The Department of Communication offers three courses in Visual Communication: CO377 Visual Communication Theory, CO379 Advanced Visual Theory and Aesthetics, and CO460 Seminar in Fiction Film & Video, as well as related courses which provide the opportunity for a practical application of Visual Theory and Aesthetics.
CO377 Visual Communication Theory
An exploration of the role of perception within visual learning, the nature of images, how images function in political and cultural discourse, and controversial media issues related to the normative powers of visual language. This course satisfies the departmental requirement for one theory course.CO379 Advanced Visual Theory & Aesthetics
A continuation of Visual Communication Theory, exploring mass media effects and the aesthetics of film and television. This course satisfies the departmental requirement for one theory course.CO460 Seminar on Fiction, Film & Video
An in-depth look at how the written word, verbal imagery and mental imagery can be transformed into visual image, with a particular focus on retaining the original creative idea through permutations of form. This is a writing intensive course.
Technical Applications:
CO204 Art & Digital Communication
CO224 Digital Nonlinear Editing
CO236 Advertising Copy & Layout
CO400 Advanced Video Production
CO478 Producing Documentaries
Theoretical Applications:
CO250 Mass Communication Ethics
CO447 Communication Criticism
CO448 Television Criticism
Related Subject Matter:
CO235 Advertising
CO240 Public Relations
CO245 Advanced Pubic Relations
CO300 Advanced Advertising
Visual theory courses are designed to utilize students' broad liberal arts and communication background, to give students insight into their visual environment, to develop a command of basic visual language as it is used in mass media and to raise critical awareness of visual strategies and manipulative techniques. Applied technical courses give students experience in designing messages for visual communication in a variety of media. Applied theory courses extend visual understanding to include aesthetic considerations in specific media or social implications, or both.
Students interested in visual communication may also consider a complementary major or minor in Film Studies. For more information on the Film Studies Minor, contact John Michalczyk, Fine Arts Department, Devlin Hall 534, michalcj@bc.edu or (617) 552-3895.
For more information on visual communication studies, contact Ann Marie Barry, Communication Department, 21 Campanella Way 526, barrya@bc.edu or (617) 552-4293.