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University Bulletin

Graduate Degree Programs

Communications (COMM)

COMM 483 Wireless Communications Industry (3) A broad examination of the wireless phone industry including its development, current structure and future.

COMM 483 Wireless Communications Industry (3)

Since the 1990s, the wireless industry has transformed “how” people communicate. The ability to offer mobile communication services to consumers allowed the telecommunications industry to rapidly expand and create new products and services. Throughout this period of rapid growth, new players emerged from relative obscurity while incumbent telecommunication providers weighed the benefits & drawbacks of deploying this new technology.

Although wireless devices have become pervasive throughout the United States, few people appreciate the technology and partnerships that are required to offer wireless services for millions of customers. This course will address a variety of wireless topics to allow students to develop a greater understanding and appreciation of the wireless industry. In terms of course design, there are three distinct elements: (1) The early days of the wireless and the key figures and events that shaped an industry, (2) A current state view of the tier 1 carriers, device manufacturers and product offerings, (3) The emerging trends in the wireless industry and the potential impact on consumer products and services.

By the end of this course, the objective is for students to view the wireless industry quite differently. Students will understand the relationship between wireless spectrum, carrier, device manufacturer and products. The industry landscape will be clearer to students and they will be well positioned to pursue a career in wireless.

In this course, students will learn to:
Demonstrate an understanding of the key watershed events and entrepreneurs that initially shaped the wireless industry
Think critically, creatively and independently
Demonstrate an understanding of the current wireless industry landscape
Apply tools and technologies appropriate for the communications professions in which they will work
Appreciate the evolution of the wireless industry and be positioned to contribute to the development of the next generation of wireless products & services.


General Education: None
Diversity: None
Bachelor of Arts: None
Effective: Spring 2011
Prerequisite: COMM 381 andCOMM 387

Note : Class size, frequency of offering, and evaluation methods will vary by location and instructor. For these details check the specific course syllabus.