Susquehanna University

What you'll study

This programme combines practical production skills with theoretical and ethical study of media. Core areas typically include audio production, video production, digital editing, multi-platform storytelling, media writing, broadcasting principles, media law and ethics, and audience analysis. Students learn studio and field production techniques, live and recorded programming, sound design, camera operation, lighting, nonlinear editing and multimedia publishing.

• Production labs and practicum — hands-on courses where students operate professional-grade audio and video equipment and work on projects from planning through post-production.
• Writing and storytelling — news writing, scriptwriting for broadcast, and digital content creation focused on clarity, structure and audience engagement.
• Media studies and ethics — courses that address the social, legal and ethical contexts of broadcasting and digital media.
• Digital media and social platforms — instruction in online distribution, podcasting, analytics, and strategies for multiplatform content.
• Capstone projects and independent study — opportunities to produce a portfolio-quality project such as a documentary, series of podcasts, or a cross-platform news package.

Students are encouraged to supplement classroom learning with internships, independent projects and participation in student-run media outlets to build a professional portfolio.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a high-school diploma or equivalent and demonstrate a strong academic record. Susquehanna values written and verbal communication skills, so transcripts showing competency in English and related coursework are important. A portfolio of media work is helpful to demonstrate experience or interest, though it is not typically required for admission.

• Application materials — standard undergraduate application, official transcripts, and a personal statement outlining interest in media and communications.
• Portfolio — recommended if available (examples of writing, audio projects, video, multimedia work), as it can strengthen an application.
• International applicants — must demonstrate equivalent secondary education credentials and English language proficiency as required by university admissions policies.
• Interviews and auditions — not generally required but may be requested for some placements or scholarship considerations.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a broad range of roles across traditional and digital media. Career paths commonly include work as broadcast producers, radio hosts, television production assistants, multimedia journalists, podcast producers, social media managers, content strategists, audio engineers, and public relations or corporate communications specialists. The programme’s emphasis on hands-on experience and internships helps graduates build professional portfolios that are valuable for entry-level positions or for application to graduate programmes in media, journalism or communications.

Alumni typically find opportunities with local and regional broadcasters, digital media startups, public radio stations, production houses and in marketing or communications departments across sectors.

Why study at Susquehanna University

Susquehanna offers a small-college environment with low student-to-faculty ratios to allow close mentorship by faculty who combine academic perspectives with industry experience. The curriculum is grounded in liberal arts, encouraging critical thinking and strong communication skills alongside technical training. Students benefit from hands-on learning opportunities, including student-run media outlets such as the campus radio station, project-based courses and structured internships with regional media organisations.

The university’s emphasis on experiential learning and portfolio development prepares students to enter the evolving media landscape with practical skills, professional contacts and a liberal-arts foundation that supports career flexibility.