The media
today is inundated with a multitude of messages that have simplistic explanations tagged
along as analyses of the relations between culture, society, and identity. lt is essential
therefore; that we equip ourselves with the necessary tools for analysis and a better
understanding of multiculturalism in the United States and the global transnational flows of
culture. This course explores cultural experience and meaning across a variety of cultural groups,
including national cultures, ethnic groups, racial groups, economic classes, subcultures, and
genders. We will centralize communication by emphasizing several issues: 1] how
communication creates cultures, 2] communication within a variety of cultures, and 3) our
own communication about others.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Hybrid, Lecture, Online Course All Sections for this Course Communications Department Course Attributes: MN-AFR AMR STD-Hum & Culture, MJ-Africana Studies, MN-Africana Studies, MJ-Amer-Race & Ethnicity, MJ-AMER-Multicultural Studies, Gen Ed 2018, Gen Ed 18-Culture & Creativity, OLD GE-INTERCULT NORTH AMERICA, WRITING INTENSIVE |
| COMM 237 - GRAPHIC DESIGN |
|
This course explores the fundamentals graphic design. Students learn conceptual and analytical skills by learning to solve visual design problems. The topic of design is also explored from an historical and cultural perspective. Additional topics include the grammar and vocabulary of graphic design, typography, perception theory, design theory, symbols, grid systems, computing skills, layout, production, color theory, and traditional tools. Lab Fee.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Studio Communications Department |
| COMM 239 - TYPOGRAPHY |
|
In this class students will use typography to shape the content of their designs. The class is structured in three parts--letter, word, and text. Each section demands a different kind of attention to typography and compositional hierarchy. The projects build off of one another. Emphasis will be placed on analysis, research, and history of letter forms, type classification, and typographic systems. Projects will approximate a professional graphic design approach, following specifications, deadlines, and presentation. Readings will support key methods and critical theory. Exercises will reinforce technical and conceptual project objectives. Computers will be used in this class. Lab Fee.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Lab Communications Department |
| COMM 250 - RAMAPO LECTURE SERIES: DIVERSITY PERSPECTIVES |
|
The Ramapo Lecture Series: Diversity Perspectives is a 4-credit 200 level Communication Arts course open to students from all fields. The lectures themselves (scheduled from 6:30-7:45 including a 15 minute q&a session) will also be open to the entire Ramapo community and open to the community beyond Ramapo. The discussion sections will be limited to those students enrolled for the 4 credit course. The series will investigate and explore a variety of topics relevant to the theme of diversity perspectives in the 21st century. The series is co-sponsored by the Diversity Action Committee and other groups (to be specified). Guest speakers each week will present on a specific aspect of Diversity and the viewpoints, disciplines, and approaches will vary from speaker to speaker. A guest Ramapo facilitator each week will introduce the speaker and lead the question/answer session. During the discussion session which will follow the speaker students will be divided into groups of 30 and one group will meet with one of the course instructors and the guest speaker for further discussion; the other group will meet with the other instructor and the guest facilitator for discussion. (We will alternate weeks on which section meets with the guest speaker.) The discussions will be guided both by the themes and issues raised by the evening's speaker and the readings and materials prepared outside of class for that night's session. The course satisfies the History/Theory/Criticism Category in Communication Arts and the General Education category: Topics in Social Sciences.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Hybrid, Lecture, Online Course Communications Department Course Attributes: OLD GE TOPICS SOCIAL SCIENCE |
| COMM 260 - GOOD&EVIL IN DSN FILM & MEDIA |
|
(Formerly COMM360) From the anti-Semitic posters of the Third Reich to advertisements selling luxury products assembled by forced child labor in Africa and Asia, there exists an ethical paradox associated with visual representations in 20" and 21st century design, film, and visual media. This course explores the power of visual images contained in these mediums and the ethical questions they often raise. Viewed through a broad lens of history, culture, identity and power struggle, students explore reactions and responses to visual images contained within design, film and media. Students parse the meaning, intent and purpose behind these images and develop an understanding of how perceptions of good and evil are often polarized among populations. Designers, filmmakers, journalists, and other media-makers create visual representations that convey messages to the public in an attempt to persuade the viewer to think or act a certain way. In this class, students understand how “visual propagandists" have worked within this context to sway peoples’ opinions.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Hybrid, Lecture, Lecture/Online, Online Course Communications Department Course Attributes: Gen Ed 2018, Gen Ed 18-Values and Ethics, OLD GE-TOPICS ARTS&HUMANATIES |
| COMM 261 - INTRO TO VIDEO GAME STUDIES |
|
(Formerly COMM361) This course is an examination of the history, culture and structure of modern video and computer gaming from Spacewarl to present time. Video games are an important part of contemporary culture - video games sales rival if not exceed receipts from Hollywood films - yet little attention has been paid to their critical analysis. In this course, we will develop a vocabulary to discuss and analyze the component of gaming from visuals, music and procedural narrative.
We will draw concepts and tools from film, literary and feminist discourses and examine the relationship between changes in technology and the structure of games themselves. Students will play, read about and write about games. Access to a computer which can play games is required. Among the questions we will consider are: Are video games art? How do video games tell stories? Why is gaming culture so predominantly male and sexist’? How do cultural forces
shape video games, and do games shape culture? ls there space for small, independent game studios? Do games relate to other arts? This course is writing intensive. Students will be expected to spend time outside of class playing games.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Hybrid, Lecture, Lecture/Online, Online Course Communications Department Course Attributes: Gen Ed 2018, Gen Ed 18-Culture & Creativity |
| COMM 263 - PHOTOGRAPHY FOR DESIGNERS |
|
Building on the skills developed in Fundamentals of Interactive Media, students in Photography for Designers will make photographs that are technically and conceptually sophisticated in the context of visual communication design. They will use visual metaphor and analogy to communicate visual ideas, creating images that will be used in courses going forward through the major. Output for web sites, print publication and visual identity will be considered. Students will study for use of metaphor in still life, portraiture, and editorial illustration. Throughout the semester, students will refine their image-making skills by completing a series of technical exercises and creative assignments, culminating in a final creative portfolio and project. Use of a digital SLR camera is required. Students can borrow cameras from the school or provide their own.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Lab, Studio Communications Department |
| COMM 266 - COMMUNICATION RESEARCH METHODS |
|
Sophisticated communication professionals need to understand how to create and evaluate knowledge. This course is designed to improve critical thinking and writing skills. The course will also focus on how we know what we know and what methods are best used to answer different kinds of communication questions. Toward that end, the course introduces students to the logic of systematic investigation and to research methods common to the field of communication. Topics include: (1) how to select and develop the research topic; (2) how to formulate, evaluate and revise thesis statements; (3) how to locate, evaluate, and correctly document appropriate sources for research; (4) conduct focus groups, interviews, surveys, and ethnographic research; and (5) how to craft a range of written materials including grant proposals and research projects. These research and writing skills will serve all communication professionals, regardless of their disciplinary focus.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Hybrid, Lecture, Online Course, Seminar, Studio All Sections for this Course Communications Department Course Attributes: WRITING INTENSIVE |
| COMM 290 - TOPICS: |
|
The descriptions and topics of this course change from semester-to-semester, as well as from instructor-to-instructor. Prerequisite: varies with the topic offered.
COMM 290- FUNDAMENTALS OF PUBLIC RELATIONS:
This course will introduce you to the fundamentals of planning, managing, and analyzing public relations (PR) campaigns. It provides an introduction to the purpose, functions, and methods of domestic and international public relations practice. You will learn about the role of PR in transforming and maintaining the perceptions and attitudes of publics via strategic communication planning. The course explores a range of public relations disciplines, their approaches, communication tools, as well as the process of creating and targeting audiences for PR communication campaigns. The value of traditional and new media will be examined in PR storytelling, media relations, and campaign delivery activities. You will learn, as well as apply the Public Relations Society of America’s Code of Ethics in coursework related to past and present real-world public relations scenarios. Overall, you will be exposed to content that can support entry level experiences in a variety of professional strategic communication environments.
COMM 290: FUNDAMENTALS OF ILLUSTRATION -- In this course, students investigate illustration’s capacity for personal expression within the arena of public communication. As a part of this, they work with various modes of picture building, conceptual development and materials applied to some of the major creative outlets in contemporary illustration. They make artwork in reaction to several outside sources, including various forms of the written word. Illustrators thrive when they learn to funnel their creative process through the professional and interactive system of sharing and feedback. Students will adopt this mode of working in order to see the potential for personal expression within it. Lectures and discussions of the history of Illustration as it relates to the illustrator’s multifaceted role as maker, thinker and communicator.
COMM 290: WRITING AND NEW MEDIA FOR PROFESSIONALS -- This course will focus upon professional writing and the influence of new media. Students will gain exposure to examples of new media writing, including blogs, social media and other online platforms.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Hybrid, Lab, Lecture, Online Course Communications Department |
| COMM 298 - TRANSFER ELECTIVE |
|
This course designation describes a transfer course from another institution where an equivalency to a Ramapo College course has not been determined. Upon convener evaluation, this course ID may be changed to an equivalent of a Ramapo College course or may fulfill a requirement.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Lecture Communications Department |
| COMM 299 - TRANSFER ELECTIVE |
|
This course designation is used to describe a transfer course from another institution which has been evaluated by the convener. A course with this course number has no equivalent Ramapo course. It may fulfill a requirement or may count as a free elective.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Lecture Communications Department |
| COMM 300 - INDEPENDENT STUDY: COMMUNICATION ARTS |
|
Limited opportunities to enroll for course work on an Independent Study basis are available. A student interested in this option should obtain an Independent Study Registration Form from the Registrar, have it completed by the instructor and school dean involved, and return it to the Registrar's Office. Consult the current Schedule of Classes for policies concerning Independent Study.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Independent Study Communications Department |
| COMM 301 - BROADCAST TELECOMMUNICATION SYSTEMS MANAGEMENT |
|
A study and critical analysis of current and emerging broadcast-telecommunication systems. The course is designed to acquaint students with concepts, design, planning, and operation of broadcast-telecommunication systems and the development of programming. Furthermore, the students will take a critical look at the American system of radio-TV-cable and satellite delivered programming, concluding with individual case studies and recommendations for improvement and future developments. The final phase of the course will examine emerging new technologies and their place in the overall telecommunication mix (i.e. video-conferencing, videotex, teletext, low power TV, cable radio, video retailing, video publishing, and interactive cable TV, among others). The student will be expected to complete this course with an understanding of the social, ethical, economical and legal responsibilities of operating broadcast and telecommunication systems.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Hybrid, Lecture, Online Course Communications Department |
| COMM 302 - CONTEMPORARY CRITICISM: FILM |
|
FORMERLY CNTP-312: This course examines the powerful force of contemporary film in terms of its cultural, aesthetic, entertainment, economic, technological, and political influences, with particular focus on the ways in which the globalization of media production and distribution has changed the media landscape. A key aspect of this course will be involving students in conceiving, researching, organizing, curating and promoting special film programs in both on-campus venues, such as the Communication Arts Cinematheque, and also in the larger community, acquainting students with knowledge of the expanding non-traditional and alternative venues in which films/media are screened and studied for both education, activist, and entertainment purposes. One of the dominant art forms of the 20th Century, its power as a culture and aesthetic force cannot be separated from nor fully comprehended without consideration of the cultural industrial, economic, technological, and ideological context that have shaped its evolution. This course will also examine the important changes in the structure of the film industry that occurred during the 1990s and the first decade of the 21st Century, with specific attention to the ways in which these changes in funding, production, distribution, and exhibition of films have resulted in a significant change in the "content" of films, global and international character of the film industry; this has resulted both in global and international co-productions generating films set in a wider range of cultural and national contexts and also wider distrubiton of films across national borders. Other factors closely related to this include the impact of new digital technologies and the increased competition, nationally and internationally, within and across industry sectors (including the media sector). As a result of these changes, the landscape of contemporary filmmaking is also considerably more varied than in the past, another dimension of contemporary film which needs to be addressed in a revision of the course. On one end are mass media conglomerates like Disney which, through strategies of horizontal and vertical integration, own five different film studios producing five different "brands" of films, ranging from Miramax art films, Touchstone blockbusters, Dimension horror films, and Disney children films, outsourced-to-Pixar animated films. At the other end are micro cinema filmmakes (the new "independents") and international politcal grassroots organizations (e.g. the Zapatistas in Mexico) that produce on a shoestring and distribute through the Internet and alternative community venues and networks, seeking both to strengthen local communities and to develop international support networks.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Hybrid, Lecture, Lecture/Online, Online Course Communications Department Course Attributes: CA-School Core as of 2014 fall, CA-School Core-300 Level, WRITING INTENSIVE |
| COMM 303 - WRITING FOR SOCIAL MEDIA |
|
Students gain an understanding of the various publics for which they can write across social media platforms. They will learn how to tailor strategic messages for target audiences in order to communicate in a way that connects, informs, engages and/or relates to the social media user. Written formats will include blogging and posting across platforms.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Hybrid, Lecture, Lecture/Online, Online Course Communications Department |
| COMM 304 - WRITING FOR PUBLICATION |
|
This course will help to prepare students for a career in writing either as a freelance or as a full-time journalist/author. This is a course in non-fiction article writing; poetry and fiction are not included. Students will look at a wide variety of publications, article formats and writing styles as a means of finding their niche(s) and determining which publications are best suited to their particular talents, interests and strengths. Class work will cover editing, rewriting, article formulas, preparing/sending query letters, interviewing and research. Assignments will include writing three to four articles, completing in-class writing exercises, reading from the textbook(s) and compiling a writer's portfolio. Constructively critiquing the work of others will be just as important as editing and rewriting. The main goal is that by the end of the course students will have finished three articles that are ready for publication.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Lab, Online Course, Seminar Communications Department Course Attributes: WRITING INTENSIVE |
| COMM 306 - VIDEOJOURNALISM |
|
Videojournalism is a new field that combines elements of photojournalism, documentary filmmaking and television news features. A videojournalist faces the challenge of finding a compelling story and characters, shooting visuals and sound, writing a script, and editing all of these into a very short feature piece. In this course, students are introduced to the world of videojournalism by learning the foundations of nonfiction storytelling and single camera techniques, discussing social, political and economic issues, and producing a series of short feature segments. Lab Fee.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Studio Communications Department |
| COMM 307 - ENVIRONMENTAL WRITING |
|
This course is designed to provide a foundation for writing on environmental issues. Class work will include posting selected assignments on an environmental news and commentary Web site. Students will do hands-on work in researching and writing about environmental issues in a variety of formats. Lab Fee.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Hybrid, Lecture, Online Course Communications Department Course Attributes: TS-Sch Core- SCP Category |
| COMM 308 - DIRECTING THE DOCUMENTARY FILM |
|
This course emphasizes both theory and practice in the process of making a documentary work for the screen. Students do critical readings, analyze video documentaries and learn all the steps of production to develop an initial idea into a finished short documentary video. They perform a variety of tasks, such as writing a treatment, direction, production, camera work, sound and lighting techniques, editing and designing promotional materials. Each class consists of two sections: (1) a class discussion of readings and screening of selected documentary clips; (2) a production section where students work in their different assignments. Lab Fee.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Lab, Studio Communications Department |
| COMM 309 - RADIO PRACTICUM |
|
This broadcast practicum is designed for students interested in writing and producing recorded and live sports, public affairs, short documentary, and dramatic programming for WRPR, the Ramapo radio station. Under professional supervision the students will assist in the weekly production of shows in Ramapo College's audio and radio facilities. Students may repeat this practicum for up to 6 credits. Lab Fee.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Studio Communications Department |
| COMM 310 - APOCALYPTIC VISIONS IN ANIME, FILM & MEDIA |
|
Apocalyptic visions serve as metaphors for the human condition. This course examines visual representations of apocalyptic events in film, television, literature, art, and media. The evolution and meaning of "apocalypse" is explored from its simple, monotheistic beginnings to its current state--a complex lexicon that points to science, technology, globalism, and mankind as catalysts for the end of the world, and narratives that embody the supernatural, incorporeal, mythical, fantasy, and folklore.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Hybrid, Lecture, Online Course, Seminar Communications Department Course Attributes: CA-School Core as of 2014 fall, CA-School Core-300 Level, OLD GE-INTERNATIONAL ISSUES, WRITING INTENSIVE |
| COMM 311 - COMMUNITY JOURNALISM |
|
Community Journalism is an advanced reporting and writing course. Students will learn how to develop a community beat, including neighborhoods, small towns, school districts, sports teams to produce hyperlocal news and information. Students will also report in-depth news feature stories for print and the Web. Assignments will require students to do field reporting. Lab Fee.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Lab, Seminar Communications Department Course Attributes: WRITING INTENSIVE |
| COMM 312 - PROPOSAL DEVELOPMENT |
|
This course is a preparatory course for the capstone level portfolio course, Senior Projects: Global Communication and Media. This course allows students to spend a semester preparing the campaign that will be launched as their Senior Project. This multifaceted campaign -- including design and development of publicity materials, managing and negotiating various aspects of Ramapo campus that will ensure a smooth and effective execution of campaign, researching relevant issues and organizations -- will be completed in the spring semester; the fall semester is devoted to proposal development and planning for campaign implementation. Workshop discussions and proposal critiques and feedback are essential components of this course. Projects should demonstrate a grasp of the critical issues related to the student's area of interest.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Hybrid, Lecture, Online Course Communications Department Course Attributes: WRITING INTENSIVE |
| COMM 314 - INVESTIGATIVE TV REPORTING |
|
This hands-on production course emphasizes investigative reporting and the production of compelling and timely short form magazine segments for television and the internet. Students will research, write, and shoot high quality segments on local issues. We will focus on finding the story, developing the storyline, gaining access, conducting "on the street" interviews and confrontational interviews, shooting styles,
and editing techniques. There will be in-class workshops on story structure and building dramatic tension in a story. We will screen and discuss a wide range of programs that illustrate different approaches to investigative reporting. Students will work in production teams to gain experience in the collaborative process and work under strict deadlines. Projects will be produced both in the studio and on location.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Studio Communications Department |
| COMM 315 - SURROUND SOUND AND 3D AUDIO PRODUCTION |
|
Pioneers in spatial acoustics and early recording technology sought to electronically reproduce the three-dimensional sound field. Today, thanks to innovative audio work in film and interactive media, this reproduction is being done with multi-channel surround sound. The wide adoption of home theaters and video gaming systems has moved surround sound technology from the Cineplex to the living room. This course investigates the history of these technologies and teaches the methods to produce surround sound for various media.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Studio Communications Department |
| COMM 316 - LIGHTING FOR TV AND FILM |
|
Students will learn all facets of lighting for TV and film production. Beginning with a basic introduction to the image of light; the course will continue with studying lighting fixtures, lamp requirements, color temperatures, various lighting setups, lighting grids and fading field lighting and the use of a reflector. Students will complete the course with a basic understanding of lighting operations for both film and video.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Studio Communications Department |
| COMM 317 - MEDIA AND PERSUASION |
|
This course is designed to acquaint students with the following areas: (1) the features and forms of persuasion most commonly observable in the media; (2) the rhetorical/critical perspectives on the power of representation, particularly in television content; and (3) the key controversial issues related to news media as it relates to social issues and political economy. We will also examine and discuss how a theoretical framework aids a critical analysis of mediated appeals embedded in the world that surrounds us. Finally, students will develop and execute a research project related to any aspect of media criticism.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Hybrid, Lecture, Online Course, Seminar Communications Department Course Attributes: CA-School Core as of 2014 fall, CA-School Core-300 Level, WRITING INTENSIVE |
| COMM 318 - GLOBAL COMMUNICATION CAMPAIGNS |
|
Communication campaigns affect us every day. Specifically, public communication campaigns are designed to increase awareness and change attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors in a positive way concerning a population's well-being. In this course students will learn about the history, development, and trajectories of the campaign process, drawing from lessons learned through global case studies and research data. The goal of this course is for students to gain an understanding of the ways in which the effective campaign, irrespective of category, reaches populations and uses all forms of media in the process. This course is designed to sharpen students’ learning of global communication campaigns from two perspectives: that of campaign planners and that of critical consumers of campaign information. We will examine global communication and media campaigns for a variety of categories, ranging from prosocial campaigns, political campaigns, and corporate campaigns.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Hybrid, Lecture, Online Course, Screening, Seminar Communications Department Course Attributes: OLD GE-INTERCULT NORTH AMERICA, WRITING INTENSIVE |
| COMM 319 - CREATIVE NON-FICTION |
|
Creative nonfiction is an evolving craft that uses the techniques found in fiction and poetry writing to tell true stories. Students will workshop pieces of varying lengths as we explore a variety of creative nonfiction's various subgenres: personal essay, lyric essay, travel/nature writing, memoir, narrative and scriptwriting (biography/profiles). The class will also be a study of prose, as we will review master works in personal essay, memoir and literary journalism. We will use as our guide works by a diverse array of literary experts and essayists. An emphasis will be placed upon maintaining ethics in this new approach to storytelling through a reliance upon fact and the completion of substantial research where necessary. Students will be expected to participate in a public reading at the end of the semester, which will be open to the entire Ramapo College community.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Hybrid, Lecture, Online Course, Seminar Communications Department |
| COMM 320 - WRITING FOR PUBLIC RELATIONS |
|
This writing-intensive course will provide a comprehensive overview of public relations and its applications in society, with a strong emphasis on effective writing formats and styles. The course will examine how business, industry, government, educational, and non-profit institutions and organizations create their public images and communicate messages through various writing forms to mass global audiences. Different media will be discussed and examined through assigned weekly text readings and selected case studies. In-class and home writing assignments will be required. Students will also work on individually and/or group-developed PR campaign packages related to on- and/or off-campus activities. At the conclusion of this course, students will have a strong appreciation of the importance of public relations in today's fast- paced environment. They will be better skilled in writing public relation materials to affect targeted audiences. This will have been achieved through in-depth analyses of various methods and products and through dialog and activities among students, the instructor and guest practitioners. In the process, students will have gained an understanding of how public relations relates to other communications and business disciplines, requires individual and team practice and influences the views and actions of themselves and others.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Hybrid, Lab, Lecture, Online Course, Studio Communications Department |
| COMM 321 - VOICE AND DICTION |
|
A study of voice and speech patterns reflecting the norms of cultivated American English. Emphasis will be placed on removal of such problems as weak volume, monotone breathiness, and nasality. Diction problems, foreign accent, area dialect, and faulty pronunciation will also be studied.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Hybrid, Lecture, Online Course Communications Department |
| COMM 322 - WEB DESIGN |
|
This course will explore the process of creating websites. Using skills learned in Fundamentals of Interactive Media, as well as new skills learned in this course, students will undertake a series of exercises, culminating in the creation of a working site. Topics will include pre-planning, information architecture, visual and interface design, effective use of images and text, interactivity using forms, adapting scripts, and other topics which may arise during the semester. Students will leave this course with knowledge of XHTML/CSS, HTML editing programs, as well as an awareness of a variety of other technologies in use on the web. Lab Fee.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Lab Communications Department |
| COMM 323 - PRODUCING RADIO DOCUMENTARIES & PODCASTS |
|
Writing, Editing and Producing Radio Documentaries, Magazine Broadcasts and Podcasts is an advanced radio reporting course offering students the opportunity to develop and produce in-depth stories. Students will build and refine research, interviewing, reporting, technical and vocal skills to produce projects that will be broadcast on WRPR Radio and be heard as podcasts on the Ramapo College Website. Students will gain a clear understanding of the ingredients essential to producing editorially sound and compelling documentaries.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Studio Communications Department |
| COMM 324 - REPORTING AND PRODUCING ONLINE NEWS |
|
Reporting and Producing Online News examines how to work in a 24/7 converged news and information environment, and what this means for the consumer and the journalist. The course covers the central tenets of online journalism: interactivity, immediacy, building community, and the ways in which they are applied to disseminate news and information to create a multimedia user experience. The course will emphasize sound reporting and writing skills coupled with a hands-on approach to produce cross-platform stories using slideshows, audio, video, maps, timelines, among other multimedia elements. Students will report, write and produce interactive, multimedia story packages, and understand the role of blogs, social networking sites and citizen journalism play in reporting and information delivery.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Lab Communications Department Course Attributes: WRITING INTENSIVE |
| COMM 325 - NEW MEDIA DOCUMENTARY |
|
How do we tell stories about ourselves in the digital age? As new media technologies from Facebook to cellphone cameras to iPods change the way we tell the stories of our everyday lives, how does the role of the documentary photographer/filmmaker/storyteller change? This course examines the changing relationship between audience and subject, and between subject and storyteller. We will consider "small stories", "micro-documentaries", interactivity and Web 2.0, non-linearity, the impact of video games, issues of audience and distribution. We will start the course with a short history (including criticisms) of documentary practice, and examine the modern tools and circumstances that shape the ways documentaries will be made in the future. Students will develop and execute a documentary project over the course of the semester.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Studio Communications Department |
| COMM 326 - PERSUASION THEORY AND PRACTICE |
|
A continuation of the basic public speaking course. Special emphasis will be placed on persuasive speaking and the analysis of rhetorical principles. Theories of audience analysis and the evaluation of speeches in their social setting will be investigated.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Hybrid, Lecture, Online Course, Seminar Communications Department |
| COMM 327 - MOTION GRAPHICS & TITLE DESIGN |
|
In this course, students learn to animate static images and create composites using multiple forms of media. Weekly projects challenge students to use critical and creative thinking skills as they analyze cultural and artistic influences, research similar models, and explore the deeper meaning of the visual message they are conveying. Tools used in this course include After Effects, and Photoshop. Lab Fee.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Lab, Lecture Communications Department |
| COMM 328 - THE NARRATIVE ART |
|
Exploring the many possibilities of narrative writing, students will experiment with storytelling. Through reading and analysis of examples, the elements of the craft of writing fiction will be analyzed. The most important of these will be character development, plot development (particularly in longer pieces), narrative voice and point of view, description, setting, dialogue, etc. As the semester progresses, exemplary works of fiction will be examined for their adaptation of specific literary tools. After mutual critiques and revision, students will produce final narrative pieces: significant products of their own imagination.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Hybrid, Lecture, Online Course, Seminar Communications Department Course Attributes: WRITING INTENSIVE |
| COMM 329 - PHOTOJOURNALISM |
|
In this course students will be introduced to the contemporary practices of photojournalism, and explore the aesthetic, technical, cultural, and historical forces that have shaped its evolution as a form of visual communication. Students will first learn how real photojournalists work, and they will be expected to work in a similar fashion. They will be given selected weekly assignments in which they must produce good story telling images. They will learn how to develop a story idea, cover events, and produce images like a professional. This course will be conducted in a manner similar to the real working world of professional photojournalism. Students will be responsible for taking pictures with their own cameras and producing their own developed negatives or digital images. They will learn how to edit their own photographs and how to scan and prepare selected images in Adobe Photoshop. The emphasis of this course will be on picture taking not picture developing. This is NOT a darkroom class or a basic photography class. All film and print developing will be done outside of class. It is suggested that each student have some basic photography experience (a basic understanding of exposure and camera operation is required). Lab Fee.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Hybrid, Lab, Lecture, Online Course Communications Department |
| COMM 330 - AUDIO POST PRODUCTION |
|
This course is designed to teach advanced skills necessary for professional audio planning and production of long-form radio formats for campus programming, local radio, national syndication, and national college radio program networks, syndicators, and educational media associations. Exercises are designed to develop specific skills and experiences along with learning theories, language, and incorporation of new satellite technologies. Students are required to research emerging production radio format and managerial case studies. Students are required to create radio production reels and audition tapes; production writing assignments; introduction to online radio case study projects, and develop trend journals and career development packages. Students will concentrate on non-linear audio production and editing. Lab Fee.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Studio Communications Department |
| COMM 332 - TV FOR NEW MEDIA |
|
This course will further develop the students technical and aesthetic understanding of television producing while concentrating specifically on producing television for new media formats. Recently, the Internet, cell phones, and ipods have emerged as a delivery system for film/ TV producers. TV Producers make mini-episodes now for Internet audiences. This course emphasizes new formats for delivery while also experimenting with tools such as the studio chroma key and techniques
such as animation. Each student will familiarize themselves with the responsibilities of directors and segment producers so that they are not only able to direct their own segments/episodes but also the work of other writers. Along with screen directing, students will focus on script development, styles of TV acting, directing the camera, set design, lighting, and the relationship of picture to sound. Students
will leave this course with a comprehensive understanding of advanced studio production techniques from set design to cinematography to directing. Lab Fee.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Studio Communications Department |
| COMM 333 - PRODUCING THE NEWSPAPER |
|
A comprehensive hands-on experience in publishing a weekly newspaper. Students will participate in all facets of the production including news, selling advertisements, photography layout, and distribution. Some background in one or more areas required. Lab Fee.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Lab Communications Department Course Attributes: WRITING INTENSIVE |
| COMM 334 - BEYOND THE EDITING ROOM: HISTORY AND AESTHETICS OF FILM EDITING |
|
Soon after the beginnings of filmmaking, directors understood the power of editing as a tool to construct meaning. Beyond the Editing Room: History and Aesthetics of Film Editing is a course that focuses on the studies of the history of editing and the grammar and techniques ascribed to different editing theories. This course takes students beyond the editing room into a consideration of the aesthetics and impact of editing from classic cinema to new media. It includes detailed scene-by-scene and shot-by-shot analysis of films with consideration of the technological, cultural, and artistic developments, which have shaped the evolution of editing as an art and communication form. This course explores the development of editing aesthetics across a variety of political eras, technological developments and cultural groups.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Hybrid, Lecture, Online Course Communications Department Course Attributes: CA-School Core as of 2014 fall, CA-School Core-300 Level, WRITING INTENSIVE |
| COMM 335 - ART&CULT IN LAT AMER:ARGENTINA |
|
This Study Abroad Course in Argentina explores art and culture within the context of the country's social, political and economical transformation. The program will take place during the summers in Buenos Aires at University of Belgrano. It will commence with an intensive preparatory readings during which students will become familiar with Argentinean history and culture. In Buenos Aires, Argentina students will explore the art and culture of the city through reading, lectures, walking tours, field trips and opportunities for original research involving interviews with local artists so they could share their experiences as creators within the context of Argentinean society. Students may choose to record the interviews in film or audio, with the purpose of writing articles or using them as research for a documentary project.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Hybrid, Lecture, Online Course Communications Department Course Attributes: OLD GE-INTERNATIONAL ISSUES |
| COMM 336 - SPORTS INFORMATION & PROMOTION CAMPAIGNS |
|
This course is designed for advanced students to study the history, psychology, and application of sports information and promotion campaigns. Students will be required to research current social issues in sports information-promotions and develop critical perspectives about contemporary sports trends and the impact of information campaigns. Students will be required to keep weekly sports media watch journals, participate in group projects, develop a sports psa and promotional campaign portfolio, write short critical essays, assigned readings, take test and assist the Ramapo College Sports Information Director (SID) in the development and implementation of Information and Marketing Campaigns for Ramapo College Athletics. The course will examine the various components and strategic role of media, and research for informational-promotion campaigns. The course will also provide a critical framework for understanding how informational and promotion campaigns are formulated, implemented and evaluated. Students will create, develop, draft and present sports information projects and campaign projects. Additionally, the experiential component of the class will be the assistance of the Ramapo's SID office in the planning and marketing Ramapo Athletics to the Ramapo community.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Seminar, Studio Communications Department |
| COMM 337 - DIRECTING THE FICTION FILM |
|
Students will continue the development of scripts researched and written in a 200-level media writing course (COMM 220), culminating in the completion of a narrative fiction piece for delivery via computer, video, television, or other projection. Students will come to understand the role of the director in every phase of development, from initial conception to principal photography to post-production. This includes extensive preproduction and video research, collaboration with key crew to execute director's vision, understanding the importance of casting and rehearsal, making dramatically pleasing choices inspired by the text, and visually elevating subtext through shots, editing, and production design.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Lab, Studio Communications Department |
| COMM 338 - SOUND DESIGN FOR DIGITAL MEDIA |
|
This course encourages the development of a student's aesthetic appreciation of the sound element in interactive media, video, and professional recording. Participants will develop an understanding of the history of audio production, be exposed to selected works and familiarize themselves with equipment in sound design through hands-on exercises. These exercises emphasize creative and artistic approaches to various types of advanced audio production. Lab Fee.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Studio Communications Department |
| COMM 339 - PUBLICATION DESIGN |
|
This course familiarizes students with industry standard production processes used in print design. Students manipulate images, words, and body copy to establish compositional hierarchies. Attention will be placed on the use of the grid and grid systems from historical, conceptual, and organizational perspectives. Working with carefully considered imagery and text, students will create single page designs and a comprehensive research project, including a multi-page publication and three-dimensional components. Lab Fee.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Lab Communications Department |
| COMM 340 - MEDIA AND POPULAR CULTURE |
|
This course will explore the relationship between U.S. and international culture and popular mass-mediated texts from a variety of communication perspectives. It will focus on the critical analysis of popular culture within social and political contexts and emphasize multicultural influences and representations in everyday life. The course will provide a theoretical framework based in critical theory and cultural studies to explore and critique representations of race, gender, and sexuality in popular culture. It will also investigate audience consumption of popular culture, and the impact of popular culture on personal, social and cultural identities.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Hybrid, Lecture, Online Course Communications Department Course Attributes: MJ-Amer-Artistic Expression, OLD GE-INTERCULT NORTH AMERICA |
| COMM 341 - TV NOIR AND AMERICAN CULTURE |
|
(FORMERLY COMM 390 TOPICS: TV NOIR) If you have completed Topics: TV Noir, you may not enroll in COMM 341.
Film noir traditionally refers to a group of movies produced in Hollywood during and after World War II, unified by their visual and thematic representations of a dark, unstable universe rife with brutality and despair. The term was first used with respect to Hollywood movies by French critics in 1946, who were suddenly exposed to a wave of American movies following the embargo that existed during the war, and who were positing a new trend in American filmmaking. This courrse begins with an examination of the roots and characteristics of film noir, but focuses on the evolution of the noir ethos as it applies to television, from the earliest days of the medium up to the present. Television programming was essentially born during the height of the classic film noir cycle, and shared many of the same thematic and narrative preoccupations during these days. As the medium evolved the television noir ethos has mutated to accommodate and reflect political, social, and cultural developments, as well as changes within the industry itself.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Hybrid, Lecture, Online Course Communications Department Course Attributes: MJ-Amer-Artistic Expression, CA-School Core as of 2014 fall, OLD GE-TOPICS ARTS&HUMANATIES, WRITING INTENSIVE |
| COMM 342 - DIGITAL CINEMATOGRAPHY |
|
The course is an intensive exploration of the craft, technologies and aesthetic principles of digital cinematography and lighting for use in creative image control and visual storytelling. Lectures and in-class demonstrations will cover digital cameras, composition, exposure, lenses and optics, lighting types, lighting placement, lighting control, camera suport, and camera movement. Class sessions will consist of lectures, demonstrations, exercises, and screenings of selected film clips which demonstrate specific cinematography, lighting and visual storytelling techniques.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Hybrid, Lecture, Online Course Communications Department |
| COMM 343 - CINEMA OF THE OTHER |
|
This course studies contemporary cinema from Africa, Latin America and Middle East. This course is designed to introduce students to basic film concepts and techniques of critical analysis as well as exposing them to the trends of cinema of resistance that developed in these three regions and the visual dialectics of different cultures. Cinema of the Other: Cinema of Latin America, Africa and Middle East will explore the social, political, and artistic context in which filmmaking is embedded. Students will study the common socio-political pattern that helped the growth of national film industries in these regions as well as focus on the distinctive issues of each cinema. Through the deconstruction of selected group of films students will concentrate on issues that include post-colonialism, expressions of national identity, representation of moral values, and censorship, as well as aesthetics and the role of the audience. We will compare the ways in which the cultural references of different societies shape the modes of filmic representation. In order to understand the contemporary world students need to comprehend the social and political struggles of the developing world.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Hybrid, Lecture, Online Course Communications Department Course Attributes: CA-School Core as of 2014 fall, CA-School Core-300 Level, WRITING INTENSIVE |
| COMM 344 - WRITING THE SCREENPLAY |
|
In this course students will identify, analyze, and practice the principles and techniques of writing a feature-length fiction screenplay. Students will pitch, plan, and research their stories, write and revise loglines, produce detailed outlines and character biographies, and complete and revise the first half of a feature-length screenplay. Students are required to use appropriate screenwriting software, proper script formatting, create and maintain a writer's notebook, and meet strict deadlines. Lab Fee.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Hybrid, Lab, Lecture, Online Course, Seminar Communications Department Course Attributes: WRITING INTENSIVE |
| COMM 345 - CINEMA OF THE OTHER:CINEMA OF LATIN AMERICA, AFRICA & MIDDLE EAST |
|
This is a 4-credit course that studies contemporary cinema from Africa, Latin America and Middle East. This course is designed to further develop film concepts and techniques of critical analysis as well as exposing them to the trends of cinema of resistance that developed in these three regions and the visual dialectics of different cultures. Cinema of the Other: Cinema of Latin America, Africa and Middle East will explore the social, political, and artistic context in which filmmaking is embedded. Students will study the common socio-political pattern that helped the growth of national film industries in these regions as well as focus on the distinctive issues of each cinema. Through the deconstruction of selected group of films students will concentrate on issues that include post-colonialism, expressions of national identity, representation of moral values, and censorship, as well as aesthetics and the role of the audience. We will compare the ways in which the cultural references of different societies shape the modes of filmic representation. In order to understand the contemporary world students need to comprehend the social and political struggles of the developing world.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Hybrid, Lecture, Online Course, Studio Communications Department Course Attributes: OLD GE-INTERNATIONAL ISSUES |
| COMM 346 - CREATIVE ADVERTISING AND PUBLIC RELATIONS |
|
Advertising and public relations are our culture's most pervasive persuasion tools. This course will explore the methods and strategies used by the ad and public relations agencies to effectively communicate messages; focusing on methods of creating print, broadcast, out-of-home, and internet advertising and public relations. Students will examine campaigns in order to gain the perspective necessary to create their own. Attention will also be given to creative means of using the "media" to reach an audience. Classes will simulate a workshop environment, enabling students to experience the collaborative "think-tank" process first-hand. Working in creative teams, students will use "brainstorming" sessions to create campaigns. Students will develop the marketing strategy, creative concepts, and media plan for an "account," as well as actually create the ads. Students with an interest in copy-writing, graphic art, video production, and marketing are all encouraged to register.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Hybrid, Lecture, Online Course, Seminar Communications Department |
| COMM 347 - THE NEW TV CRITICISM |
|
New Television Criticism explores the narrative approaches used in a wide variety of contemporary television genres. Students will leave this course understanding the deeper layers of narrative structure and meaning in the TV shows created in the last 15 years. We will specifically explore the role television plays in shifting our notions of morality through shows like THE WALKING DEAD, BREAKING BAD, FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS, and DOCTOR WHO. Students will identify how TV narrative is used by audiences to provide greater understanding of the human condition through it's use of timeless themes and conflicts. Through writings by Aristotle, Joseph Campbell, Carl Jung, Roland Barthes, Heidegger, Kant, and contemporary TV criticism writers, students will examine the repeating motifs in television narrative.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Hybrid, Lecture, Online Course, Seminar, Studio Communications Department Course Attributes: MJ-Amer-Artistic Expression, MJ-AMER-Amer Artistic Express, MJ-AMER-Advanced Cat Elective, OLD GE-INTERCULT NORTH AMERICA, WRITING INTENSIVE |
| COMM 349 - PROMOTIONS WRITING |
|
This course has been designed to promote student understanding of the content, organization, format and design of standard strategic communications messages and documents. It will introduce you to the world of copy/promotions writing and will emphasize how this style of writing differs from other more traditional forms. As we proceed, you will begin to understand the connection between images and text via the use of visual materials and will concentrate on how to develop your ideas visually, using as examples successful campaigns/case studies from the non-profit and corporate arenas. Skills in promotions writing will be developed through the creation of a variety of materials in the promotion of media products and non-profit causes. Such materials may include news releases, flyers, posters, newsletters, etc. You will also be encouraged to view promotions from several vantage points: promotion of client (PR), promotion of a product or service (advertising), and promotion of self (portfolio/future employment).
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Hybrid, Lab, Seminar, Studio Communications Department |
| COMM 350 - MEDIA INDUSTRY: ART & ECONOMICS |
|
(On-line course) The Media Industry: Art and Economics explores, dissects and demystifies the business aspect of the media industry, from both "micro" and "macro" perspectives. A fundamental understanding of the economics of the Media Industry will be the basis for further exploration and examination of the life cycle of projects from idea through development, production, marketing and distribution, including the myriad permutations of the business as evidenced in the studio, independent, network, cable, Internet and ancillary arenas. We'll also look at the historical and current context of media production, specifically looking at the forces driving transformation within the industry today (media concentration, digital technologies, global distribution of media, among others. The course will be conducted on-line, primarily using WebCt.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Online Course Communications Department |
| COMM 352 - THE BUSINESS OF PRODUCING FOR FILM & TV |
|
This course is for students interested in film and television producing and marketing positions at major film studios and independent film companies. Students will gain hands-on experience in the budgeting, marketing, distributing, and exhibition of a variety of entertainment media. Students learn how to create production budgets for small films as well as multi-million dollar blockbusters. They also learn conventional and unconventional ways of securing funding for movies. Students will design film campaigns for a short film and consider everything from movie poster content and print/TV ads to merchandise tie-ins, trailer content, and the use of social media to reach audiences. Students will study both successful and unsuccessful marketing campaigns to learn the role that marketing plays in the reception of the film. The course will also strengthen student's presentation skills through regular pitches given in class.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Hybrid, Lecture, Online Course Communications Department |
| COMM 354 - WEB DESIGN 2 |
|
The field of Web design is constantly evolving. New technologies influence design trends and new internet enabled devices force designers to adjust their work to reach a wider audience. This course will utilize HTML5, CSS3, Javascript and jQuery as well as WordPress. Web Design 2 will reinforce professional practice while preparing students for the next wave of technical and design challenges. This course will contain both creative and technical assignments and project workflow strategies that emphasize mobile and tablet friendly responsive design practices. Each student will produce three primary projects over the course of the semester. Lab Fee.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Hybrid, Lecture, Online Course Communications Department |
| COMM 355 - NEW HOLLYWOOD CINEMA: 1968-1980 AND THE STUDIO SYSTEM |
|
This course will examine the cultural, historical, socioeconomic, political, and cinematic influences and ramifications of the New Hollywood Cinema, a period of unusually risky major studio filmmaking that began with Warner Brothers’ 1968 release of Bonnie and Clyde and ended in 1980 when Heaven’s Gate brought down United Artists. This course will follow the story of the American studio system, from the demise of the old guard through the birth of the blockbuster era and into the boardrooms of multinational corporations. During this 12-year period, American film studios, energized by stunning innovations in foreign cinema – particularly films of the French New Wave, the Italian New Wave, and post-war Japanese cinema – produced a string of surprisingly daring pictures, from M*A*S*H, The Last Picture Show, and Rosemary’s Baby, through The Godfather, The Exorcist, Jaws, and Apocalypse Now.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Hybrid, Lecture, Lecture/Online, Online Course Communications Department Course Attributes: CA-School Core as of 2014 fall, CA-School Core-300 Level, WRITING INTENSIVE |
| COMM 356 - MEDIA AND TECHNOLOGY |
|
This course will survey the scientific breakthroughs that are the foundation of current and previous media technology from historic, societal, and technical perspectives. It will consider the impact of science and technology on the media industry, popular culture, and communication. Topics will include analog as well as digital technologies.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Lab, Online Course Communications Department |
| COMM 357 - GLOBAL INDIAN CULTURE & MEDIA |
|
Globalization and the Indian Cultural Industry will engage students in exploring the ramifications of globalization on the production and consumption of Indian cinema globally, with a focus on the emergence of Bollywood as a transnational phenomenon in the past decade. The Indian cultural industry will serve as a case study for understanding the relationship between the branding of a culture and a nation, and its impact on the construction of national and cultural identities.
Through readings, screenings, class and online discussions this course will discuss a range of topics including but not limited to the following: (1) defining the Indian cultural industry with focus on the exponential growth of Indian film distribution and exhibition globally; (2) the impact of international audience responses to Indian cinema and filmmakers; (3) Bollywood: a misnomer for Indian cinema; (4) Bollywood as a course for "global flows" of culture; (5) the evolution of Bollywood into a global phenomenon--its strategic marketing and its visual aesthetic appeal; (6) diaspora's consumption of Indian cinema; (7) the pervasiveness of the cultural industry across fashion, music and lifestyle; and (8) the framing of "Brand India" and its relationship to globalization.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Hybrid, Lecture, Online Course, Seminar Communications Department Course Attributes: CA-School Core as of 2014 fall, OLD GE-INTERNATIONAL ISSUES, WRITING INTENSIVE |
| COMM 358 - LEADERSHIP AND GROUP COMMUNICATION |
|
Organizations function and survive according to the ability of their members to communicate effectively. This course is an in-depth study of current theories of message-processing in organizations: management communication; change management; and conflict management and resolution. Coursework includes experiential learning that allows students to explore practical applications of theory. This course is ideal for students planning careers in public relations, human resources, entrepreneurship, or management in any field of communication.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Hybrid, Lecture, Online Course Communications Department |
| COMM 359 - DIGITAL CULTURE |
|
FORMERLY CNTP-350: This course will take a critical look at the ways in which digital technology changes how we create, communicate and build culture. We will look at the historical roots of the procedures of the digital world – how did remix grow out of hip hop and dj culture in the Bronx? How does the architecture of cyberspace push against existing social, economic and political norms? We will delve into the critical issues raised as our creative output – from writing to image-making to music – moves into the realm of the circuit. Digital media has provided the opportunity, as no other technology has before, for working across disciplines. As creative endeavor moves from physically-based media into the digital realm, it becomes easier to combine, and to collaborate over distance through digital networks. What are the precedents? What are the implications? We will explore the roots of digital media and digital culture by examining its precedents in different cultures throughout history.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Hybrid, Lecture, Lecture/Online, Online Course Communications Department Course Attributes: CA-School Core as of 2014 fall, CA-School Core-300 Level |
| COMM 362 - INTERACTIVE ANIMATION DESIGN |
|
In this course students will study and critique existing multimedia projects which illustrate the potential and limitations of Web-based multimedia. Students will complete a series of creative, technical, and written assignments which will provide the skills they need to develop their own Web-based projects involving sound, animation, and/or video. Lab Fee.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Lab, Studio Communications Department |
| COMM 363 - MEDIA & CULTURE IN LATIN AMERICA |
|
FORMERLY CNTP-363: Most Americans know about Latin America thorugh North American media and sources. This class will explore the unique and extraordinary contributions of Latin American media producers, filmmakers, grassroots and mainstream media, and social collectives to the development of film/video language. Through this focus on media produced by Latin Americans, students will be challenged to question North American representations of Latin America and to explore the differences between North American and South American media, politics and culture. This will include an historical examination of the social, political, and economic conditions that have shaped Latin America and Latin American film and media: colonialism, slavery, the rise of capitalism, imperialism, national liberation struggles, revolutionary movements, and military dictatorships and repression. We will also examine more contemporary developments, including: the rise of neo-liberal economic policies and growing debt to international financial institutions, the "lost decade" of the 1980s, the "re-democratization" of the 1990s, and the rise of new social movements (indigenous, landless peasants, urban factory takeovers) and successful election of more left-leaning governments at the end of the 20th and beginning of the 21st Centuries. Particular attention will be given to the New Latin American Cinema Movement of the 1960s and early 1970s, an outgrowth out of the national liberation and revolutionary struggles of that era, which had a worldwide impact on film form and theory. Through screenings, readings, discussions, lectures, and projects, students will become familiar with the rich variety of media in Latin America as well as identify some continental themes. Students will undertake individual research projects to explore specific case studies of interest to them. Students will also examine some of the theoretical writings of Third Cinema and the New Latin American Cinema as they relate to these developments.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Hybrid, Lecture, Lecture/Online, Online Course Communications Department Course Attributes: CA-School Core as of 2014 fall, CA-School Core-300 Level, OLD GE-INTERNATIONAL ISSUES, WRITING INTENSIVE |
| COMM 364 - DIRECTING ACTORS FOR FILM |
|
This course is geared to film directors and actors by emphasizing a method for training performers to act from their core? whether they are auditioning, sight-reading, improvising or performing for film and television. Students use script examples and do practical exercises to learn to convey their vision more effectively, as well as to elicit performances before a camera where emotions are experienced rather than merely indicated. They also examine the work of great directors through case studies with the purpose of observing the concepts presented in the course.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Studio Communications Department |
| COMM 365 - NEWS REPORTING: BROADCAST AND NEW MEDIA |
|
This course will focus on broadcast news reporting. It will be devoted to real practical reporting, giving you the opportunity to cover news stories, do interviews, edit your material, and write and broadcast your stories over WRPR, the Ramapo College radio station. We will also be discussing, researching, and writing papers about broadcast news reporting and hearing interviews with network news correspondents who have covered major stories during the past decade. The goal of this course is to teach you the basics of good reporting along with the fundamentals of writing a solid script and becoming familiar with the integration of news actualities and natural sound into a broadcast reporting piece. Lab Fee.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Lab, Studio Communications Department |
| COMM 366 - ADVANCED EDITING TECHNIQUES |
|
This is a course on the theory and practices of advanced editing techniques using a variety of software such as Premiere Pro and Final Cut Pro. In this course, students review different editing styles, develop authorship skills for editing drama, documentary and trailers and master editing practices such as color correction, multi-layering effects and develop an understanding of the digital video editing workflow.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Hybrid, Lecture, Lecture/Online, Online Course Communications Department |
| COMM 367 - AMERICAN INDEPENDENT CINEMA |
|
FORMERLY CNTP-347: One of the most relevant developments in American culture of the last two decades is the emergence of independent cinema as a viable alternative to Hollywood. Cinema is one of the dominant art forms of the 20th Century but its influences in our society can't be fully understood until we consider the complex, dissonant and diverse voices coming from the independent film movement. This course examines the socio-economic, political and artistic forces that led to the rise of American independent cinema and the artistic and political impact of independent movies in depicting the cinema of the "other America." This course on critical issues in American independent cinema will analyze contemporary independent movies as a form of counter-cultural expression and multi-diverse production with the goal of proficiency in understanding and analyzing the manner in which visual language, genre forms, narrative structures, and modes of production generate meaning(s) to diverse contemporary audiences.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Hybrid, Lecture, Lecture/Online, Online Course, Screening, Seminar Communications Department Course Attributes: MJ-Amer-Artistic Expression, MJ-AMER-Amer Artistic Express, MJ-AMER-Advanced Cat Elective, CA-School Core as of 2014 fall, CA-School Core-300 Level, OLD GE-INTERCULT NORTH AMERICA, WRITING INTENSIVE |
| COMM 368 - PRODUCING DIGITAL SPORTS |
|
This course will take a detailed look at the elements of sports reporting and provide advanced training in multimedia production and digital storytelling techniques. Students will examine the relationship between sports and media in today's society and understand how sports directly impacts soc1al values and soc1al change. Readings include news reports of sporting events, editorials, feature profiles and critical reviews of sports films and television shows. Students will be able to identify and access sources vital to good sports reporting, understand basic style, form and guidelines followed in written coverage of sports events, and cover an event using multiple platforms, including digital tools, social media, infographics, photos and audio/video.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Hybrid, Lecture, Lecture/Online, Online Course Communications Department |
| COMM 369 - HISTORY OF COMEDY IN FILM |
|
Quintessentially American ideas of social mobility, freedom to satirize, and celebration of the underdog -- to name just a few -- have helped Anglo-American and immigrant artists produce a unique brand of filmed comedy, from Mack Sennett to Billy Wilder and Judd Apatow. This course will examine the rich tapestry of American film comedy and the social, historical, and technological factors that made it possible, from its birth in silent cinema to the present.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Hybrid, Lecture, Lecture/Online, Online Course Communications Department |
| COMM 370 - MOBILE JOURNALISM |
|
Mobile Journalism examines the role of smartphones and other portable wireless devices as an evolving and increasingly popular platform for news and information production and distribution. Students will learn how to use smartphones and other portable devices to report, research, write, rewrite and publish breaking news and information. The course will cover how media professionals use portable devices to research and engage audiences using social media as a reporting tool. Students will also explore how future applications and technologies, including wearables and augmented reality, are adding a new dimension to the future of storytelling.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Hybrid, Lecture, Lecture/Online, Online Course Communications Department Course Attributes: WRITING INTENSIVE |
| COMM 371 - MEDIA ETHICS IN THE DIGITAL AGE |
|
Journalists around the world are now experimenting with new ways of publishing and distributing media content beyond daily newspapers and radio and television stations. What are the rules in the changing digital media landscape, where we can all be instant newsmakers -- especially during a time when legitimate journalism is written off as “fake news” and journalists
are being called the “enemy of the people”? How do journalists cover the news via traditional and new forms of reporting, including digital streams of video, photos, data and text? What does it mean to he “objective?” What are our standards for excellence in news coverage around the world? I-low can news outlets address a potentially global audience, while remaining culturally
sensitive to diverse local populations?
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Hybrid, Lecture, Lecture/Online, Online Course Communications Department |
| COMM 372 - PACKAGING DESIGN |
|
This 300-level production course will address the conceptual and practical aspects of packaging design, including brand identity, three-dimensional design systems, and packaging software. Emphasis will be placed on creating professional, quality composites for a wide range of objects, integrating function and concept. Selection of materials and the structure of forms will be explored from historic sculptural and contemporary fabrication perspectives. Working in groups and independently, students will examine the unique architecture and dimensionality of packaging design at an advanced level. Readings, critiques, discussions and oral presentations will support production assignments and enhance the understanding of this distinct division of graphic design.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Hybrid, Lecture, Lecture/Online, Online Course Communications Department |
| COMM 373 - NEW YORK AS A LATINO CITYSCAPE |
|
This is a 300-level interdisciplinary course designed to explore the exploding Latino demographic in the U.S. with a focus on New York, New Jersey communities. The 2010 Census already shows that Hispanics are the second largest group in America with one in 6 Americans identifying as Latino. By the year 2050, nearly one in three U.S. residents will be Hispanic. This course will examine the ways in which generations of Latinos have become integral to the fabric of New York City's urban landscape since the 19th century, extending their influence from the city to neighboring suburbs, such as New Jersey, and even back to the Caribbean and Latin America. The course will study the diversity within Latino identity, as well as Hispanic influence in media, press, popular culture, literature, politics and the arts. Students will also examine how young Latino millennials will impact the American landscape in the next decade. This course will be taught in English. This course is cross listed with LLAS-330.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Hybrid, Lecture, Lecture/Online, Online Course Communications Department Course Attributes: MJ-Amer-Race & Ethnicity, CA-School Core as of 2014 fall, OLD GE-INTERCULT NORTH AMERICA, WRITING INTENSIVE |
| COMM 375 - MEDIA AUDIENCES AND IDENTITY |
|
We construct our identities through a constitutive interplay of the self and the world around us. One of the materials we use for this construction of self is media. Media contains images and messages about who is valued, what is valued, fandom, race, gender, nationality, diaspora, and class. Because we spend more than half of our waking lives with media technologies, it would be surprising if it did not become an important resource for us to make sense of our own identities. The purpose of this class is to examine how different social groups have constructed their individual and group identities through the use of media and how they interpret media through the standpoint of their group identification. Students will be asked to put themselves into the perspectives of social groups to understand how they interpret and why the use the media that they do. This will happen primarily through readings and a final ethnographic research report that examines audience’s uses of media.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Hybrid, Lecture, Lecture/Online, Online Course Communications Department Course Attributes: CA-School Core as of 2014 fall |
| COMM 377 - GLOBAL MULTICULTURAL MEDIA ISSUES |
|
FORMERLY CNTP-327: What kind of information do we get from print and electronic media about the world and our own society? Do they tell us what we need to know to make informed decisions about world and domestic issues? This course explores the ways in which the ownership and structure of media in the U.S. and internationally contribute to the coverage of domestic and global issues. Particular attention will be given to the relationship of the growing diversity (racially, ethnically, and by gender), and stratification (rich and poor) in U.S. society to the global crisis of poverty, the environment, racism, and social disintegration. This course will examine a wide range of global and multicultural issues, including the concentration of global media ownership, multi-cultural media within the outside the United States, the international system of communication, alternative media, the impact of new technologies, and global and multicultural issues in news, advertising, and entertainment media. The conflict between the increasing commercialization and privatization of the media and its role of public service will be examined as well as the political, social and economic ramifications of such media issues as stereotyping, ethnocentrism, racism, patriotism, and international conflicts. The course will include screenings, research, case studies, readings and discussion.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Hybrid, Lecture, Lecture/Online, Online Course Communications Department Course Attributes: MJ-Amer-Race & Ethnicity, CA-School Core as of 2014 fall, CA-School Core-300 Level, OLD GE-INTERNATIONAL ISSUES, WRITING INTENSIVE |
| COMM 378 - USER EXPERIENCE DESIGN |
|
User Experience Design (UXD) introduces students to the theory and practice of human—centered design in the creation of products, services, and experiences. Methods used in this course include generative and evaluative research, writing for the discipline, ideation, interviewing, data collection, personas, problem shaping, journey and empathy mapping, UX flow, user/context scenarios, lo fi wireframes, user interface (UI) design, and testing. Students learn the UX process by actively designing, testing, and developing an app in the form of a working interactive prototype Students are required to purchase some supplies to be used in class that include pens, pencils, Post It
Notes, tape, notebook, a small sketch pad, and a small flash drive.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Hybrid, Lecture, Lecture/Online, Online Course Communications Department |
| COMM 380 - SENIOR PROJECT:PROPOSAL DIGITAL FILMMAKING |
|
Senior Project: Proposal for Digital Filmmaking is a first-semester preparation and pre-production course for the second-semester portfolio course for seniors in the Communication Arts major and Digital Filmmaking concentration. Senior Project: Proposal is an intensive course focused on developing the script and production plan for students' senior capstone films. In Senior Project: Proposal, in preparation for their capstone films, students write their short films from pitches to finished screenplays, and cultivate and develop the cinematic language, acting and visual storytelling strategies and styles for their capstone films. Students leave the class with a polished script and production plan for their films, which they will implement in production and post-production in the second semester Senior Project course.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Hybrid, Lecture, Online Course Communications Department |
| COMM 390 - TOPICS |
|
The descriptions and topics of this course change from semester-to-semester, as well as from instructor-to-instructor. Prerequisite: varies with the topic offered.
COMM 390 GAME DESIGN. Game design is an increasingly important part of interactive design. This course will introduce students to a variety of game design concepts and methods using Adobe Flash and ActionScript 3.0. Students will build several game projects and learn the fundamentals of programming concepts that can translate to other game programming environments. The Adobe Flash platform will allow students to conceive, design and make functional, games for the web and mobile devices. The course will cover game types such as memory and match games as well as platform, side scrollers and quiz games. Fulfills Category 3.
COMM 390 CAST STUDIES IN ADVERTISING. Organizations use creative marketing communication techniques to help support initiatives and solve problems. Building on the knowledge and skills learned in Creative Advertising and Public Relations, this course will look at various business challenges and study how specific advertising, public relations and other communications techniques can convey messages, change behavior and influence outcomes. Students will work individually and in teams to develop actual communication stragegies to overcome a variety of business issues. Each case study will focus on the business need, strategy, evaluation of the target, creative message development, tactical execution, appropriate media delivery and measurement of results. Classes will consist of lecture and workshop environments. Students with an interest in copywriting, visual communication, advertising, public relations, video production, and marketing can benefit from this class. Prerequisite: COMM 346.
TOPICS 390 – Arts and Entertainment Reporting: Students will learn how to write arts and entertainment news stories and produce broadcast/digital packages for media outlets– from consumer-guide reviews to trend features and longer pieces of criticism that put an exhibition, concert or theatrical production in greater historical and cultural context. Students will also understand the history of arts and entertainment journalism and review case studies and best examples of reporting in the field.
COMM 390 WRITING FOR PUBLICATIONS: This course has been designed to equip students with the tools they’ll need to succeed in a career as a writer/editor. Classes will cover: interviewing techniques, researching topics, outlining for article writing, editing and rewriting. Various article formats will be studied. In addition, students will learn about three magazine types: consumer, trade and professional. Within consumer publications, various categories—shelter, lifestyle, fashion, teen, political/current events, regional and custom publications, both print and digital—will be studied. “Packaging” articles to include high-reader interest points, such as headlines, decks, captions, pullquotes, and yes, images, will be evaluated. Through lectures and writing assignments, students will learn how to author a ready-to-publish article. Collaborative simulations between writers and “audience”—that is, fellow students—will provide real-world feedback. Assignments will include writing three to four articles and completing in-class writing exercises.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Hybrid, Lab, Lecture, Lecture/Online, Online Course, Seminar Communications Department |
| COMM 398 - TRANSFER ELECTIVE |
|
This course designation describes a transfer course from another institution where an equivalency to a Ramapo College course has not been determined. Upon convener evaluation, this course ID may be changed to an equivalent of a Ramapo College course or may fulfill a requirement.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Lecture Communications Department |
| COMM 399 - TRANSFER ELECTIVE |
|
This course designation is used to describe a transfer course from another institution which has been evaluated by the convener. A course with this course number has no equivalent Ramapo course. It may fulfill a requirement or may count as a free elective.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Lecture Communications Department |
| COMM 400 - INDEPENDENT STUDY: COMMUNICATION ARTS |
|
Limited opportunities to enroll for course work on an Independent Study basis are available. A student interested in this option should obtain an Independent Study Registration Form from the Registrar, have it completed by the instructor and school dean involved, and return it to the Registrar's Office. Consult the current Schedule of Classes for policies concerning Independent Study.
0.000 TO 6.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 6.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Independent Study Communications Department |
| COMM 404 - SENIOR PROJECT: VISUAL COMMUNICATION DESIGN |
|
Senior Project: Visual Communication Design is a writing intensive capstone course that prepares students for post college achievements such as professional design positions and/or graduate school in the Visual Communication Design discipline. Students complete work in the five areas (see below) concurrently, to round out their final dossier:
~ Career Studies: This area focuses on the business of preparing, researching, identifying, and applying for jobs or graduate schools that match a student's goals and aspirations. This includes interview, speech, writing, and
presentation skills as well as refining resumes, business cards, and leave behinds. This also assumes you have already created your own personal identity.
~ Capstone Project: Students in this area define and execute a new design project that demonstrates their highest level of achievement and also reflects their interests. The project can be a new concept, an expansion on another
project currently in your portfolio, or a client-based project.
~ Portfolio: Students are charged with critically assessing their strengths, weakness, and limitations as designers in this class. A portfolio represents you, the entry level designer. It reflects a designers technical and aesthetic skills,
creative process, style, personality, and level of intelligence. a designers portfolio will be a factor in determining your future. Outside reviewers (art directors, faculty, designers, etc.) will be brought to class periodically to provide
students with different perspectives on their work. Final portfolios will exist in three formats: physical book, web-site, and a digital portfolio.
~ Presentation: Students develop confidence in their work and themselves. Principles of speech, body language, appearance, and demeanor are reviewed and practiced. The final outcome of the capstone project and final portfolio will also demonstrate an understanding of the technological and theoretical aspects of the visual communication design field as well as a mastery of, and passion
for, the design discipline. Ultimately, this course will assess your readiness for professional practice in the discipline.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Lab, Studio Communications Department Course Attributes: WRITING INTENSIVE |
| COMM 405 - VISUAL IDENTITY DESIGN |
|
Visual Identity is a 400 level capstone course in the Design and Interactive Media concentration in the Communication Arts major. Advanced students design and execute a substantial project of major proportion. The project must demonstrate their mastery of the learning outcomes of the concentration including form, content, style, technical proficiency, leadership, and accountability. Examples of student projects might include, but are not limited to, developing and producing a visual identity system for a public service, creating an identity including all supporting materials through finished work for an existing non-profit organization, or creating and promoting a public awareness campaign including design, execution, production, promoting, and distribution of materials. The course is divided into 4 distinct phases: Research and Proposal, Prototype I, Prototype II, and Execution and Presentation. Each phase represents a milestone in the production of a large, significant project. Students are responsible for dealing with external vendors, promotion of the project, client contact if necessary, and outside expenses. At the end of the course, students are responsible for displaying and discussing their work in a special Communication Arts presentation. Additionally, a 10-page paper that documents the viability, process, and outcome of the project is due the last day of class. A significant portion of students' evaluation (65%) is based on the successful outcome of the final project. (Students must have at least a "D" in COMM 339 Publication Design. This course cannot be taken concurrently. Lab Fee.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Lab, Studio Communications Department |
| COMM 408 - SENIOR PROJECT: DIGITAL MEDIA |
|
This is a senior portfolio course for students working in radio and audio. Its purpose is to guide students through the process of creating a professional-level project through a series of assignments and critiques. Students must meet with the instructor before the beginning of the semester to present and obtain approval for their projects. Students will be responsible for the development of proposals, concept statements, scripts or outlines, leading up to final production of a portfolio work. Students may undertake projects in any medium (CD-ROM, radio, web, etc.) that will demonstrate their proficiency in the use of audio technology to create a meaningful work. They may work in fiction or non-fiction genres, including, but not limited to, news, public affairs, fiction, documentary, or some combination. Final projects should be suitable for exhibition and student projects may include programming for campus radio or other media outlets.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Studio Communications Department |
| COMM 410 - GLOBAL MEDIA,LOCAL CHANGE |
|
It is imperative for students of Media/Cinema Studies to recognize the interrelated nature of the forces of globalization: transnational corporations, global political economy and international trade, and the global media industry. This capstone course will address the history, background, and current issues related to the topic, and facilitate the process of analyzing and articulating the emergent issues in the form of conference-ready materials. Drawing on multiple perspectives, this course will not only promote critical consciousness about globalization and the media, it will also encourage students to think of creative ways to implement mediated and social change at the local level. In this course we will examine the role of media in fostering change at the macro and micro levels of the economy. Some questions we will seek to address include: Can media cause or create change in the world? Are media tools of establishing or maintaining power relations? What is the relationship between multinational/global corporations, transnational media and local and grassroots activism? Who are the major players in this globalized world? What are the consequences of globalization on a media saturated world? Through a review of case studies and real-world experiences we will explore the extent of globalization's impact on peoples, cultures, and economies across the globe. We will also examine various forms of global communication technologies, strategies, and programs using case studies and other forms of investigative analyses. I am sure all of you are familiar with the phrase, "think globally, act locally." This has been the mantra of local activism and change agents worldwide. Yet, in this age of hyper-capitalism and a world saturated with the effects of globalization, this phrase has taken on many different meanings. Through this course we will also explore these varied perspectives and examine the dynamic relationship between globalization, media, culture and economy. CA Upper Level Core
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Hybrid, Lecture, Online Course, Seminar, Studio Communications Department Course Attributes: OLD GE-INTERNATIONAL ISSUES |
| COMM 415 - VISUAL EFFECTS FOR DVD & FILM |
|
Visual Effects is a 400 level capstone course in the Design and Interactive Media concentration in the Communication Arts major. Advanced students design and execute a substantial project of major proportion. The project must demonstrate their mastery of the learning outcomes of the concentration and advanced motion graphics including form, content, style, technical proficiency, leadership, and accountability. Student projects will culminate in the creation of a near professional DVD reel of work created in this course that includes an interactive menu with multiple sub-levels and complex links and chapters. Students demonstrate their expert level skills in visual effects by integrating pyrotechnics, keying, 3D virtual and real studio lighting, virtual and real camera work, advanced sound, and color correction into their own visual narratives. Each student creates near professional quality DVD of work produced in class. The class is divided into 4 units: Research and Proposal, Project Phase I, Project Phase II, and DVD Design and Finishing. Each phase represents a milestone in the production of a large, significant project. At the end of the course, students are responsible for screening and discussing their work in a special Communication Arts presentation. Additionally, a 10-page paper that documents the viability, process, and outcome of the project is due the last day of class. A significant portion of students' evaluation (65%) is based on the successful outcome of the final project.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Lab, Studio Communications Department |
| COMM 420 - RACE,ETHNICITY & CROSS CULTURAL JOURNALISM |
|
This is a 400-level capstone course designed to help students explore diversity and its journalistic role in covering the total community in the 21st Century. Students will research, report and write stories about an underreported community in New Jersey. In the process, students will learn the broader definitions of diversity, including historical context and meaning. They will become more aware of the changing demographics of the U.S.--both locally and nationally--and analyze the role that journalists play in shaping public opinion about emerging and underreported communities. Students will think critically about the role media plays in conveying accurate coverage of diverse groups and, in the process, examine their own views about race, ethnicity, and class among other diversity fault lines used by professional journalists. This course emphasizes the process of finding and developing diverse sources, not only for racial and cultural stories, but general stories as well. Lab Fee.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Lab, Studio Communications Department Course Attributes: OLD GE-INTERCULT NORTH AMERICA |
| COMM 423 - SENIOR PROJECT: WRITING |
|
This senior writing experience is required of all students with a writing concentration in the Communication Arts major. The course provides an opportunity for students to develop a professional portfolio demonstrating the culmination of their college experience and creating a document providing evidence of writing ability. Lab Fee.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Seminar Communications Department |
| COMM 430 - SENIOR PROJECT: JOURNALISM |
|
Senior Project: Journalism is a capstone portfolio course in convergence journalism that will allow students to produce stories in print, online, television and radio. Journalism students, focusing on a major story, will apply information gathering skills in a simulated newsroom environment to report, write and produce a series of multimedia stories. The Convergence Journalism Senior Project will involve the partnership of other Communication Arts professors and students with expertise in television, Web and radio production. Lab Fee.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Lab, Studio Communications Department |
| COMM 433 - SENIOR PROJECT: DIGITAL FILMMAKING |
|
An advanced production and criticism in narrative or documentary as it is presented in the video medium. Students will research, script, and produce an original production. Screenings and readings will address the content, aesthetic, and technical choices producers make in producing a work in this medium. Lab Fee.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Studio Communications Department |
| COMM 435 - ADV SOUND PRODUCTION FOR FILM & VIDEO |
|
This course explores advanced concepts, technology and techniques for production field recording and post-production stereo and surround-sound mixing of audio for film and video. It is both a seminar and a production workshop in which students will examine the historical, theoretical, and aesthetic dimensions of sound recording and the creation of sound environments, as well as create their own artistic work through hands-on exercises. Production will emphasize the creative use of audio field recording using varied microphones, digital recorders and mixers, whereas post-production will use Avid Pro Tools to mix audio. Students will present, discuss, and evaluate their work in group critiques. The final project for the course is a project of significant scale/complexity which should demonstrate an understanding and mastery of field recording and sound design concepts and techniques as discussed throughout the semester.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Hybrid, Lecture, Online Course Communications Department |
| COMM 440 - SENIOR PROJECT: TV AND NEW MEDIA |
|
A portfolio-level course that provides opportunity for students to produce studio or documentary projects independently or collaboratively in close consultation with the professor. This project should reflect skills in writing, public speaking, and production, leading to a project that can be shown in festivals, and other distribution channels. Students will continue to study critical new developments in the technology and programming, grant writing, fundraising, and packaging of final programs. Lab Fee.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Studio Communications Department |
| COMM 441 - SENIOR PROJECT: DIGITAL POST PRODUCTION |
|
This course will build on the aesthetic, research, writing, technical and production skills taught in 300-level television, video and editing courses. Students will create, produce, and edit works using non-linear editing systems, with the goal of developing a portfolio for student work for graduate school or professional work. Lab Fee.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Lab Communications Department |
| COMM 445 - SENIOR PROJECT: COMMUNICATION ARTS |
|
This is a portfolio course for seniors in the Communication Arts major that builds on 300-level courses taken earlier in their academic career. Students must define and execute a project related to their area of concentration that will demonstrate their achievement. Students interested in this class should take the 1-credit CCOM 312 Proposal Research and Development class in the semester prior to doing their Advanced Project class. Projects can range from writing (poetry, short stories, and screenplay) to TV/video production (documentary, dramatic, public affairs) to public relations campaigns to websites. Projects should demonstrate a grasp of the critical issues of their area of interest as well as an understanding of the technological and theoretical aspects of their study. Lab Fee.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Seminar Communications Department |
| COMM 447 - SR PROJECTS:GLOBAL COMMUNICATION & MEDIA |
|
Senior Projects: Global Communication and Media is a portfolio course for seniors in the Communication Arts major. Students undertake major individual or collaborative projects under faculty supervision, which will result in the creation of a portfolio work. Workshop discussions and critique of proposals and work-in-progress is a central feature of the course. Students create teams for the purpose of developing, researching, and executing publicity, promotion, or advertising campaign, or major event, such as an exhibition or a conference, with special emphasis on community and non-profit organizations. Students must define and execute a project related to their area of concentration that will demonstrate their achievement. Students should meet with the instructor prior to the first class to discuss a project propsal. Projects should demonstrate a grasp of the critical issues of the student's area of interest as well as an understanding of the technological and theoretical aspects of their study. Prerequistie: senior status.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Seminar Communications Department Course Attributes: WRITING INTENSIVE |
| COMM 450 - WEB SERIES PRODUCTION |
|
Students will study current successful web series, and then conceive, write, produce, advertise, and post to the web a five-episode original web series in this writing- and production-intensive Capstone course. Students will share all the duties of writing, directing, editing, and marketing with an emphasis on story, character, collaboration, and meeting strict deadlines. The course will: (1) provide students with the skills and practice necessary to create original scripted content for the New Media landscape; (2) introduce students to the collaborative, deadline-intensive experience of working in a TV or web series "Writer's Room," where stories are generated, "broken," written, and re-written as a group; (3) offer students the opportunity to apply their various directing, production, and post-production skills to a large scale group project; and (4) produce a final project of sufficient quality for use as a resume piece when looking for film industry work or applying to graduate school.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Hybrid, Lecture, Online Course Communications Department |
| COMM 487 - FILM, HISTORY, CULTURE & MYTH |
|
FORMERLY CNTP-487: This seminar explores the complex relationship between contemporary films and the culture in which they are produced, with special attention to films that base their narratives on historical events and people. What do these films tell us about the evens and people they are about, and what do they tell us about the time period in which they were produced? How does the form of films—the choices regarding narrative material, editing, characterization, and visual style—influence the interpretation of important cultural and historical periods or events? What cultural myths do these films create, or reinterpret, about the particular society that produces them? How does the evolution and transformation of film genres and genre conventions contribute to the ideological negotiation of meanings in contemporary films? Film, History, Culture and Myth satisfies the 400-level capstone portfolio course requirement for students in the GLOBAL COMMUNICATIN AND MEDIA concentration of the Communication Arts major and satisfies the CA Upper Level core requirement for all other concentrations. The principle outcome of the seminar will be a major portfolio paper or project that meets the guidelines of scholarly publication, in which students draw on both in-class and outside screenings, discussion, readings, and research.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Hybrid, Lecture, Lecture/Online, Online Course, Screening Communications Department Course Attributes: WRITING INTENSIVE |
| COMM 498 - TRANSFER ELECTIVE |
|
This course designation describes a transfer course from another institution where an equivalency to a Ramapo College course has not been determined. Upon convener evaluation, this course ID may be changed to an equivalent of a Ramapo College course or may fulfill a requirement.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Lecture Communications Department |
| COMM 499 - TRANSFER ELECTIVE |
|
This course designation is used to describe a transfer course from another institution which has been evaluated by the convener. A course with this course number has no equivalent Ramapo course. It may fulfill a requirement or may count as a free elective.
0.000 TO 4.000 Credit hours 0.000 TO 4.000 Lecture hours Levels: Undergraduate Schedule Types: Lecture Communications Department |
|