UA media studies collage of production and class photos, showing students getting hands-on experience.

MEDIA STUDIES

The University of Akron's media studies program prepares you with real experience for a career in video production, radio/television and journalism.

There is always more than meets the eye in the media industry, and our media studies program is no different. You will study every aspect of the media industry — from business, law and theory to writing for different media platforms and producing audio and video content.

Why Akron?

Two student announcers working in the UA WZIP radio studio during an on-air production.Modern studios: Our production equipment is current and cutting edge. Our continued investment into the most advanced technology available will give you the ability to create content that is on par with the industry standard.

Communication faculty: At the University of Akron you will be taught and mentored by faculty who research and work in the industry. Some professors are contributing to media studies with groundbreaking research, while others are armed with years of experience in print or broadcast journalism. All of our faculty are working to create the best educational experience to help students succeed in college and beyond.

Experiential learning: In the media field, experiential learning is more than just an important edge, it is necessary. On UA's campus we have nationally recognized and award-winning student clubs and organizations that provide you with real work experience in the comfort of a learning environment.

Our strategic approach to the courses we offer, combined with our faculty and all the experiential learning opportunities available to you, is what sets us apart from the rest.

Internship program: In UA's internship program, you can fulfill either 3 or 6 credit hours while gaining hands-on experience in a real workplace. You can choose to intern in nearly any department at any type of organization where communication and creativity is recognized.

The best way to understand the theories and concepts you are learning in the classroom is to apply them for real. Also, internships will help you network and build your skill set.

About the coursework

A media studies student learning audio production. The School of Communi­cation provides courses that allow you to tap into your creativity while also building foundational skill sets and your personal portfolio.

Our courses are designed to provide you with the skills necessary to strategically create and produce content on all media platforms.

Beyond the basic media studies curricula, UA offers several “special topics” courses that highlight new advances in the industry or hot topics going on today.

Media production on campus

Two student announcers working in the UA WZIP radio studio during an on-air production.In addition to many student organizations on campus and access to valuable internships, the University of Akron has its' own award-winning radio and television stations - WZIP-FM and ZTV.

WZIP is a nationally recognized and highly rated radio station with a broadcast signal that reaches most of northeast Ohio. From announcing and programming to news, sports and promotions, the content is driven and produced by students who have made WZIP the most listened-to student-run radio station in the nation.

Two student announcers working in the UA WZIP radio studio during an on-air production.ZTV is a companion program that enables students to perform every aspect of producing television shows, which are played on a campus cable system and shown to the world online. ZTV has been nominated for more than two dozen regional Emmy awards and has won several.

What careers are available?

Our graduates are working at radio and television stations across the country. Many are employed by major production companies and networks. Some have started their own video production companies and many have earned advanced degrees.

Our graduates are currently working as:

  • announcers,
  • news anchors,
  • sports reporters,
  • production directors,
  • show producers,
  • broadcast sales managers, and
  • social media specialists.

WE WOULD LOVE TO HEAR FROM YOU!

The School of Communication - Kolbe Hall 108 | Phone: 330-972-7600 | Fax: 330-972-8045 |


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