Murray State University

What you'll study

This programme combines practical production work with theoretical study of media and communication. Core modules typically cover media writing and storytelling, studio and field production, audio production and mixing, video editing, digital content creation, and broadcast performance. Students also study foundations such as media law and ethics, mass communication theory, and audience research.

• Production courses: studio operations, multicamera production, location shooting, sound design, and post-production workflows.
• Digital media: social media strategy, digital storytelling, web video production, and multimedia journalism.
• Technical skills: audio engineering, camera operation, lighting for video, and editing software for audio and video.
• Context and ethics: media law, ethics, history of broadcasting, and communication theory.
• Professional practice: practicum or lab-based classes, a capstone project and an internship with local or regional broadcasters, production houses, or digital media organisations.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a high school diploma or equivalent. Typical academic preparation includes strong work in English and communications; coursework or extracurricular experience in media, theatre, journalism, or technology is an advantage. Murray State assesses applications using a combination of secondary-school records and any required institutional forms. Some applicants—especially transfers—may be asked to provide college transcripts and evidence of previous coursework.

• International students: must satisfy the university's English language proficiency requirements with recognised test scores or equivalent proof of English ability.
• Portfolio: while not always required, a short portfolio or examples of media work (audio clips, video links, scripts) can strengthen an application and demonstrate practical experience.
• Placement and advising: incoming students typically meet with programme advisors to plan required courses and any preparatory modules in production or media writing.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a range of roles across broadcast, digital and corporate media. Common entry-level and mid-level positions include radio producer, television production assistant, video editor, multimedia journalist, social media content producer, and audio technician. The programme also supports careers in advertising and public relations, digital marketing, podcasting, and media management. With experience or further study, graduates may progress to roles such as news producer, creative director, senior editor, or independent media producer.

• Broadcasting: on-air talent, production crews, station operations.
• Digital media: content creation, social media management, online video production.
• Technical roles: audio/video engineering, post-production systems, live-event technical support.
• Related fields: journalism, PR and communications, advertising, education and media research.

Why study at Murray State University

Murray State emphasises hands-on learning supported by faculty who have professional media experience. The programme offers lab-based instruction, access to campus production facilities and equipment for both audio and video work, and opportunities to build a professional reel through class projects and internships. Small class sizes enable close mentoring, and the university’s regional industry links help students secure practical placements with broadcasters, production companies and digital media organisations. Career services and departmental advising support students as they prepare for internships, job searches and graduate study.