Information and Communication Studies 

A survey of the great revolutions in human communication of speech, literacy, printing and electronic communication. Examines how new media of communication come into being, their impact on earlier forms of communication, their impact on society, and the influence society and culture have on communication technologies. 

This course is a basic introduction to the social, cultural, political, economic and technological aspects of the information and communication revolution.

This course will explore the nature and evolution of media since the development of the Internet. The course will provide students with a framework for thinking about media institutions and technologies.

A general introduction to the study of Western popular music as both a cultural industry and as a form of communication which presents students with an overview of post-war popular music genres from rock n’ roll to contemporary dance music.

Explores the political, economic, ideological and organizational settings within which contemporary media operate and examines their importance in many aspects of contemporary life. Topics include: the rise of broadcast television; the role of television in everyday life; the rise of new media (such as the world wide web) and their growing significance in everyday life.

This course will focus on the study of comics and manga (Japanese comic books and graphic novels). Students will analyze the history of comics and the industry in both North America and Japan. Particular emphasis will be placed on issues pertaining to: gender,culture, readership, characterizations, artwork, fan communities, and creative workers. 

This focuses on theoretical issues regarding the political and social implications of the information and communication revolution. Specific themes to be covered include society and technological change, communication technologies, globalization and the digital revolution.

This course provides students with an advanced introduction to conducting web-based research and the use of electronic research tools. 

Introduction to production techniques related to to radio and web podcasting. Students will explore aspects of production through individual and group projects as well as in class presentations. Includes a strong writing component.

This course will explore the emerging importance of copyright as a pertinent regulatory issue facing both the communication industries and western society. We will examine the development of copyright and its transformation as a result of technological , economic and cultural changes in the global cultural industries. 

Introduction to video production techniques. Students will explore aspects of production through individual and group projects as well as in class presentations. Includes a strong writing component.

This course examines technologically mediated political practices in liberal democracies.

Exploration of specialized topics in media studies, technology and society, or communication policy issues. 

This course will focus on the saliance of gender in understanding media and communication. Course topics may include a focus on gender and the following: production, media texts, (TV shows, movies, anime,blogs,forums,comic books, video games, etc.) reception of media, content, communication technologies, and communication practices. 

This seminar provides majors with the opportunity to do basic research in an area of special interest. 

An advanced seminar in media studies, technology and society, or communication policy issues.

This course provides an opportunity for students to engage in directed study of contemporary issues and debates in the fields of communication and media.