Benue State University, Makurdi

COURSE DESCRIPTION
COM 101 & 102: INTRODUCTION TO MASS COMMUNICATION I & II (2 CR.)
An overview of modes of Communication evolved and used by human beings from preliterate to literate societies. Functions and limitations of these modes will be studied. Significance of advances made in modern time in both verbal and non-verbal communication will similarly be studied. Definitions studied of what or what contemporary communication entails will be treated.

COM 103 & 104: HISTORY OF NIGERIA MASS MEDIA I & II (CR.)
Evolution and development of the mass media in Nigeria will be examined including the journalistic style, which has emerged over the years. Their contribution to the political economic, religious and cultural life of the people shall study.

COM105 & 106: BASIC MASS COMMUNICATION SKILLS I  & II (2 CR.)
Explores basic concept in communication as it relates to listening, reading and written communication. The course examines information gathering and processing from the standpoint of listeners, readers, speakers and writers. Success or failure in developing receptive and expressive communication and instructional communication shall be treated.

COM107&108: WRITING FOR THE MASS MEDIA I & II  (2 CR.)
Practice in writing for the mass media with emphasis on development of the journalist style, proficiency in grammar and use of language. The visual image and the spoken and written word as related to one another will be examined.          

COM 109:       AFRICAN COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS(2 CR.)

Analysis of African Communication structures, content and the role of some social institutions in the system. A survey of modern mass media system as influenced and shaped by African dramatic and political culture generally. Also consider the influence of the mass media on the traditional role of the family, market place and ancestral priests as sources of information in traditional African societies using selected ethnic groups in Nigeria and the traditional exclusion of women and children from certain forms of communication. 

COM 110:       INTRODUCTION TO ADVERTISING (2 CR.)
A general review of the fundamental principles and tenets of the advertising discipline.

COM 111: INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTER SCIENCE
Basic knowledge in the uses and applications of Computer Science to achieve optimal results as a form of ICTs.

FIRST SEMESTER

COM 201: INTRODUCTION TO MASS COMMUNICATION RESEARCH (2CR.)
An introduction to the principles of research and the writings of Communication Scholars. Students are exposed to different methods of communication research; scientific methods, formulation of research problems and research proposition, information and data collection, documentation and organization of research. These are applied to specific individual student’s project from conception of research projects. Use of primary and secondary sources, preparation of bibliography as well as the fundamentals of scholarly writing.

COM 203: MARKETING FOUNDATIONS FOR ADVERTISING AND PUBLIC RELATIONS  (2CR.)
A study of Advertising and Public Relations as communication tools, which can be used to market or promote a product, person, an organization or idea. The art and science of marketing will be reviewed as the basis for determining the need and type of communication solution, which can effectively deal with marketing problems in different situations.

COM 205: FUNDAMENTALS OF SPEECH COMMUNICATION  (3CR.)
This course introduces students to different forms of oral communication. It covers skills and basic techniques of speech communication with emphasis on phonetics and indeed drills of voice speech, the mechanisms of speech and hearing, elements of speech communication, as well as planning and presenting oral Communication.

COM 207: EDITING AND GRAPHICS OF COMMUNICATION  (3CR.)
Students are taught how to write and edit copy in a style appropriate to the news media. Emphasis is placed on the preparation of articles and photographs in Photo-Editing for Newspaper Publication. Editing symbols and not proofreaders symbols will be used in this case.

COM 209: NEWS WRITING AND REPORTING  (3CR.)
This is a practical course designed to enable students to become proficient in preparing publishable copies under deadline. Students are assigned beats primarily on campus to develop stories for publication and are encouraged to submit outstanding articles to the metropolitan news media.

COM 211: THEORIES OF MASS COMMUNICATION  (2CR.)
This course examines the major theories of Mass Communication. It analyses the processes of communication paying particular attention to the production of message, their distribution, gate keeping, characteristics and constraints of the media channel in the communication process and issues relating to the functioning of audiences. Consideration is given to the development of Mass Communication theory as a body of ideals, the political economy of mass communication and contemporary perspectives involving cultural and structural analyses.

COM 213: INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGIES  1 (2CR.)
Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) is a course that introduces to the students  the practical aspects of the internet and allied perspectives, history, how it works, benefits and problem. This course introduces the students to social media of communication as an integral aspect of internet communication; it will examine “social media” from a communication technology perspective, with a focus on how media technologies figure in practices of everyday life and in the construction of social relationships and identities and their uses in news gathering and dissemination. The course works from an expansive definition of what constitutes “social media,” considering social network sites such as Facebook, Twitter, Google+, Blogs, Wikki’s, LinkedIn, YouTube, Instagram, Bebo , Friendsmate, Whatsapp, Badoo, 2go, Nimbuzz, Ekimi, In, Palmchat, Black Berry Messenger, Orkut, Qeek, smartphone apps, and online games, among other technologies. The course will involve practical aspects of communication using social media channels.  Students shall be introduced to vital aspects of social media communications which will : Identify the tools by which one can study the effects of social media in our culture, describe how social media enables the formation of community in our society, analyze how identity is performed and shaped in/with/through social media, critically examine how social media technologies affect constructions of youth, gender, race, ethnicity and sexuality, assess the commercial uses of social media, engage in debates on whether social media technologies can be a vehicle for political activism. It covers areas of Digital Computer literacy/computer assisted programmes. Development of information technology, (GSM) Communication satellites, Direct Broadcasting Satellite, Teleconferencing, pagin system. It includes 30 minutes practical up to five times in a semester per student.

COM 215: INTRODUCTION TO BOOK PUBLISHING AND MANUSCRIPTS EDITING  (2CR.)
An examination of book publishing as a cultural activity and as a business; the environment of book publishing. Book publishing as a mass industry; division of the industry. A look at the publishing process; type setting methods. Planning the layout and designing the form and size of the book. As well as intensive instruction in copy editing and preparation of “Mock” manuscript for publication.

SECOND SEMESTER 200 LEVEL

COM 202: BASIC TECHNIQUES FOR RADIO AND TELEVISON PRODUCTION (3CR)

An introductory course that emphasizes the basic techniques in Radio and Television Production will be given. The course covers the nature of audio and video production skills. This course introduces students to the basic skills in production of news and programmes in the electronic media. Attention will be given to use of equipment and writing for radio and television (electronic media).

One relevant elective must be taken from the Faculty of Arts.

COM 204: ANNOUNCING AND PERFORMANCE   (2CR.)
Fundamentals of voicing and the nature of speech. The course will review performance techniques with regard to the microphone and the camera, as well as of performance types: the actors and straight announcer, the disc jockey, the news reporter, the interviewer, in the various roles will be given.

COM 206: PRINCIPLES OF PUBLIC RELATIONS   (2CR.)
The concepts, theories and practices of Public and Public Relations and Public Affairs, the importance of Public Relations in both profit or non-profit organizations.

COM 208: SPEECH PRACTICUM  (3CR.)
The course centers on developing skills in oral presentation. Attention is directed to intonation, rhythm, pronunciation, phraseology and emphasis in speech. Focus is on the practical application of the theory already learnt in COM 205.

COM 210: CREATIVE ADVERTISING STRATEGIES AND TACTICS (2CR)
The preparation of advertising media plan: analysis of the various media in terms of target audience reached and the frequency reached. Consideration of other crucial factors in matching media with markets.

COM 212: RURAL COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER    (2CR.)
Writing, editing and publishing weekly or regularly newspaper for the rural community, small municipalities and urban neighbour-hood. Content analysis, readership research and business and management procedures.

COM 214: SPECIALIZED REPORTING   (2CR.)
Advanced instruction and practice in writing News Stories with emphasis on investigative and other in-depth reporting techniques. To cover reporting, specialized subjects such as agriculture, medicine, religion, sports, crime, the arts and the like, expose students to literature as well as outstanding examples of reporting of these issues.

COM 216: INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGIES II (2CR.)
Information and Communication Technologies II is a continuation of ICTs I (Com213) which is an introduction. In today’s rapidly-evolving media landscape, social media has not only become a fundamental tool for communication, but a must-have skill in a multitude of industries. With the right amount of practice and social media education, students are empowered with a competitive edge in their studies, careers and communications. This course teaches students how to create and maintain a social media presence for communication, including Facebook, Twitter, Google+, Blogs, Wikki’s, LinkedIn, YouTube, Instagram, Bebo , Friendsmate, Whatsapp, Badoo, 2go, Nimbuzz, Ekimi, In, Palmchat, Black Berry Messenger, Orkut, Qeek, etc. Students will learn to use social media for public relations and communications purposes and will strategically expose grey areas of social media such as: Understanding social media fundamentals, Understanding basic social media etiquette,  Creating a social media news group, publishing social media updates and engage with online news communities, how to apply social media best practices to enhance their news reporting styles,  drive traffic to their news blog using social media, understand social media advertising. This course also covers Computer literacy/computer assisted programmes. Development of information technology, (GSM) Communication satellites, Direct Broadcasting Satellite, Teleconferencing, pagin system. It includes 30 minutes practical up to five times in a semester per student.

ELECTIVE: One relevant elective must be taken from the faculty of Arts.

DESCRIPTION OF COURSES
FIRST SEMESTER 300 LEVEL
COM 301:  INTERNATIONAL COMMUNIATION (2CR)
This course is an overview of the world’s press system. The focus will be on the unidirectional flow of information between the industrialized and Third World Nations; how ideology, culture, economy and international market structures all contribute in hindering or advancing international flow of news among nations. The scope, characteristics, peculiarities and current issues of international communication will be exhaustively treated so as to acquaint the students with a thorough knowledge of the politics and manipulative nature of international communication.

COM 303:  MASS COMMUNICATION AND SOCIETY (2CR)
This course will examine the mass media as social institution with particular attention to pertinent sociological concepts, themes and problems, the role and relationship of the mass media vis-à-vis mass media communication, mass media dependency; internal dynamic politics is investigated. The role of communication in development is also critically examined.

COM 305: NEWSPAPER PRODUCTION  (2CR)
This is intensive practical course in which students produce a (periodical) newspaper. The entire production process is taken care of by students who write, edit and prepare material for the publication as well as take part in layout, design and other production activities. This covers the entire academic generating process, marketing concepts, budgeting and cost-saving strategies the course requirement of working in the print media.

COM 307: AGRICULTURAL COMMUNICATION (2CR)
This course exposes students to basic principles and concepts in agricultural communication with emphasis on use of input for crop production, agricultural extension service and feed back so that with the background, students are equipped with the tools for reporting agricultural sector for knowledge, awareness and effective participation in crop production, storage, marketing and for subsistence.

COM 309: RADIO AND TELEVISION PROGRAMMES WRITING AND PRODUCTION  (2CR)
Comprehensive analysis of the writing process as it pertains to evaluation of television scripts, and production of talk, interview, discussion and magazine programmes, intense writing exercise.

COM 311: ISSUES IN THE NIGERIAN MASS MEDIA HISTORY  (2CR)
Critical analysis of significant events and personalities that have featured in and characterized the Nigeria Mass Media from the political, social and economic points of view. The course underscores the dynamics of the mass media in Nigeria and their institutional role.

COM 313: PUBLIC AFFAIRS BROADCASTING  (2CR)
Critical examination of the structure, internal dynamics and functions of the news and current/public affairs divisions of broadcasting organization. Interpretative reporting of Government and public institutions and agencies and the production of current/public affairs discussions, news magazine, and documentaries.

COM 315: PHOTO JOURNALISM (2CR)
A study of technical and aesthetic qualities of photographs and how these affect editorial decision concerning the use of picture in publications. Practical work in layout and design and other duties of a newspaper or magazine picture editor.

COM 317: PUBLIC RELATIONS AND ADVERTISING RESEARCH  (2CR)
Application of quantitative research methodologies in the context of public relations and advertising. Emphasis will be placed on budget, copy and media research.

COM 319: MEDIA ATTACHMENT  (3CR)
Students understudy the operations of a particular media organization under a carefully monitored arrangement between the department of mass communication and organization, then give a comprehensive account of their experience in a written report and class presentation.

SECOND SEMESTER 300 LEVEL
COM 302: INTERNATIONAL PUBLIC RELATIONS  (2CR)
Analysis of trends, issues and problems confronting public relations department in  multinational corporations and other organizations involved international trade and business.

COM 304: FUNDAMENTALS OF MEDIA RELATIONS (2CR)
Analysis of ways and means of establishing and maintaining rapport and credibility with media gatekeepers.

COM 306: HEALTH COMMUNICATION   (2CR)
Health communication and its roles in disease prevention and control: Methodologies for health communication for behavioral change and adoption of new methods of disease control and prevention, adequate awareness creation, ample mobilization of the society to adopt and adapt critical and primary health care approaches. All arms of the media, electronic, print and other allied media are used for health communication.

COM 308: MAGAZINE PRODUCTION   (2CR)
This course provides an in-depth examination of the magazine from the craft of the writer to editing and production techniques. Attention is paid to magazine writing, preparing queries and articles for submission, magazine planning and production design, magazine of business and industry; graphic design problems such as story illustration, copy layout and headlines; magazine staffing.

COM 310: ADVERTISING MEDIA PLANNING (2CR)
Theory and practice of writing effective advertising message, for print and broadcast media. The creative application of consumer and market survey, copy testing methods, advertising readership studies.

COM 312: FEATURE WRITING   (2CR)
Writing, analyzing and marketing factual articles for newspaper, general and specialized magazines. Subject research investigation of editorial needs, ethical and legal problems and manuscript preparation.

COM 314: COMMUNICATION FOR DEVELOPMENT   (2CR)
The course takes a look at the use of mass media in development plans. It examines the overview of significant perspectives, theories and practice of communication in National development from the post World War to the present time. Selected models are taken from communication and development campaigns in Asia, Latin America and Africa. A thorough examination of Communication for development plans in Nigeria is undertaken. The course also considers emerging perspectives and the development of alternative strategies based on the socio-cultural and economic conditions of the Nigerian Society.

COM 316: BROADCAST COMMENTARY AND CRITICAL WRITING   (2CR)
Examination of the opinion, functions of journalism and types of commentary programmes, with particular attention to the editorial and emphasis on the application of principles derived from research in persuasive communication and attitude change. Distinction between commentary and critical writing; types of criticism and art review for radio and television.

COM 318: MANUSCRIPT ASSESSMENT   (2CR)
A survey of problems involved by prospective author, motivating them and working with them. drawing up projects, finding writers for them, screening and assisting authors. Critical assessment of manuscripts. Creating and working with members of the editorial board.

400 LEVEL FIRST  SEMESTER

COM 401: COMMUNICATION RESEARCH   (2CR)
Students are introduced to data analysis techniques, particularly the use of tables, graphs and the measures of central tendency. They are taught how to present and interpret data, using these techniques.

COM 403: DOCUMENTARY FILM PRODUCTION    (2CR)
Pre-requisite: Film video Editing Survey of the evolution and pioneers of the documentary film. Analysis of the creative, political, anthropological and journalistic environment of the document. Design, pre-production planning, intensive field-work, production and subsequent evaluation of individual documentary project.

COM 405: ADVANCED RADIO PRODUCTION (2CR)
This course provides an intensive practical experience, which emphasizes professional independence and creativity of the students. Students will create and produce radio magazine programme, radio dramas, and radio documentaries. In addition, students will undertake the production of sound effects and multi-track recording.

COM 407: ISSUES IN BROADCASTING
Survey of critical, perennial and contemporary matters that generate debate and controversy in broadcasting, such as sex violence, foreign programmes and cultural domination, political and economic control of news. A thorough study of one or two issues, with particular reference to Nigeria Broadcasting is undertaken. Review of research studies pertaining to the issues and consideration of the role of research in broadcasting.

COM 409: EDITORIAL WRITING (2CR)
Intensive work in the theory and practice of writing editorials and columns based on opinion with particular emphasis on analysis and interpretation of events.

COM 411: STATION MANAGEMENT AND OPERATIONS (2CR)
Analysis of the nature and process of management and organization, generally, with particular reference to type of broadcasting organization and their settings. Consideration of the primary operations of radio and television stations networks, particularly, programmes and personnel and the skills required to manage them in the interest of society.

COM  413: MEDIA ATTACHMENT (3 CR)
Students shall understudy the operations of particular media organization under a careful monitored arrangement between the department of Mass Communication and that organization, then give a comprehensive account of their experience in writing report and class presentation.

COM 415: ORGANIZATION AND MANAGEMENT OF ADVERTISING AND PUBLIC RELATIONS AGENCIES (2CR)
Establishment of effective guidelines for starting an enterprise in advertising of Public Relations. The organization and management of the various departments of a full service agency.

COM 417: BOOK PUBLISHING AND THE LAW (2CR)
An in-depth study of those aspects of the law relating to book publishing, with emphasis on libel, copyright, national security, privacy etc. attention is given to ethical considerations.

400 LEVEL SECOND SEMESTER
CORE COURSE
COM 402: COMMUNICATION LAW AND ETHICS (2CR)
Study of the legal framework within which mass philosophy affects the mass media, the development and constitutional growth of freedom of expression in Nigeria, the privileges and restraints affecting the mass media, libel, sedition, privacy, contempt, obscenity, copyright and government regulation etc. ethical responsibilities of individuals, groups and organizations engaged in message instruction, transmission of conception particularly in the field of news and public affairs.

COM 404: ISSUES IN PHOTOJOURNALISM (2 CR)
Photography as visual communication, its effective use as a means of highlighting a story. The basic principles of photography and its operative step.  Issues bordering on the principles and art of photography in journalism are discussed.

COM 406: ADVANCE REPORTING (2 CR)
Advanced instruction and practice in writing news stories with emphasis on investigative and other comprehensive reporting techniques.

COM 408: ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL ISSUES IN ADVERTISING AND PUBLIC RELATIONS  (2 CR)
Study of advertising and public relations as an institution, the law and  ethics governing the professions in Nigeria as compared with developed countries like, U.S.A. and Britain, self regulation by practitioners and professional association; consideration of social responsibility, truth and deception, consumerism etc.

COM 410: NEWSPAPER AND MAGAZINE MANAGEMENT (2 CR)
Basic Management and economic theory and application of theory to the management process in the media business.

COM 412: ADVANCED TELEVISION PRODUCTION (2CR)
This is a highly intensive practical course, which is aimed at synthesizing precisely acquired television production skills. The course emphasizes professional accomplishment, technical proficiency and visual creativity. Students are expected to master aspects of visual language, production techniques, editing and production planning as well as developing a thorough understanding of the functional responsibilities of the television producer/director. Students will produce extended programmes such as television, drama and documentary.

COM 414: RURAL AND FOREIGN BROADCASTING (2CR)
Analysis of community needs and problems with regard to the role and qualities of radio and television: Planning of community development projects for implementation through special radio  and television programmes analysis of national systems of broadcasting worldwide in terms of types of ownership, control, programming purposes and effects or impact. International organizations dealing with technical facilities and those dealing with programmes. Examination of the purposes and impact of eternal radio broadcasting stations.

COM 416: EDUCATIONAL BROADCASTING (2 CR)
Assessment of the educational potentials and limitations of radio and television. Evaluation of pedagogic approaches and production of education programmes; production of supplementary materials and teaching aids.

COM418: RESEARCH PROJECTS (6CR)
Students initiate and execute a project following the steps in the research process, or do a feature of some other place that is professionally oriented and publishable.

POSTGRADUATE

Objective
Objective of the course is to strengthen the background of non Mass Communication students who wish to take up career in the media and/or pursue higher degrees in Mass Communication.

POSTGRADUATE DPILOMA
Admission Requirement
Bachelor’s degree of any discipline not less than 2nd Class Lower B. Bachelors Degree in Mass Communication.

HND Mass Communication with Lower or Upper Credit and at least five years experience.

General Information
Duration of the Programme
The programme takes three semesters; two of intensive course work and one semester of research project.

GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS
To qualify for award of the Postgraduate Diploma in Mass Communication (PGDM), candidates must have successfully completed the course work and the Research Project with a total of 36 credits units of course work and 6 credit units of Project. Or 42 credit units of course work and successfully completed comprehensive examination.

COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
FIRST SEMESTER
COM 601: Introduction to Mass Communication (3 units)
Consideration of Mass Communication as a sub-type of human communication and overview of the progress, models and elements of communication. Survey of the Mass Media including their adjuncts. Examination of the characteristics, functions, contents, operations and impact of the mass media as well as national Mass Media systems and Mass Communication.

COM 603: News Writing and Reporting (3 units )
An in-depth course in gathering, writing and reporting various types of news stories for print and broadcast media. Practical experience is gained by writing for department publications and radio-television productions.

COM 605: Radio and Television Production (3units)
A study of form, structure and functions of the radio and the television. The rationale for the division for writers and producers; the principles and practice of effective broadcast journalism; audio/video production techniques; the production of programmed instruction packages for radio and television, effective manipulation and control of studio and equipment for broadcasting.

COM 607: Communication Theories (2 units)
Exploration and analysis of major theories which explain the nature, uses and effect of mass communication. The relationship between theory and research and the relevance of the later to the success of the former.

Com 609: Advertising and Consumer Behaviour (2units)
A general review of the fundamental principles and tenets of the advertising discipline, types of advertising. The advertising agency, and contributions of advertising to marketing and corporate management, models of marketing communication, classification of products and consumer behaviour models.

Com 611: Research Methodology (3 units)
Topics covered include: principles of research, different methods, of communication research, scientific methods, formulation of research problems. Research proposition, information data collection, documentation and organization of research. Use of primary and secondary sources, preparation of references and bibliography.

COM 613: Speech Communication (2 units)
This course introduces students to different forms of oral communication. It covers skills and basic techniques of speech communication with emphasis on phonetics- organs of speech, pronunciation, phonetic alphabet and transcription. Different types of speeches, innovative, persuasive, and special occasion speeches. Different types of oral speech presentations and the principles of writing speeches.

COM 615: Media History (2 units )
Evolution and development of the mass media in Nigeria will be examined including the journalistic style, which has emerged over the years. General overview of the spread, improvement and impact of printing-press/book publishing, Newspaper/Magazine Radio (telegraphy- telephone), television (invention and spread) photography, Cinema/films, Satellite in Aid to Mass Communication in the world today.

COM 617: News Editing (2 units)
The course covers basic principles of editing stressing news evaluation, copy editing and copy-fitting for the media. It includes practical work on department publications.

SECOND SEMESTER
COM 602: Communication Law and Ethics (3 units )
Discussion on constitutional provision for freedom of expression and interpretation. Status regulating libel, sedition, copyright, obscenity and contempt of court system, and professional ethics.

COM 604: Feature and Interpretative Writing (2 units)
Advanced reporting methods for the media. News background analysis feature writing.

COM 606: Broadcast Programming (3 units)
Analysis of the nature and process of programme management with particular reference to types of broadcasting organizations and their settings. Consideration of the primary operations of radio and television stations network in particular by programming and personnel and the skills required to manage them in the interest of society.

COM 608: Newspaper and Magazine Production (3 units)
This course is designed to extend and deepened students’ understanding and practical knowledge of the processes of producing newspapers and magazines. Emphasis will be on exposure to further practical production experiences including practical application of acquired knowledge and skills in news gathering reporting wiring and editing for the production of newspapers and  magazines. Problems and prospects of newspaper ownership and production, in Nigeria.

COM 610: Public Relations Practice (3 units)
Evolution and organization of public relations. Public relations process. Research, planning, communication and evaluation. Public opinion. Media of public relations communication. The pale of advertising, periodicals films and special events in public relations. Study of various corporate publics. Corporate relations with employees, shareholders community, press, educational institutions land government.

COM 612: Film Production and Development (2 Units)
Detailed analysis of the technical apparatus of film and video making the camera microphones, lighting machines, sets, skill and qualities of the film producer. Overview of the kinds of film non-fiction (documentary) and making, uses and role of the cinema in urban rural communities with particular reference to Nigeria.

COM 614: Development Communication (2 units)
Designed to teach students the essential elements of national development with special reference to the role of communication in promoting social change. Topics covered include socialization, modern and traditional systems of communication, culture and social change, and community communication.

COM 616: Media Analysis (3 units)
This course will cover the following topics: media monopoly, media access crisis and mass  media, media in politics/politicians, media ownership, and influence, journalism as a profession. Types of monopoly-pro-monopoly, antimonopoly. Reasons for monopoly and effects of monopoly. Access in broadcast and print media e.g. letters to editor, equal time advert, professionalism, illiteracy, technology, ownership pattern. Reporting of crisis by  the media and its positive and negative effect. Journalism and regulatory bodies such as media council, NUJ, NPAN, BON, NBC, code of Ethics. Patterns of ownership and control of private and government media organization.

COM 618: International Communication (3 units)
Comparative study of media systems; a study of the world press. News agencies, press organizations, programme exchange. Analysis of Media Imperialism.

COM 621: Research Project (6 units)
Students initiate and execute a project following the steps in the research process, or do feature of some other place that is professional-oriented and publishable.

M. Sc. Programme
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
The courses explore differences in operational techniques and style between electronic and print journalism.

COM 701: Advanced Reporting and Writing  (3 unit)
In-depth reporting for print and electronic media. Considering interviewing, sport news coverage, interpretation and critical writing. Specialized reporting in areas such as the courts, public affairs, politics, government, social problems and environmental problems as well as feature writing.

COM 702: Broadcast Journalism Seminar (3 units)
This course should cover effective methods of news delivering on radio and television. Detailed study of contemporary style of performance and voice as well as training.

COM 703: Communication theories (3 units )
An examination of theoretical perspectives of Mass Communication with attention paid to historical developments in Nigeria and indeed Africa; the course analysis media phenomenon with framework of inter-disciplinary studies, a review of theories, models and process of Mass Communication.

COM 704: Broadcast delivery/Performance  (3 units)
Exposition on the principles and practice of broadcast delivery and performance. Advanced techniques for voicing and speech development with regard to the microphone and on-camera announcing and performance.

COM 705: Seminar in Research Methods (3 units)
A consideration of research methods such as content analysis, survey research method, experimental design descriptive research as are applied to the nature and study of mass media problems in Nigeria and indeed Africa.

COM 706: Special Problems in Radio and Television Directing & Production (3 units)
A study of news and performance packaging and production for radio and television. Directing control room crew with standard language for standbys and cues; preparing graphic materials for scripting and presentation. Rehearsals and production of talk, interview, discussion and other programme towards transmission.

COM 707: Seminar in Media Law and Ethics (3 units)
Constitutional provision for the press, status regulating the press which include decree, libel, sedition, obscenity, privacy, copyright, contempt of court, ethical issues and their equitable application to the smooth operation of media practice.

COM 708: Broadcast Management and Development (3 units)
Problems that affect effective management and operations of the broadcasting station which include, audience, government, principles of personnel management, historical development budgeting, and the problems of values, beliefs and ethnicity on decision making.

COM 709: Mass Media, the Government and Society (3 units)
This course covers government and official press relations, its news reporting an effects as well issues (Radio, Television, Newspapers, Magazine, film) and their effects in society. Attention is paid also to various aspects of freedom, responsibility, public and national development.

COM 710: Location, Film and Video Production (3 units)
Emphasis on the shooting of 16mm films slides and video production columns on current subjects, Editorials and other commentaries, editorial pages policies and practice are analysis. Advanced training to develop editorial judgment and skills in processing materials for publication; emphasis is on the study of problems and practices in making assignment, handling departments and dealing with copy editors.

COM  712: Advanced News Writing Editing (3 Units)
Emphasis is on the supervision of the writing of editing and opinion columns on current subjects. Editorials and other commentaries, editorial pages policies and practice are analyze. Advanced training to develop editorial judgment and skills in processing materials for publication, emphasis is on the study of problems and practice in making assignment, handling department and dealing with copy.

COM 714: Seminar in Public Affairs (3 units)
The course is designed to acquaint the student with government establishment sand how the people who run them deal with the nation’s problems and why government does not often respond to the public’s needs. Students select foreign and domestic problems and analyzed them as they are being debated in the nation. Top echelon of the government and the media are drawn as guest speakers to provide insight into policy-making process. Each student works on an in-depth reporting project during the semester. 

COM 716: Newspaper and Magazine Management and Production
(3 units)
Explores the process of how news is collected, written and produced by daily newspapers and magazines. It takes a look at the routine operations of the various departments in newspaper and magazine industry. Also, the effect of new technology on the production process of newspaper and magazines is explored, together with the historical development of newspapers and magazines.

COM 718: Specialized Writing and Reporting (3 units)
Exploration of the role of journalism science and technology, ,business and economy, peace and civil journalism, conflict reporting, court and judiciary, peace and crime, government politics, health, etc.

COM 722: Special Techniques and Public Relations Practice (3 units)
Managing public relations departments, or companies, PR policy formulation and implementation. Among other things the course covers organization of special events, corporate, and financial public relations. Opinion formation theories, persuasion and information dissemination paying attention to the understanding of the mass media and photo techniques.

COM 724: Public Relations Planning, Development and International Public Relations (3 units )
Emphasis is placed on planning, managing and executing public relations effort. Media planning and mixing; project execution in urban and rural areas, image problems analysis. This course covers theories and practices in International Public Relations, politics and business. PR in international government and non-governmental and business organizations; problems of language and culture as problems in PR.

COM 726: Economic Business and Political Aspect of Public Relations (3 units)
Nature and structure of business operations, type, the public and PR cases studies as well as application of statistics in public relations practice and a survey of political aspects of public relations.

COM 728: Creative Advertising (3 units)
The buyer’s behaviour-Models on consumer behaviour; Advertising strategy, Role of Advertising Agency in creative process. The Creative Team. Advert copy layout and Art. Psychology of colour, creating names for products. Copy Testing. Advertising Sprial and Product Life Cycle. Creating Broadcast (Radio/TV) Advertisements. International Advertising, Advertising Budget.

COM 730: Advertising Principles and other Promotional Strategies in Society (3 units )
A research study culminating to a dissertation for Plan ‘A’ studies, while Plan ‘B’ students will write a comprehensive examination.

COM 732: Research Project/examination (6 units)
A research study culminating to a dissertation for Plan ‘A’ students, while plan ‘B’ students will write a comprehensive examination.

Ph.D. Program
DESCRIPTION OF COURSES
First Semester
COM 801: Seminar in Global Media and Cultural Domination
This course examines global satellite technology and televisions pro-programming. It discusses the media’s effects on global economic and cultural patterns and revisits the issues of cultural domination.

COM 803: Effective News Writing and Editing for Mass Media
A detailed study of the technique of news editing and a practical demonstration of the skills of basic news writing. The approach shows how to identify a topic, research, gather news and prepare to write the story. Focus is on the strategies for handling such specific story types as straight news, features, columns, editorials, headlines, and interviews.

COM 805: Radio and Television News Gathering and production
Examines the interlocking roles performed by assignment editors, producers, news director, writers and photographs. It looks at how decisions are made regarding both what stories to cover and how much time to allocate to them. Special attention is paid to how the directors, technical director, floor manager, and assistant director work with tape editors, camera operators, audio mixers, and engineers to arrive at a successful newscast of the right length.

COM 807: Social Science Research Methods and Techniques
The course examines types of experimental design and considers the situations in which they are most appropriate. It likes at the use of control and experimental groups and discusses clinical, correlation, and field methods and underscores the steps of the scientific method.

SECOND SEMESTER
COM 802: Media Rights and Responsibilities
Explores key issues in media law. It discusses the problems in interpreting the Nigerian Constitutional guarantee of the Freedom of the Press and contrasts it with the American First Amendment and the implications.

COM 804: Newspaper and Magazine Production
This course explores the process of producing a daily newspaper and how news is collected, written, typeset, and printed. It takes a look at the daily operations of their advertising, composition and layout, platemaking, printing and distribution department, and explains the uses of computers and satellites. The magazine industry in Nigeria is also explored with particular attention to its development and its various types-the “hard sell” and the “soft sell” magazines in the Nigerian scene-their publishers, editors, photographers, layout director, their promotions, targeted advertising and circulation.

COM 806: Seminar in Public Relations and Advertising
Explores the tools, functions and processes of public relations. Discusses public relations effort and looks at the role of public reltions department in crisis management and the development of public relations. The course also explores discussions on social, economic of advertising and global marketing.

COM 808: Development  Support Communication
The course covers in-depth study of communication for development and the role of communication in the process. Focus is on using appropriate communication systematically to ease the planning as well as the implementation of development progrmmes in a developing country like Nigeria.

COM 810: Seminar on Ethical Considerations in Journalism
Investigates some of the ethical issues a journalist faces when writing and reporting, presenting the ethical recommendations of the Radio land Television Broadcasting Codes. It discusses the ethical issues involved in printing or airing stories whose context may be offensive to some viewers/readers. The abuse of power, media coverage of murder or violent cases and the reporting of child abuse are also analyzed.

COM 812: Critical Issues on Investigative Journalism
A selection of some critical issues that merit investigative reporting and to examine as well as differentiates them from the day-by-day legwork journalism in both methods and in the circumstances that surround them, discuss in detail the special requirements of investigative journalism, its hazards, advantages and indeed its special police in ethic journalism. Discusses its advantages, the hazards and the special requirements necessary to fulfill the arduous task.

COM 814: Interview Techniques
This course explores techniques needed to conduct a successful television news interview, from putting the interviewee at ease to getting enough stuff. It analyses and actual interview, showing how it is shaped into a final edited version. E.g. Tonnie Iredia’s anchored POINT BLANK and others in the National Television Network of Nigeria. The course also examines ways to approach a current affair interview, emphasizing the need for advance research to formulate questions that probe for conflict between interviews and the record, their critics, or their previous statements.

COM 816: Professional Practice in Print Media
This course involves a practical production of magazine and the newspapers. Students are expected to show a mastery of layout, editing, advert placement and production. Students fully participate in the teaching and laboratory supervision of the undergraduate taking courses in the print media.

COM 818: Editorial Writing
The course approaches the depth and breadth of editorial writing. It examines its forms (persuasive editorial; expository editorial) and classifications into: Attack editorial; Lighthearted editorial; Reverse editorial; Speculative editorial; Praise editorial; Tribute editorial, etc. the course focuses not only on style of editorial writing (formal, informal, etc) but also addresses some of the common flaws in editorial form Title, Intro, through the body and conclusion, to its First draft, Revision, and the Final draft.

COM 820: Feature Stories
Different types of feature stories are defined in this course. The special requirement of writing feature stories and tips on how to write articles that do not only inform, but motivate, involves and stimulates the readers are discussed. The course also differentiates between feature stories and news features and personality profiles.

COM 822: Professional Practice in Broadcast Media
This is electronic media production. It involves practical production of programmes in radio and television; students are expected to supervise undergraduate production in the areas, enhance the skills of script writing and programme production.

COM 824: Film Aesthetics and Criticism
A critical evaluation and comprehensive survey of films. Different principles adopted for successful scrip[ting; directing, and the overall elements guiding the beauty of the directing and production to meet audience taste, interest and needs.

COM 826: Video Tape Editing
The course covers planning, executing and managing video and audio-tape production techniques from concepts to scripting and production as well as post production; techniques such as pre-editing and tape editing; use of audio and video recorders such as u-har, VHS, UHF, and TV cameras, as well as professional editing equipment, such as modern video editing, computers and digital editing.

COM 828: Seminar in Persuasive Appeals
The course focuses on distinctions between beliefs, attitudes, and values to examine what motivates people to accept or reject a proposal. It identifies the advantage and disadvantages of three types of persuasion: ethical, emotional and logical appeals. It specifically examines logical reasoning patterns, including generalization, the use of analogy, and the identification of causal and correlative relations.

COM 830: Advertising Copy planning and Production Aesthetics
A study of the principles and practice of graphic design, layout design and production in advertising practice; principles and elements of effective advertising copy planning. Preparing audience and media copy for use as audio-visual aids in advertising.

COM 832: Design Principles for Effective Image Promotion
The course focuses on the application of design principles to both desktop publishing and the traditional cut-and-paste methods. It reviews basic layout design and present graphic devices that attract attention and facilitate readability. It discusses the use of design grids and such elements as typeface, photos, clip art, borders, and boxes.