Department of Art, Communication and Theatre

A lecture course in the history of painting, sculpture, architecture and other art forms from prehistoric times to the 14th century.

A lecture course in the history of painting, sculpture, architecture and other art forms from the 14th century to the present.

An art studio course in the theory and practice of design. Focus is on the development and application of critical thinking skills to visual problems through the fundamental principles and elements of design. Includes possible applications in secondary education and/or art related professions.

Fee: $30.00

An art studio course in the formal elements of design in three dimensions. Critical thinking skills are furthered through explorations of volume and form. Includes possible applications in secondary education and/or art related professions.

Fee: $30.00

A basic course organized to promote confidence in working with the techniques, media and aesthetics of drawing.

Fee: $30.00

The creation of art through use of the digital camera and computer technology, with emphasis on color design elements.

Fee: $30.00

Studio emphasis on theory and practices of advertising (commercial) art, planning layout, developing messages, selecting media, and executing advertising art.

Fee: $30.00

Studio instruction in the theory of color and the use of paint to suggest form and space, convey ideas and emotions and explore the dynamics of visual expression.

Fee: $30.00

Study of the human figure and its historical and contemporary implications for the artist, including anatomical and structural dynamics, gesture, narrative, and issues concerning the body as subject. May be repeated for credit. Prerequisite: ARTS 1316 or ARTS 1317.

An art studio course which explores three-dimensional concepts of form in a variety of sculptural media.

Fee: $30.00

An art studio course which explores various printmaking techniques, including planographic, intaglio, stencil and relief with emphasis on their expressive power.

Fee: $30.00

An art studio course in the use of clay for handbuilding and wheel throwing. Design and decoration are studied from historical and aesthetic perspectives.

Fee: $30.00

Introduction to digital painting, focusing on image manipulation and painting tools such as Photoshop. Translation of traditional painting techniques to the computer. Exercises emphasize understanding of the software interface, ability to visualize and sketch out compositions, control of light and value, and creation of representational images.

Fee: $30.00

Issues surrounding the participation of women in the arts. Selected women who have contributed to the visual and performing arts throughout history are studied in relation to the culture of their time and the principles related to the arts. No previous experience in theatre, art or music required. Prerequisite: completion of visual/performing arts component requirement. (Credit may be obtained in only one of ARTS 3302, MUSI 3302, THEA 3302 or WMST 3302.)

The study to visually document wildlife and their ecology in the field and the laboratory. Emphasis on DSLR cameras, lenses, choosing and using perspective, lighting and related aspects of photographic skills, camera controls to enhance creativity, and learning how to incorporate compositional elements. Prerequisite: None. Course does not count toward RWSC major or minor. Certification in wildlife photography can be obtained by successful completion of 4 of the 5 wildlife photography courses. (Credit may only be earned for either ARTS 3350 or RWSC 3350.)

Emphasis on the development of improved technical, creative, and compositional wildlife photographic skills. Topics include use of lenses for creativity and the effects of light, color, and design in detail. Principles of creativity, craftsmanship, and applied photographic theory will be used to support technical applications. Prerequisite: ARTS 3350/RWSC 3350. Course does not count toward RWSC major or minor. Certification in wildlife photography can be obtained by successful completion of 4 of the 5 wildlife photography courses. (Credit may only be earned for either ARTS 3351 or RWSC 3351.)

Topics covered include technology, equipment, techniques, and the art of close-up and macro photography. It will illustrate the procedures and equipment to make images at-or near life size or larger of various subjects from small plants, animals, and habitats. Prerequisite: ARTS 3350/RWSC 3350. Course does not count toward RWSC major and minor. Certification in wildlife photography can be obtained by successful completion of 4 of the 5 wildlife photography courses. (Credit may only be earned for either ARTS 3352 or RWSC 3352.)

Examines the technology, equipment, techniques, and the art of flash and alternative light sources for digital photography. Prerequisite: ARTS 3350/RWSC 3350 . Course does not count toward RWSC major and minor. Certification in wildlife photography can be obtained by successful completion of 4 of the 5 wildlife photography courses. (Credit may only be earned for either ARTS 3353 requested or RWSC 3353.)

Use of computer software processing to improve digital wildlife images and to better prepare images for printing, publication, and distribution. Students will learn how to use Lightroom and Photoshop. Prerequisite: ARTS 3350/RWSC 3350. Course does not count towards RWSC major and minor. Certification in wildlife photography can be obtained by successful completion of 4 of the 5 wildlife photography courses. (Credit may only be earned for either ARTS 3354 or RWSC 3354.)

Study and studio use of the tools, materials, techniques and methods used in the many art processes not covered by drawing, painting, sculpture, printmaking or ceramics.

Fee: $10.00

The essential elements of visual design as they relate to the studio production of works of art.

Fee: $10.00

Studio drawing with emphasis on greater mastery of technical skills towards development of a personal vision. May be repeated as needed. Prerequisite: ARTS 1316

Fee: $30.00

Studio painting with emphasis on greater mastery of technical skills toward development of a personal vision. May be repeated as needed. Prerequisite: ARTS 2316.

Fee: $30.00

Studio sculpture with emphasis on greater mastery of technical skills toward development of a personal vision. May be repeated as needed. Prerequisite: ARTS 2326.

Fee: $30.00

Studio printmaking with emphasis on greater mastery of technical skills toward development of a personal vision. May be repeated as needed. Prerequisite: ARTS 2333.

Fee: $30.00

Studio ceramics with emphasis on greater mastery of technical skills toward development of a personal vision. May be repeated as needed. Prerequisite: ARTS 2346.

Fee: $30.00

Studio emphasis on greater mastery of technical skills chosen from the many directions associated with graphic design, such as typography, layout, visualization, conceptual problem solving, the ad campaign, illustration or computer aided design. Students prepare portfolios for entry into undergraduate, graduate or work-related programs. May be repeated as needed. Prerequisites: ARTS 2313 or ARTS 3301.

Fee: $30.00

Introduction to typography--the art of designing with type. Study of the history and aesthetics of type and letterforms. Introduction to digital typesetting. Prerequisites: ARTS 2313 or ARTS 3301.

Fee: $30.00

Studio emphasis in the construction of web and interface design, which communicates the function of hypermedia. May be repeated as needed. Prerequisite: ARTS 2313 or ARTS 3301.

Fee: $30.00

Studio emphasis on design concepts and practical applications of package design and construction. Analysis and creation of 3-dimensional and graphic solutions for packaging problems, with consideration of marketing concerns. Prerequisite: ARTS 2313 or ARTS 3301.

Fee: $30.00

Study of problems in the creative arts. May be repeated for credit when the topic changes. Prerequisite: Approval of instructor.

Fee: $30.00

The execution of a successful professional gallery exhibition by a B.F.A. candidate. Prerequisite: registration for graduation in the semester taken.

Mass communication in modern society. Communication processes, legal consideration and social implications.

Interpersonal communication including one-to-one and small-group settings. Issues such as self-concept, perception, relationship development, conflict, and communication barriers.

Practical experience in campus radio broadcasting activities. May be repeated for a total of 3 semester hours.

Practical experience in publications. The course may be repeated for a maximum of 3 semester hours of credit.

Introduction to film, including narrative, directing, acting, cinematography and the film industry.

Theory and practice of media design, editing, and layout for print and electronic media. Journalistic ethics and other problems confronting editors and publication designers.

Fee: $30.00

Theory and practice of newswriting and relationships with sources. Lectures and assignments covering news for print and electronic media. Discussions of journalistic ethics and other problems confronting reporters. Prerequisites: ENGL 1301, ENGL 1302 or permission from instructor.

Fee: $20.00

Introduction to operation, production and theory of film and media, whether for artistic or journalistic objectives. A special emphasis will be placed on community affairs programming and social media as well as the production of programs for broadcast and for the internet.

Communication techniques for leading and participating in small groups. Special emphasis on the nature of small groups, factors influencing communication in groups, and small group decision-making. Prerequisite: COMS 1311 or permission of instructor.

Participation and training in forensic activities, such as debate, extemporaneous speaking, oral interpretation and oratory. May be repeated for a total of 3 semester hours. Required for those participating in intercollegiate competition. Can be repeated 3 times.

Theory and practice in news gathering and writing; types and techniques of public affairs reporting. Lab assignments include coverage of university departments and activities, municipal and county government, schools and courts for The South Texan. Lab requires use of computers as editing terminals and data bases. Prerequisite: COMM 2311 or consent of instructor.

Fee: $30.00

An overview of sports journalism; writing, reporting, interviewing, and editing skills. Game stories, advances, follow-up stories, feature and human-interest stories, and columns. Analysis of successful sportswriters. Writing for newspapers, magazines, online and social media, from Little League to the Olympics. Prerequisite: COMM 2311 or consent of the instructor.

Identifying and developing feature story ideas. Prerequisite: COMM 2311 or permission of instructor.

Intermediate theory and basic training in producing video and digital short-format content across media: film, digital, television, radio, and the web. Storytelling and the basics of producing, writing, directing and editing shorts, such as those in newscasts and on websites, as well as developing work habits and ethics of an industry professional. Prerequisite: COMM 2316 or permission of instructor.

Development of journalism in the United States with attention to the social, economic, and political forces which brought about changes in journalistic techniques and in basic ideas as to media functions. Study the careers of noted journalists.

Advertising writing, layout, typography and art work. Advertising campaigns, selling, practice exercises and advertising work.

Theories and techniques of persuasive communication including the psychological, logical and ethical principles involved. Types of speaking and persuasion in the media will be studied. Required for speech concentration. Prerequisite: COMS 1311 or permission of instructor.

Small group theories and techniques as they relate to group processes and interaction as well as the basic principles and practice of argumentation and debate.

Analysis and practice of techniques in the oral interpretation of drama, poetry, prose, programmed readings, lecture recital and group interpretations.

Introduction to sound design for film and media, including sound editing and the aesthetics of sound in the production of digital films and digital media. Prerequisite: COMM 2316 or permission of instructor.

Craftsmanship and aesthetics of digital editing; the relationship between editor and director. Terminology and concepts, conventions, the rules and when to break them. Technological workflow for both picture and sound editing. The historical role of editing, from silent films through the ongoing Digital Revolution will be studied, especially via screenings and workshops.

Study of nonverbal communicataion, including body language, use of space, and sound as nonverbal forms of communication. Nonverbal communication as it pertains to both gender and culture. Prerequisite: 6 semester hours of COMM or consent of instructor.

Developing concepts of the use of the voice and body in the creation of character for the camera, for film and television.

Communication in multicultural contexts, in intrapersonal, interpersonal, and small-group contexts. Emphasis on conflict resolution and constructive collaboration in intercultural situations. Prerequisite: 6 semester credit hours of COMM or consent of instructor.

Comprehensive perspectives on conflict, including its causes, manifestations, and outcomes. Communication techniques applied in interpersonal, intergroup, organizational, and community conflicts. Prerequisite: 3 semester hours of COMM courses, or by consent of instructor.

Introduction to American film history from its origins to the 1960's, including major trends facing the industry, important genres, and important figures.

Introduction to American film history from the 1960s to present, including major trends facing the industry, important genres, and important figures.

Hispanic-themed and Spanish-language films in the United States: their impact on the perception of Hispanics. Hispanic pioneers in the motion picture industry and their influence on American character and culture.

Purpose and style of editorial comment and opinion as well as page editing in the media. Prerequisite: COMM 2311 or permission of instructor.

Advanced work in areas of Communication, Journalism or Media. May be repeated once for credit when topic varies. Prerequisites: 6 semester hours of COMM, DCOM, COMS or COMJ.

Provides historically accurate information about the impact of Spanish-language media in the United States and develops appreciation for diversity and knowledge of Latino subcultures of the United States.

The nature and function of rhetorical criticism, explored through the systematic study of important speeches. Prerequisite: 6 hours of COMM courses or junior standing.

Systematic study of mass communication/journalism. Quantitative and qualitative methods of research. Prerequisite: 6 semester hours of communication, journalism and/or speech.

The role of gender in human communication. Attention to oral histories, alternative narratives and gender theory, including systematic, cultural, cognitive and behavioral approaches to studying gender and communication. Special attention to gender in the workplace. Prerequisites: 6 hours of COMM and junior standing.

Legal and ethical limitation and responsibilities of the mass media, relationship and interaction between broadcaster, governmental regulatory agencies and the public. Prerequisite: 6 semester hours of journalism and/or radio-tv.

Experience with professional-style presentations to national and international clients. Prepares students for the American Advertising Federation's National Student Advertising Competition. Prerequisite: COMM 3321 or permission of instructor.

Public relations and crisis management and problem solving through journalism, media and communications. Theoretical basis for public relations; law and ethics concerning the profession.

Research in contemporary thought in communication and theatre. Prerequisites: 6 hours of COMM and junior standing. (Credit may not be obtained in both COMM 4331 and THEA 4331.)

Theoretical investigation and practical application of organizational communication principles. Focus on information processing and problem solving within organizations. Prerequisites: 6 semester hours of COMM and junior standing.

Critical examination of theories and research in communication. Focus on rhetorical, interpersonal, group, mass, and organizational communication theories. Prerequisites: Junior or Senior standing, 9 semester hours of COMM, at least 6 of which must be sophomore level or higher, or consent of instructor.

Intensive work in a special area of the student's major or minor. A maximum of 6 semester hours of credit in independent study may be applied toward graduation. Prerequisite: 6 semester hours, in any combination, in COMM, DCOM, COMS or COMJ.

This course allows a student to gain practical experience in professional communications media or organizations through a comprehensive internship supervised both by faculty and professionals. Prerequisites: Nine semester hours in COMM, COMJ, COMS or DCOM or approval by the instructor and department chair. Course can be repeated once with permission of instructor and department chair.

The successful execution of a project in Communication, Journalism or Media by a COMM major or minor with senior standing.

Theory and practice of speech communication in interpersonal, small group and public speaking.

Theories and skills of speech communication as applied to business and professional situations.

Practical experience in campus radio broadcasting activities. May be repeated for a total of 6 semester hours. Prerequisite: 3 semester hours of radio or television.

Small group theories and techniques as they relate to group processes and interaction as well as the basic principles and practice of argumentation and debate. Prerequisite: COMS 1311 or high school experience.

Communication skills for the professional. Writing of reports, letters, proposals, etc. Oral presentations in the form of group problem-solving, design reviews, requests for funding and/or public testimony/hearing. Use of presentation media to support oral communication. Prerequisite: ENGL 1302. (Credit may not be obtained in both COMS 2374 and ENGL 2374.)

Theories and techniques of persuasive communication including the psychological, logical and ethical principles involved. Types of speaking and persuasion in the media will be studied. Required for speech concentration. Prerequisite: COMS 1311 or equivalent.

Experience in the participation in and evaluation of rehearsal and performance activities related to departmental productions. Required for Theatre Arts majors and minors. May be repeated once.

Beginning concepts of the use of the voice and body in the creation of a character for the stage.

Fee: $30.00

The theory and practice of stage makeup with emphasis on the latter.

Fee: $30.00

An introduction to theatre including narrative, directing, acting, design and theatre as a profession.

Introduction to stagecraft as it pertains to academic theatre. Scene shop and set construction skills. Basic concepts of drafting and design. Participation in stage work required. Prerequisite: THEA 1120.

Fee: $30.00

Experience in acting and crew work in departmental productions. Required for Theatre Arts majors and minors. May be repeated once.

Experience in acting and crew work in departmental productions. Required for Theatre Arts majors and minors. May be repeated once.

Consideration of topics such as scenery and lighting design, advanced problems of acting, costume history and construction. May be repeated once for credit when topic changes.

Introduction to technical theatre as it pertains to academic theatre. Light hanging and focusing skills; use of light and sound boards; basic concepts of lighting and soundtrack design. Participation in stage work for department required. Prerequisite: THEA 2330 or participation in the backstage operations of two university level productions or permission of instructor.

Fee: $30.00

An introduction to the basics of musical theatre, particularly from the perspective of performance. A course designed to prepare students for the summer musicals held in conjunction with the Music Department. Prerequisite: Registration or credit in MUSI 1159.

For students with a background in acting. Scenes from classical theatre, avant-garde theatre and other period and non-traditional genres. Prerequisite: THEA 1322.

Fee: $30.00

Introduction to costuming for the theatre, including a history of costume fashion in the West as well as skills necessary to develop costume renderings. Prerequisites: 6 semester hours in Theatre or Art, or consent of the instructor.

Problems of selecting and producing the play, practice in directing the one-act play. Prerequisites: THEA 1341

Studies of the major periods of theatre, such as Greek to Elizabethan, Elizabethan to modern and the development of theatrical criticism. May be repeated once as topic varies. Prerequisite: sophomore standing.

Research in contemporary thought in communication and theatre. Prerequisite: 9 hours of THEA. (Credit may not be obtained in both COMM 4331 and THEA 4331.)

Intensive work in a special area of the student's major or minor. A maximum of 6 semester hours of credit in individual study may be applied toward graduation.

The execution of a successful design or performance project.