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The Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science in Digital Media Studies
Digital media have become pervasive in the contemporary world and continue to develop at a rapid pace. Digital literacy is no longer optional in the 21st Century. Companies of all sizes, major industries, and not-for-profit organizations need creative, digital specialists. Fashioning messaging, supporting marketing efforts and managing social media are just some of the present and future needs for digital experts. The central challenge is to provide an education that lays a foundation for continued evolution and growth in the field as digital media continue to emerge.
The Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Science in Digital Media Studies is a 54 credit major that prepares students for careers in digital communications, web design, social media applications, and digital production. Interdisciplinary in nature, the major enables students to exercise their creativity and develop the technical knowledge and skills that are necessary for the creation and dissemination of content via traditional and emerging media technologies. Students learn to take a concept from the initial stages of development to a finished product, such as a web page, short film, or mixed media artwork. The program is organized around the competencies and types of literacy students must possess to flourish in the rapidly evolving field of digital media studies.
What Makes Digital Media Studies at Albertus Different?
Engaged
Students
- Hands-on, experiential learning
- Interdisciplinary perspectives
- Emphasis on collaborative work
Great
Teaching
- Personally invested professors
- Small class sizes
- Innovative, well-rounded programs
- Resources and opportunities for research
Vibrant
Communities
- Lively extracurricular activities
- Campus-wide events
- Service and community engagement
Successful
Outcomes
- Active career counseling
- Opportunity-building networks
- Access to internships and professional experiences
The Albertus Digital Media Studies Degree Program
While pursuing a major in Digital Media Studies, emphasis is placed on the development of core competencies that will enable students to adapt as technology changes. Students also are prepared to pursue advanced study in the field.
The Albertus Digital Media Studies Faculty
Where Will Your Digital Media Studies Degree take You?
The Digital Media Studies program is tailored to meet individual career goals and objectives. Drawing upon courses spanning Art, Business, Communications, Computer Information Systems, English and Management; students are provided the core knowledge, understanding, and skills necessary to engage the aesthetic, cultural, and technical dimensions of constructing and interpreting works that employ digital media. A major in Digital Media Studies prepares students to enter careers in media, government agencies, education, public interest groups, and private industries that require the development, implementation, application and management of digital media as they evolve.
Possible career paths with a Bachelor of Science degree or Bachelor of Arts degree in Digital Media Studies include:
Digital Media Studies Courses
Student learning outcomes for the Digital Media Studies program are as follows:
- Possess the oral, written, and media communication skills necessary to create substantive, professional multimedia works. (Oral, written, and media communication literacy)
- Demonstrate an awareness of, and ability to use digital technologies and software to create and distribute multimedia content. (Computer information systems literacy)
- Know and understand core concepts and current issues in the study of media, culture, and communication. (Media literacy in the context of cultural studies)
- Be conversant in the primary scholarly work addressing the intersection of media, culture and communication fields. (Media literacy in the context of cultural studies)
- Understand core principles pertaining to promotion, advertising, and social networking using digital media. (Promotional literacy)
- Understand the basic principles of project management. (Management literacy)
- Possess the ability to create a professional-quality finished product in an area of focus.
| Oral Literacy - 3 Credits From the Following | ||
|---|---|---|
| CO 141 | Speech Communications (Level A) | Speech Communications offers the student a comprehensive approach to the organization, presentation, and theory associated with the practice of oral communications. Through classroom exercises, formal student speech presentations, and videotape analysis, the student will advance his/her ability to speak publicly. Special attention will be given to the perceptual skills, listening skills, and leadership styles necessary for effective speaking in family, social, and business contexts. The emphasis is upon individual development. Thus, the student who experiences “speech anxiety” is likely to find Speech Communications a particularly rewarding experience. General Education Choice for Part A. Generally offered yearly. (3 credits) |
| CO 239 | Broadcast Announcing | This course introduces students to the lively profession of broadcast announcing. The course will give students the opportunity to plan, script, and produce short broadcast productions. Recorded and live sessions will be discussed and planned. Topics include: surveying equipment needs, learning vocal techniques and broadcast practices, arranging recording sessions, and negotiating the challenges of recordings. Special attention will be given to situational broadcast environments such as Sports Announcing, Music and event announcing, News announcing, and interviewing. Generally offered every other year. (3 credits) |
| Writing Literacy - 6 Credits From the Following | ||
| CO 151 | Writing for the Mass Media | All mass media, at one time or another, require the creator(s) to write. Given the essential nature of this expressive skill, Writing for the Mass Media will expose the student to the basics of news, multi-media, sports, visual, and promotional forms of writing. Students will examine different examples of these writing forms as models, and will write originally conceived copy as weekly assignments. Generally offered yearly. (3 credits) |
| CO 250 | Broadcast Writing | In this course, we will introduce the student to the creative variables and technical considerations involved in radio and television copywriting. The student will be expected to submit original radio and TV copy as weekly assignments. In addition, we will explore radio and TV organization and production processes. A final portfolio of original copy will be required from each student. This course is highly recommended for those interested in a career in either radio or television. Generally offered yearly. (3 credits) |
| CO 240 | Screenwriting | This course will introduce you to feature film screenwriting. We will explore the basic theory and formal aspects of story structure, character development, use of conflict, scene writing and dialogue. We will then apply these basic dramatic principles to the development of your own original material. Since much of the work of screenwriting is done before the actual drafting, this class will focus on the process of screenwriting: from the initial premise, through character exploration, to treatments and step-outlines, then writing your first draft. With the help of your peers in workshop, you will leave this course with a solid understanding of the fundamentals of screenwriting. Generally offered every other year. (3 credits) |
| EN 143 | Creative Writing | A writing course designed as a general introduction to the strategies of literary composition. Through sustained and systematic practice in the techniques that stimulate and refine creative writing, students will exercise and develop intuitive and critical abilities essential to significant artistic achievement. Generally offered once a year. (3 credits) |
| BE 135 | Business Communications | This introductory course in written and oral communications will enable students to become more effective business communicators. Special focus is given to selecting and using visual aids and PowerPoint to enhance presentations. This course meets the “W” course requirement. This course is generally offered twice each year. (3 credits) |
| CO 365 | Writing for Interactive Media | Despite the changing media landscape, good writing skills are a necessity for professional communication. Students in this class use written modalities to create, develop and hone a distinct, searchable written voice within varied media environments. Much of professional media work involves creating a consistent voice or presence for a person, organization or company. In this course, participants focus on how to accomplish (or enhance) this process using effective compositional techniques. Typically offered every other year (3 credits) |
| Media Literacy - 15 Credits From the Following | ||
| CO 125 | Digital Audio Recording and Editing | (3 credits) |
| AR 114 | Graphic Design I | An introduction to page layout and design as it relates to constructed documents including books, posters, and brochures. Provides an overview of the field of commercial art including advertising, web design, and art direction. Offered every semester. (3 credits) |
| AR 201 | Introduction to Computer Art | An introduction to imaging using Windows-based tools. The course explores digital bit mapped and vector systems to create two-dimensional works for paper and the web. Offered yearly. (3 credits) |
| AR 214 | Graphic Design II | A continuation of AR 114 with a focus on typography, layout, and design for commercial publication. Type specification, production techniques and digital design tools will be surveyed. The course culminates with a portfolio of camera-ready design. P: AR 114. Offered yearly. (3 credits) |
| AR 314 | Advanced Graphic Design I | Introduction to design for the World Wide Web. Students will create a professional portfolio site for themselves and take it live to the web with their own domain name. P: AR 214 Offered each semester. (3 credits) |
| AR 315 | Advanced Graphic Design II | A semester in company identity and package design. Design to meet the strategic needs of corporate branding and packaging. P: AR 314 Offered each semester. (3 credits) |
| AR 335 | Digital Photography I | An exploration of photographic color, light, and design using digital tools. Coursework includes scanning into digital image from conventional film. Adobe Photoshop software utilized to manipulate, edit, collage, and combine digital images. Offered yearly. (3 credits) |
| AR 336 | Digital Photography II | An opportunity to explore advanced coursework in digital photographic editing. Stu dents will pursue a defined project in depth during the course of the semester. Offered yearly. (3 credits) |
| CO 229 | Introduction to Digital Communications | This course will provide students with a detailed critical introduction to the field of digital communication. Topics will include practical applications of digital communication across disciplines: communication studies, journalism, public relations, advertising, media and cinema studies, and communication technology. This class will offer students a glimpse of those disciplines and allow them to integrate them all together. Additionally, this course will provide an entry point for students who have had little experience with either digital technology or communication courses. Generally offered yearly. (3 credits) |
| CO 237 | Photojournalism | Photojournalism introduces the student to the informational, persuasive, and entertainment roles that still images play in modern newspapers and magazines. This course will examine narrative, documentary, and aesthetic images. Students will address the following questions: What is photojournalism and how has it evolved? What direction(s) is photojournalism headed? What are the proper roles for the photojournalist? How do images bias the content of editorial copy? How and why do photojournalism and an individual’s right to privacy find themselves in conflict? What is the role of the Photo Editor? How can images emote, captivate, motivate, amuse, inspire, or tell a story in the context of print publications? What ethical questions does photo manipulation present for the practicing photojournalist? In addition to exploring these and other questions, students will critically review the work of past and present photojournalists, and they will create original images as regular assignments. Students need a digital, still camera. Students should be familiar with the rudimentary operation of their photographic equipment; however, course lectures will focus at times on application and technique. This course hopes to enhance the student’s visual literacy and proficiency, enlighten the student on news and photojournalism issues, and introduce the would-be practitioner to the basics of producing successful images. Generally offered yearly (3 credits) |
| CO 242 | Electronic Field Production | This course focuses on concepts and techniques associated with Electronic Field Production (EFP). Topics include Electronic News Gathering (ENG), sports coverage, commercials, music videos, and on-location dramatic productions. In ENG work the primary goal is to get the story, however conditions are not always ideal. Special attention will be given to contingency planning and preparation for unforeseen circumstances. Through a combination of planned location shoots and group projects, students will be exposed to principles and practices associated with all aspects of field production. Typically offered every other year. (3 credits) |
| CO 251 | Film and Video Production | In this course we introduce student to the principles, processes and creative production techniques associated with studio produced motion media. Using HD video, students will explore the following topics: scripting, production planning, budgeting, casting, directing, camera operation, lighting, sound recording, music and editing. Students will engage in group projects that involve “hands-on” workshops. Emphasis is upon multicamera, studio-oriented production. Generally offered yearly. (3 credits) |
| CIS 301 | Technology and the Arts | This course evaluates all forms of creative expression, and their evolution through digital technology. It highlights the connection between the arts, humanities and technology that continue to influence today’s digital society. General Education Choice, Level C. Generally offered twice per year. (3 credits) |
| Computer Literacy - 6 Credits From the Following | ||
| CIS 230 | Scripting and the Web | (3 credits) |
| CIS 325 | Data Communications | This course is designed to provide students with an understanding of the technologies and products related to communications systems. It will include management issues related to network planning, implementation, and administration. Among the topics covered are: distributed data processing, communication techniques, network design, and security. (3 credits) |
| CIS 382 | Computer Networks | (3 credits) |
| CIS 383 | HTML and Web Publishing | (3 credits) |
| CIS 385 | Cybersecurity | A study of security policies, models, and mechanisms for secrecy, integrity, and availability. Topics include operating system models and mechanisms for mandatory and discretionary controls; data models, concepts, and mechanisms for database security; basic cryptography and its applications; security in computer networks and distributed systems; and control and prevention of viruses. Concentration will be placed on the related legal issues. Generally offered yearly (3 credits) |
| Promotional Literacy - 3 Credits From the Following | ||
| CIS 387 | Electronic Commerce | (3 credits) |
| CO 230 | Internet Marketing and Advertising | Internet marketing and promotional communications are increasing at dramatic rates. Both large and small businesses and individual entrepreneurs cannot hope to survive in the 21st Century without strong Internet marketing and advertising plans. This course will introduce the student to the basics of product/service promotion as practiced using the medium of the World Wide Web. Specifically, topics to be explored include: What is “e-business?”, Internet User Characteristics and Behavior, On-line Market Research, Product and Pricing on the Net, The Net as Distribution Channel, The Internet Marketing Plan, and Advertisement Design for the Net. Students will be expected to have Internet access and will create a variety of creative, promotional materials as regular assignments. Prior Internet design experience is desirable but not required. In addition, students will explore the ethical issues and some legal questions associated with Internet Marketing and Advertising. Generally offered yearly. (3 credits) |
| MG 231 | Principles of Marketing | This course introduces students to common methods of planning and implementing decisions with respect to product, price, promotion, and channels of distribution, as organizations strive to satisfy the needs and wants of the market while achieving the goals of the organization in a dynamic environment. This course is generally offered once a year. (3 credits) |
| Management Literacy - 3 Credits From the Following | ||
| MG 131 | Principles of Management | Students are introduced to the basic functions of planning, organizing, leading, and controlling the organization effectively and efficiently. Additional topics include social responsibility of the organization, decision-making, interpersonal skills, and organizational change. This course is generally offered once a year. (3 credits) |
| MG 228 | International Business Management | Students analyze foreign environment elements and the role of each element as firms select market entry options. Specific emphasis is given to ethical strategic planning of human resources, marketing, finance, and the relationship between the corporation and its host country in establishing the international business operations. This course is generally offered every other year. (3 credits) |
| CO 301 | Organizational Communications | Bureaucracies and large-sized organizational structures abound in modern America. Frankly, there is no escaping this reality. Organizational Communications takes historical, structural and ethical perspectives in examining the nature and role of communications within the organizational framework. Direct attention will be given to applying these perspectives to the phenomenon of the modern sports industries, but comparative and contrasting attention will be given to large, midsize and small businesses; and to those organizations that exist in the not-for-profit sector. Although part of the Sports Communications Sequence, Organizational Communications is highly recommended for all students interested in better understanding and affecting the dynamics involved in effective communications within any organizational framework. Generally offered yearly (3 credits) |
| MG 340 | Project Management | This course covers principles, practices, and techniques for the management of temporary organizations (also known as project management). This course is broadly applicable to any student with an interest in how change is implemented in real world organizations through the use of project management. Core topics include initiation, planning, execution, monitoring, and closure of projects. This course uses the Microsoft Project software package extensively to provide hands on planning experience. (3 credits) |
| AM 111 | Arts Management | Through this course, students will gain an understanding of the theory and practice of art management in non-profit and for-profit organizations. Generally offered annually. (3 credits) |
| Courses in Area of Focus - 12 Credits | ||
| Capstone and Internship - 6 to 15 Credits | ||
| DM 391 | Digital Media Studies Capstone | This course serves as the capstone course for the major in Digital Media Studies. It will provide an environment where the student can identify and critique threads of learning from previous Media Studies coursework. It will give students the opportunity to assess their proficiency in the literacies associated in the program: oral, promotional, management, computer, written, and media. The course culminates in the production and formal showing of a multimedia project to be designed in consultation with the faculty member. (3 credits) |
| DM 380 | Internship | “On-the-job” field experience in a specific media environment, these career-oriented placements allow students to test their communication skills while gaining practical experience. Students participating in these internships must keep a daily journal, submit a portfolio of materials produced during the practicum/internship, and submit a final summation/evaluation paper. Credit award is determined in relation to the number of hours the student is involved with the practicum/internship. P: Permission of Department Chair. Generally offered every year. (3 - 12 credits) |
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The Albertus Digital Media Studies Degree Program Mission Statement
The program of study in Communications affords students the opportunity to prepare for careers in, what may be, the most rapidly expanding field in modern education and society-at-large. Blending traditional Liberal Arts with specific career-oriented coursework, students are given the foundations, skills, and ethical perspectives to be successful in their mass media careers, and to be productive members of society.
The combination of scholarly search for knowledge, development of essential skills, and the application of these in society guide the major in keeping with the Mission of the College.
Courses span broadcasting, film and video production, digital media, advertising, public relations, sports media, film studies, organizational communications, writing and photojournalism. All courses are offered as part of either a specific content sequence or as a general topics course. A unique feature of Albertus’ Communications Program is the potential for students to “individualize” programs of study in order to best prepare each student to exercise his or her best mix of talents and passions.
One of our primary goals is to insure that Communications majors are well prepared to enter their selected career paths. Through required internships, students acquire important hands-on experience that builds on their coursework, and prepares them for success.
Internships are on-the-job placements where students earn college credit while acquiring applied professional skills. The breadth of the Internships completed through the Department of Communications is clearly a significant benefit of the program. In order to demonstrate a student’s total accumulation of experience, skill, and integrative abilities in the major, each Communications student must submit a final portfolio of print and/or non-print materials; or research and write a final thesis. Thus, graduates of Albertus’ Communications Program are in the position to present potential employers with an actual portfolio or thesis paper that demonstrates their experiential base of knowledge and skills that will set them apart.
The emphasis in Albertus’ Program in Communications is upon preparing students for positions in mass media and their related fields that are “above the line.” Above the line” positions are executive-oriented,gatekeeping positions. These decision-makers and gatekeepers are professionals, who actually create and influence media, who have both technical and broad integrative skills in the field, and who can work with and manage many different types of people.
Communications is a rapidly evolving field in society. Thus, the Department of Communications is constantly adapting to the changes that this exciting field presents. Students who complete the Communications Major enjoy many graduate school options that include broadcasting, media, journalism, digital and social media, business, and law.