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Communication Arts Course Descriptions

Mass Media Courses

Most credit notations on the far right are in the pattern 3-0-3. The first number is the
number of lecture hours (or equivalent) each week; the second number is the number of
laboratory hours (or equivalent) each week; the third number, in bold, is the number of
semester hours credit.

MDIA 2000 Introduction to Mass Media 3-0-3
The study of the processes, elements, uses, and impacts of mass media, including history,
development, operation, and cultural effects of books, newspapers, magazines, motion pictures,
radio, television, sound recordings, and computer media.

MDIA 2000H Introduction to Mass Media (Honors) 3-0-3
An honors-level study of the processes, elements, uses, and impacts of mass media, including
history, development, operation, and cultural effects of books, newspapers, magazines,
motion pictures, radio, television, sound recordings, and computer media.

MDIA 2050 Introduction to Electronic Media Production 3-0-3
Concurrent registration for MDIA 2000 is recommended. An introduction to the processes
of radio and television production. This course is designed to provide an understanding
of the concepts and applications employed in production for radio and television and to
teach the basic skills required to operate the audio and video equipment. Students will also
take a comprehensive proficiency exam.

MDIA 2100 Introduction to Broadcast Writing 3-0-3
Prerequisites: Major status or consent of instructor. An introduction to the variety of
standard writing styles employed by media professionals. Topics include news writing,
advertising copy, public service announcements, and an introduction to copy writing formats
for television and radio. Basic television scripting for short and long-form programming is
also introduced.

MDIA 2500 Computer Mediated Communication 3-0-3
Prerequisite: Major status or consent of instructor. An introduction to the processes
ofmediated communication. Topics include the Internet, mass media and the Web, virtual
communities, andnow computer mediated communication affects privacy, interpersonal relationships,
and the global village.

MDIA 3050 Broadcast Performance and Announcing 3-0-3
Prerequisites: Major status, MDIA 2050, MDIA 2100, MDIA 2500, and THEA 1000; or
consent of instructor. Application of the fundamentals of voice and articulation for effective
on-air performance on both radio and television. Topics include vocal techniques and
delivery styles, appearance for on-camera performance in television, audience perceptions,
station sound and image, and limited voice characterizations for “voice-over” media. Required
of all majors in audio emphasis and broadcast journalism emphasis.

MDIA 3060 Sports Announcing and Reporting 3-0-3
Prerequisites: Major status and completion of Area F, or consent of the instructor.
An introduction to the techniques of sports announcing for radio and television. Reporting,
interviewing, and vocal performance skills, including play-by-play announcing, will be emphasized.
On-camera appearance and performance will be included.

MDIA 3110K Audio Production I 2-4-4
Prerequisites: Major status , MDIA 2050, MDIA 2100, and MDIA 2500; or consent of
instructor. Introduction to audio production techniques. Topics include editing and the
incorporation of music, sound effects, and voice to produce effective commercial and public
service announcements.

MDIA 3120K Television Studio Production I 2-4-4
Prerequisites: Major status, MDIA 2050, MDIA 2100, and MDIA 2500; or consent of
instructor. Intermediate television production focusing on the applied skills required for
television production. Topics include studio operations, camera operation, control room
competency, as well as scripting, producing, and directing. Pre-production, production, and
post-production will also be addressed.

MDIA 3130K Audio Production II 2-4-4
Prerequisites: MDIA 3110K or consent of instructor. Advanced course of audio production
techniques for the radio and music industries. Topics include signal-processing effects,
advanced and editing techniques, and multi-track recording and mixing of music and voice.

MDIA 3150K Electronic Field Production I 2-4-4
Prerequisites: Major status, MDIA 2050, MDIA 2100, and MDIA 2500; or consent of
instructor. Introduction to electronic field and remote productions, including single and
multiple camera operations. Basic field camera operations, tape to tape editing, editing
techniques, single/multiple camera continuity, and scripting are all addressed.

MDIA 3300 The Music Industry 3-0-3
Prerequisites: Major status and MDIA 3110K or permission of instructor. Also offered
as MUSC 3300. Introduction to the music industry, including business aspects and
the application of multitrack recording techniques. Topics include recording contracts, legal
and copyright issues, music promotion and distribution channels, and technological developments
affecting the industry. Students will learn music recording software, MIDI, the
multitrack recording console, and microphone design and placement. Students will gain practical
experience by recording music performances and producing them on compact disc.

MDIA 3350 Aesthetics of Electronic Media 3-0-3
Prerequisite: MDIA 2000 or consent of instructor. The study of the application of
advanced film and video techniques. Topics include narrative structure, cinematography,
directing technique, editing, sound design, and the language of production.

MDIA 3400 Broadcast Script Writing 3-0-3
Prerequisite: MDIA 2100 or consent of instructor. An advanced writing course building
upon the skills acquired in MDIA 2100. The student will develop a full-length teleplay,
screenplay, or radio drama. Topics include development of treatments, plotting, sequencing,
character analysis, and synopsis. The techniques required for effective scene construction,
plot twists, comedic slants, dramatic tones, and other advanced script writing techniques are
also introduced.

MDIA 3450 Media Ethics 3-0-3
Prerequisites: Major status and completion of Area F, or consent of instructor. A
comprehensive overview of the major ethical philosophers and perspectives and how these
works impact ethical decisions in today’s media. Topics will be discussed and analyzed to
help the mass media student form a foundation for decision making within an ethical framework.

MDIA 3500 Broadcast News Writing 3-0-3
Prerequisite: MDIA 2100 or consent of instructor. An advanced writing course building
upon the skills learned in MDIA 2100. Students will develop their skills in researching, writing,
and editing broadcast news. Interviewing techniques, in-depth study of Associated Press broadcast
writing style, and scripting for both radio and television news will be emphasized.

MDIA 3800 Audio Theory 3-0-3
Prerequisites: Major status or consent of instructor. This course provides a theoretical
investigation into the properties of audio and sound. Topics include the physiology and
psychology of hearing, acoustics, psychoacoustics, sound design, sound environments, ambience,
sound theory, and audio’s relationship with radio, television, and film.

MDIA 3950 Directed Study 1 to 3 hours credit
Prerequisite: Major status and approval of advisor, instructor, and department head.
Individualized study in an area or subject not normally found in established courses offered
by the department, may also allow the student to explore in more detail a topic that is
normally covered by the department.

MDIA 4030 Selected Topics in Mass Media 1 to 3 hours credit
Prerequisites: MDIA 2050 and MDIA 2100, or consent of instructor. Intensive study of
a topic relevant to broadcast media. The course introduces alternative approaches to the
study of themes, applications, trends, and issues in media, and an opportunity to explore
topics outside the prescribed curriculum of mass media. May be repeated for up to 6 hours
of credit if the course titles are different.

MDIA 4100 Media Economics and Management 3-0-3
Prerequisites: Major status and completion of Area F or consent of instructor. An
examination of the economic structure of the American radio and television systems focusing
upon audience measurement and delivery, ownership consolidation, cross-media platforms,
standard practices of achieving fiscal stability, community outreach and service, and personnel
utilization.

MDIA 4120K Television Studio Production II 2-4-4
Prerequisite: MDIA 3120K. Advanced television production focusing on the hands-on
application of skills for the construction of television programs. Students are expected to
enter with a working knowledge of the television studio since this is a rigorous and labor
intensive course in which students are expected to produce broadcast quality programs.

MDIA 4130K Audio Production for Video 2-4-4
Prerequisites: MDIA 3130K or consent of instructor. Advanced course of audio production
techniques for video. Topics include advanced editing techniques and multi-track recording
and mixing of sound for film and television soundtracks. Location recording, automated
dialogue replacement, and Foley recording will also be included.

MDIA 4150K Electronic Field Production II 2-4-4
Prerequisite: MDIA 3150K. Advanced field production involving field shoots, remote
shoots, and editing. Advancing technologies in the area of post-production editing will be
introduced, and students will be responsible for develop-ment of script ideas, scheduling,
and project completions on deadline. The class is labor intensive.

MDIA 4240K Directing and Acting for Film 2-4-4
Prerequisites: MDIA 3120K and MDIA 3150K, or THEA 3800 and THEA 3950, or
consent of the instructor. Advanced directing and acting techniques for narrative production.
The course will focus on the dynmic between the director and actor in a variety of
narrative forms. Additional subject areas include genre, character development, and subtext.
Students will be required to create narrative productions as part of this course.

MDIA 4270 Diversity in Media 3-0-3
Prerequisites: Major status and completion of Area F or consent of instructor. A
critical examination of the relationships between the media and different races, classes,
ethnicities, and genders. Topics include how the media represent various groups, how audiences
are affected by these representations, how minorities are employed in the media
industry, and alternative media.

MDIA 4350 Broadcasting and Culture 3-0-3
Prerequisites: Major status and completion of Area F or consent of instructor. A
critical examination of the broadcast media, with emphasis on the connections among the
message, the medium, society, and culture. This synthesis will help the student develop a
clearer understanding of uses and gratifications, society’s relation to media, and how media
may effect society.

MDIA 4400 Media Criticism 3-0-3
Prerequisites: Major status and completion of Area F or consent of instructor. An
overview of the theoretical and practical study of the critical media examination. It includes
describing, interpreting, and judging mediated messages utilizing critical methods. Students
will examine various approaches to media criticism and how they are be applied to the
broadcast media.

MDIA 4450 International Media 3-0-3
Prerequisite: Major status and completion of Area F or consent of instructor. A critical
examination of media systems around the world and the societies in which they function. The
role of governmental regulation, cultural factors, and language will be studied. Students will
be required to analyze global media, national identities, and the concept of international
communication. A comparative analysis of various systems is also required.

MDIA 4600 Digital Media Production 2-4-4
Prerequisite: MDIA 3150K. Advanced applications of digital video editing, storage, and
delivery systems. Areas to be covered include advanced editing on computer-based nonlinear
systems, digitizing media, encoding, DVD authoring, CD video, streaming video, live
web broadcasting and web page design. Students must complete a digital media presentation
for their portfolio.

MDIA 4650 Digital Media Journalism 2-4-4
Prerequisite: Major status and completion of Area F, or consent of instructor. Advanced
journalistic writing and media production for the Web and mobile-based entities.
Areas to be covered include advanced writing for the Web, utilizing page design, rich media
content, banner headlines, general page maintenance, audio, and video. Students must participate
in the digital creation of an online news source for their portfolios.

MDIA 4800 Media Law 3-0-3
Prerequisites: Major status and completion of Area F or consent of instructor. A
comprehensive overview of First Amendment principles, communication law, and the regulatory
practices of the Federal Communications Commission. Topics include media regulation,
libel issues, prior restraint, and copyright.

MDIA 4950 Senior Seminar 1-0-1
Prerequisite: Restricted to students in their final semsster of study in Mass Media.
A seminar bringing together all second semester seniors, focusing on student contribution to
discussion and critiques of his/her fellow student’s portfolio presentation and defense of his/
her work in the program as evidenced by the materials placed into his/her portfolio during
progress through the major. Examples of writing and creative endeavor will be presented and
critically analyzed. The student will also successfully complete a comprehensive proficiency
exit exam and/or interview.

MDIA 4961 Audio Workshop 2 hours credit
Prerequisites: MDIA 3110K or MDIA 3130K, or consent of instructor. Student participation
in the production of audio and radio programming. May be repeated for credit.

MDIA 4962 Video Workshop 2 hours credit
Prerequisites: MDIA 3120K or MDIA 3150K, or consent of instructor. Student
participation in the production of programming for VSU-TV, the University-programmed
cable- access channel. May be repeated for credit.

MDIA 4963 International Documentary Production Workshop 3 hours credit
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor. Student participation in the production and
postproduction of international video documentaries. May be repeated for credit.

MDIA 4964 Sports Workshop 2 hours credit
Prerequisite: MDIA 3120K or MDIA 3150K, or consent of instructor. Student participation
in the production of sports programming for VSU-TV, the University-programmed
cable-access channel. May be repeated for credit.

MDIA 4970 Internship 3 to 9 hours credit
Prerequisite: Major and senior status; approval of faculty internship director. Graded
“Satisfactory” or “Unsatisfactory.” The placement of students in apprentice and intern
positions in professional environments including radio and television stations and other
media industry organizations in order to enlarge the student’s professionalism. May be
taken only during the student’s final two semesters.

 

Speech Communication Courses

COMM 1100 Human Communication
A broad approach to oral communication skills including intrapersonal, interpersonal, small
group, and public speaking.

COMM 1100H Honors Human Communication
An honors-level approach to oral communication skills with emphasis on advanced theoretical
and practical approaches to interpersonal communication,, small group communication,
and public speaking.

COMM 1110 Public Speaking
The organization of materials and the vocal and physical aspects of delivery in various
speaking situations.

COMM 2100 Introduction to Communication Theory
General survey of communication theories to familiarize students with basic constructs in
interpersonal, intercultural, organizational, and public communication; to demonstrate the
value of theory; and to orient students to the speech communication major.

COMM 2300 Interpersonal Communication
Prerequisite: COMM 1110. The study of communication skills in interpersonal relationships.

COMM 3000 Qualitative Communication Research Methods
Prerequisite: COMM 2100. The study of qualitative research methods used to investigate communication.

COMM 3071 Argumentation and Debate
Prerequisite: COMM 1110. Theory and application of argumentation.

COMM 3072 Debate and Individual Events (Forensics) Lab 0-4-2
Research and practice in debate and individual events. Individual events include dramatic
interpretation, dramatic duo interpretation, after-dinner speaking, prose, poetry, communication
analysis, program oral interpretation, impromptu, extemporaneous, persuasion, and
informative. Debate events include parliamentary style and Lincoln-Douglas style.

COMM 3090 Public Speaking Lab 0-2-1
Graded “Satisfactory” or “Unsatisfactory.” Research and practice in individual presentations.

COMM 3100 Small Group Communication
Prerequisite: COMM 1110. The theory and practice of small group communication.

COMM 3200 Contemporary Public Relations
Prerequisite: COMM 2100, presentational software competency, and either COMM
1100 or COMM 1110, and speech communication major. The first course in public
relations, dealing with concepts of communicating with various publics.

COMM 3210 Electronic Public Relations Applications
Prerequisite: Either ACED 2400 or CS 1000 and speech communication major. Electronic
applications in public relations, including on-line media design.

COMM 3220 Public Relations Writing
Prerequisite: COMM 3200 and speech communication major. The study of writing
techniques and formats for public relations applications, including radio and television public
service announcements, video news releases, speech writing, media kit preparation, and
print media news releases.

COMM 3230 Public Relations Practicum 1 hour credit
Prerequisites: COMM 3220 and COMM 3240. Skill building in public relations techniques.
Course may be repeated once for credit.

COMM 3240 Public Relations Document Layout and Design 2-2-3
Prerequisite: COMM 3220, either ACED 2400 or CS 1000, and and speech communication
major. Process of preparing and creating documents for publication in public
relations.

COMM 3310 Listening
Prerequisites: COMM 2300. Study of and skill development in different types of listening.

COMM 3320 Nonverbal Communication
Prerequisites: COMM 2300. Study of types and functions of nonverbal communication.

COMM 3330 Interviewing
Prerequisites: COMM 2300. Study of and skill development in interviewing.

COMM 3400 Organizational Communication
Prerequisites: COMM 1110, COMM 2100, and speech communication major. Communication
structures and processes in organizations.

COMM 3410 Conflict Management and Leadership
Prerequisite: COMM 2300 and speech communication major. Strategies of managing
conflicts in organizations and the role of leadership style in negotiations.

COMM 3500 Fundamentals of Cross-cultural Communication
Causes of cross-cultural communication conflicts and strategies for improvement.

COMM 3550 Managing Diversity
Prerequisite: Major in speech communication. An applied approach to the study of
theories of diversity in the organizational setting, particularly as it applies to managing
communication to achieve individual and organizational goals.

COMM 3600 Directed Study in Communication Arts 1 to 3 hours credit
Individual instruction for enrichment of advanced majors in their areas of specialization.

COMM 3670 Internship for Juniors 3 hours credit
Prerequisite: Junior standing, recommendation of advisor, and major in appropriate
specialization. Graded “Satisfactory” or “Unsatisfactory.” The placement of students
in apprentice and intern positions in professional environments to enlarge the students’
professionalism.

COMM 3800 Quantitative Communication Research Methods
Prerequisite: COMM 2100. The study of quantitative research methods used to investigate communication.

COMM 4060 Persuasion
Prerequisites: COMM 2100. Theories of persuasion.

COMM 4120 Theories of Public Communication
Prerequisite: COMM 2100. The study of selected bodies of theories of public communication,
including political communication, classical theory, contemporary rhetorical theory,
and mass communication theory. May be repeated for credit.

COMM 4130 The Psychology and Semiotics of Communication
Prerequisite: COMM 2100. Origin and purpose of speech, basic psychological principles
and language, and the use of propaganda.

COMM 4140 Interpersonal Communication Theory
Prerequisite: COMM 2100. The study of theories of interpersonal communication and
their application to humn relationships.

COMM 4160 Health Communication Theory
Prerequisite: COMM 2100. The study of interpersonal, media, and public communication
in health communication theory.

COMM 4170 Rhetorical Criticism
Prerequisite: COMM 2100. The study of contemporary methods of rhetorical cricitism,
including underlying theoretical assumptions. Application of methods in the study of discursive
practices.

COMM 4200 Public Relations Research
Prerequisites: COMM 3000, COMM 3200, COMM 3800 and and speech communication
major. The application of theory and practice in public relations research.

COMM 4220 Integrated Communication
Prerequisites: COMM 3220 and speech communication major. Integrating the strategic
communication planning process, creative use of tools, tactics, and media planning in public
relations and all communication activities of organizations.

COMM 4230 Public Relations Plans and Campaigns
Prerequisites: COMM 3220, COMM 4200, and speech communication major. The
development of public relations plans for organizations and campaigns for special programs
within those organizations.

COMM 4240 Public Relations Law and Ethics
Prerequisites: COMM 3200 and speech communication major. Legal and ethical
aspects of professional public relations practice.

COMM 4340 Capstone in General Speech
Prerequisites: COMM 2300, 3000, 3800, 4140, and 4400. The application of theories and
principles studied in the general speech emphasis to meet client needs in public, academic,
and interpersonal communication.

COMM 4400 Organizational Presentation
Prerequisites: COMM 1110, presentational software competency, and speech communication
major. The study of advanced preparation and presentation techniques in
organizations. This course will focus on the practice and understanding of professional
presentations using advanced visual aids, the delivery of research reports, and the formulation
of extended speeches.

COMM 4420 Advanced Organizational Communication
Prerequisites: COMM 3400, COMM 3800, and speech communication major. Communication
processes and characteristics in formal organizations. Alternative theoretical
perspectives and research methods to analyze communication in organizational settings are
included.

COMM 4430 Ethics in Human Communication
Prerequisite: COMM 2100. A study of the ethical principles that inform human communication
and the application of those principles to various settings.

COMM 4440 Intercultural Training
Prerequisites: COMM 3400, COMM 3500, COMM 3550, & COMM 3800. Theoretical
foundations and application of practices and competencies relevant to intercultural training.

COMM 4600 Special Topics in Communication Theory
Prerequisite: COMM 2100.The study of specialized bodies of communication theories.
May be repeated for credit when topics differ.

COMM 4610 Special Topics in Communication Studies 1 to 3 hours credit
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor. Topics to be assigned by instructor. The course provides
an opportunity to explore topics outside the prescribed curriculum of speech
communication and may be repeated for credit when topics are different.

COMM 4670 Internship 3 to 9 hours credit
Prerequisite: Senior standing and major in appropriate specialization. Graded
“Satisfactory” or “Unsatisfactory.” The placement of students in apprentice and intern
positions in professional environments to enlarge the student’s professionalism.


Theatre Courses


THEA 1000 Voice and Diction 3-0-3
Application of the International Phonetic Alphabet’s vowel and consonant symbolization
for production of Standard American Speech with emphasis on resonance, breath control,
vocal relaxation, and posture using a variety of contemporary approaches to vocal training.

THEA 1100 Theatre Appreciation 3-0-3
Survey and appreciation of theatre as a performing art; introduction to and improvement of
critical and aesthetic evaluation of theatrical performances, including the contributions of the
playwright, the actor, the director, the designer, and the audience member.

THEA 1710 Improvisation 0-2-1
Application of the principles of improvisation both as an actor-training approach and as a
rehearsal technique.

THEA 2110 Stage Dialects 3-0-3
Prerequisite: THEA 1000. An exploration of dialects frequently used in performance,
based on an understanding and usage of the International Phonetic Alphabet.

THEA 2730 Theatrical and Film Makeup 1-2-2
An introduction to design principles and color theory, with practical experience in makeup
mixing, design, and application.

THEA 2750 Basic Technical Theatre and Stage Lighting 2-2-3
An introduction to stagecraft and stage lighting, including the tools, materials, equipment,
and techniques used for the construction of scenery, properties, and basic lighting for the
stage.

THEA 2800 Fundamentals of Acting 3-0-3
An introduction to the principles of acting, including proper preparation for acting, physical
and vocal control and flexibility, and the analysis and creation of character.

THEA 2810 Basic Stage Movement 1-2-2
The principles of physicalizing characters through movement, by developing a kinesthetic
awareness and an understanding of gesture, bodily expression, and basic unarmed combat.

THEA 2830 Armed Stage Combat 0-2-1
An introduction to the use of weapons on the stage, including swords, knives, and guns, as
well as their application in stage violence and fight choreography.

THEA 2840 Stage Management 2-0-2
An introduction to the principles and practices of stage management; an investigation into
the role of the stage manager in theatre production.

THEA 3010 Oral Interpretation 1-2-2
Prerequisite: THEA 1000. An introduction to the fundamentals of performance-based
activities in oral interpretation emphasizing group, choral, and solo readings. Open as an
elective to all undergraduate majors.

THEA 3020 Theatre Voice 0-2-1
Private instruction in musical theatre vocal techniques. May be repeated for credit.
THEA 3021 Sight Singing and Aural Training in Musical Theatre I 0-2-1
Prerequisite: MUSC 1000. Skills development in sight singing and aural training in relation
to musical theatre.

THEA 3031 Sight Singing and Aural Training in Musical Theatre II 0-2-1
Prerequisite: THEA 3021. Advanced skills development in sight singing and aural training
in relation to musical theatre.

THEA 3090 VSU Interpreters 0-2-1
Performance-based activities in Oral Interpretation emphasizing group performance; choral
and solo readings. Membership open to all VSU undergraduate students. May be repeated
for credit.

THEA 3100 Directed Study 3 to 9 hours credit
Individual instruction for enrichment of advanced majors in their areas of specialization.

THEA 3200 Audition Techniques 0-2-1
Prerequisite: THEA 2800 or approval of the instructor. Theory, technique, and application
of auditions skills for the performer.

THEA 3300 Costume Construction 1-2-2
Introduction to the principles and theory of costume construction for professional theatre
and dance, with practical experience in the basic elements of sewing.

THEA 3500 African American Theatre 3-0-3
A survey of African American theatre from the diaspora to the present.

THEA 3700 Play Analysis for Production 3-0-3
An overview of the major genres of dramatic literature with an emphasis on the impact of
critical evaluation on the work of the director, the actor, and the designer.

THEA 3710 Theatre Performance 1 hour credit
Application of performance techniques in approved VSU theatrical productions. Selection
by audition or approval of the instructor. May be repeated for credit.

THEA 3720 Theatre Production 1 hour credit
Directed experience in technical theatre. Students will participate in the building of scenery
or costumes or the hanging of lights for theatre productions. Course may be repeated for
credit.

THEA 3725 Stage Management Practicum 0-2-1
Directed experience in stage management. Students will apply management techniques in
approved VSU theatrical productions. Course may be repeated for credit.

THEA 3730 Theatre Management Practicum 0-2-1
Prerequisite: Permission of instructor. Directed experiences in theatre management. Students
will participate in box office operations and generate publicity documents and playbills.
The course may be repeated for credit.

THEA 3740 Theatre Management 3-0-3
An investigation of current approaches to theatrical production including budget preparation,
financial management, audience engineering, and promotional techniques used in American
commercial, nonprofit professional, educational, and community theatres.

THEA 3750 Costume History 3-0-3
A survey of costume from ancient Greek to modern times, with emphasis on historically
significant theatrical periods.

THEA 3760 Lighting Design 3-0-3
Prerequisite: THEA 2750 or permission of the instructor. A study of lighting design in
theatrical productions, including the use of color, composition, and instrumentation.

THEA 3770 Costume Design 3-0-3
Prerequisite: THEA 3750. An introduction to the principles and elements of design and
their relation to stage costume. The student will learn how to communicate design choices
both visually and verbally.

THEA 3780 Scene Design 3-0-3
Prerequisite: THEA 2750. A study of scenic design through an exploration of design
principles, art media, and skills necessary for communicating ideas and solutions with theatre
artists.

THEA 3790 Computer-aided Drafting for the Theatre 1-2-2
Prerequisite: THEA 2750. An introduction to theatrical drafting procedures and skills
using computer-aided design software.

THEA 3800 Scene Study 3-0-3
Prerequisite: THEA 2800 or approval of department head. The advanced study of scene
analysis, rehearsal techniques and audition preparation using material primarily from the
Modern Theatre repertory with application of the study in performance situations.

THEA 3880 Theatre History I 3-0-3
Prerequisite: Completion of Area F or approval of department head. The study of the
development of theatre from its origins up to the 18th century with emphasis on dramatic
theory, playwriting styles, theatrical production styles, physical theatres, and the impact of
theatre on society.

THEA 3890 Theatre History II 3-0-3
Prerequisite: Completion of Area F or approval of department head. The study of the
development of theatre from the 18th century to the present with emphasis on dramatic
theory, play writing styles, theatrical production styles, physical theatre, and the impact of
theatre on society.

THEA 3950 Fundamentals of Play Directing 3-0-3
Prerequisites: THEA 2750, THEA 2800, and THEA 2840. The study of the role of the
director in theatrical production, including practical application of theories in classroom
exercises.

THEA 4010 Advanced Oral Interpretation 3-0-3
Application of oral interpretation skills in choral reading and Reader’s Theatre. Emphasis is
placed on the vocalization of the script rather than traditional theatrical staging. Open as an
elective to all VSU undergraduate students.

THEA 4020 Advanced Theatre Voice 0-2-1
Prerequisite: Permission of instructor. Instruction in advanced musical theatre vocal techniques,
musical theatre styles, and musical theatre repertoire. May be repeated for credit.

THEA 4030 Special Topics in Theatre 1 to 3 hours credit
The study of specific topics in theatre not covered in existing courses. May be repeated for
credit if different topics are studied.

THEA 4270 Play Writing 3-0-3
An overview of the principles of writing for theatrical production with primary emphasis on
the development of the structure for both one act and full length play scripts.

THEA 4730 Advanced Makeup Techniques 1-2-2
Prerequisite: THEA 2730 or permission of instructor. Exploration of advanced theatrical
makeup materials and techniques for developing character makeup and for masks.

THEA 4760 Principles of Technical Theatre 3-0-3
Prerequisite: THEA 2750. Advanced study of the principles and techniques of technical
theatre needed to engineer and complete the requirements for a theatrical productions, including
rigging, welding, advanced construction technology, as well as special problems which
arise in the execution of a set design.

THEA 4770 Scene Painting 3-0-3
An introduction to basic scene painting techniques, paint media, and materials.

THEA 4790 Portfolio and Résumé Presentation 1-2-2
Prerequisite: Senior Standing with a major in Theatre. Assembly and presentation of
a portfolio and résumé for professional use. The course is designed to assist the graduating
student in preparation of materials needed for job placement or graduate school admission.

THEA 4800 Period Styles of Acting 3-0-3
Prerequisite: THEA 2800. The study of pre-modern acting styles and application of the
styles in a series of class scene performances.

THEA 4810 Musical Theatre Technique 3-0-3
Prerequisites: THEA 2800 and THEA 3020, or approval of department head. The
advanced study of scene analysis, rehearsal techniques, and audition preparation using materials
from the Musical Theatre repertory with application of the study in performance
situations.

THEA 4900 Children’s Theatre and Creative Dramatics 3-0-3
A survey of the development of theatre for young people, recreational drama, and creative
dramatics with emphasis on critical and dramatic literature, and applied techniques in working
with child performers and audiences.

THEA 4960 Internship in Musical Theatre 3 hours credit
Prerequisite: Acceptance by audition. The placement of students in apprentice and intern
positions in professional musical theatres.

THEA 4970 Internship in Theatre 3 to 9 hours credit
Prerequisite: Senior Standing. The placement of students in apprentice and intern
positions in professional environments.

THEA 4980 Theatre Tour 3 hours credit
The placement of students in touring positions conducted in a professionally oriented environment
and involving the preparation and presentation of productions for regional and/or
local audiences. This placement is to enlarge the student’s professionalism. Admission to the
tour is by audition only.


Dance Courses


DANC 1500 Introduction to Dance 3-0-3
A general survey and appreciation of dance as an art form, an introduction to dance history
and a critical evaluation of dance.

DANC 1600 Ballet I 1-2-2
Basic techniques and theories of classical ballet. Emphasizes body placement, awareness,
strength, stretch, and terminology. May be repeated for credit.

DANC 1700 Modern Dance I 1-2-2
Basic modern dance techniques and theories. May be repeated for credit.

DANC 1900 Tap Dance I 1-2-2
Basic skills in tap dancing. May be repeated for credit.

DANC 2600 Ballet II 2-2-3
Prerequisite: DANC 1600 or approval of department head. A continuation of Ballet I
(DANC 1600). May be repeated for credit.

DANC 2700 Modern Dance II 2-2-3
Prerequisite: DANC 1700 or approval of department head. A continuation of Modern
I (DANC 2600). May be repeated for credit.

DANC 2800 Jazz Dance I 1-2-2
Basic jazz dance techniques and theories. May be repeated for credit.

DANC 2900 Tap Dance II 1-2-2
Prerequisite: DANC 1900. A continuation of Tap Dance I (DANC 1900). May be
repeated for credit.

DANC 2910 Social Dance 0-2-1
Introduction to history, terms, positions and movements. Psychomotor instruction in social
dance forms from the turn of the century to the present.

DANC 2920 Dance Improvisation 0-2-1
An introduction to dance improvisation. Movement studies will be based on modern dance
techniques and theories.

DANC 3000 Dance Composition 2-2-3
Prerequisite: DANC 1600 or DANC 1700 or approval of department head. The study
of the tools of dance composition, creating individual and group studies, and solving dance
composition problems.

DANC 3100 Choreography 2-2-3
Prerequisite: DANC 3000 or approval of department head. An application of the
fundamentals of dance composition to choreographic projects. Emphasis is also placed on
exploring, analyzing, and experimenting with problems in dance performance and production.

DANC 3200 Dance Ensemble 0-4-2
Prerequisite: Audition by instructor. A select ensemble emphasizing group and solo
performance. May be repeated for a total of 6 credit hours.

DANC 3300 Special Topics in Dance 1 to 3 hours credit
The study of specific topics in dance not covered in existing courses. May be repeated for
credit if different topics are studied.

DANC 3410 Dance History 3-0-3
A broad survey of dance history with emphasizes on the impact of dance on society from
primitive times to the present.

DANC 3420 Music Analysis for Dancers 1-2-2
Prerequisite: Any 2000-level DANC course. A study of rhythm, accompaniment, and
music resources for dance.

DANC 3500 Teaching Dance Technique 1-2-2
Prerequisites: Training in intermediate dance forms, DANC 2700, DANC 2800, and
DANC 2600, or approval or instructor. Methodology in teaching dance techniques and
theories within the context of elementary through college dance education. The course includes
instruction in and application of dance lesson planning and practice teaching in a
variety of genres.

DANC 3600 Ballet III 2-2-3
Prerequisite: DANC 2600 or approval of department head. A continuation of Ballet II
with emphasis on developing the refined movements of ballet techniques and theories. May
be repeated for credit.

DANC 3700 Modern Dance III 2-2-3
Prerequisite: DANC 2700 or approval of department head. A continuation of Modern
Dance II with emphasis on developing advanced skills in modern techniques and theories.
May be repeated for credit.

DANC 3800 Jazz Dance II 2-2-3
Prerequisite: DANC 2800 or approval of department head. A continuation of Jazz
Dance I. May be repeated for credit.

DANC 3910 Social Dance II 1-2-2
Prerequisite: DANC 2910 or instructor head. A continuation of Social Dance, with an
emphasis on developing advanced skills for the performance-oriented student.

DANC 4000 Pointe and Variation 1-2-2
Prerequisite: DANC 3600 or approval of department head. The study of pointe technique,
the teaching of specific classical ballet variations and partnering skills for both the
male and female dancer. May be repeated for credit.

DANC 4010 Dance Kinesiology 3-0-3
Prerequisites: Completion of DANC courses in Area F: DANC 1600, DANC 1700,
DANC 2800, DANC 2920. An intensive study in the field of dance science. Emphasis is
placed on principles of kinesiology applied to dance movement, anatomical analysis, conditioning,
and injury prevention. Special attention will be given to the application of information
to technique class, rehearsal, choreography, and individual anomalies.

DANC 4020 Conditioning and Wellness for Dance 3-0-3
Prerequisite: DANC 4010 or permission of instructor. An in-depth study of dance
science principles addressing conditioning and wellness techniques specific to dance. This
course includes both physical and cognitive components.

DANC 4600 Ballet IV 2-2-3
Prerequisite: DANC 3600 or permission of instructor. A continuation of Ballet III, with
an emphasis on developing advanced skills in ballet techniques and theories. May be repeated
for credit.

DANC 4700 Modern Dance IV 2-2-3
Prerequisite: DANC 3700 or permission of instructor. A continuation of Modern Dance
III, with an emphasis on developing advanced skills in modern dance techniques and theories.
May be repeated for credit.

DANC 4800 Jazz Dance III 2-2-3
Prerequisite: DANC 3800 or permission of instructor. A continuation of Jazz Dance II.
May be repeated for credit.

DANC 4900 Directed Study in Dance 1-9 hours credit
Individual instruction for enrichment of advanced majors in their areas of specialization. This
course may be repeated for up to 9 hours of credit.