COURSE DESCRIPTIONS:
Theatre
THEA 111: Introduction to Theatre
3 credits
A foundations course which specifically considers Theatre as a Liberal Art, focusing on
theatre as a multi cultural phenomenon.
THEA 112: Scene Technology
3 credits
An examination of the technologies and practices of theatrical production. Emphasis is given
to the interrelationship of the production team and the processes by which theatre is created.
THEA 140: Fundamentals of Acting
3 credits
A laboratory course exploring the fundamental craft of acting. Development of skills in
creativity, improvisation, imagination, concentration, and text analysis.
THEA 211: Analysis of Dramatic Literature
3 credits
An examination of traditional and non-traditional models of theatrical analysis. Emphasis on
creative problem solving, critical and analytical thinking with an eye toward creating theatre.
(Writing intensive)
THEA 212: Issues in Theatre History
3 credits
An historiographical survey of the forces which have created theatrical forms. Emphasis on
Aesthetic, Social, Political, and Economic influences.
THEA 221: Voice and Diction
3 credits
A practical examination of the voice as a communicative tool. Emphasis on vocal flexibility,
breathing, vocal expansion, and a working understanding of the phonetic alphabet.
THEA 251: Principles of Design
3 credits
An exploration of the fundamental principles of design: space, time, composition, etc.
Emphasis on creative problem solving and aesthetic development.
THEA 252: Costume and Makeup Techniques
3 credits
This course is designed to introduce the student to the basic materials and techniques of
theatrical stage makeup. Emphasis will be on basic application of two-dimensional makeup,
analysis of character as it relates to physical appearance, the development of a makeup
portfolio and morgue, and exposure to more advanced three-dimensional techniques. An
examination of costume as part of the character mask completes the overview.
THEA 310: Principles of Play Directing
3 credits
A laboratory exploration of the directing process from play selection and analysis to rehearsal
techniques. Emphasis on developing leadership qualities, communication skills, and aesthetic
sensitivity.
THEA 331: Writing for the Stage and Screen
3 credits
Practical writing experience at transferring ideas into written dramatic forms, including
playwriting and critical writing.
THEA 390-399: Special Topics/Electives/Independent Study
1-3 credits
Specialty and elective courses offered on a rotating basis: Modern and Contemporary Drama
and Theatre, Stage Combat, Make-up and Costuming, Advanced Acting, Light Design,
Theatre Management, Rehearsal and Performance, Musical Theater, etc.
THEA 400: Theatre Research and Thesis
3 credits
Prerequisite: COMM 350 or THEA 421, Senior status required.
THEA 421: Theatre Criticism
3 credits
A capstone course focusing on ethical, moral, and aesthetic issues. Emphasis on both written
and oral application of the principles of criticism to specific problems.
Communication Arts
COMM 111: Introduction to Electronic Media
3 credits, Fall
A survey of the technological and programming history of Electronic Media inclusive of
government, social opinion, and advertising influences from the beginning to present.
COMM 112: Electronic Media Programming
3 credits, Spring
A study of the theory and technique of programming for radio, television, and internet.
Topics include the design and implementation of radio formats and television program
schedules with a focus on the marketing and managerial aspects of the program executive's
role in station operations.
COMM 161: Practicum in Media and Theatre
2 credits, Fall
Practicum is a "hands on" class in which the students gain one credit for planned discussion
sessions and project-based experience in theatre, radio, video and new media. The course will
introduce the first time student to the inner workings of "department people" and
"department projects." The student will begin the process of portfolio development, take part
in departmental activities, and participate in a final production.
COMM 162: Practicum in Media and Theatre
1 credit
Students gain one credit for practical hands-on experience in media and theater activities on and
off campus under the direct supervision of the department's faculty and staff members.
COMM 211: Television Production
3 credits
A skills orientation in the basic technological considerations of television studio production
inclusive of camera operation, lighting, audio, graphics, special effects, switching, and non-
linear editing.
COMM 230: Television and Radio Performance
3 credits
A practice in the skills of basic performance and broadcast styles, ranging from news and
interview formats to dramatic presentation, emphasizing specific talent problems.
COMM 241: Digital Audio Production
3 credits
A study of audio mixing and editing techniques in commercials, promos, and news
applications. Professional material from the RAB will be used in class.
COMM 250: WERGi
3 credits
The purpose of this course is to develop skills in online/digital media production and
performance. Through planning, writing, production, performance and feedback, the student
will be able to build a portfolio of quality audio work. This course involves a skill orientation
in the basic technological considerations of digital audio production, inclusive of computers,
microphones, on-air work, special effects, and editing. There is an additional emphasis on the
process of radio show preparation and quality air shift production.
Prerequisites: COMM 241
COMM 262: Practicum in Media and Theatre
1 credit
Students gain one credit for practical hands-on experience in media and theater activities on
and off campus under the direct supervision of the department's faculty and staff members.
COMM 321: Broadcast Copywriting
3 credits
A study of the forms and formats of material suitable for both radio and television with an analysis
of selected problems in the commercial uses of the media; practice in selection, adaptation and
organization of content and production materials such as film, slides and graphics.
COMM 330: Corporate Video
3 credits
A survey of the growing uses of video for instructional, institutional, corporate, and public
access applications. The emphasis will be on the planning, scriptwriting, production and
computer editing of these non-broadcast forms. The editing system software used is "Adobe
Premiere Pro".
Prerequisite: COMM 211 TV Prod
COMM 341: Media Management
3 credits
A study of the basic principles of management theory as they apply specifically to broadcast
station organization, programming, sales, engineering, and the broadcast regulatory
environment using both lecture and case study approaches.
COMM 350: Media Ethics and Criticism
3 credits
An historical consideration of public opinion and the major media critics of the electronic
media with practical writing experience in evaluating network television and local radio.
Prerequisite: Junior/Senior status
COMM 356: Digital Graphics
3 credits
Digital Graphics is an exploration of the theories and skills required for visual electronic
communication. Using traditional and non-traditional studio techniques, the student will
produce a portfolio of electronic imagery. Through this accumulation of sensitivities and
skills, the student will be able to effectively and efficiently produce messages for the electronic
media. (Requirement for Internet Services minor.)
COMM 357: Animation
3 credits
Animation class is designed to explore the area of visual communication in the digital media,
specifically the areas of vector graphics and motion. Through the exploration of various
fundamental animation techniques, the student will create a portfolio of moving images and
text. Through the accumulation of sensitivities and skills in creating animated visuals, the
student will be able to communicate, effectively and efficiently, in the digital and electronic
medium.
COMM 358: Digital Drawing
3 credits
Digital Drawing is a drawing class designed to explore the area of visual communication in the
digital media. The student will use both pencil and digital stylus to create images. In addition,
the student will explore the relationship between the "objective of the communication" and its
influence on the plan for the image. The student will create a portfolio of various vector-based
images. The software used is "Adobe Illustrator." Skill in drawing is required. Drawing skill
will be part of the evaluation.
COMM 362: Practicum in Media and Theatre
1 credit
Students can gain one credit for practical hands-on experience in media and theater activities
on and off campus under the direct supervision of the department's faculty and staff
members.
COMM 371: Internet Resource Management
3 credits
A study of the impact of the Internet connected environment on the firm with an eye to
developing strategies for net related productivity and profitability of an organization. This
course serves the Internet Services Minor Program.
COMM 380: Media Law and Regulation
3 credits
A study of the laws and regulations that comprise the legal environment of broadcasting. The
course moves from the historical perspective to current applications of Federal Law and FCC
Rules and Regulations.
COMM 381: Advertising for Electronic Media
A study of skills and theory of Radio and Television advertising salesmanship. Includes
discussion of ratings, rate structures, advertising packages, station promotions and role play
in sales techniques.
COMM 390-394: Special Topics in Radio/TV
1-3 credits
COMM 395-399: Independent Study
1-3 credits
COMM 400: Communication Research and Thesis
Prerequisite: COMM 350 or THEA 421 Senior status required. For majors only.
3 credits
COMM 411: Broadcast Newswriting and Production
3 credits
An examination of the techniques used in writing material for broadcast in contrast to print,
including shaping the spoken message to conform to broadcasting time limitations.
Prerequisite: COMM 211
COMM 490: Professional Internship I in TV/Radio/Theatre
3 credits
A full-semester work experience with a professional communications system. Internships at
other Radio/TV stations and advertising agencies available based on student's interests and
career goals. Requires recommendation of Department Chairman.
COMM 462: Practicum in Media and Theatre
1 credit
Students gain one credit for practical hands-on experience in media and theater activities on
and off campus under the direct supervision of the department's faculty and staff members.
COMM 491: Professional Internship II in TV/Radio/Theatre
3 credits
A full-semester work experience with a professional communications system. Requires
recommendation of Department Chairman.
Speech
SPCH 111: Fundamentals of Speech
3 credits
Procedures of preparing and delivering the public platform speech with emphasis on
personal credibility, physical technique and effective vocal principles.
SPCH 313: Advanced Speech
3 credits
A direct and individualized study of voice production, group discussion and platform procedure.
Prerequisite: SPCH 111
SPCH 322: Argumentation and Debate
3 credits
Practice in the art of rhetoric as it relates to persuasive, logical speech-making.
Prerequisite: SPCH 111
SPCH 390-394: Special Topics in Speech
1-3 credits
Theatre and Communication Arts Curriculum
FRESHMAN
3 College Composition/LENG 111
3 Crit Analysis & Comp/LENG 112
3 Introduction to Philosophy/LPHI 131
3 Speech/SPCH 111
3 LS Science
3 Sacred Scripture/LTHE 121
10 Major Sequence*
1 Electives/Cognates
3 Hist of West & World/LHST 111
32
SOPHOMORE
6 Foreign Language
3 Philosophy II Series/LPHI
3 Theology II Series/LTHE
3 Literature Series/LENG
15 Major Sequence*
2 Cognates/Electives
32
JUNIOR
3 Fine Art Series/LFIN
3 Theology or Phil III Series/LTHE or LPHI
3 Social Science Series
3 Math
17 Major Sequence*
3 Electives/Cognates
32
SENIOR
26 Major Sequence*
6 Cognates/Electives
32
*ComArt Sequence
(Numerals in front of courses indicate credits)
FRESHMAN
3 COMM 111
3 COMM 112
3 Elective/Cognate**
2 Practicum/COMM 161
11
SOPHOMORE
3 COMM 230
3 COMM 211
3 COMM 241
3 THEA 140, 310, 221
3 Elective/Cognate**
15
JUNIOR
3 COMM 321
3 COMM 330
3 ENGL 371
3 COMM 350
5 Electives/Cognates**
17
SENIOR
3 SPCH 313,322
3 COMM 400
20 Electives/Cognates**
26
*Theatre Sequence
FRESHMAN
6 THEA 111-112
3 THEA 140
2 Practicum/COMM 161
11
SOPHOMORE
3 THEA 211
3 THEA 251
3 THEA 212
6 Electives/Cognates**
15
JUNIOR
3 COMM 211, 230 or 241
3 THEA 310
3 THEA 331
8 Electives/Cognates**
17
SENIOR
3 THEA 421
3 THEA 400
20 Electives/Cognates**
26
*Theatre and ComArt Sequence
FRESHMAN
6 THEA 111-112
3 THEA 140
2 Practicum/COMM 161
11
SOPHOMORE
3 THEA 211
3 THEA 140, 221 or COMM 230
3 COMM 211 or 241
6 Elective/Cognate**
15
JUNIOR
3 COMM 321
3 THEA 251, 310 or COMM 330
11 Electives/Cognates**
17
SENIOR
3 THEA 421 or COMM 350
3 THEA 400 or COMM 400
17 Electives/Cognates**
3 COMM 341
26
COGNATES
**NOTE: The student is advised to coordinate the 15 credits of Cognates in order to provide an area of
secondary emphasis based upon the student's interest and career goals. The student may
choose courses from Marketing, Management, Foreign Languages, the Social Sciences,
Earth Science, and English.
Completion of the following 15 credits will satisfy the requirement for a minor in Theatre.
3 Introduction to Theatre/THEA 111
3 Scene Technology/THEA 112
3 Basic Acting or Directing/THEA 140, THEA 310
3 Issues in Theatre History/THEA 212
3 Analysis of Dramatic Literature/THEA 211
15
INTERNET SERVICES MINOR OR CERTIFICATE
The Minor or certificate is an interdisciplinary program administered by the Department of
Theatre, Communications, and Fine Arts. The Internet Manager manages corporate websites,
and is responsible for developing relevant online content.
The Minor or certificate introduces the student to network configuration, interface and graphic
design, software development, business strategy, writing, marketing, and project management.
The Minor or certificate consists of 18 credits in addition to the student's major requirements:
3 Business and Professional Communications/ENGL 212
3 Web Management and Design, and Lab/CIS 240, 241
3 Internet Elective (by approval)
3 Organizational Behavior/MGMT 316
3 Internet Resource Management/COMM 371
3 Digital Graphics/COMM 356
THE NEXT STEP
Baccalaureate Degree Program for Graduates of Two Year Colleges
Communication Arts
(Numerals in front of courses indicate credits)
Pre-Senior Year
3 Intro to Electronic Media/COMM 111
3 TV/Radio Performance/COMM 230
3 TV Production/COMM 211
3 Corporate Video/COMM 330
3 Electronic Media Programming/COMM 112
3 Fundamentals of Speech/SPCH 111
3 Mass Media/ENGL 371
3 Sacred Scripture/LTHE 121
3 Introduction to Philosophy/LPHI 131
3 Theology or Phil III Series/LTHE or LPHI
3 Elective
2 Practicum/COMM 161
35
Senior Year
3 Broadcast Copywriting/COMM 321
3 Digital Audio Production/COMM 241
3 Media Ethics and Criticism/ COMM 350
3 Communication Research and Thesis/COMM 400*
3 Advanced Speech/SPCH 313 or
3 Argumentation and Debate/SPCH 322
3 Fine Art Series/LFIN
3 Literature Series/LENG
3 Theatre/THEA 221/140/310
9 Electives/Cognates/Practicum
33
* fulfills LBST 383 requirement
All students graduating from Humanities must have completed six credits of a Modern
Foreign Language. If a student has not completed 6 credits of a foreign language in the
associate degree program, he or she must complete them as part of the Next Step program.
Students will be permitted to take other courses in substitution for any of the courses listed
above which they satisfactorily completed prior to admission to this program. Students are
required to complete 18 credits in the Core of Discovery Program at Gannon.
Note: Some of these courses are taught on a three-semester rotation so the actual timing may
be changed.
