Theories of Mass Communication is a required course for Communication majors in the mass communication concentration. This course is also a prerequisite for COMM 450 and COMM 424. Students will generally enroll in this course in their junior year.
Theories of Mass Communication is designed to give students an overview of the theories of the field that describe the structure and process of mass communication. Theories of the effects of mass communication are the focus of COMM 450, Mass Media Effects.
The course material begins with an overview of the history of our field, focusing on how the role of mass communication in society and policy has shaped our theories. We will also explore theories that deal with mass media channels, how mass and interpersonal communication intersect, theories of media and society, and various theories that deal with the production of media content.