University of Hartford

What you'll study

The programme blends foundational communication theory with extensive practical training in radio, television and digital media. Core topics typically include media production techniques (audio and video), editing and post-production, scriptwriting and storytelling, broadcast journalism, digital media strategy, media law and ethics, and audience analysis.

Students spend considerable time in practicum and lab courses learning technical skills such as camera operation, studio lighting, sound recording, mixing and multi-track editing, as well as software-based post-production using industry-standard applications. Coursework emphasises multimedia storytelling across platforms — producing short-form and long-form video, podcasts, live broadcasts and social media content.

The curriculum is usually structured with lower-level courses that introduce communication theory and technical foundations, intermediate production and reporting courses, and advanced electives that allow concentration in areas such as documentary production, sports broadcasting, audio engineering, or digital content strategy. Many students complete a capstone project or senior practicum demonstrating production and editorial competencies.

• Introduction to Media and Communication
• Broadcast Writing and Script Development
• Studio and Field Production (TV and Video)
• Audio Production and Radio Broadcasting
• Digital Media Production and Distribution
• Editing and Post-Production Techniques
• Media Law, Ethics and Regulation
• Multiplatform Storytelling and Social Media Strategy
• Internship or Practicum
• Capstone Project or Senior Portfolio

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a recognised secondary school qualification (for example a high school diploma, A levels or International Baccalaureate) with a solid academic record. Typical entry asks for breadth across subjects rather than a single specialised background. Prospective students should demonstrate communication skills and an interest in media; a short portfolio, demo reel or examples of relevant creative work may be requested or recommended but is not always mandatory.

International applicants must meet English proficiency requirements through accepted tests or prior academic instruction in English. Mature applicants with relevant work or media experience are considered, and transfer credit from previous college-level coursework may be assessed.

Specific course prerequisites vary; schools within the university sometimes recommend or require introductory writing and basic computer literacy before beginning production courses.

Career prospects

Graduates leave prepared for a variety of roles across traditional and digital media industries. Common career paths include broadcast journalist, television producer, radio producer, audio engineer, video editor, camera operator, multimedia reporter, digital content producer, and social media manager. Alumni also find roles in public relations, advertising, corporate communications, media planning, and non-profit communications.

The programme’s practical focus and internship requirement help students build professional portfolios and industry contacts. Graduates often enter entry-level positions at local and regional TV and radio stations, production houses, podcast studios, digital agencies, and corporate media departments, and may progress into specialised technical roles or editorial and managerial positions over time.

Why study at University of Hartford

The University of Hartford provides a hands-on learning environment with access to production labs, editing suites and student-run media outlets that let students practise real-world broadcasting and digital content creation. Small class sizes allow close mentoring from faculty with professional media experience, while internship and industry partnerships in the region support applied learning and job placement.

The university’s emphasis on experiential education — combining classroom theory with practicum, internships and capstone projects — helps students graduate with demonstrable skills and a professional portfolio. The curriculum balances technical training and critical media studies, preparing graduates to adapt as the communication and media landscape continues to evolve.