Missouri State University

Office of the Registrar

2013-2014 Undergraduate Catalog

Preliminary Edition
published April 2013

Department of Media, Journalism & Film

Craig Hall, Room 376, Phone: (417) 836-5218, Fax: (417) 836-4637
Email: MJF@missouristate.edu
Website: http://mjf.missouristate.edu/
Department Head: Associate Professor Mark M. Biggs, M.A.

Faculty (as of July 12, 2012)

Professors: James W. Bihlmeyer, M.F.A.; Mark Paxton, Ph.D.

Associate Professors: Mark M. Biggs, M.A.; Andrew Cline, Ph.D.; Mary Jane Pardue, D.A.; Weiyan Wang, M.F.A.; Timothy White, Ph.D.

Assistant Professors: Diana Botsford, M.A.; Bryan C. Jennings, M.F.A.; Deborah Larson, Ph.D.; Kevin P. Swift, M.A.

Senior Instructor: Jack E. Dimond, M.A.

Instructor: Charles D. Cline, M.F.A.

Emeritus Professor: Karen Buzzard, Ph.D.; Thomas V. Dickson, Ed.D.; Arlen E. Diamond, Ph.D.

Graduate Programs

The following graduate program(s) are available. Refer to the Graduate Catalog for more information.

General Information

Student  Activities

An integral part of the Department of Media, Journalism & Film, the mass media program provides a wide range of activities in broadcasting, journalism, and film. The department maintains an instructional television studio which provides student programming on KOZK: Ozarks Public Television and Springfield’s Cable Channel 24. The department also serves in an advisory capacity for the school newspaper, The Standard, and is associated with KSMU-FM (91.1 MHz), the University’s National Public Radio affiliate. Mass media majors can gain valuable experience working in each of these areas, as reporters and journalists for the newspaper, as producers of television programming, or as student interns at KSMU, the area’s FM source of fine arts and information programming. The student-run Film Society is also affiliated with the department. The department maintains a strong internship program with local and regional broadcasters, providing an opportunity for majors to acquire professional experience at a variety of radio and television stations, as well as independent production facilities. 

Majors

Electronic Arts (Non-Comprehensive)

Bachelor of Science

This program is offered in conjunction with the Department of Art and Design.

Admission Requirements

Preadmission Core Courses: Complete 9 hours with a GPA of 3.00 or higher from the following Electronic Arts preadmission core courses before applying to the program: ART 100(3), MED 290(3), MED 365(3), MUS 216(3). Core courses in the student’s chosen option must be completed before applying.

Portfolio must include a minimum of two and a maximum of three examples of audio, video, interactive new media, and/or computer animation work, with at least one example coming from the preadmission core course in the option area to which the student is applying. Students seeking admission to the Electronic Arts program in the area of Computer Animation Studies must include at least one work from ART 230 or ART 330. Specific guidelines are required for portfolios. See advisor or the Electronic Arts Coordinator for details.

Program Requirements

  1. General Education Requirements - see General Education Program and Requirements section of catalog

  2. Major Requirements (37 hours)

    1. Core Courses: ART 100(3), 300(3); MUS 216(3); MED 290(3), 365(3); ART 498(4) or MED 498(4)

    2. Choose one of the following options (18 hours):

      1. Audio Studies: MED 461(3), 561(3); MUS 100(3), 316(3); select 6 hours of electives with advisor approval: MED 361(3), 492(3), 595(1-3); MUS 103(3), 137(1), 327(2), 399(1-3), 416(3), 512(3), 529(3); THE 558(3)

      2. Computer Animation Studies: (See "Department of Art and Design" section of catalog)

      3. Interactive New Media Studies: MED 390(3), 490(3); ART 210(3); select 9 hours of electives with advisor approval: ART 230(3); MED 355(3), 465(3), 492(3), 595(1-3); DES 202(3). DES 202 should be taken only after successful completion of initial portfolio review.

      4. Video Studies: ART 230(3); MED 465(3); select 12 hours of electives with advisor approval: MED 390(3), 462(3), 463(3), 464(3), 466(3), 492(3), 562(3), 565(3), 595(1-3)

    3. Successful completion of the junior portfolio review and the achievement of a "C" or better grade in all required option courses completed at the time of the junior portfolio review must be achieved before admission to ART 498/MED 498, Senior Project in Electronic Arts, will be granted.

  3. Minor Required. Note: No more than 6 hours may count for both the Electronic Arts major and the minor. Students should seek advisor approval for courses in the minor.

  4. General Baccalaureate Degree Requirements - see General Baccalaureate Degree Requirements section of catalog

Journalism (Non-Comprehensive)

Bachelor of Science
Departmental Admission Requirements

All students majoring in the Department of Media, Journalism & Film (except for those seeking a major in Electronic Arts) must satisfy the following requirements before they can be admitted to the program. (In most cases, these requirements should be met by the time the student has completed 75 hours of coursework.)

  1. Complete a minimum of 30 credit hours.

  2. Have a combined grade point average (Missouri State and transfer) of 2.30 or higher.

  3. Complete COM 115 and ENG 110.

  4. Complete the following departmental preadmission core courses and the appropriate degree option course with at least a C- in each of these courses.

    Departmental Preadmission Core: MED 120(3), 130(3), 220(3)

    Required Degree Option Courses:
    Journalism (Broadcast; Print and Internet) - JRN 270(3)
    Non-Comprehensive Mass Media (Film Studies, Media Studies) - MED 274(3)
    Comprehensive Mass Media (Digital Film Production, Media Production) - MED 365(3)

  5. Achieve a combined GPA of 2.70 or higher across any three of the four preadmission courses (MED 120(3), MED 130(3), MED 220(3), and the appropriate degree option course). To achieve the 2.70 GPA, a student may retake any of these courses only once and may retake no more than two of these courses.

  6. Submit application for admission and receive approval by faculty advisor and Head of the Department of Media, Journalism & Film.

Restriction

Departmental majors may not take a second major within the department.

Specific Admission Requirements

A student must achieve a combined GPA of 2.70 or higher across any three of the four preadmission courses [MED 120(3), MED 130(3), MED 220(3) and JRN 270(3)] along with a combined GPA of 2.30 or higher to be admitted to this major.

Program Requirements

  1. General Education Requirements - see General Education Program and Requirements section of catalog
    Specific General Education Requirement: MED 120(3)

  2. Major Requirements (39 hours)

    1. Departmental Preadmission Core: MED 130(3), 220(3)

    2. Departmental Required Courses: MED 304(3), 581(3); JRN 407(3)

    3. Journalism Core: JRN 270(3), 595(3)

    4. Choose one of the following options (18 hours):

      1. Broadcast Journalism: JRN 381(3); 384(3), 388(3), 481(3); MED 383(3); 3 hours of JRN or MED electives.

      2. Print and Internet Journalism: JRN 370(3), 372(3), 476(3); select 9 hours from MED 390 and JRN courses other than JRN 595 but no more than 6 hours of JRN 300.

  3. Minor required. Note: No course may count for both the Journalism major and the minor. A minor in Mass Media will not meet the minor requirement.

  4. General Baccalaureate Degree Requirements - see General Baccalaureate Degree Requirements section of catalog.

Mass Media (Non-Comprehensive)

Bachelor of Arts
Departmental Admission Requirements

All students majoring in the Department of Media, Journalism & Film (except for those seeking a major in Electronic Arts) must satisfy the following requirements before they can be admitted to the program. (In most cases, these requirements should be met by the time the student has completed 75 hours of coursework.)

  1. Complete a minimum of 30 credit hours.

  2. Have a combined grade point average (Missouri State and transfer) of 2.30 or higher.

  3. Complete COM 115 and ENG 110.

  4. Complete the following departmental preadmission core courses and the appropriate degree option course with at least a C- in each of these courses.

    Departmental Preadmission Core: MED 120(3), 130(3), 220(3)

    Required Degree Option Courses:
    Journalism (Broadcast; Print and Internet) - JRN 270(3)
    Non-Comprehensive Mass Media (Film Studies, Media Studies) - MED 274(3)
    Comprehensive Mass Media (Digital Film Production, Media Production) - MED 365(3)

  5. Achieve a combined GPA of 2.70 or higher across any three of the four preadmission courses (MED 120(3), MED 130(3), MED 220(3), and the appropriate degree option course). To achieve the 2.70 GPA, a student may retake any of these courses only once and may retake no more than two of these courses.

  6. Submit application for admission and receive approval by faculty advisor and Head of the Department of Media, Journalism & Film.

Restriction

Departmental majors may not take a second major within the department.

Specific Admission Requirements

A student must achieve a combined GPA of 2.70 or higher across any three of the four preadmission courses [MED 120(3), MED 130(3), MED 220(3) and MED 274(3)] along with a combined GPA of 2.30 or higher to be admitted to this major.

Program Requirements

  1. General Education Requirements - see General Education Program and Requirements section of catalog.
    Specific General Education Requirement: MED 120(3)

  2. Major Requirements (39 hours)

    1. Departmental Preadmission Core: MED 130(3), 220(3)

    2. Departmental Required Courses: MED 304(3), 581(3); JRN 407(3)

    3. Mass Media (Non-Comprehensive) Core: MED 274(3), 454(3)

    4. Choose one of the following options (18 hours):

      1. Film Studies: MED 374(3), 375(3), 470(3), 570(3); select 6 hours of MED or JRN electives

      2. Media Studies: MED 290(3); 320(3) or 355(3) or 580(3); 325(3); 381(3); select 6 hours of MED or JRN electives

  3. Minor Required. Note: No course may count for both the Mass Media major and the minor.

  4. Specific Requirements for Bachelor of Arts Degree - see Specific Bachelor of Arts Degree Requirements section of catalog

  5. General Baccalaureate Degree Requirements - see General Baccalaureate Degree Requirements section of catalog

Mass Media (Non-Comprehensive)

Bachelor of Science
Departmental Admission Requirements

All students majoring in the Department of Media, Journalism & Film (except for those seeking a major in Electronic Arts) must satisfy the following requirements before they can be admitted to the program. (In most cases, these requirements should be met by the time the student has completed 75 hours of coursework.)

  1. Complete a minimum of 30 credit hours.

  2. Have a combined grade point average (Missouri State and transfer) of 2.30 or higher.

  3. Complete COM 115 and ENG 110.

  4. Complete the following departmental preadmission core courses and the appropriate degree option course with at least a C- in each of these courses.

    Departmental Preadmission Core: MED 120(3), 130(3), 220(3)

    Required Degree Option Courses:
    Journalism (Broadcast; Print and Internet) - JRN 270(3)
    Non-Comprehensive Mass Media (Film Studies, Media Studies) - MED 274(3)
    Comprehensive Mass Media (Digital Film Production, Media Production) - MED 365(3)

  5. Achieve a combined GPA of 2.70 or higher across any three of the four preadmission courses (MED 120(3), MED 130(3), MED 220(3), and the appropriate degree option course). To achieve the 2.70 GPA, a student may retake any of these courses only once and may retake no more than two of these courses.

  6. Submit application for admission and receive approval by faculty advisor and Head of the Department of Media, Journalism & Film.

Restriction

Departmental majors may not take a second major within the department.

Specific Admission Requirements

A student must achieve a combined GPA of 2.70 or higher across any three of the four preadmission courses [MED 120(3), MED 130(3), MED 220(3) and MED 274(3)] along with a combined GPA of 2.30 or higher to be admitted to this major.

Program Requirements

  1. General Education Requirements - see General Education Program and Requirements section of catalog.
    Specific General Education Requirement: MED 120(3)

  2. Major Requirements (39 hours)

    1. Departmental Preadmission Core: MED 130(3), 220(3)

    2. Departmental Required Courses: MED 304(3), 581(3); JRN 407(3)

    3. Mass Media (Non-Comprehensive) Core: MED 274(3), 454(3)

    4. Choose one of the following options (18 hours):

      1. Film Studies: MED 374(3), 375(3), 470(3), 570(3); select 6 hours of MED or JRN electives

      2. Media Studies: MED 290(3); 320(3) or 355(3) or 580(3); 325(3); 381(3); select 6 hours of MED or JRN electives

  3. Minor Required. Note: No course may count for both the Mass Media major and the minor.

  4. General Baccalaureate Degree Requirements - see General Baccalaureate Degree Requirements section of catalog

Mass Media (Comprehensive)

Bachelor of Science
Departmental Admission Requirements

All students majoring in the Department of Media, Journalism & Film (except for those seeking a major in Electronic Arts) must satisfy the following requirements before they can be admitted to the program. (In most cases, these requirements should be met by the time the student has completed 75 hours of coursework.)

  1. Complete a minimum of 30 credit hours.

  2. Have a combined grade point average (Missouri State and transfer) of 2.30 or higher.

  3. Complete COM 115 and ENG 110.

  4. Complete the following departmental preadmission core courses and the appropriate degree option course with at least a C- in each of these courses.

    Departmental Preadmission Core: MED 120(3), 130(3), 220(3)

    Required Degree Option Courses:
    Journalism (Broadcast; Print and Internet) - JRN 270(3)
    Non-Comprehensive Mass Media (Film Studies, Media Studies) - MED 274(3)
    Comprehensive Mass Media (Digital Film Production, Media Production) - MED 365(3)

  5. Achieve a combined GPA of 2.70 or higher across any three of the four preadmission courses (MED 120(3), MED 130(3), MED 220(3), and the appropriate degree option course). To achieve the 2.70 GPA, a student may retake any of these courses only once and may retake no more than two of these courses.

  6. Submit application for admission and receive approval by faculty advisor and Head of the Department of Media, Journalism & Film.

Restriction

Departmental majors may not take a second major within the department.

Specific Admission Requirements

A student must achieve a combined GPA of 2.70 or higher across any three of the four preadmission courses [MED 120(3), MED 130(3), MED 220(3) and MED 365(3)] along with a combined GPA of 2.30 or higher to be admitted to this major.

Program Requirements

  1. General Education Requirements - see General Education Program and Requirements section of catalog.
    Specific General Education Requirement: MED 120(3)

  2. Major Requirements (51 hours)

    1. Departmental Preadmission Core: MED 130(3), 220(3)

    2. Departmental Required Courses: MED 304(3), 581(3); JRN 407(3)

    3. Mass Media (Comprehensive) Core: MED 274(3), 365(3), 454(3)

    4. Choose one of the following options (27 hours):

      1. Digital Film Production: MED 361(3) or 461(3); MED 374(3) or 375(3); MED 462(3); MED 464(3) or 565(3); MED 465(3) or 466(3); MED 561(3) or 562(2); select 9 hours of elective courses from MED 300(3), 361(3); MED 374(3) or 375(3); MED 461(3); 463(3); MED 464(3) or 565(3); MED 465(3); 466(3); MED 470(3); 492(1-3); MED 561(3); 562(3); MED 566(3); 567(3); 570(3); 595(3); 597(3)

      2. Media Production: MED 290(3), 325(3); MED 361(3) or 382(3); MED 381(3) or 464(3); MED 383(3), 583(3); select 9 hours of elective courses from MED 320(3); 355(3); 390(3), MED 361(3), 382(3); MED 381(3), 464(3); MED 462(3); 463(3); 466(3); 490(3); 492(1-3); 566(3); 595(1-6); 597(3)

  3. Note: No course may count for both the Mass Media major and a minor.

  4. General Baccalaureate Degree Requirements - see General Baccalaureate Degree Requirements section of catalog

Minors

Film Studies

Bachelor of Arts
Bachelor of Science

  1. MED 274(3), 570(3)

  2. 12 hours of electives from MED 300(1-3) with advisor approval, MED 374(3), 375(3), 470(3-6) to bring the total hours in minor to at least 18 hours.

Journalism

Bachelor of Arts
Bachelor of Science

  1. JRN 270(3), 370(3), 374(3) or 375(3), 407(3), 476(3)

  2. 3 hours of elective JRN courses to bring total hours in minor to at least 18 hours.

Mass Media

Bachelor of Arts
Bachelor of Science

  1. MED 120(3), 454(3)

  2. 12 hours of MED electives (6 hours must be numbered 300 or higher) to bring total hours in minor to at least 18 hours.

Screenwriting

Bachelor of Arts
Bachelor of Fine Arts
Bachelor of Science
  1. MED 565(3), 566(3), 567(3)
  2. 9 hours of electives from MED 463(3); MED 464(3); ENG 225(3); ENG 325(3); LLT 121(3) or 180(3) or 321(3) to bring the total hours in minor to at least 18 hours.

University Certificate (undergraduate)

Press Politics

The Press Politics certificate is a 15-hour program for students who are interested in pursuing a career in politics, media, political commentary, journalism, campaign management and messaging, lobbying, or other related fields. Graduates with this certificate will have practice in political reporting, political communication, and an understanding of political behavior as it is impacted by mediated messages.

Admission to the Press Politics certificate is not dependent on admission to a degree program. This certificate is marketed to both matriculating and non-matriculating students.

Program Requirements
  1. JRN 270(3); COM 550(3); PLS 317(3) or PLS 319(3)
  2. Select 6 additional hours of electives in consultation with certificate advisor from: JRN 388(3), JRN 378(3), MED 580(3)

Writing for Television and Film

The undergraduate certificate in Writing for Television and Film is designed to teach students the screenwriting craft; to develop each student's potential and to help all students find their unique style; to expose students to the concept of "workshopping pages" and giving and receiving critical input on style, writing technique and structure; and to provide insight into today's film and television market.

Admission Requirements

Minimum of 30 credit hours and a combined GPA (Missouri State and transfer) of 2.50 or better

Program Requirements
  1. MED 565(3), 566(3), 567(3)
  2. 3 additional hours from MED 462(3), 463(3), or 464(3) for a total of at least 12 hours
  3. Attain a GPA of 2.00 or better on all certificate coursework

Journalism Courses

JRN 270 Introduction to Journalism

Prerequisite: ENG 110. Study of the purposes and forms of journalism. Includes writing the basic types of stories. Typing skills required. 3(3-0) F,S

JRN 300 Special Topics in Journalism

A course upon a single topic of current interest. May be repeated with permission of the department to a total of 6 hours if topics are different. 1-3 D

JRN 305 Service Learning in Journalism

Prerequisite: 30 hours and concurrent registration in a journalism course designated as a service learning offering. This service component for an existing course incorporates community service with classroom instruction in journalism to provide an integrative learning experience that addresses the practice of citizenship and promotes an awareness of and participation in public affairs. Includes 40 hours of service that benefits an external community organization, agency, or public service provider. Approved service placements and assignments will vary depending on the course topic and learning objectives; a list of approved placements and assignments is available from the instructor and the Citizenship and Service Learning Office. May be repeated. 1 F,S

JRN 370 News Reporting and Writing

Prerequisite: JRN 270. Instruction and practice in gathering news material, writing news reports, and editing copy. Includes introduction to news beats and specialized reporting techniques. 3(3-0) F,S

JRN 372 Public Affairs Reporting

Prerequisite: JRN 370. Instruction and practice in gathering material and writing stories on public affairs, with emphasis on state and local government. 3(3-0) S

JRN 374 Opinion Writing

Prerequisite: JRN 270. Instruction and practice in writing editorials, opinion columns, news analyses and critical reviews. 3(3-0) FE

JRN 375 Feature Writing

Prerequisite: JRN 270. Practice in writing feature articles for print and online publications, including human interest stories, news features, personality profiles, how-to articles and historical pieces. 3(3-0) SE

JRN 376 Business Reporting

Prerequisite: JRN 270. Instruction and practice in gathering information and writing business-related articles. The course covers interviewing and reporting techniques used to write business stories, including enterprise and trend stories as well as company profiles. The student also will gain an understanding of the importance of business news to public affairs. 3(3-0) FO

JRN 378 Multimedia Journalism

Prerequisite: JRN 270. Instruction and practice in multimedia reporting and publishing for print media and the Internet, including digital still photography, video, audio, social media, and text. The course will also address content management systems for the web, ethics, and legal concerns. Note: Students must have a digital camera (3.1 megapixels or greater) with still and video modes. (All-in-one devices such as the iPhone fulfill this requirement.) 3(3-1) S

JRN 381 Broadcast News Writing

Prerequisite: JRN 270. Instruction and practice in basic scripting technique and writing skills needed to be a broadcast journalist. Through writing, students will examine the fundamentals of news judgment and the organizational style of storytelling for radio and television formats. 3(3-0) F,S

JRN 384 Broadcast Performance

Prerequisite: JRN 381. The development of disciplines controlling vocal and visual mechanics as well as interpretative performance for announcers, newscasters, interviewers and narrators of various radio and television situations. 3(3-1) F,S

JRN 388 Electronic News Gathering

Prerequisite: JRN 284 and JRN 381. Instruction and practice in news gathering techniques for television. Students will learn the basics of video production (shooting, editing, lighting, etc.) and reporting as well as advanced storytelling techniques, including solo reporting, recording natural sound packages, and live shot production and reporting. Emphasis is placed on gaining expertise in shooting and editing techniques as they apply to news. 3(2-2) F

JRN 407 Media Law

History and application of the speech and press clause of the First Amendment; libel law, privacy law, copyright and other legal matters relating to mass media; relation of media law to journalistic ethics. 3(3-0) F,S

JRN 476 Newspaper Editing

Prerequisite: JRN 370. Principles and practices of copy-editing and rewriting news stories, headline writing, use of graphics, and makeup for print and online newspapers. 3(3-0) F

JRN 477 Publications

Prerequisite: JRN 270. Design and production of tabloids, magazines, newsletters, and brochures using desktop publishing techniques; survey of printing processes and type selection; use of color, graphics, and photographs. 3(3-0) SO

JRN 481 Broadcast News Reporting and Producing

Prerequisite: JRN 284 and JRN 381. Instruction and practice in video news production and line producing for television news. The course covers both video production techniques (shooting, editing, lighting, etc.) and techniques for producing a newscast. Students will shoot, edit and report news packages as well as develop skills as a line producer. Students will learn how to create a rundown, time a show, create proper flow and make critical show decisions that are essential to producing. 3(2-2) S

JRN 492 Independent Study in Journalism

Prerequisite: JRN 270 and permission of instructor. Supervised independent study exploring topics determined by the student in consultation with journalism faculty member. May be repeated to a total of 6 hours with permission of the department. 1-3 D

JRN 590 Issues in Journalism

Prerequisite: 60 hours. A variable content course addressing topics of current interest as well as timeless issues. May be repeated to a total of 6 hours with permission if topic is different. May be taught concurrently with JRN 690. Cannot receive credit for both JRN 690 and JRN 590. 3(3-0) D

JRN 592 Newscast Practicum

Prerequisite: JRN 284 and JRN 388 and MED 383 and permission of instructor. Practical on-air experience with a student-run news program. Students will produce, report, anchor and work as studio crew for a weekly show. May be repeated to a total of 6 hours. 3(0-6) F,S

JRN 595 Journalism Internship

Prerequisite: 60 hours and permission of instructor. Work experience with a professional news organization. The student will be provided an educational opportunity not available through classroom experience. The instructor must approve all necessary paperwork before the student may begin the internship. May be repeated to a total of 6 hours. 1-6 F,S

JRN 690 Issues in Journalism

A variable content course addressing topics of current interest as well as timeless issues. May be repeated to a total of 6 hours with permission if topic is different. May be taught concurrently with JRN 590. Cannot receive credit for both JRN 590 and JRN 690. 3(3-0) D

JRN 695 Journalism Internship

Prerequisite: permission of instructor. Work experience with news organizations. The student will be provided an educational opportunity not available through classroom experience. The instructor must approve all necessary paperwork before the student may begin the internship. May be repeated for a total of 6 hours. May be taught concurrently with JRN 595. Cannot receive credit for both JRN 595 and JRN 695. 1-6 F,S

Mass Media Courses

MED 120 Mass Media and Society

General Education Course (Culture and Society/Social Sciences Perspective). Theories and issues related to mass media as agents of social change. Both print and electronic media will be covered, including newspapers, radio, television and film. 3(3-0) F,S

MED 130 Fundamentals of Media Convergence

An exploration of the role and impact of convergence across all areas of journalism and media. Emphasis will be placed on the teaching of audio, video, web and social media skills. 3(3-0) F,S

MED 220 Case Studies in Mass Media

Prerequisite: MED 120. A case study approach investigating how the mass media cover a single significant public affairs issue such as Hurricane Katrina or health care reform. Emphasis will be placed on media literacy and critical thinking as students consider the role that the mass media play in public discourse and social reality. 3(3-0) S

MED 274 Introduction to Film

The aesthetic and technical perspective of all types of motion pictures (narrative, non-narrative, experimental), using a number of selected domestic and foreign films as examples. Written analyses are required. Viewing of selected films outside of class time may be required. 3(3-1) F,S

MED 290 Fundamentals of Multimedia Design

A broad exploration of multimedia design via readings and creative experiences. The following areas are considered: fundamental design principles, effective multimedia design, implementation and implications of multimedia, evaluation of existing multimedia examples, and collaboration in a group multimedia project. 3(3-1) F,S

MED 300 Special Topics in Media

A course upon a single topic of current interest. May be repeated to a total of 6 hours if topics are different. 1-3 D. Approved Recurring Course Topic: Anime. An in-depth exploration of anime, or Japanese animation. The course includes an examination of the various figures involved (artists, writers, directors, etc.), genres (action, martial arts, mythological, etc.), and the relationship between anime and animation in the West. 1(1-0) D. Approved Recurring Course Topic: Asian Horror Cinema. An in-depth exploration of Asian Horror cinema. It includes an examination of the various figures involved (artists, writers, directors, etc.), the cultures of these Asian nations, and the relationship between Asian horror films and Hollywood. 1(1-0), D. Approved Recurring Course Topic: Documentary Film History and Theory. Students will screen a series of classic documentary films as they study the history, theory, and the social role played by documentaries in the 20th century. The course will examine those characteristics that distinguish the documentary from other film genres. The diversity and historical development of the genre will also be traced through critical essays written by documentary film makers and critics, and through discussions of classic films. 2(2-0) D. Approved Recurring Course Topic: Great Directors. A survey of important national and international directors. Students will learn to analyze influential directors' work from both a historical and theoretical approach. The course is Internet-based and will require membership to a movie rental outlet. 3(3-0) F. Approved Recurring Course Topic: Hong Kong Cinema. An in-depth exploration of Hong Kong cinema. It includes an examination of the various figures involved (actors, directors, etc.), genres (action, martial arts, art film, etc.), and the relationship between Hong Kong cinema and Hollywood. 1(1-0) D. Approved Recurring Course Topic: James Bond and the Movies. Historical view of the way in which the James Bond film series, the longest-running series in movie history, progressed, changed and adapted as well as how it influenced not only the whole spy/action/adventure film genre but society itself over a period of more than three decades. 1(1-0) D. Approved Recurring Course Topic: Sci-Fi Noir. An exploration into the cinematic style of Film Noir in its latest version, the science fiction film. The course will investigate the influences and impact that the 1940s Film Noir style has had on specific films that can be categorized of Future Noir or relating to the development of Future Noir. 1(1-0) D. Approved Recurring Course Topic: The Cinema of Iran. An introduction to the cinema of Iran and to the cinema of Islamic cultures in general. The course will cover such topics as the history of Iranian cinema, the place of women in the Iranian film industry, and film in the context of Islamic art. 1(1-0) D. Approved Recurring Course Topic: The Films of the Coen Brothers. An exploration into the cinematic style of the Coen Brothers. The course will investigate how Noir writers of the 1940s, Hitchcock, the Horror genre and the struggle to remain independent have influenced the Coens. Students will learn the stylistic choices that reoccur in the Coen Brothers films and be able to discuss them in relation to their films and the film industry at large. 1(1-0) D. Approved Recurring Course Topic: The Portrayal of Women in Television Situation Comedies. Students will examine what we have been watching on prime time television between 1952 and the present in an attempt to determine how the image of women, as seen in network situation comedies, has evolved. Two questions will frame the course: 1) Is there a correlation between what we watch and how we act? 2) Is there a correlation between sitcom life and real life? 2(2-0) D.

MED 304 Mass Media Theory

Prerequisite: MED 120. An examination of the history, development, and current state of mass communication theory and its relationship to the ways in which mediated messages are delivered and received. 3(3-0) F,S

MED 305 Service Learning in Media

Prerequisite: 30 hours and concurrent registration in a media course designated as a service learning offering. This service component for an existing course incorporates community service with classroom instruction in media to provide an integrative learning experience that addresses the practice of citizenship and promotes an awareness of and participation in public affairs. Includes 40 hours of service that benefits an external community organization, agency, or public service provider. Approved service placements and assignments will vary depending on the specific course topic and learning objectives; a list of approved placements and assignments is available from the instructor and the Citizenship and Service Learning Office. May be repeated. 1 F,S

MED 320 Understanding the Broadcast Industry

Prerequisite: MED 120. An overview of national and local broadcast operations, including a detailed examination of national and local broadcast operations including organizational structure, management functions, program production and distribution strategies, program management, sales, promotion and research. 3(3-0) D

MED 325 Media History

The development and growth of U.S. mass media from their origins through the development of the Internet. Emphasis will be placed on changing technologies, changing socio-political roles and changing structure of the mass media industry. 3(3-0) F,S

MED 355 Social Media

Prerequisite: MED 120. An overview of how social media are changing the ways we communicate, collaborate and create through digital media. Students will examine the historical, theoretical and practical implications of social media on human communication through a series of critical readings, media presentations and practical encounters with social networking. 3(3-0) D

MED 361 Introduction to Sound Recording for Digital Film and TV

Prerequisite: MED 365. A foundational-level production course introducing recording/mixing techniques and technologies of production sound in digital film and television. Lectures will focus on basic acoustics and audio electronics, the aesthetics of the sound medium and sound as art in digital film and television. Students will learn critical-listening skills and gain recording/mixing experience in all aspects of field sound production including field sound recording equipment and setup, microphone placement and boom operation, and mixing with single and multiple microphones on the set. Students will also learn how to solve production problems and prepare production sounds for post-production. 3(3-1) S

MED 365 Digital Film and Media Production

Prerequisite: MED 120 required for MJF majors only. A study of visual aesthetics and production techniques used in film and video. Students will learn image, motion design, sound, and nonlinear concepts that will be reinforced through video production exercises. 3(2-2) F,S

MED 374 History of Film I

An examination of the evolution of film technique and theory from 1895 to World War II. Emphasis is placed on the social impact of film and on the artistic and technical aspects of the medium. Viewing of selected films outside of class may be required. 3(3-1) F

MED 375 History of Film II

An examination of the evolution of film technique and theory from World War II to the present. Emphasis is placed on the social impact of film and on the artistic and technical aspects of the medium. Viewing of selected films outside of class may be required. 3(3-1) S

MED 381 Broadcast Writing

Prerequisite: ENG 110. An examination of the principles and production techniques involved in writing broadcast copy. Three areas will be investigated in depth: copywriting for radio and television, news writing and feature story preparation. 3(3-0) F,S

MED 382 Audio Production

Theory and practice of audio production techniques, procedures, and aesthetics. Emphasis is placed on audio production in a studio setting, including mic selection and placement, mixing boards and signal flow, and digital audio production techniques and technologies. 3(3-1) D

MED 383 Television Production

Prerequisite: MED 365. Orientation to and practical experience in creating TV production in the professional studio setting. 3(2-2) F,S

MED 390 Website Design and Construction

Prerequisite: MED 290. An overview of multimedia design and multimedia-specific concepts. The course will look at multimedia design standards on multiple levels; content design and creation, user experience, navigation, interface, functionality, interactivity, multimedia integration, etc. Students will create and publish a website. 3(3-1) F,S

MED 454 Media Analysis and Criticism

Prerequisite: MED 120; and COM 209 or MED 304. The political, cultural, economic and social impact of the American media and their content as they affect and influence the individual and the culture. 3(3-0) F,S

MED 461 Sound Editing

Prerequisite: MED 365. An introduction to the theoretical and practical principles of sound editing for digital film and TV post-production. Students will be exposed to sound-design ideas and learn sound-editing skills and techniques using a professional sound-editing program. Students will design and build soundtracks for digital film and TV with both aesthetic and technical considerations. 3(3-1) F,S

MED 462 TV/Film Producing

An in-depth examination of the producer's various roles in television and film production. Practical experience with script breakdowns, scheduling and budgets will provide the student with an understanding of the various aspects of production and how the development and structure of the script can affect the production's outcome. May be taught concurrently with MED 682. Cannot receive credit for both MED 462 and MED 682. 3(3-0) F

MED 463 Writing Adaptations for Television and Film

Study and practice in adapting material for television or film. Plot decisions, character redefinition and story structure will be examined through analysis and application. Students will select a source to adapt and will create a polished outline and selected scenes from original materials during the course. This course will also review the legalities and business issues of public domain rights versus options and licensing. May be taught concurrently with MED 663. May be repeated to a total of 6 hours with permission of the instructor. 3(3-0) S

MED 464 Genre Writing for Television and Film

An overview of the expectations and requirements of the various genres, including comedy, mystery, romance, horror, science fiction and fantasy. Students will study the past, present and possible future trends of each genre in the television and film markets. The course will focus on what defines audience expectations. Students will craft characters, plot, dialogue, settings and themes that are genre specific. May be taught concurrently with MED 664. May be repeated to a total of 6 hours with permission of the instructor. 3(3-0) F

MED 465 Principles of Cinematography and Editing

Prerequisite: MED 365. The fundamental theoretical and practical principles of editing and lighting for film and video. Location lighting and camera techniques and aesthetics will be explored in depth. Editing theory will be addressed as students learn nonlinear editing techniques. The class will shoot and edit a variety of exercises designed to illustrate the theoretical, practical, and aesthetic issues explored in this course. 3(2-2) F

MED 466 Advanced Editing

Prerequisite: MED 365. An examination of the theoretical, historical, and practical principles involved in editing narrative film and video. Students will learn intermediate and advanced nonlinear editing techniques using AVID editors. Editing theory and aesthetics will be addressed through a series of editing exercises pulled from feature films and television series. Issues of narrative clarity, dramatic focus, pacing, and effective storytelling will be emphasized. 3(2-2) F

MED 470 Special Topics in Film

An examination of special topics from historical or current interest in film. Subject will vary from semester to semester depending on student interest and faculty availability. Examples: Experimental Films, Science Fiction and Horror in Film, Film as Propaganda, The Image of Minorities in Film, the French New Wave, Film Criticism. Viewing of selected films outside of class may be required. Variable Content Course. May be repeated to a total of 6 hours. 3(3-1) D. Approved recurring course topic: Animation. An examination of the history and aesthetics of animation, including both commercial and independent animation. Animation techniques (cel, computer, pixilation, cut-out, etc.), national animation industries (Hollywood, Japanese, Eastern European, etc.), and significant issues of contemporary animation studies will be covered. Written research essays are required, and film viewing outside of class may be required. 3(3-1) D. Approved recurring course topic: Asian Cinema. An examination of the art and industry of Asian cinema, looking at the histories and aesthetic features of the films (both mainstream and alternative) of the major filmmaking nations of Asia, as well as the practical and social factors involved in filmmaking in Asia. Written research essays are required, and film viewing outside of class may be required. 3(3-1) D

MED 490 Advanced Interactivity Multimedia Design

Prerequisite: MED 290. An advanced study of interactive multimedia design based on human-computer interaction principles. Course will include the creation of a project incorporating interactivity as a core element. Topics may include mobile applications, site-specific multimedia design, trans-media, advanced physical interactivity, or advanced Flash design. May be repeated to a total of 6 hours if topics are different. Variable content course. 3(2-2) SE

MED 492 Independent Study in Electronic Media

Prerequisite: admission to a departmental major, permission of instructor and 6 hours of upper division MED or JRN coursework. Supervised independent study exploring selected areas determined by the student in consultation with the media faculty. Course work may include readings, term papers, or projects. May be repeated to a total of 6 hours with permission of the department. 1-3 D

MED 498 Senior Project in Electronic Arts

Prerequisite: ART 300 and permission of instructor. Admission to this course is contingent upon the successful completion of the Electronics Arts junior portfolio review and the achievement of a "C" or better grade in all required option courses completed at the time of the junior portfolio review. Under advisement from faculty, EA students will form production teams consisting of computer animation, video, interactive new media and audio studies students. Each team will produce a broadcast-quality project over two semesters. The first semester will be spent in pre-production preparations for the approved senior project. The second semester will involve production and post-production of the approved project. This course must be repeated in sequence for a total of four hours across a single academic year. Identical with ART 498. 2(2-0) F,S

MED 561 Sound Mixing

Prerequisite: MED 461. An in-depth exploration of the art of sound design for digital film and TV. Students will learn how to carry out the aesthetic considerations of sound through the mixing process. Emphasis will be placed on advanced sound editing for sub- and final mixing, mix engineering, sound-effect processing and surround-sound practice. Students will learn how to mix a movie's dialogue, sound effects, ambience and music into stereo and surround tracks. May be taught concurrently with MED 661. Cannot receive credit for both MED 561 and MED 661. 3(3-1) F

MED 562 Digital Filmmaking

Prerequisite: MED 461 or MED 462 or MED 465. A film-style production class in high-definition digital filmmaking. Students will form small production teams to plan, design, and produce short narrative films. May be taught concurrently with MED 662. Cannot receive credit for both MED 662 and MED 562. 3(2-2) S

MED 565 Screenwriting

Writing the feature film screenplay. Students will study characterization, structure, plot, description, dialogue and format. The course will include screenings and discussion of feature films and their screenplays, and the business of professional screenwriting. Student will create a premise, character biographies, story structure and scene outline as well as generate their first draft of a short film screenplay or the first act of a full-length film for student and instructor critique and feedback. May be taught concurrently with MED 667. Cannot receive credit for both MED 667 and MED 565. May be repeated to a total of 6 hours with permission of the instructor. 3(3-0) F,S

MED 566 Writing the One-Hour Drama Teleplay

An in-depth look at the elements of writing for the one-hour television market. The course will include the foundations of study structure and play, character and conflict, dialogue and setting, and how to apply these elements to storytelling on the small screen. Writing will include development of a story through outline and beat sheets as well as a first and polished draft of an episode of a currently running television series. Students will learn to pitch their ideas effectively to writer-producers. May be taught concurrently with MED 668. Cannot receive credit for both MED 668 and MED 566. May be repeated to a total of 6 hours with permission of the instructor. 3(3-0) F,S

MED 567 Script Rewriting and Marketing

Prerequisite: MED 565 or MED 566. An examination of the many phases of rewriting television or feature length screenplays for professional submission. Students will analyze and critique screenplays and teleplays, apply rewriting methods to their scripts for workshopping, create a marketing business plan for submission, and receive feedback. May be taught concurrently with MED 669. Cannot receive credit for both MED 669 and MED 567. May be repeated to a total of 6 hours with permission of the instructor. 3(3-0) S

MED 570 Film Theory

An analysis of the art of film by using classical and contemporary film theory to investigate such aspects as the relationship between form and content, visual style and the nature of pictorial motion. Weekly screenings and discussions of short films, excerpts, complete classics and contemporary films. May be taught concurrently with MED 670. Cannot receive credit for both MED 670 and MED 570. 3(3-1) S

MED 580 Media in Politics

Prerequisite: MED 120; and COM 209 or MED 304. An in-depth examination of the role of print and electronic media in American politics. Emphasis is placed on media coverage of government, social issues, and political campaigns. The course examines both the strategies of paid media and the media's coverage of politics as news. May be taught concurrently with MED 680. Cannot receive credit for both MED 680 and MED 580. 3(3-0) D

MED 581 Issues in Media Ethics

Prerequisite: MED 120 and MED 304. An investigation of fundamental ethical issues and their implications for media practitioners. Responsibilities of media practitioners to the public, advertising agencies, the government, and special interest groups will be examined. Special attention will be paid to the possibility of conflict between the business of media and general ethical considerations. May be taught concurrently with MED 681. Cannot receive credit for both MED 681 and MED 581. 3(3-0) F,S

MED 583 Advanced Television Production

Prerequisite: MED 383. Principles, skills, and techniques involved in advanced television production. Practical experience in writing, producing, directing and editing non-fiction television content for a video-magazine, news show, and/or promotions. May be taught concurrently with MED 683. Cannot receive credit for both MED 583 and MED 683. 3(2-2) D

MED 595 Media Internship

Prerequisite: 60 hours and permission of instructor. Work experience with a professional media organization. The student will be provided an educational opportunity not available through classroom experience. The instructor must approve all necessary paperwork before the student may begin the internship. May be repeated to a total of 6 hours. 1-6 F,S

MED 597 Advanced Studies in Media

Prerequisite: permission of instructor. In-depth examination of a special topic in media. Variable content course. May be repeated to a total of 6 hours. May be taught concurrently with MED 697. Cannot receive credit for both MED 697 and MED 597. 3(3-0) D

MED 661 Sound Mixing

An in-depth exploration of the art of sound design for digital film and TV. Students will learn how to carry out the aesthetic considerations of sound through the mixing process. Emphasis will be placed on advanced sound editing for sub- and final mixing, mix engineering, sound-effect processing and surround-sound practice. Students will learn how to mix a movie's dialogue, sound effects, ambience and music into stereo and surround tracks. May be taught concurrently with MED 561. Cannot receive credit for both MED 661 and MED 561. 3(3-1) F

MED 662 Digital Filmmaking

Prerequisite: MED 461 or MED 462 or MED 465. A film-style production class in high-definition digital filmmaking. Students will form small production teams to plan, design, and produce short narrative films. May be taught concurrently with MED 562. Cannot receive credit for both MED 662 and MED 562. 3(2-2) S

MED 663 Writing Adaptations for Television and Film

Study and practice in adapting material for television or film. Plot decisions, character redefinition and story structure will be examined through analysis and application. Students will select a source to adapt and will create a polished outline and selected scenes from original materials during the course. This course will also review the legalities and business issues of public domain rights versus options and licensing. May be taught concurrently with MED 463. May be repeated to a total of 6 hours with permission of the instructor. 3(3-0) S

MED 664 Genre Writing for Television and Film

An overview of the expectations and requirements of the various genres, including comedy, mystery, romance, horror, science fiction and fantasy. Students will study the past, present and possible future trends of each genre in the television and film markets. The course will focus on what defines audience expectations. Students will craft characters, plot, dialogue, settings, and themes that are genre specific. May be taught concurrently with MED 464. May be repeated to a total of 6 hours with permission of the instructor. 3(3-0) F

MED 667 Screenwriting

Writing the feature film screenplay. Students will study characterization, structure, plot, description, dialogue and format. The course will include screenings and discussions of feature films and their screenplays, and the business of professional screenwriting. Students will create a premise, character biographies, story structure and scene outline as well as generate their first draft of a short film screenplay or the first act of a full-length film for student and instructor critique and feedback. May be taught concurrently with MED 565. Cannot receive credit for both MED 565 and MED 667. May be repeated to a total of 6 hours with permission of the instructor. 3(3-0) F,S

MED 668 Writing the One-Hour Drama Teleplay

An in-depth look of the elements of writing for the one-hour television market. The course will include the foundations of story structure and plot, character and conflict, dialogue and setting, and how to apply these elements to storytelling on the small screen. Writing will include development of a story through outline and beat sheets as well as a first and polished draft of an episode of a currently running television series. Students will learn to pitch their ideas effectively to writer-producers. May be taught concurrently with MED 566. Cannot receive credit for both MED 566 and MED 668. May be repeated to a total of 6 hours with permission of the instructor. 3(3-0) F,S

MED 669 Script Rewriting and Marketing

Prerequisite: permission of instructor. An examination of the many phases of rewriting television or feature length screenplays for professional submission. Students will analyze and critique screenplays and teleplays, apply rewriting methods to their scripts for workshopping, create a marketing business plan for submission, and receive feedback. May be taught concurrently with MED 567. Cannot receive credit for both MED 567 and MED 669. May be repeated to a total of 6 hours with permission of the instructor. 3(3-0) D

MED 670 Film Theory

An analysis of the art of film by using classical and contemporary film theory to investigate such aspects as the relationship between form and content, visual style, and the nature of pictorial motion. Weekly screenings and discussions of short film excerpts, complete classics and contemporary films. May be taught concurrently with MED 570. Cannot receive credit for both MED 570 and MED 670. 3(3-1) S

MED 680 Media in Politics

An in-depth examination of the role of print and electronic media in American politics. Emphasis is placed on media coverage of government, social issues, and political campaigns. The course examines both the strategies of paid media and the media's coverage of politics as news. May be taught concurrently with MED 580. Cannot receive credit for both MED 580 and MED 680. 3(3-0) D

MED 681 Issues in Media Ethics

An investigation of fundamental ethical issues and their implications for media practitioners. Responsibilities of media practitioners to the public, advertising agencies, the government, and special interest groups will be examined. Special attention will be paid to the possibility of conflict between the business of media and general ethical considerations. May be taught concurrently with MED 581. Cannot receive credit for both MED 581 and MED 681. 3(3-0) F,S

MED 682 TV/Film Producing

An in-depth examination of the producer's various roles in television and film production. Practical experience with script breakdowns, scheduling and budgets will provide the student with an understanding of the various aspects of production and how the development and structure of the script can affect the production's outcome. May be taught concurrently with MED 462. Cannot receive credit for both MED 682 and MED 462. 3(3-0) F

MED 683 Advanced Television Production

Prerequisite: MED 383. Principles, skills, and techniques involved in advanced television production. Practical experience in writing, producing, directing and editing non-fiction television content for a video-magazine, news show, and/or promotions. May be taught concurrently with MED 583. Cannot receive credit for both MED 683 and MED 583. 3(2-2) D

MED 695 Media Internship

Prerequisite: permission of instructor. Work experience with a professional media organization. The student will be provided an educational opportunity not available through classroom experience. The instructor must approve all necessary paperwork before the student may begin the internship. May be repeated to a total of 6 hours. May be taught concurrently with MED 595. Cannot receive credit for both MED 595 and MED 695. 1-6 F,S

MED 697 Advanced Studies in Media

Prerequisite: permission of instructor. In-depth examination of a special topic in media. Variable content course. May be repeated to a total of 6 hours. May be taught concurrently with MED 597. Cannot receive credit for both MED 597 and MED 697. 3(3-0) D

MED 704 Theory and Research in Mass Communication

Survey of theories, models and research in mass communication. Topics include propaganda, attitude change, agenda setting and media effects research. 3(3-0) S