University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

What you'll study

This programme combines practical production training with communication theory and media studies. Core learning typically covers audio production, multi‑camera video production, editing for broadcast and online platforms, scriptwriting, storytelling for digital audiences, media law and ethics, and audience analysis.

• Production modules: hands‑on courses in studio and field production, sound design, nonlinear editing and multicamera workflows.
• Storytelling and content creation: narrative techniques for radio and podcasts, visual storytelling for television and digital video, and social media content strategies.
• Theory and context: media history, communication theory, media law and ethics, and the role of media in society and public discourse.
• Digital skills: multimedia journalism, data visualisation basics, content management systems and techniques for distribution and audience engagement.
• Capstone and practicum: sequenced practicum experiences and a senior capstone project or portfolio that demonstrate production proficiency and editorial judgement.

Students are expected to complete general education requirements alongside major coursework; many also take elective modules in marketing, business, computer science or film to broaden technical and professional skills. Opportunities for internships, collaborative projects and student media work form a substantial part of the curriculum.

Entry requirements

Admission to the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is competitive and based on a holistic review of academic achievement, extracurricular engagement and personal qualities. Prospective students should present a strong high school record with coursework that demonstrates writing, critical thinking and quantitative skills.

• Academic preparation: a rigorous high school curriculum with emphasis on English, social sciences and any available media, arts or technology courses is beneficial.
• Portfolio or experience: applicants with prior media work — for example audio/video samples, school media participation, or relevant internships — are well placed to demonstrate readiness for production courses.
• Transfer applicants: should show college coursework in communication or media production and provide a record of relevant practical experience; specific internal transfer requirements apply for declaring the major.
• International applicants: should present evidence of comparable secondary education, English language proficiency, and any documentation the university requires for international admission.

Specific GPA thresholds, prerequisite courses and application procedures vary; consult the university’s admissions and the Hussman School of Journalism and Media webpages for the latest guidance on applying and declaring the major.

Career prospects

Graduates leave prepared for a wide range of roles across broadcast, cable, public radio, podcasting, online video and social media organisations. The programme emphasises practical skills and a professional portfolio, both of which are valuable when entering the job market.

• Broadcast and podcast producer, sound engineer or audio editor
• Video producer, camera operator, director of photography or video editor
• Multimedia journalist, digital reporter or content creator for newsrooms and online publishers
• Social media manager, digital content strategist or audience development specialist
• Production assistant, segment producer or technical operator for television and radio stations
• Roles in marketing, corporate communications, and media consulting where storytelling and production skills are valued

Many graduates also pursue postgraduate study in media, communications or related fields, or move into entrepreneurship and independent content production such as podcast networks and digital studios.

Why study at University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

The programme is offered within a university known for strong liberal arts foundations combined with professional training in media. Students benefit from substantial hands‑on opportunities, modern production facilities and access to student and public media outlets.

• Practical facilities: access to audio and video studios, editing suites and field production equipment that support coursework and independent projects.
• Student media and public partnerships: opportunities to gain on‑air and production experience through campus media platforms and established connections with regional public radio and television organisations.
• Industry connections and internships: proximity to the Research Triangle and an active alumni network help students secure internships and entry‑level roles in regional and national media organisations.
• Faculty and mentorship: instruction from faculty who combine scholarly research with professional experience, and mentoring that helps translate classroom learning into professional practice.

Together these elements create an environment for students to develop technical craft, editorial judgement and the professional portfolio needed to launch careers in contemporary media industries.