Mass Communication, B.A. - York College of

Tuition Fee

Start Date

Medium of studying

Duration

Program Facts

Program Details

Degree

Bachelors

Major

Communications | Media Studies | Journalism

Area of study

Journalism and Information

Course Language

English

About Program

Program Overview

The Mass Communication program at York College of Pennsylvania equips students with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary to thrive in the dynamic field of digital and broadcast media. Through hands-on experience in audio, radio, video production, and news reporting, students develop a strong foundation for careers in broadcasting, independent production houses, or corporate video production. The program emphasizes both technical and communication skills, preparing graduates for a variety of careers in the media industry.

Program Outline

Degree Overview

Objective:

The Mass Communication program at York College of Pennsylvania aims to equip students with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary to thrive in the dynamic field of digital and broadcast media. Through hands-on experience in various areas like audio, radio, video production, and news reporting, students develop a strong foundation for careers in broadcasting, independent production houses, or corporate video production. Upon graduation, students are well-versed in both technical and communication skills, making them proficient in both professional and personal settings.

Description:

The program provides a comprehensive understanding of the communication field, encompassing various aspects like:

Production: Students gain practical experience in audio, radio, and video production, learning how to operate field and control room equipment, along with developing skills in news gathering and reporting.
Writing: The program hones students' writing skills, focusing on effective communication in various formats like news writing, copywriting, and scriptwriting.
Performance: Students develop their on-air presence and presentation skills through courses in broadcast performance and announcing.
Media Law and Ethics: The program instills a strong understanding of ethical and legal considerations within the media landscape.
Media Management: Students acquire knowledge and skills essential for managing and leading media organizations.
Digital Media: The program emphasizes the ever-evolving digital media landscape, equipping students with the ability to adapt and thrive in the online world.
Broadcast journalist
Reporter
Videographer
Audio engineer
Media relations specialist
Public relations specialist
Social media manager
Content creator

Outline

Program Structure:

The Mass Communication program at York College of Pennsylvania comprises 122 credits, encompassing coursework in communication theory, production, writing, and media management. Students are required to maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher and fulfill the college's General Education Requirements, including courses in communication, mathematics, American citizenship, global citizenship, humanities, arts, social and behavioral sciences, and natural and physical sciences.

Course Schedule:

The program offers a variety of courses over four years, covering various aspects of communication theory, production, and management.

Modules:

The program consists of several modules, each focusing on a specific area:

Broadcast Performance: Students develop on-air presentation skills, voice projection, and delivery techniques.
Media Production: This module covers audio, radio, and video production techniques, including scriptwriting, camera operation, editing, and sound mixing.
Media Writing: Students hone their writing skills in various formats, including news writing, copywriting, and scriptwriting.
Media Law and Ethics: This module examines ethical considerations and legal issues relevant to the media industry.
Media Management: Students learn the principles of media organization management, including budgeting, personnel management, and marketing.
Digital Media: This module explores the ever-changing digital media landscape, covering social media, web design, and content creation.
General Education: Students complete a range of courses in various disciplines, broadening their knowledge and critical thinking skills.

Module Descriptions:

CM 120 Broadcast Performance I: Introduces students to the fundamentals of on-air presentation, including voice projection, delivery techniques, and performance skills.
CM 226 Audio Production I: Provides hands-on training in audio recording, editing, and mixing techniques.
CM 332 Broadcast Media Writing: Focuses on writing different forms of media content for radio, television, and online platforms.
CM 341 Video Production II: Advances students' video production skills, covering multi-camera shoots, editing techniques, and storytelling through video.
CM 410 Media Management: Develops students' understanding of media organization management, including budgeting, personnel management, and marketing strategies.
CM 434 Media Law and Ethics: Examines legal and ethical issues within the media industry, covering topics such as copyright, defamation, and privacy.

Assessment

Assessment Methods:

The Mass Communication program utilizes various assessment methods to evaluate student learning and progress, including:

Exams: Written exams test students' understanding of theoretical concepts and factual knowledge.
Assignments: Students complete written assignments, projects, and presentations to demonstrate their practical skills and knowledge application.
Critiques: Students receive feedback on their work from instructors and peers through critiques and discussions.
Portfolio: Students develop a portfolio of their best work throughout the program, showcasing their skills and accomplishments.
Creativity and originality: Students are encouraged to demonstrate their creativity and originality in their projects and assignments.
Technical proficiency: Students' technical skills in audio, video, and writing are evaluated based on industry standards.
Critical thinking and analysis: Students are expected to demonstrate critical thinking skills in their work, analyzing information and drawing sound conclusions.
Professionalism and communication skills: Students are evaluated on their ability to communicate effectively and professionally in written and oral form.

Teaching

Teaching Methods:

The Mass Communication program employs various teaching methods to cater to different learning styles and foster an engaging learning environment. These methods include:

Lectures: Instructors deliver lectures to introduce key concepts and theories.
Discussions: Students participate in active discussions and debates to explore different perspectives and deepen their understanding.
Hands-on projects: Students engage in practical projects to apply their knowledge and develop their skills.
Guest speakers: Industry professionals are invited to share their experiences and insights with students.
Field trips: Students visit media organizations and production facilities to gain real-world experience.

Faculty:

The program boasts a team of experienced and qualified faculty members with expertise in various areas of communication. These faculty members are dedicated to providing students with the knowledge and guidance they need to succeed in the program and their future careers.

Careers

Career Paths:

The Mass Communication program prepares graduates for a variety of careers in the media industry, including:

Broadcast journalist
Reporter
Videographer
Audio engineer
Media relations specialist
Public relations specialist
Social media manager
Content creator

Career Opportunities:

Graduates of the program can find employment in various organizations, including:

Television stations
Radio stations
Production companies
Advertising agencies
Public relations firms
Corporations
Non-profit organizations

Career Outcomes:

The program boasts a high rate of graduate employment in the media industry. Graduates have gone on to successful careers in various media organizations, demonstrating the program's effectiveness in preparing students for the demands of the industry.

Other

Extracurricular Activities:

The program offers various extracurricular activities for students to gain additional experience and network with peers and industry professionals. These activities include:

The Spartan Newspaper: A student-run newspaper that provides students with opportunities to hone their writing and editing skills.
WYCP Radio: A student-run radio station that offers students hands-on experience in radio broadcasting.
Video production studios: Equipped with professional cameras, lighting, and editing software.
Audio production studios: Featuring industry-standard recording and mixing equipment.
Computer labs: Equipped with the latest software for writing, editing, and multimedia production.