These requirements are from an excerpt from the University Academic Catalog, which outlines the requirements for a student to earn the distinction of being a Castleton University graduate. The complete catalog is available online.
Bachelor of Arts graduates in Media & Communication will be able to:
Code | Course | Credits |
---|---|---|
COM 1040 |
Media WritingThis course introduces students to the basics of writing for 21st century media, exploring both forms that have their origins in print, and emergent forms native to the digital landscape. Students will practice writing for news and entertainment outlets, film and video, podcasting and radio, advertising, public relations and social media. Every Semester |
3 |
COM 1211 |
Introduction to Video and FilmmakingThis is a project-oriented course in which students develop their abilities to communicate in a wide range of video applications. It offers hands-on instruction, practice and guidance in writing, producing, directing, camerawork, audio recording, single and multi-camera production, and editing. Depending on their interests, students produce, direct and/or appear on camera in a number of in-and out-of class productions. This course fulfills an Arts and Aesthetics general education requirement. Fee Studio fee $20. Every Semester |
3 |
COM 1220 |
Introduction to Media and CommunicationThis course introduces students to the study of communication processes and media literacy practices. Students will explore print media, audio-visual media and mobile platforms. They will also examine historical and technological developments, and subsequent cultural, political and economic implications of these platforms. This course fulfills a Social Science general education requirement. Every Semester |
3 |
COM 2140 |
Race, Gender and Sexuality in MediaOR COM 2260 - Media and Society 3 cr Media are among our primary sources of images of people, places and things we do not encounter ourselves in our everyday lives. This course examines the images of women and racial and sexual minorities who have been on the fringes of policy development and yet at the center of narratives created by mainstream media. It takes a detailed look at the symbolic and social power of commercial media's role in constructing social and cultural differences around age, gender, race, class and sexuality. This course fulfills an Arts and Aesthetics general education requirement. Prerequisite: COM 1220 or consent of instructor. Fee Fee $20 Spring |
3 |
Code | Course | Credits |
---|---|---|
COM 2230 |
Introduction to JournalismStudents will learn to report and write both hard news and short feature stories, including one story stemming from a local government meeting. They will learn journalistic interviewing skills and use digital devices to assist storytelling across multiple platforms. Prerequisite: ENG 1061 or equivalent Every semester |
3 |
COM 2270 |
Journalism: Pages & PostsThis course will examine how social media now shapes news delivery and interaction with readers. Students will learn copy editing (including The Spartan newspaper), style rules, haedline writing, photo editing, and newspaper design. Prerequisite: COM 1040, COM 2230, or consent of instructor. Spring |
3 |
COM 3010 |
Media EthicsThe student examines basic ethical issues encountered daily by the news media including diversity, conflicts of interest, fabricating stories, privacy, use of deception and the need for compassion. Ethical issues facing media not involved with news will also be discussed. Prerequisite: COM 1220 Fall |
3 |
COM 3060 |
Feature WritingStudents will research and write in-depth features and editorials for newspapers and magazines and maintain a biweekly blog on a topic of their choice. Stories may be selected for submission to the student newspaper and university publications. Prerequisite: COM 1040, COM 2230 or consent of instructor. Fall |
3 |
COM 3780 |
Special Topics in JournalismIn-depth study of a particular variety of journalistic endeavor. Possible subjects include sports, public affairs, arts coverage and commentary. May be taken three times for course and program credit. Prerequisite: COM 2230. Spring |
3 |
Code | Course | Credits |
---|---|---|
COM 4510 |
Communication PortfolioIn this course students develop and organize materials to support their career development efforts. Drawing from papers, stories, scripts, graphics, videos, audio files, etc. produced during their time as undergraduates, students produce online and hard copy portfolios and "reels." Students reflect on their overall growth and development within their fields of study, and thoughtfully address the works selected for their portfolios. Restrictions Restrictions: Senior Standing Fall |
3 |
COM 4810 |
Internship in Communicationand one of the following courses: The student takes on a position of responsibility in an off-campus professional environment under the direction of an on-site supervisor and a faculty member. Experiences are available in newspapers, magazines, large and small radio and television stations, production companies, marketing and PR firms, nonprofits, and other areas. All students enrolled meet periodically to discuss experiences. (Students may take up to 15 credits in COM 3810 and COM 4810 combined.) Signed contract required at time of registration. Prerequisite: Permission of instructor. |
1-12 |
COM 4850 |
Senior Project in CommunicationThe student produces an independent project in his or her field under close supervision of a faculty advisor. Projects may be production oriented (short film) or analytical (thesis paper). Such projects may be in coordination with the university radio station, newspaper or local television facilities, but may not consist of an established position within these organizations. All students enrolled meet weekly to discuss projects. Prerequisite: Permission of instructor and senior standing. |
3 |
Complete an 18 or more credit Minor or related area of focused study approved by the faculty advisor, or a Civic Engagement Certificate. The Minor or area of focused study may not be in Media & Communication, nor may it include any courses the student applies to the Major requirements. Should the Major and Minor require the same course, a relevant substitution is required in one or the other.
View the General Education Requirements.
This major participates in the 3+2 program with Vermont Law School, in which highly-focused students can earn a Bachelor's degree in just three years at CU and a Juris Doctor (JD) degree in just two years at VLS.
For details, see the Law Degree page.