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Year Course ID Course
2026-2027 MCOM 351

Business & Technical Writing

This workshop course offers students effective techniques for written and oral communication within the fields of business and industry, including key aspects of technical correspondence, report writing, oral communication, and the job-seeking process.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): ENGL 103, 104; MCOM 191, and at least third-year standing or instructor's consent
NB: Course fee
2026-2027 MCOM 352

Multimedia Journalism

A hands-on seminar that explores the use of text, images, sound, video, data and graphics to tell stories in an engaging way. Students will leverage digital tools, social media platforms, and research to inform, educate or entertain. The course explores historical aspects, storytelling structures, design concepts, ethical issues, writing styles, and the business of media.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): MCOM 231 and 251, or instructor's consent
NB: Lab fee
2026-2027 MCOM 354

Sports Journalism

A survey of the principles, practices, and ethical considerations of sports journalism with emphasis on newsgathering, storytelling, editing, audience consideration, and Canadian Press Style. Students apply skills in the university sports context to meet real deadlines and gain from peer critique.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): Third-year standing and instructor's consent
NB: Strongly recommend one of MCOM 221, 251, 261 or 352. Writing samples may be required for instructor’s consent.
Cross-listed: HKIN 384
2026-2027 MCOM 355

Content Strategy & Brand Journalism

Equips students to communicate effectively for a variety of organizations by designing content strategies and practicing content marketing. Students will develop strategic communication skills and procedures such as building editorial calendars, crafting multi-platform brand stories, and using performance metrics to assess the effectiveness of their work, all done within a strong and clearly articulated ethical framework.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): MCOM 252.
2026-2027 MCOM 361

Screenwriting

This course introduces students to the history, art, and craft of cogent short-form film and television writing. It involves theoretical and applied components. Topics include: concept, conflict, and character development, writing treatments, structure and plot point crafting, genre considerations, theme and character dynamics, mood and stylistic concerns, etc. Selective scripts from the course may be used in advanced production courses.

Course Credits: 3
NB: Lab fee
2026-2027 MCOM 362

Playwriting

Playwriting is a workshop course designed for any student interested in developing their storytelling skills by writing for the stage. Students will study major components of playwriting, including dramatic formatting, structure, plot and character development, writing actionable dialogue, analysis, dramaturgy, and more. Students will deepen their understanding of these components and of the creative process through writing exercises, pitching ideas, reading work out loud, and respectfully providing and receiving feedback. By the end of the semester, students will have written one or more plays.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): Upper-level standing
Cross-listed: THTR 325
2026-2027 MCOM 369

Adventures in Narrative Non-Fiction

What makes this story so good? Compelling magazine and newspaper writing employs narrative nonfiction's creative tools to bring true stories to life. In this intermediate workshop-style course, students analyze examples of the best published memoir, personal narrative, travel writing, and immersion journalism to interpret the author's craft and formulate aesthetic principles to apply to their own creative work. Students will write several pieces in a variety of non-fiction genres; critique each other's work; revise their own; and perform one piece during the Festival of the Arts, Media + Culture.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): MCOM 251 or 261; or ENGL 207 or 208; or instructor's consent (writing samples may be required)
NB: Course fee. Fulfils University core requirement for aesthetic and performance inquiry. Fulfils theory and criticism requirement for Media + Communication major.
2026-2027 MCOM 371

Relational Communication

This course provides an in-depth look at communication in close relationships. The course begins with models of relational communication and proceeds with self- and other perceptions, verbal and nonverbal strategies and rituals, then the larger processes of communication in developing, sustaining, struggling, and ending relationships. Three featured topics include the role of conflict, verbal abuse, and personal style as factors in close relationships.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): At least third-year standing
NB: Course fee
2026-2027 MCOM 372

Cross-Cultural Communication

This course is about the nature of cross-cultural interaction. Cultural concepts and contexts are explored through taxonomies, theories, and comparative analysis. Through in-class and out-of-class activities, students become self-aware and other-aware. Students also experiment with cultural behaviours and cultural change, aiming to increase both explanatory and predictive cultural knowledge, and enhance behavioural competencies.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): Registration preference given to Media + Communication majors, concentrations, or minors; Inter-Cultural Religious Studies, and International Studies programs
NB: Fulfils University core requirement for social and global inquiry.
Cross-listed: ANTH 302
2026-2027 MCOM 373

Classical & Contemporary Rhetoric

The rhetoric of classical Greece and Rome, the medieval era, and modern and postmodern approaches to rhetorical practice are surveyed in relation to political, social, and mass media contexts and practices.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): Third- or fourth-year standing
NB: Fulfils theory and criticism requirement for Media + Communication majors.
2026-2027 MCOM 381

Debate & Argumentation

The study of argumentation theory as applied in the practice of debate for the careful analysis and advancement of propositions regarding important contemporary issues. Students participate in two one-on-one debates and one two-on-two debate.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): MCOM 281 or instructor's consent
NB: May fulfil department public speaking requirement with consent of department chair.
2026-2027 MCOM 390

Advanced Selected Topics in Media & Communication

Topics vary from year to year.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): Varies with topic
NB: Possible fee
2026-2027 MCOM 391

Communication Field Placement

This field placement provides students with a work-and-learn experience in the field of media and communication, both on or off campus. In addition to their workplace experience, practica students meet regularly as a class to explore workplace issues and communication challenges. Class sessions are formatted as a professional workshop, whereby students demonstrate leadership skills in public speaking, visual presentation, and group interaction. Course assignments require students to respond to reflective questions about their own communication strengths and personal development as emerging professionals.

Course Credits: 1
Prerequisite(s): Second-year standing or above
NB: Open only to Media + Communication majors, concentrations, and minors; and students working with student media (i.e., student newspaper, student yearbook, student video yearbook). Only 3 sem. hrs. apply toward the major; others go to electives for a maximum total of 8 sem. hrs.
2026-2027 MCOM 392

Communication Field Placement

This field placement provides students with a work-and-learn experience in the field of media and communication, both on or off campus. In addition to their workplace experience, practica students meet regularly as a class to explore workplace issues and communication challenges. Class sessions are formatted as a professional workshop, whereby students demonstrate leadership skills in public speaking, visual presentation, and group interaction. Course assignments require students to respond to reflective questions about their own communication strengths and personal development as emerging professionals.

Course Credits: 2
Prerequisite(s): Second-year standing or above
NB: Open only to Media + Communication majors, concentrations, and minors; and students working with student media (i.e., student newspaper, student yearbook, student video yearbook). Only 3 sem. hrs. apply toward the major; others go to electives for a maximum total of 8 sem. hrs.
2026-2027 MCOM 393

Communication Field Placement

This field placement provides students with a work-and-learn experience in the field of media and communication, both on or off campus. In addition to their workplace experience, practica students meet regularly as a class to explore workplace issues and communication challenges. Class sessions are formatted as a professional workshop, whereby students demonstrate leadership skills in public speaking, visual presentation, and group interaction. Course assignments require students to respond to reflective questions about their own communication strengths and personal development as emerging professionals.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): Second-year standing or above
NB: Open only to Media + Communication majors, concentrations, and minors; and students working with student media (i.e., student newspaper, student yearbook, student video yearbook). Only 3 sem. hrs. apply toward the major; others go to electives for a maximum total of 8 sem. hrs.
2026-2027 MCOM 395

Central America Field Study

This experiential and interdisciplinary course fosters interaction with diverse physical and human environments. It provides exposure to the region's history, religions, politics, and socioeconomic realities that shape the communication and cultures of Central America, and introduces students to cross-cultural communication.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): Second-year standing or instructor's consent
Cross-listed: GENV 395
2026-2027 MCOM 396

East Africa Field Study

This experiential and interdisciplinary course fosters interaction with diverse physical and human environments. It provides exposure to the region's history, religions, politics, and socioeconomic realities that shape the communication and cultures of East Africa and introduces students to cross-cultural communication.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): Second-year standing or instructor's consent
Cross-listed: GENV 396
2026-2027 MCOM 399

Communication Theory in Everyday Life

An intermediate-level study of contemporary theories in communication with an eye to their applicability for observation, explanation, and evaluation of everyday communication. Students learn to pose questions and answers in theory construction regarding communication issues, processes and outcomes.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): At least second-year standing
NB: Fulfils theory and criticism requirement for Media + Communication major.
2026-2027 MCOM 411

Media, Culture & Criticism

A seminar investigating the cultural environment in which we live as the context of all communication. Selected media within contemporary culture are explored in terms of their contribution to the postmodern age.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): Third- or fourth-year standing
NB: Fulfils theory and criticism requirement for Media + Communication majors.
2026-2027 MCOM 412

Masters of Cinema

This seminar focuses on key filmmakers who have been highly influential in the development and expression of thought-provoking narrative and non-narrative cinema, including documentary and animation. As such, it focuses on a broad array of filmmakers, styles, and genres as students explore the way cinematic structure, stylistics, aesthetics, and techniques creates a deeper understanding of life. Filmmakers studied include masters from Hollywood, Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.

Course Credits: 3
NB: Viewing fee. Fulfils theory and criticism requirement for Media + Communication majors.
2026-2027 MCOM 421

Digital Recording II

Advanced study and practice of the technologies pertaining to professional digital recording.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): MCOM 323/MUSI 340 or instructor's consent
NB: Lab fee
Cross-listed: MUSI 341
2026-2027 MCOM 422

Digital Film Directing

This course introduces students to the history, theory, and craft of digital film directing. As a workshop, it involves critical, and applied components. Topics include the multiple roles of the director, scene, and script analysis, creating potent production concepts, creative cinematics and techniques, auditioning, and working with actors. Key components of the course include shooting monologues, scenes, and making a short film.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): MCOM 221 or instructor's consent
NB: Not offered every year.
2026-2027 MCOM 451

Public Relations Writing

An advanced course that focuses on the style and technique of writing for public relations and corporate communication. Students discover the dynamics of strategic and persuasive writing while creating key pieces such as brochures, ads, newsletters, and press releases. Opportunity is given to create a communications package for a public relations client.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): MCOM 252 or 261; or instructor's consent
NB: Course fee
2026-2027 MCOM 452

Feature Writing for Newspapers & Magazines

Building on skills developed in MCOM 251 or 261, students study the best in magazine and newspaper feature writing and produce several pieces of their own with the intent of publishing their work.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): MCOM 251 or 261; ENGL 103, 104, and third- or fourth-year standing
NB: Fulfils theory and criticism requirement for Media + Communication majors.
2026-2027 MCOM 453

Editing for Newspapers & Magazines

Building on skills introduced in MCOM 251, 261, or 452, students learn the art of editing for magazines and newspapers. Students study examples of published magazines and newspapers (both print and online), write and edit a piece of their own with the intent to publish their work, and apply their knowledge to pieces submitted for publication in a student publication to be created around this course.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): MCOM 251 or 261 or 452; or ENGL 103 and 104; or ENGL 207 or 208; or instructor's consent (writing samples may be required)
NB: Course fee
2026-2027 MCOM 460

Public Relations Strategy Capstone

Brings together the public relations and strategic communication curriculum in a client-based campaign project. Working in teams that simulate a professional agency setting, students research a real organization’s communication challenge, identify key audience groups, develop clearly defined and measurable objectives, and create an integrated communication strategy that supports the organization’s goals. The course emphasizes evidence-informed planning, including formative research, audience and message analysis, channel selection across paid, earned, shared, and owned media, as well as ethical and legal considerations, budget development, timelines, and evaluation methods.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): MCOM 252 and third-year standing.
2026-2027 MCOM 461

On the Road: Travel & Adventure Journalism

Explore the world of travel journalism and adventure writing. In this senior workshop course, students will critique each other’s work and read, discuss, and analyze travel literature to understand its roots and conventions. Students need not be world travelers to write their own travel-based essays: their unique observations, voice, and writing ability all contribute to make a good story, even in their own backyards. Builds on storytelling techniques, critical theory, and application of aesthetic principles acquired in introductory and intermediate courses in narrative nonfiction.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): MCOM 251 or 261; or instructor's consent
2026-2027 MCOM 469

Professional Writing Capstone

Serves as opportunity for students to bring diverse learning and skills from across their program in order to research, write and/or carry out a senior creative thesis, portfolio, or publishing project in literary journalism or narrative nonfiction. Students gain skills in curation, editing, project management, aesthetic research methodology, and integrative and performative thinking. Students will gain deeper scholarly and professional understanding of aesthetic research methodology, and integrative and performative thinking. Students will gain deeper scholarly and professional understanding of aesthetic considerations in communication, forge professional and academic contacts, and demonstrate mastery of relevant theory, principles, and writing strategies. The course concludes with a public performance to peers, faculty, and professional leaders.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): Students must be majoring in Media + Communication (Professional Writing Stream) and have third- or fourth-year standing
NB: Course fee. Required of students majoring in the Professional Writing stream or minor. May be taken by other students with instructor's consent (sample writing may be required).
2026-2027 MCOM 471

Persuasive Communication

This course investigates the art, science, and practice of persuasive communication in its many forms and contexts. It examines theories and research in human influence and how language, images, and non-verbal cues can mold people's attitudes and actions. There is opportunity to carry out a social science project in interpersonal or mediated persuasion, and to seriously consider the ethical implications of one's persuasive efforts.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): MCOM 171, or instructor's consent, and at least third-year standing
NB: Fulfils theory and criticism requirement for Media + Communication majors.
2026-2027 MCOM 472

Leadership Communication in Multi-Cultural Contexts

Students explore the complexities of leadership communication in multi-cultural, non-western contexts through topics such as gender and social structures, motivation, decision-making, negotiating conflict, and managing projects and change. The course draws on leadership theories, metaphors, and global leadership research to define culturally preferred leadership attributes and behaviours, and effective cross-cultural communication in comparative global settings.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): MCOM 372
NB: Fulfils theory and criticism requirement for Media + Communication majors.
2026-2027 MCOM 473

Women, Communication & Leadership

This course focuses on central current themes in the study of women in positions of power and leadership in Western society. Students focus on gendered communication patterns and tendencies, specifically concerning women in positions of influence in politics and media.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): At least third-year standing, and/or instructor's consent
NB: Not offered every year.
2026-2027 MCOM 474

Language & Gender

A survey course of the central themes in the study of gender-differentiated language use, such as differences in conversational practice, conversational differences in mixed talk and single-sex talk, as well as the complexity in intimate talk between men and women.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): LING 210 or PSYC 315 or third- or fourth-year Media + Communication standing
NB: Not offered every year.
2026-2027 MCOM 475

Communication & Diversity

This seminar style class explores various and complex dimensions of diversity and inclusion in the workplace and in society. Students examine the barriers to professional advancement that are faced by non-mainstream groups. The course proposes an Inclusive Workplace Model and effective communication for managing complexity, engaging diversity, navigating difference, and removing obstacles to inclusion and to organizational effectiveness and growth.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): At least third-year standing
2026-2027 MCOM 479

Leadership Communication Capstone

Students bring diverse learning and skills from across their program in order to research and write and/or carry out a senior thesis or organizational project in leadership or strategic communication. Students gain skills in project management, research methodology, and integrative thinking in order to collect social scientific data, advance complex arguments, and/or help an organization achieve its communication goals. Students will gain deeper scholarly and professional understanding of communication, forge professional and academic contacts, and demonstrate mastery of relevant theory, principles and writing strategies. Students conclude the course with a public presentation to peers, faculty, and professional leaders regarding the main project.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): Third- or fourth-year standing
NB: Required of all students majoring in Media + Communication (Leadership Stream).
2026-2027 MCOM 490

Directed Studies in Media & Communication

Students are required to produce an outline of the topics to be studied in consultation with the instructor. A course of reading and writing is pursued according to the approved outline.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): 12 sem. hrs. lower level Media + Communication courses and instructor's consent
NB: In keeping with University policy, students are not allowed to do a directed study in a course currently offered by the Media + Communication Department. May fulfil special program requirements depending on nature of studies.
2026-2027 MCOM 491

Transformational Development & Leadership

The course provides opportunity for the articulation of transformational leadership (both cultural and personal). It requires leaders to communicate their vision of growth and opportunity. Students gain insight into effective leadership communication as they examine the worldviews, history, and economic challenges in developing nations (in East Africa and Central America). This course explores underlying cultural and faith-based worldviews by means of an interdisciplinary travel study. Specifically, the course explores social and humanitarian responses to critical social issues in the Global South. Through readings, lectures (including field practitioners and experts), and field experiences, students are exposed to the complex nature of human problems and social responses. Students seek to understand critical social issues in light of cultural, environmental, economic, political, and historical frameworks. Of particular interest is the manner in which religious worldview shapes one's response to the disadvantaged, and how the transformational model informs leadership behaviour and the development process.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): Upper-level standing (minimum of 70 sem. hrs.) and instructor's consent
NB: Fulfils University core requirement for social and global inquiry. For the Kenya travel study, students may take this alone or as a second course.
Cross-listed: IDIS 450
2026-2027 MCS 809

MACS Project Proposal

Guides students through the development of a proposal for the Master of Arts in Christian Studies graduating project requirement. Students prepare a proposal for either an integrative research paper or an applied project, demonstrating focused topic selection, appropriate methodology, and alignment with program learning outcomes in preparation for MCS 810.

Course Credits: 0
Cross-listed: MCM 809
2026-2027 MCS 810

MACS Graduating Project

Program capstone designed to integrate the theological, biblical, and ministry formation components of the Master of Arts in Christian Studies. Students complete either an integrative research paper or an applied project that demonstrates synthesis of program learning outcomes and the ability to apply theological understanding within a chosen area of specialization.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): MCS 809
2026-2027 MTH 810

ThM Major Research Paper

Produces a focused major research paper developed in conjunction with an advanced elective within the student’s area of theological specialization. The course supports the formulation of a defined research question, engagement with relevant scholarly literature, and completion of a sustained academic paper that integrates prior coursework and disciplinary methods. Research parameters and objectives are established in consultation with the supervising faculty member and aligned with program guidelines for advanced theological research and writing. (Both the elective course and the paper must be passed in order to receive credit for the paper.)

Course Credits: 1
2026-2027 MTH 811

ThM Integrative Paper Prep

Prepares students for the completion of the ThM integrative paper through guided research design, methodological clarification, and project planning. The course supports refinement of an integrative research question, development of a coherent proposal, and articulation of scope, structure, and sources appropriate to advanced theological inquiry. Students work in consultation with faculty to finalize an approved integrative paper plan that demonstrates readiness for sustained capstone-level research and writing.

Course Credits: 0
2026-2027 MTH 812

ThM Integrative Paper

Produces an integrative research paper that synthesizes advanced theological learning across the student’s program of study. The course guides students in formulating a focused integrative question, drawing together coursework, scholarly literature, and disciplinary perspectives to construct a sustained academic argument. The integrative paper demonstrates advanced research, critical analysis, and theological reflection through coherent written presentation and scholarly engagement appropriate to capstone-level study.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): MTH 811.
2026-2027 MTS 831

MATS Thesis I

Develop a formal thesis proposal that defines a focused research question within biblical, theological, or historical studies. The course guides students in refining topic scope, conducting advanced literature review, articulating methodology, and establishing a viable research plan under faculty supervision. Emphasis is placed on proposal coherence, scholarly engagement, and readiness for sustained thesis research.

Course Credits: 3
2026-2027 MTS 832

MATS Thesis II

Conduct sustained thesis research and produce substantial written chapters under faculty supervision. Building on the approved proposal, students engage primary and secondary sources, refine argumentation, and develop the central structure of the thesis. Emphasis is placed on scholarly depth, methodological consistency, and iterative drafting in preparation for thesis completion.

Course Credits: 3
Prerequisite(s): MTS 831
2026-2027 MTS 833

MATS Thesis III

Complete, revise, and submit a single, final thesis that demonstrates advanced scholarly competence within biblical, theological, or historical studies. Students finalize argumentation, integrate revisions, and prepare the thesis for formal evaluation under faculty supervision. Successful completion of this course signifies fulfillment of the MATS thesis requirement.

Course Credits: 2
Prerequisite(s): MTS 832
2026-2027 MUSA 101

Repertory & Studio

A performance class for students of applied music for the purpose of gaining experience in public performance and increasing knowledge of music literature. Required of all music majors in six semesters of the program; recommended for declared music and music education minors and concentrators.

Course Credits: 1
2026-2027 MUSA 102

Repertory & Studio

A performance class for students of applied music for the purpose of gaining experience in public performance and increasing knowledge of music literature. Required of all music majors in six semesters of the program; recommended for declared music and music education minors and concentrators.

Course Credits: 1
Prerequisite(s): MUSA 101
2026-2027 MUSA 110

Private Voice Lesson

For first-year Music majors or others with substantial previous instruction.

Course Credits: 2
2026-2027 MUSA 111

Private Voice Lesson

For first-year Music majors or others with substantial previous instruction.

Course Credits: 1, 2
2026-2027 MUSA 120

Private Keyboard Lesson

For first-year Music majors or others with substantial previous instruction.

Course Credits: 1, 2
2026-2027 MUSA 121

Private Keyboard Lesson

For first-year Music majors or others with substantial previous instruction.

Course Credits: 1, 2