Michigan State University

What you'll study

The programme blends production skills, media theory and digital communication practices. Core subjects introduce broadcasting fundamentals, media writing, audio and video production, visual storytelling, media law and ethics, and research methods for communication.

• Production and technical skills: studio and field television production, audio production and podcasting, multicamera editing, lighting, and post-production workflows.
• Storytelling and content creation: news writing and reporting, multimedia journalism, documentary production, narrative and short-form video, mobile journalism and social media content strategies.
• Digital and analytical skills: web video distribution, social media analytics, audience measurement, digital storytelling platforms and metrics for evaluating engagement.
• Theory and context: media law and ethics, media effects, history of broadcasting, and contemporary issues in digital media.
• Experiential learning: practicum courses and lab-based classes requiring work in live studios, field production, and participation in campus and public broadcasting outlets.
• Capstone and portfolio: final-year capstone project or practicum producing a professional portfolio of broadcast segments, multimedia packages or digital campaigns.

Students can choose elective sequences to emphasise broadcast production, journalism, digital media or strategic communication, and are encouraged to undertake internships and collaborative projects with WKAR Public Media and other campus media organisations.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a recognised secondary school diploma with strong performance in English and other liberal arts subjects. Admissions consider academic transcripts, a personal statement, and evidence of communication skills. A portfolio or samples of media work may be requested for production-focused pathways.

• Domestic applicants: completion of secondary education with satisfactory grades; recommended subjects include English and media or technology where available.
• Transfer applicants: college transcripts showing completed coursework and a clear plan for remaining degree requirements.
• International applicants: equivalent secondary school completion plus proof of English proficiency (such as recognised tests or university-approved alternatives).
• Additional considerations: admissions may assess extracurricular experience in media, letters of recommendation, and readiness to engage in hands-on production classes.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a wide range of roles across broadcast, digital and corporate media. The programme equips students to work in traditional radio and television as well as in rapidly growing online and streaming platforms.

• Broadcast and television producer, director or technician
• Multimedia or broadcast journalist and reporter
• Digital content producer, social media manager or online video editor
• Podcast producer, audio engineer or sound designer
• Video journalist, cinematographer or field producer
• Communications specialist, media relations or public relations professional
• Media researcher, audience analyst or content strategist
• Further study at graduate level in media, journalism, communication or related disciplines

Why study at Michigan State University

Michigan State’s College of Communication Arts and Sciences offers an integrated mix of theoretical study and practical training. Students benefit from access to professional-grade studios, editing suites and field equipment, plus opportunities to work with WKAR Public Media and other campus media outlets for real-world experience.

• Hands-on facilities: live television studios, audio suites and digital production labs that support broadcast and online content production.
• Experiential opportunities: practicum courses, internships and partnerships with regional media organisations that help build professional portfolios and networks.
• Faculty and industry links: teaching staff with academic and professional backgrounds in broadcasting, journalism and digital media, and connections that support placements and career mentoring.
• Student media community: active student-run radio and video organisations and extracurricular projects that foster collaboration and leadership in media production.

These combined elements prepare students for adaptable careers in an evolving media landscape while grounding their practice in ethical and research-based approaches to communication.