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 Science graduates in Media & Communication will be aware of the nature of the communication enterprise:
Graduates will also be able to:
Finally, graduates will have:
The concentration by contract is designed to provide the student with a coherent body of knowledge and skills that cut across traditional intra- and interdisciplinary boundaries. Examples of such a concentration include Popular Culture Studies or American Studies, Arts Administration, and Photography.
Normally in their sophomore year, and always by the end of their junior year, Media & Communication concentrators by contract, in conjunction with their advisors, will develop a proposal for their course of study. The proposal will be reviewed by the entire department and academic dean's office.
| Code | Course | Credits |
|---|---|---|
COM 1040 |
Media WritingThis is a basic course covering writing in a variety of media including print and broadcast journalism, advertising, instructional television, public relations and broadcast continuity. Prerequisite: ENG 1061. 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. 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 the Social and Behavioral Understanding Frame of Reference. 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 counts towards the Aesthetic Understanding Frame of Reference. Prerequisite: COM 1220 or consent of instructor. Fee Fee $20 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 Communication[at least 3 cr required] 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.
Click here for 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.