Courses

A general background in the reading, interpretation, evaluation and criticism of literature in various genres.

Eng-221 Intermediate Writing (3)

A course designed to allow students to experiment with three types of writing: fiction, creative nonfiction, and poetry. Includes study and application of research related to peer writing groups and the process of writing. Prerequisite: ECTA-104 and sophomore standing or permission of department chair. Eng-221 may not be taken simultaneously with Eng-326, 327, or 328.

Eng-231 Studies in the English Language (3)

Studies in the acquisition, development, variation and science of the English language. Prerequisite: ECTA-104.

Eng-324 – The Nebraska Story: Natural History and Writers of Nebraska’s Great Plains (3)

A study of the Natural History of Nebraska and Nebraska authors with an interdisciplinary emphasis on science, literature, and writing. This course will include visits to selected areas of Eastern Nebraska associated with well-known Nebraska writers. Students will participate in first-hand study of the natural history of the areas and visit sites related to the literature and lives of the authors. The course will focus on the effect of the land and its history on the writers as well as on the biological and geological history of the land itself. Students’ writing and photography will be primary means of response to course materials and experience. Same as Bio 324.

Eng-326 Poetry Writing (3)

A course designed to give students the opportunity to write poetry and to read poetry from a writer’s perspective. Emphasis on contemporary poetry and poets as well as student writing, discussion of theories and application of the writing process, and the workshop approach. Prerequisite: ECTA-104 and upper level standing or permission of department chair. May not be taken simultaneously with Eng-221.

Eng-327 Fiction Writing (3)

A course designed to give students experience with the short story. Emphasizes the workshop approach, peer and instructor-student conferences. Students will read contemporary fiction from a writer’s perspective, examining the elements of fiction for application in their own writing. Prerequisite: ECTA-104 and upper level standing or permission of department chair. May not be taken simultaneously with Eng-221.

Eng-328 Creative Nonfiction Writing (3)

A course designed to allow students to explore creative non-fiction, its history, and criticism of the genre. Emphasis on workshop and student writing, reading for application, and peer and student -instructor conferences. Prerequisite: ECTA-104 and upper level standing or permission of department chair. May not be taken simultaneously with Eng-221.

Eng-341 American Literature I (3)

A survey of significant American writers from the colonial period through the 1840s with an emphasis on the interaction of literature, history, and philosophy. Prerequisite: Eng-201.

Eng-342 American Literature II (3)

A survey of significant American writers from the 1840s through 1910 with an emphasis on the interaction of literature, history, and philosophy. Prerequisite: Eng-201.

Eng-343 American Literature III (3)

A survey of significant American writers from 1910 to the present with an emphasis on the interaction of literature and culture. Prerequisite: Eng-201.

Eng-362 British Literature I (3)

A survey of British literature from its Anglo-Saxon beginnings through the medieval and early modern eras. Prerequisite: Eng-201.

Eng-363 British Literature II (3)

A survey of British literature from the Restoration and 18th century through the Romantic era. Prerequisite: Eng-201.

Eng-364 British Literature III (3)

A survey of British literature from the Victorians to the present. Prerequisite: Eng-201.

Eng-366 Shakespeare (3)

A study of representative history plays, comedies, tragedies, and at least one problem play. Prerequisite: Eng-201.

Eng-381 World Literature I (3)

A survey of significant literature from the ancient world, including Greek and Roman writers, on through the 1500s. The course identifies major themes addressed, major structural features advanced, and socio-cultural conditions which were contextual to this time frame. Prerequisite: Eng-201.

Eng-382 World Literature II (3)

A survey of significant literature primarily from the early 1600s into the mid 1800s, including the Enlightenment and Renaissance eras. The course identifies major themes addressed by representative writers of the European tradition, as well as additional world cultures. Several Genres explored. Prerequisite: Eng-201.

Eng-383 Modern Poetry (3)

Study of twentieth century poetry. While the emphasis is on American and British poets, some opportunity exists for examination of poetry from other cultures. Techniques and philosophy of twentieth century poetry. Prerequisite: Eng-201.

Eng-384 World Literature III (3)

A survey of significant literature from a variety of world cultures from the late 1800s into the early 21st century. Included are representative writers from the modern and post-modern eras in developed countries and the developing world. Structural experimentation in these literary works is also explored. Prerequisite: Eng-201.

Eng-385 Psychological and Sociological Analysis of Modern Literature (3)

Study of the twentieth century novel. While the emphasis is on American, British, and continental novelists, some opportunity exists for examination of novels from other cultures. Trends and social implications. Literary analysis and critical essays. Prerequisite: Eng- 201. Same as Psy-385.

Eng-387 Modern and Postmodern Drama (3)

Study of twentieth century drama. While the emphasis is on American, British, and continental dramatists, some opportunity exists for examination of drama from other cultures. Religious, social, and moral ideas expressed in these plays. Prerequisite: Eng-201.

Eng-391 Children’s Literature (3)

A study of literature for children from picture books to elementary-age works. Methods of presenting literature for enjoyment and enlargement of experiences. Prerequisite: Eng-201 and sophomore standing or permission of department chair.

Eng-392 Reading Interests of Adolescents (3)

Reading and discussion of literature appropriate for adolescents. Emphasis on young adult literature. Insights into using literature in the classroom. Prerequisite: Eng-201 and sophomore standing or permission of department chair.

Eng-399 Independent Study

Hours and topics by arrangement. Prerequisite: Eng-201. Students should contact the Office of Career Services to obtain the undergraduate internship/practicum packet and review the required process.

Eng-399 Independent Study (Writing Minor) (3)

The course is designed for individual students interested in completing a major writing project of their choice, selected in consultation with their instructor. Writing options may include: poetry, fiction, drama, professional articles, research projects, devotional/Bible Study materials, or other projects of interest to the student. Prerequisite: ECTA-104. Students should contact the Office of Career Services to obtain the undergraduate internship/practicum packet and review the required process.

Eng-431 English Language and Linguistics (3)

An intensive exploration of the science of language as it is discussed in socio-linguistics, psycholinguistics and historical linguistics. Course includes study of grammar and linguistic philosophy. Prerequisite: Eng-231 and one upper-level English course or permission of department chair.

Eng-491 Issues in Literature for Children and Youth (3)

A contemporary approach to literature for elementary and middle school students. Contemporary issues in literature, including censorship, will be explored. Prerequisite: Eng-201 and upper-level standing or permission of department chair.

Eng-499 Honors Course

Arranged for qualified seniors.

Eng-499 Independent Study - Writing Minor (3)

Internship/professional experience in writing. Students will complete a minimum of 145 hours of on-site work and/or professional writing projects and a major portfolio of writing. Prerequisite: ECTA-104. Students should contact the Office of Career Services to obtain the undergraduate internship/practicum packet and review the required process.

An exploration of the theories and application of oral and written communication in a variety of other settings.

ECTA-350 Special Topics in English, Communication and Theatre [Topic By Announcement] (2–3)

This course offers students the opportunity to take classes in special topic areas in writing, communication, and theatre. Courses are offered in rotation by faculty members with interest and experience in the special topic area. Topics announced in the semester before their offering. Students may take multiple topic areas as appropriate to fulfill elective hours. Prerequisite: ECTA-104 and one additional course in CTA or English.

Students will gain an introduction to hardware and software used by communications professionals for digital photography, desktop publishing, web design, audio editing and video editing. Is a prerequisite for CTA-226 and 242.

CTA-151 Introduction to Dramatic Arts (3)

An introduction to the appreciation of theatre as an international art form which reflects cultural values. Students increase their critical and analytical abilities by reading about theatrical production, and reading, viewing, and performing dramatic literature. They also participate in the production of theatre in an eight-hour lab.

CTA-152 Basic Acting Technique (3)

An introductory acting course which enhances students' communication skills through the study of physical, vocal, analytical and intuitive techniques used in creating a character for theatrical performance.

CTA-153 Theatre History (3)

A survey class that begins with ritual drama and selective Egyptian, Greek and Roman developments of dramatic form. It will include Medieval and Renaissance drama, Neoclassicalism, Romanticism, Realism and other twentieth century genres and styles as they occur in Western Europe and the United States. Contributions of selected Asian and African theatre forms and Native American dance drama will be also introduced.

CTA-154 Creative Drama (3)

Dramatic exercises and improvisation for personal development and procedures for leading creative drama in classroom, parish, and other group settings.

CTA-200 Forensics (3)

An overview of competitive speech events, argumentation, debate and practice. Students are required to prepare for competitive speaking and will study issues related to practice, coaching, research, budgeting and tournament administration and practice.

CTA-203 Communication Theory (3)

Course features an overview of communication theory from the classical tradition to current theoretical approaches in human communication. In addition, the course will offer in-depth study in one of the following areas: instructional communication, organizational communication, mass communication theory, interpersonal communication and rhetorical theory. Special topics will be announced by the instructor prior to registration in accord with the instructor’s special interests and in consultation with prospective registrants. Location, analysis and application of research is a focus of the course. Prerequisite: ECTA-104.

CTA-205 Adult Development and Aging (3)

Overviews issues of biological, sociological, psychological, and communicative development across the adult lifespan. Reviews the implications of adult development and aging for programs and services, ministry/church, marketing, policy, and business. Same as Gero-205.

CTA-211 Public Speaking (3)

Students develop fundamental skills in the art of public speaking through the preparation and presentation of speeches designed for a variety of occasions, audiences, and situations. Skills of organization, delivery, and speech criticism developed. Included also is a study of the rules of parliamentary procedure that govern effective group leadership. Prerequisite: ECTA-104 or one year of classroom public speaking in high school.

CTA-225 Writing and Reporting (3)

Students will learn about the principles and techniques of news gathering and writing by reporting on stories of interest to the campus community. Students will also explore ethical guidelines and legal issues of contemporary journalism. Prerequisite: ECTA-104.

CTA-226 Journalistic Design (3)

Working in a laboratory setting, students will learn to apply rhetorical concepts and design principles in the production of communication pieces for various media. Special emphasis will be placed on newspaper design. Prerequisite: CTA-105.

CTA-231 Oral Interpretation (3)

Development of vocal and physical communication skills through the analysis and performance of literature. Students perform prose, poetry, drama, and non-fiction sources.

CTA-232 Costume and Makeup Design (2)

This course teaches the principles and elements of costume design and provides instruction in basic stage makeup techniques such as aging, character makeup and stylized makeup. Prerequisite: CTA-151 or 153.

CTA-233 Stage Scenery, Lighting and Sound (4)

This class offers organized study of basic stage scenery design principles and set construction techniques. Students learn the basics of stage lighting design theory and the safe placement and circuiting of stage lighting. Students also study basic principles of sound amplification in a theatre setting and copyright laws concerning sound design. Students in these classes may assist with the current production(s) as class projects, but the course content is consistent from semester to semester.

CTA-241 Mass Media Survey (3)

Studies in print and electronic media as forces affecting the individual and society. Research projects and student media presentations enable the student to explore and experience techniques of mass media and assess their impact.

CTA-242 Introduction to Broadcast Journalism (3)

Students will learn about principles and techniques of preparing news programming for radio and television. Students will explore ethical and legal issues unique to broadcast journalism. Prerequisite: CTA-105.

CTA-281 Business Communication (3)

See Bus-281.

CTA-296 Journalism Practicum (1)

Working on the staff of the student newspaper, students will utilize their reporting, writing, design and/or photographic skills. The course is required for the Journalism/Public Relations emphasis in the Communication major and for the Journalism and Public Relations minor. Prerequisite: CTA-225, CTA-226 or Art-235. P/F.

CTA-298 Forensics Practicum (1)

Interscholastic speech competition including: literary interpretation, public address, parliamentary debate, Lincoln-Douglas Debate (NFA Policy Debate), and other events in competitive speaking. The course may be used for up to three hours in a communication major, although the course may also be taken for additional free elective hours. Prerequisite: Permission of the instructor.

CTA-299 Theatre Practicum (1)

Direct experience in play production in acting, assistant directing, theatre management or technical theatre design or construction. Students receive one credit per semester for 40 hours of participation in campus productions. The course may be used for up to three hours in a communication major or for General Education Fine Arts credit, although the course may also be taken for additional free elective hours. Registration does not guarantee an acting role, but all students who register will be given opportunities to earn credit in areas of technical theatre production.

CTA-300 Placement Seminar (1)

The course includes resume and portfolio creation, attendance at professional placement seminars, mock interviews, meetings with field professionals and internship applications and searches.

CTA-301 Public Relations (3)

An exploration of the diverse field of public relations, as it is practiced in large corporations, small businesses, educational institutions and church-related organizations. Students will examine the role, methods and ethical considerations of the profession.

CTA-302 Rhetorical Theory (3)

An overview of the historical development of rhetoric and rhetorical theory beginning with the ancients and continuing into the contemporary period. Topics include: Greek, Roman, and other European traditions in rhetoric as well as contemporary issues in rhetoric including minority contributions to rhetoric, the development of current speech and composition theory, and future trends in rhetorical study. Prerequisite: ECTA-104

CTA-306 Interpersonal Communication Theory (3)

In-depth work and analysis of communication theory in interpersonal communication. Areas of study may include relationship development and maintenance strategies, nonverbal communication in relationships, interpersonal settings and context, theories of the self and interpersonal relationships, and critical theory in interpersonal communication study. Prerequisite: ECTA-104.

CTA-309 Small Group Theory

See Bus-309.

CTA-311 Persuasion, Argumentation and Debate (3)

Analysis and application of the ways in which beliefs, values, attitudes, and behavior are deliberately influenced through communication. Areas of study include debate and argumentation, logic, persuasion, propaganda campaigns in both written and oral forms. Formalized debates and public speeches are among class activities. Prerequisite: CTA-211.

CTA-327 Advanced Writing and Reporting (3)

A deeper exploration of the topics introduced in CTA 225. Students will study several areas of news coverage and produce stories for the campus newspaper or other publications. Prerequisite: CTA 225.

CTA-333 Intercultural Communication (3)

The study of cultural practices that influence the exchange of meaning between individuals and groups of differing cultural/racial backgrounds. The course is designed to provide students with an understanding of the uniqueness of cultures, the resulting variations in communication styles and preferences, and to provide strategies and skills for successful communication across cultures. Students will spend at least 20 hrs working on a community service project in which they interact with members of another culture. Options for international study may be available. Prerequisite: ECTA-104. CTA-362 Advertising and Integrated Marketing Communication (3) See Bus-362.

CTA-373 Play Production (3)

Designed to prepare the student in the artistic techniques of play direction and supervision in the areas of set design and construction, lighting, makeup, costuming, and publicity. Lab sessions and the direction of a one-act play offer actual experience in directing actors. Prerequisite: CTA-152 and CTA-153.

CTA-399 Independent Study

Topic, instructor and hours by arrangement. May be used to pursue special interests in any of the communication major emphases. Prerequisites vary according to program; junior or senior standing and permission of instructor are required.

CTA-400 Communication Research (3)

An overview of the methodological approaches to communication research. Students are strongly encouraged to enroll in this course prior to taking independent research/thesis projects in CTA-399 or 499. Topics include: types of research questions, approaches, philosophy of knowledge, and structure of research. Required for all communication majors. Prerequisite: ECTA-104 and one CTA theory class.

CTA-481 Organizational Communication (3)

An overview and application of organizational communication theory. Same as Bus-481.

CTA-499 Internship (1–3)

Students and instructors work together to arrange suitable professional experiences with specified goals, activities and evaluation procedures. The course may be used to fulfill requirements in the Communication major or the Composition and Rhetoric minor. Prerequisites vary according to program; junior or senior standing. Permission of instructor is required. Students should contact the Office of Career Services to obtain the undergraduate internship/practicum packet and review the required process. P/F