Media Communication - B.S.

The media communication major has the dual purpose of preparing students for career opportunities in the various areas of the media (e.g., television, radio, online) and giving them the broad liberal arts education necessary to achieve success in this rapidly changing industry. Among the diverse possibilities afforded by media work (television, film, radio, journalism, etc.) are content areas and skills all students should master, including history and structures, writing, and production. In addition, students select nine (9) hours in one of two concentrations, based on their area of interest.

Production: This concentration recognizes the broader career prospects and leadership opportunities for the student working "behind-the-scenes" in media careers. Courses emphasize off-camera, non-performance aspects of media and theatrical production. In addition to specialized skill courses, the student may also work up to two semesters each with WIWU-TV or WIWU-FM for credit. This puts production experience into an ongoing, real-world, experiential context.

Performance: This concentration is for students wishing to appear on-mic or on-camera in the "talent" positions of media work. It offers specialized training, such as "broadcast performance," but also recognizes the commonalities in performance skills and thus allows coursework in public speaking and acting. Students may also work up to two semesters each in campus radio or TV for continuing practicum credit.