Broadcast Communication Curriculum
The Master of Arts in Broadcast Communication requires the successful completion of the required core (15 credit hours), and seven approved courses (21 hours) from the Broadcast Communication electives for a total of 36 hours. You are also required to successfully complete a comprehensive examination at the conclusion of the coursework.
DEGREE REQUIREMENTS
REQUIRED CORE COURSES: 15 HOURS| PRE | NUM | COURSE TITLE | HOURS |
| COM | 507 | COMMUNICATION THEORY Graduate study of the theoretical orientations in the field of human communication. Focus on 20th Century theorists and schools of thought. |
3 |
| COM | 595 | COMMUNICATION LAW Studies current laws governing mass media. Role of the FCC, libel, privacy, and First Amendment issues. |
3 |
| COM | 637 | COMMUNICATION RESEARCH Study of the methods, standards, practices, and expectations for the conduct of graduate study and research. Analysis of research in communication. |
3 |
| COM | 647 | QUALITATIVE RESEARCH An introduction to qualitative research methods and techniques and their application to qualitative research design. Emphasis will be on types of qualitative information, methods of data collection, analysis and presentation of results, and the appropriateness of qualitative designs. Students will learn the different approaches to qualitative methods as well as design, conduct, and analyze an actual research study of their own. |
3 |
| COM | 651 | INTERCULTURAL COMMUNICATION An in-depth analysis of theory and practice in intercultural communication. The course covers intercultural communication between dominant and non-dominant groups, and between individuals and groups from different linguistic and national backgrounds. |
3 |
BROADCAST COMMUNICATION ELECTIVES: 21 HOURS
| PRE | NUM | COURSE TITLE | HOURS |
| COM | 514* | VIDEO PRODUCTION Theory and practice of audio and video production; hands-on experience in basic production for radio and television. This course may be waived if the student has an undergraduate degree in broadcasting or work experience with video equipment. Note: COM 514 does not apply towards either of the M.A. and M.S. degrees in Communication. |
3 |
| COM | 518 | BROADCAST NEWS Theory and practice of audio and video production; hands-on experience in basic production for radio and television. This course may be waived if the student has an undergraduate degree in broadcasting or work experience with video equipment. Note: COM 514 does not apply towards either of the M.A. and M.S. degrees in Communication. |
3 |
| COM | 597 | MEDIA MANAGEMENT Problems and concerns in management of the media, including Radio/TV stations. Practical experience in resolving business problems, promotion, sales, advertising, financing, and regulation. Major project required. |
3 |
| COM | 605 | ADVANCED TELEVISION PRODUCTION Advanced television editing techniques. Emphasis on writing, producing, and electronic editing. Prerequisite: COM 514 or equivalent. |
3 |
| COM | 626 | MEDIA PROGRAMMING Overview of programming categories, network and local formats, research and programming strategies. |
3 |
| COM | 694 | GRADUATE INTERNSHIP On-site practical experience in communication setting; CR/NCR grade; unpaid internships only. Prerequisite: completion of 24 graduate credit hours, and permission of advisor and instructor. |
3 |
| COM | 697 | SPECIAL TOPICS: ADVANCED VIDEO EDITING | 3 |
| COM | 697 | SPECIAL TOPIC/ELECTIVE/INTERNSHIP Identification and examination of selected topics in communication. May be repeated under different topic titles. |
3 |
| COM | 650 | CAPTONE PROJECT A creative project which synthesizes the student’s program of study. |
3 |
| COM | 699 | THESIS GUIDANCE Individual research supervised by a member of the graduate faculty. |
3 - 6 |
*Students must first demonstrate competency with studio equipment or complete COM 514 (Video Production) before enrolling in production classes. COM 514 does not apply toward the Master’s degree.