College Catalog
Course Descriptions
Introduction to Mass Communications
MCM111
Basic survey that examines the many different mass media, including newspaper, magazine, radio, television, motion picture, book publishing, and the recording industries. Examines such areas as advertising in commercial media, photography and photojournalism, mass media, networks, syndicates, cable, satellite communications, legal issues in the working press, regulatory control of the mass media, the audience, and the effects of mass communication. Includes a glossary of media terms. 3 Credits (3 Lecture - 0 Lab) Fall Only.
News Writing
MCM120
Techniques of basic news writing for print and broadcast media. Emphasizes gathering and organizing information, rewriting and editing copy, and critiquing published as well as peer writing. Introduces on-line word processing and other forms of electronic networking to deliver copy. 3 Credits (3 Lecture - 0 Lab) Prerequisite(s): ENL111. Spring Only.
Media and Law
MCM122
Survey of mass media and its relationship to the law. Includes examination of libel, slander, right to privacy, privilege, and provisions of the First Amendment. Considers precedent-setting court rulings and case histories. 3 Credits (3 Lecture - 0 Lab) Prerequisite(s): MCM111. Spring Only.
Principles of Advertising
MCM127
Survey of the history of American advertising and its relation to the economy. Media management and placement; integrated marketing communication; retail and national advertising; sociological aspects; creative production. 3 Credits (3 Lecture - 0 Lab)
Radio Station Operation and Production
MCM133
Introduction to various production formats used in the radio industry today through hands-on experience at the College's radio station. Course work develops basic production skills using studio and remote equipment to produce material for broadcast on WPTC; develop an on-air technique through regular air shifts; and requires, through daily participation in the management of WPTC, the development of a specialty area or focus. Develops fundamental understanding of the internal workings of a radio station and the interdependence of the departments for a successful station operation. Workshops allow for critique and discussion of production work. 3 Credits (2 Lecture - 3 Lab) Spring Only.
Introduction to Video Production
MCM136
Theory and practice of video production with emphasis on understanding the visual media and their functions as means of communication. Emphasizes basic production elements such as camera operation, lighting and audio and video recording. Examines the pre-production process necessary for outlining, script development, and storyboard creation. 3 Credits (2 Lecture - 3 Lab)
Introduction to Cinema
MCM152
Study of film as mass media. Includes the international development of cinema as well as the historical significance of various films. Stresses an understanding of the social, cultural, political, and aesthetic values communicated by film. Introduces basic elements of movie making and discusses film criticism. 3 Credits (3 Lecture - 0 Lab) (ART) As needed.
Electronic Journalism
MCM222
Practical experience in news gathering, news writing, reporting, and interviewing for the electronic media with a focus on local and campus coverage. Includes writing and producing newscasts and public affairs programs for the College's electronic media. Examines ethical and legal issues in electronic journalism. Frequent workshops allow for critique and discussion of students' work. (Formerly MCM221) 3 Credits (3 Lecture - 0 Lab) Prerequisite(s): MCM120. As needed.
Media Writing
MCM223
Writing techniques for a variety of media applications, with a focus on reaching the audiences of traditional news outlets such as print, online, and broadcast. Course work applies informational, persuasive, and advocacy writing to a variety of media formats, including video scripting and news. Emphasis on gathering and organizing information, rewriting and editing copy, critiquing, and peer writing. Includes techniques for interviewing, researching, and writing. 3 Credits (3 Lecture - 0 Lab) Prerequisite(s): ENL111. As needed.
Reporting Public Affairs
MCM225
Practical experience that develops refined writing skills through class assignments and news beat coverage. Emphasizes meeting deadlines and creating tight, thorough writing. Focuses on reporting public events through practicum and field experience. 3 Credits (3 Lecture - 0 Lab) Prerequisite(s): MCM120. As needed.
Radio Programming and Management
MCM232
Radio programming and successful management of radio stations. Discusses sources of programming, programming development and implementation, and current trends in programming. Exposes students to various aspects of effective radio management. Develops individual skills in radio management as students work as executive staff members of the College's radio station. 3 Credits (2 Lecture - 3 Lab) Prerequisite(s): MCM133. Fall Only.
Digital Media Editing
MCM236
Theory, techniques, software applications and peripherals used in the process of creating and editing digital media content. Includes non-linear digital video editing, digital media asset creation, and management of digital media content for digital video (DV), Internet, CD-ROM, and presentation applications. 3 Credits (2 Lecture - 3 Lab) Prerequisite(s): MCM136. Fall Only.
Advanced Media Writing
MCM241
Refined techniques for specialized and specific writing for a range of mass media. Surveys news features including scripts, instructional presentations, bites, color stories, sidebars, and personality sketches. Includes techniques for interviewing, researching, and writing with the goal of publication for pay. 3 Credits (3 Lecture - 0 Lab) Prerequisite(s): MCM120. As needed.
Public Relations
MCM243
Survey of Public Relations as a management function that enhances communication between an organization and its publics. Includes development of specialized writing techniques used in a range of print and electronic media for disseminating information to particular publics, including in-house groups. Includes critiques of news releases, house organs, and other public relations vehicles. Course work includes application of principles and techniques in simulated and actual projects. 3 Credits (3 Lecture - 0 Lab) Prerequisite(s): MCM111 or ENL111. Fall Only.
Advanced Digital Media Production
MCM246
Advanced non-linear video and audio production, delivery and distribution. Includes production of short features and documentaries and, through project teams, creation of identity or advocacy pieces for non-profit groups. 3 Credits (2 Lecture - 3 Lab) Prerequisite(s): MCM136 and MCM236. Spring Only.
Internship
MCM250
Practical work experience in mass communications through placement in an advertising, public relations, radio or newspaper firms, or in other related organizations. Permission of program faculty required. 3 Credits (3 Lecture - 0 Lab)
