University of Mount Union

What you'll study

The programme combines practical production skills with communication theory and media studies. Core themes include audio production, studio and field video production, media writing and storytelling, digital media and social platforms, and media law and ethics. Students progress from introductory courses in broadcast fundamentals to advanced practicum and capstone projects.

• Production fundamentals: studio audio and video techniques, camera operation, lighting, sound recording, and multi-camera switching.
• Editing and post-production: non-linear editing, audio mixing, motion graphics, and file-based workflows for broadcast and online platforms.
• Writing and storytelling: broadcast news writing, feature reporting, scriptwriting for radio and television, and multimedia journalism.
• Digital media and social strategy: podcasting, live streaming, social content production, audience analytics and platform-specific best practice.
• Theory, law and ethics: media ethics, copyright, freedom of speech considerations and the regulatory environment for broadcast and online media.
• Professional practice: practicum courses in student-run media outlets, short-term production assignments, and a senior capstone or portfolio project demonstrating broadcast and digital skills.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a high school diploma or equivalent and meet the University of Mount Union's general undergraduate admission standards. Successful applicants typically present strong English and communications preparation from high school. While specific grade or test thresholds are set by the university and may vary, schools commonly look for evidence of written and oral communication skills.

• High school transcript demonstrating readiness in English and related subjects.
• A personal statement or essay that outlines interest in media and communication is often helpful.
• Applicants with prior experience in media (for example school radio/TV, podcasts, or editing work) are encouraged to submit a short portfolio or samples of work when available.
• Placement into practicum or upper-level production courses may require instructor approval or a brief skills assessment.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a range of roles across traditional and digital media. The programme’s emphasis on practical production and storytelling prepares students for entry-level positions and for continued professional development.

• Broadcast roles: on-air broadcaster, producer, field reporter, news editor.
• Production and technical roles: video editor, audio engineer, camera operator, technical director.
• Digital and content roles: social media manager, multimedia content producer, podcast producer, online video specialist.
• Communications and PR: media relations specialist, corporate communications, content strategist for organisations and agencies.
• Further study: graduates also progress to graduate programmes in media studies, journalism, or related communication fields.

Why study at University of Mount Union

University of Mount Union offers a small-campus, student-centred learning environment with opportunities for hands-on practice. Students benefit from small class sizes and direct mentorship from faculty with professional media experience. The programme emphasises experiential learning through student-run media outlets, lab-based production courses and industry-linked internships with regional broadcasters and digital media organisations.

Because the curriculum is grounded in both technical skills and communication theory, graduates leave with a portfolio of real work—audio and video pieces, social campaigns and capstone projects—that helps them move into the media workforce or continue to postgraduate study.