Undergraduate Degree Program


The Department of Broadcasting offers a Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree in broadcasting, preparing students for careers in an ever-changing fast-paced industry of electronic media communications.  The program affords the type of pre-professional training most often associated with an arts conservatory while providing the benefits of a liberal arts education.  Approximately one-third of the student's course work focuses on electronic media production with the balance giving exposure to a broad array of general education subjects, an essential component of the student's training.


Emphasis of the curriculum is on the writing, producing and directing of fresh, innovative ideas for broadcast presentation coupled with a strong theoretical background in the history and current issues related to electronic communication.  Graduates of the program are in high demand, finding work in areas such as news, entertainment and production. Students also find jobs in craft disciplines such as videography, editing and technical directing.   Access to state-of-the-art facilities and equipment in the DuMont Television Center enable self-directed practical training and development of marketable skills. 



Special features of the broadcasting program include:

  • Internship opportunities at major broadcasting facilities

  • An adjunct faculty (complementing the full-time faculty) of high-level broadcasting executives and producers

  • Production of the department's weekly award-winning cable program, Carpe Diem

  • Association with professional organizations such as the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences (NATAS), American Women in Radio and Television (AWRT), and the University Film and Video Association (UFVA).

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Curriculum and Courses


Students following the Broadcasting curriculum begin by learning about the history, organization and contemporary structure of radio, television and hybrid technologies, and quickly become familiar with the inner workings of the broadcasting studio that becomes their home during the four years.


Courses in writing, audio production and sound design teach students how to write for the medium (news, commercials, drama) as well as the technology for translating ideas to the screen.  By the third and fourth years in the program, students produce works worthy of use in a professional portfolio .


To expand their vision as well as marketability, students often supplement their broadcasting major with other areas of study. The curriculum allows students to minor in Journalism, Pre-Law, Sociology, Speech Communication and Theatre, among other areas. The 33 credits available for free electives, combined with relevant General Education credits, makes pursuing a minor a viable option. 


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Faculty


Department of Broadcasting faculty possess a long list of professional credits including affiliations with major network stations, cable companies and production houses. Each year seasoned guest artists augment the faculty by coming to campus to conduct open dialogues and to coach students.  Working with distinguished mentors, students in Broadcasting develop a discipline and skill base applicable not only to broadcasting but to other professions as well. Alumni are making names for themselves and often help our graduates on their own paths to success.

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