Course Directory

:: Course Offerings

The course offerings at Clarion University of PA go through an extensive review process by the Committee on Courses and Programs of Study (CCPS). This course offerings list is a comprehensive list of courses that could be offered; it does not mean they are currently being offered.

For a complete list of courses offered on the current or upcoming schedules, see the Registrar's page Schedule of Classes.

To start a new search enter the course number of the subject or title you are searching in the box below.

Course Id (currently sorted in Ascending order)	Course Title	Course Description
CIS 403	Data Communications	Focuses on the OSI model of data communications and uses the model as the basis for discussions of protocols, topologies, transmission media, and communications security. The TCP/IP protocol suite is examined in detail. Prerequisite: CIS 303.
CIS 411	Systems Devlmt Project	Students develop a computer-based solution to a real problem obtained from the university or the community. Working as a member of a group/team, students evaluate an existing system; identify alternative solutions; select a solution; develop a project plan; and design, implement, test, and document the system. Utilizes current technology whenever possible, including microcomputers, and a relational database. Prerequisites: CIS 217, 301, and 402.
CIS 412	Parallel Processing	Studies the architecture, algorithms, and programming that are involved with parallel processing. Students will learn how parallel architecture affects the design of parallel algorithms and parallel programming. Architectures shall include the prevailing message passing and shared memory achitectures. Students will learn how to design parallel algorithms and how to think in parallel. Students will learn how to write parallel programs, using a prevailing parallel programming language. Programming may be done by remotely using an account at a supercomputer center, using serial computers that are working together to solve a problem (a cluster), or using an individual computer which has multiple processors within it. Prerequisites: CIS 2\|
CIS 422	Internship In Computers	Provides students the opportunity for practical computer experience in commercial, industrial, governmental, or other participating organizations. Prerequisite: CIS 253 or 330. Junior or senior standing.
CIS 460	Programming Lang & Comp Theory	Introduces automata theory and Turing machines as well as the associated formal languages. Students will explore the construction and implementation of programming languages allowing the student to chooseand use programming languages in a competent,"manner. Students will also explore different programming paradigms, such as robotics programming and parallel programming. Prerequisites: CIS/MATH 140 and CIS 254.
CIS 462	Simulation/Modeling	Covers the advantages and disadvantages of using computer simulation in modeling. Students learn and practice techniques of computer simulation. Prerequisites: CIS 244 or 330.
CIS 470	Project Management	Introduces students to basic project management concepts and reinforces those concepts through the use of project management software. Provides students with the knowledge and skills necessary to plan, organize and control information technology projects. Key topics include monitoring and controlling schedules, progress reporting, risk management, quality management, cost management as well as contracting and procurement. Graduate students will analyze a case study; present it to the class; and provide a 10-15 page written report on the case study analysis to the instructor. Prerequisites: CIS 301 and MGMT 320 or permission of instructor\|
CIS 499	Independent Study	Permits students to explore an area of special interest using computers. Department faculty member must direct the special project. Prerequisites: CIS 244 or 330, junior or senior standing.
CIS 570	Project Management	Introduces students to basic project management concepts and reinforces those concepts through the use of project management software. Provides students with the knowledge and skills necessary to plan, organize and control projects. Key topics include monitoring and controlling schedules, progress reporting, risk management, quality management, cost management as well as contracting and procurement. Graduate students will analyze a case study; present it to the class; and provide a 10-15 page written report on the case study analysis to the instructor. Prerequisite: Permission of instructor or MGMT 500.
CIS 649	Ed Tech Leadership	Involves a survey or various theories, models, and styles of leadership, followed by the application of leadership skills in teacher-pupil, teacher-colleague, teacher-administrator relationships and how those relationships are affected by the use oftechnology in schools and how technology, in turn, impacts these roles. Summer, annually.
CIS 650	Adv Technology Applications	This course develops advanced skills to support instructional technology programs. Coursework will cover areas such as advanced microcomputer applications, internet concepts as they apply to instructional technology, and PC operating system issues related to instructional technology. The focus will be on computers and related technologies used in educational and training environments. Prerequisite: COMM 545, or permission of instructor. Summers/spring annually.
CIS 651	Deploying Info Tech Infras	Focuses on the strategies involved in the provisioning and maintenance of information technology infrastructure. Provides students with the knowledge and skills necessary to plan, organize, implement and control information technology resources. Key topics include identifying information infrastructure; defining the range of information technology leadership roles; and illustrating current best practices for managing information technology assets. Offered annually.
CMST 101	Debate	Students earn one to three credits through participation on the Debate Team by successfully completing the terms of the Contract for Credit in SCT Activities, subject to approval by instructor and department chair. No more than three credits may be taken in SC 101 during any one semester. Students should not enroll in SC 101 and 256 for credit concurrently. Each semester.
CMST 102	Public Speaking Events	Students earn one to three credit hours through participation on the Individual Events Team by successfully completing terms of the Contract for Credit in SC Activities, subject to approval by instructor and department chair. No more than three credits may be earned in SC 102 during any one semester. Students may not enroll concurrently in SC 102 and SC/THE 155, SC 213, or SC/THE 254 without instructor permission. Each semester.
CMST 104	Comm Studies Ldrshp Act	Student earn one to three credits through participation in active leadership responsibilities with a university-relation organization. Students must successfully complete the terms of the Contract for Credit in SC Activities, subject to approval bythe instructor and the department chair. Students can earn a maximum of one credit per semester in SC 104 and no more than three credits total towards graduation. Successful completion of SC 104 will also require students to attend seminars through,out the semester. These seminars will be presented by Speech Communication faculty and will be lecture/discussion presentations pertinent to speech communication and leadership themes.
CMST 110	Intro To Human Comm	A theoretical overview of the concepts involved in the human communication process.
CMST 113	Public Speaking	Introduces the long tradition of public speaking, examines the role of public speaking in a multicultural world, applies the principles of research, organization and delivery to preparation and presentation of speeches, presents techniques students can use to combat stage fright, teaches applciationsof listening and critical thinking skills, and provides coaching for delivering a minimum of three in-class speeches designed for a variety of contexts. Each semester.
CMST 120	Humanities I	Interdisciplinary humanities course focuses on western values, beliefs, and accomplishments as reflected in the arts, and historical development from the classical period to the close of the Middle Ages. No prerequisite. On demand.
CMST 121	Humanities II	Continues study of Western culture from the Renaissance to the present. No prerequisite. On demand.
CMST 160	Intro To Global Understanding	Introduces students to global perspectives that shape how we facilitate and coordinate interactions with people from different backgrounds through the use of verbal and nonverbal codes.
CMST 200	Interpersonal Comm	Focuses on the study of interpersonal communication, specifically the investigation of major theories and research in the field and the application of those theories to improving the students' interpersonal skills. Each semester.
CMST 210	Intro To Rhetorical Theory	Investigates, on a fundamental level, the historical and conceptual development of the major theories of rhetorical discourse. Applies theories from classical to contemporary to analysis of the spoken word. Stresses speech making and criticism of historical and current political rhetoric. Spring, odd-numbered years.
CMST 213	Persuasive Speaking	Involves the study and practice of persuasive speaking. Includes detailed analysis of the areas of invention, arrangement, style, delivery, and sophisticated use of speech criticisms a tool to improve the speaker's ability as a change agent in the public forum. Prerequisite: CMST 113.
CMST 214	Bus & Prof Speaking	Develops professional presentation skills. Students learn how to effectively adapt presentations to business audiences and professional contexts as well as manage the constraints associated with technical material and sales objectives. Prerequisite,s: CMST 113.
CMST 215	Argumentation & Debate	Study of argumentation in the area of academic debate and the legal world. Emphasizes applying theories and techniques of argumentation to developing analytical abilities, reasoning, use of data, and evidence to support arguments. Fall, annually.
CMST 216	Group Discussion	Trains students how to facilitate group discussions. Students will learn how to move groups through phases of development, effectively assume group task and social roles, and effectively conduct group meetings.
CMST 217	Listening	Explores the process and integral role of listening in human communication from both a theoretical and practical perspective. Identifies different listening skills appropriate for diverse types and purposes of listening. Examines ineffective and ef,"fective listening behavior and the consequences of both in every day interactions for a variety of contexts including personal, professional and mass mediated.
CMST 220	On-Camera Performance	This course is designed to develop those skills needed to effectively communicate in front of the camera. The course will explore the principles and applications of various performance techniques involved in a video or film production, and will provide extensive knowledge and practice in the forms and styles of performance for the camera.
CMST 255	Advanced Debate	Further experience in competitive debating and in a variety of debating forms is provided. Prerequisite: Consent of instructor. On demand.
CMST 260	Special Topics In Comm Studies	Focuses on offering special topics reflecting the interest of students. Content varies from semester to semester. Suitable for both majors and non-majors in speech communication and theatre. May be taken for a maximum of nine credits in the major. On, demand.

Course Id (currently sorted in Ascending order)

Course Title

Course Description

CIS 403

Data Communications

Focuses on the OSI model of data communications and uses the model as the basis for discussions of protocols, topologies, transmission media, and communications security. The TCP/IP protocol suite is examined in detail. Prerequisite: CIS 303.

CIS 411

Systems Devlmt Project

Students develop a computer-based solution to a real problem obtained from the university or the community. Working as a member of a group/team, students evaluate an existing system; identify alternative solutions; select a solution; develop a project plan; and design, implement, test, and document the system. Utilizes current technology whenever possible, including microcomputers, and a relational database. Prerequisites: CIS 217, 301, and 402.

CIS 412

Parallel Processing

Studies the architecture, algorithms, and programming that are involved with parallel processing. Students will learn how parallel architecture affects the design of parallel algorithms and parallel programming. Architectures shall include the prevailing message passing and shared memory achitectures. Students will learn how to design parallel algorithms and how to think in parallel. Students will learn how to write parallel programs, using a prevailing parallel programming language. Programming may be done by remotely using an account at a supercomputer center, using serial computers that are working together to solve a problem (a cluster), or using an individual computer which has multiple processors within it. Prerequisites: CIS 2|

CIS 422

Internship In Computers

Provides students the opportunity for practical computer experience in commercial, industrial, governmental, or other participating organizations. Prerequisite: CIS 253 or 330. Junior or senior standing.

CIS 460

Programming Lang & Comp Theory

Introduces automata theory and Turing machines as well as the associated formal languages. Students will explore the construction and implementation of programming languages allowing the student to chooseand use programming languages in a competent,"manner. Students will also explore different programming paradigms, such as robotics programming and parallel programming. Prerequisites: CIS/MATH 140 and CIS 254.

CIS 462

Simulation/Modeling

Covers the advantages and disadvantages of using computer simulation in modeling. Students learn and practice techniques of computer simulation. Prerequisites: CIS 244 or 330.

CIS 470

Project Management

Introduces students to basic project management concepts and reinforces those concepts through the use of project management software. Provides students with the knowledge and skills necessary to plan, organize and control information technology projects. Key topics include monitoring and controlling schedules, progress reporting, risk management, quality management, cost management as well as contracting and procurement. Graduate students will analyze a case study; present it to the class; and provide a 10-15 page written report on the case study analysis to the instructor. Prerequisites: CIS 301 and MGMT 320 or permission of instructor|

CIS 499

Independent Study

Permits students to explore an area of special interest using computers. Department faculty member must direct the special project. Prerequisites: CIS 244 or 330, junior or senior standing.

CIS 570

Project Management

Introduces students to basic project management concepts and reinforces those concepts through the use of project management software. Provides students with the knowledge and skills necessary to plan, organize and control projects. Key topics include monitoring and controlling schedules, progress reporting, risk management, quality management, cost management as well as contracting and procurement. Graduate students will analyze a case study; present it to the class; and provide a 10-15 page written report on the case study analysis to the instructor. Prerequisite: Permission of instructor or MGMT 500.

CIS 649

Ed Tech Leadership

Involves a survey or various theories, models, and styles of leadership, followed by the application of leadership skills in teacher-pupil, teacher-colleague, teacher-administrator relationships and how those relationships are affected by the use oftechnology in schools and how technology, in turn, impacts these roles. Summer, annually.

CIS 650

Adv Technology Applications

This course develops advanced skills to support instructional technology programs. Coursework will cover areas such as advanced microcomputer applications, internet concepts as they apply to instructional technology, and PC operating system issues related to instructional technology. The focus will be on computers and related technologies used in educational and training environments. Prerequisite: COMM 545, or permission of instructor. Summers/spring annually.

CIS 651

Deploying Info Tech Infras

Focuses on the strategies involved in the provisioning and maintenance of information technology infrastructure. Provides students with the knowledge and skills necessary to plan, organize, implement and control information technology resources. Key topics include identifying information infrastructure; defining the range of information technology leadership roles; and illustrating current best practices for managing information technology assets. Offered annually.

CMST 101

Debate

Students earn one to three credits through participation on the Debate Team by successfully completing the terms of the Contract for Credit in SCT Activities, subject to approval by instructor and department chair. No more than three credits may be taken in SC 101 during any one semester. Students should not enroll in SC 101 and 256 for credit concurrently. Each semester.

CMST 102

Public Speaking Events

Students earn one to three credit hours through participation on the Individual Events Team by successfully completing terms of the Contract for Credit in SC Activities, subject to approval by instructor and department chair. No more than three credits may be earned in SC 102 during any one semester. Students may not enroll concurrently in SC 102 and SC/THE 155, SC 213, or SC/THE 254 without instructor permission. Each semester.

CMST 104

Comm Studies Ldrshp Act

Student earn one to three credits through participation in active leadership responsibilities with a university-relation organization. Students must successfully complete the terms of the Contract for Credit in SC Activities, subject to approval bythe instructor and the department chair. Students can earn a maximum of one credit per semester in SC 104 and no more than three credits total towards graduation. Successful completion of SC 104 will also require students to attend seminars through,out the semester. These seminars will be presented by Speech Communication faculty and will be lecture/discussion presentations pertinent to speech communication and leadership themes.

CMST 110

Intro To Human Comm

A theoretical overview of the concepts involved in the human communication process.

CMST 113

Public Speaking

Introduces the long tradition of public speaking, examines the role of public speaking in a multicultural world, applies the principles of research, organization and delivery to preparation and presentation of speeches, presents techniques students can use to combat stage fright, teaches applciationsof listening and critical thinking skills, and provides coaching for delivering a minimum of three in-class speeches designed for a variety of contexts. Each semester.

CMST 120

Humanities I

Interdisciplinary humanities course focuses on western values, beliefs, and accomplishments as reflected in the arts, and historical development from the classical period to the close of the Middle Ages. No prerequisite. On demand.

CMST 121

Humanities II

Continues study of Western culture from the Renaissance to the present. No prerequisite. On demand.

CMST 160

Intro To Global Understanding

Introduces students to global perspectives that shape how we facilitate and coordinate interactions with people from different backgrounds through the use of verbal and nonverbal codes.

CMST 200

Interpersonal Comm

Focuses on the study of interpersonal communication, specifically the investigation of major theories and research in the field and the application of those theories to improving the students' interpersonal skills. Each semester.

CMST 210

Intro To Rhetorical Theory

Investigates, on a fundamental level, the historical and conceptual development of the major theories of rhetorical discourse. Applies theories from classical to contemporary to analysis of the spoken word. Stresses speech making and criticism of historical and current political rhetoric. Spring, odd-numbered years.

CMST 213

Persuasive Speaking

Involves the study and practice of persuasive speaking. Includes detailed analysis of the areas of invention, arrangement, style, delivery, and sophisticated use of speech criticisms a tool to improve the speaker's ability as a change agent in the public forum. Prerequisite: CMST 113.

CMST 214

Bus & Prof Speaking

Develops professional presentation skills. Students learn how to effectively adapt presentations to business audiences and professional contexts as well as manage the constraints associated with technical material and sales objectives. Prerequisite,s: CMST 113.

CMST 215

Argumentation & Debate

Study of argumentation in the area of academic debate and the legal world. Emphasizes applying theories and techniques of argumentation to developing analytical abilities, reasoning, use of data, and evidence to support arguments. Fall, annually.

CMST 216

Group Discussion

Trains students how to facilitate group discussions. Students will learn how to move groups through phases of development, effectively assume group task and social roles, and effectively conduct group meetings.

CMST 217

Listening

Explores the process and integral role of listening in human communication from both a theoretical and practical perspective. Identifies different listening skills appropriate for diverse types and purposes of listening. Examines ineffective and ef,"fective listening behavior and the consequences of both in every day interactions for a variety of contexts including personal, professional and mass mediated.

CMST 220

On-Camera Performance

This course is designed to develop those skills needed to effectively communicate in front of the camera. The course will explore the principles and applications of various performance techniques involved in a video or film production, and will provide extensive knowledge and practice in the forms and styles of performance for the camera.

CMST 255

Advanced Debate

Further experience in competitive debating and in a variety of debating forms is provided. Prerequisite: Consent of instructor. On demand.

CMST 260

Special Topics In Comm Studies

Focuses on offering special topics reflecting the interest of students. Content varies from semester to semester. Suitable for both majors and non-majors in speech communication and theatre. May be taken for a maximum of nine credits in the major. On, demand.