Journalism & Creative Media Courses

JCM
100
Hours
3
Introduction to Story

Introduction to story introduces students to narrative structure across a variety of media including film, television, news, documentary, and emerging media.

PW: Digital Literacy Pract, Social and Behavioral Sciences
JCM
102
Hours
3
Media Foundations

An introductory course designed to familiarize students with the storytelling technologies that they may be required to utilize while pursuing a degree in Journalism & Creative Media.

JCM
103
Hours
1
Mechanics of Media Writing

The logic of sentence and paragraph structure in the context of media writing, with an emphasis on grammar, punctuation, word choice, conciseness and accuracy. This online course is required for news media, creative media and advertising/public relations majors.

PW: Innovation and Creativity
JCM
105
Hours
1
Let's Go to the Movies

This course is designed to introduce students to watching cinema in a variety of mediums: film festivals, university screenings, speaker series and community gatherings. Students will also be introduced to the Creative Media major and all the media components and resources C&IS and the university offer. The course will also serve as an introductory course to students with an interest in producing films, documentaries, social media content, podcasts, and live production. Students will travel locally to watch and critically analyze film and media, become immersed in the local film community, and learn about the workings of the creative media major.

JCM
112
Hours
3
Motion Picture History and Criticism

Development of the cinema, with emphasis on relation of technical advances to film content and style.

Fine Arts, Humanities, PW: Digital Literacy Pract
JCM
113
Hours
3
Television History and Analysis: Sitcoms and Serials

This course teaches the history and development of television from its inception to present day, with an emphasis on technical language as it relates to television content and style.

Fine Arts, Humanities
JCM
130
Hours
3
Production Crew Practicum

This course introduces students to the roles and responsibilities of the technical, “below-the-line,” departments that comprise film production crews. The semester consists of introductory lectures and mock production, followed by practical application wherein students propose and execute plans as production team members on upper division film productions.

JCM
146
Hours
3
Intro to Sports Communication

This course serves as a foundation to the study and analysis of sports media and provides an overview of professional pathways.

Humanities
JCM
180
Hours
3
Journalistic Principles and Practices

This introductory survey course gives students a first look at the history and professional practices of journalism and electronic news by examining both legacy and contemporary media.

JCM
200
Hours
3
Foundations for Journalism Practices

JCM 200 is a survey of how the practices of journalism and news work in the context of a humanities course. Students should be able to deconstruct various stories in the news media to understand how economic, social, and ethical principles affect news reporting. In addition, the class covers the ethical and legal principles that guide journalists and the historical context in which the journalism evolved as a key player in democratic societies.

Humanities, PW: Digital Literacy Pract
JCM
201
Hours
3
Media Production

This course introduces students to the theories, concepts and techniques of professional video production and post-production, as well as the fundamentals, history and evolution of the visual language of the moving image. Topics include camera operation and technique, lighting design, sound recording, video editing, story development, and the ethical principles behind producing digital media. In this hands-on course, students will produce short video projects that emphasize visual storytelling, technical proficiency and creative authorship, while learning to critique their own and their peers work with a critical eye.

Prerequisite(s): (JCM 100 or JCM 130) and JCM 102
JCM
202
Hours
3
Editing I

This course introduces students to the theories and techniques of digital video and computer based post-production. Students will learn the ins and outs of the Adobe Premiere editing system, focusing on media management, efficient editing practices, sound and image manipulation, codec preferences and conversion, and exporting/uploading files to the web. This will primarily be a technical class, focusing on proficiency with the Adobe Premiere application, however the course also covers fundamental editing theory, the evolution of the medium and its impact on the editing craft, and key editing terminology and techniques. Projects will include both scripted and non-fiction material. Required reading will be accompanied by required viewing, in addition to practical editing assignments. Course instruction will only consider the Mac OS platform, however, the Adobe Premiere application is very similar for Windows PC’s. This course assumes a basic working knowledge of the Mac OS, including how digital files are transferred and the basic language associated with using the Mac interface. Computing proficiency is required for a passing grade in this course.

Computer Science, PW: Digital Literacy Pract
JCM
212
Hours
3
Film and Media Theory

Film and Media Theory introduces JCM students to a variety of critical cultural humanistic methods and approaches to evaluating film, television, and emerging media.

Prerequisite(s): JCM 100
JCM
235
Hours
3
Social Media and Society

This course provides a deep dive into the platforms, structures, cultures, and practices of the social media era, and it emphasizes the processes and practices of news and creative media industries and audiences, including the values, ethics, and aesthetics of the contemporary media environment. Social media are ubiquitous in our everyday lives, but now, more than ever, it is important to think critically about the ways they shape our media use, social interactions, and perceptions of the world around us. The course is divided into three parts: media industries, social audiences, and cultural trends. In the first part of the course, we’ll take a close look at the practices, values, and ethics of platforms and media professionals. In the second part of the course, we’ll examine social media audiences, with an eye toward developing a critical understanding of the media environment around us. Finally, the third part of the course will bring you up to speed on some ongoing cultural trends involving social media.

Humanities, PW: Innovation and Creativity
JCM
303
Hours
3
News Writing and Reporting

This course introduces the skills required for basic news writing and reporting. The contents of this course are designed to help you learn how news stories are constructed and how the news industry operates. Writing proficiency is required for a passing grade in this course. A student who does not write with the skill normally required of an upper-division student will not earn a passing grade, no matter how well the student performs in other areas of the course.

Prerequisite(s): JCM 103 and (JCM 180 OR APR 231 or APR 241).
Writing
JCM
311
Hours
3
Critical Study of Television

Critical analysis of television programs and commercials. Examples are presented for study and evaluation.

Prerequisite(s): JCM 112 or JCM 212
JCM
312
Hours
3
International Cinema

Critical study of motion pictures produced throughout the world. Writing proficiency is required for a passing grade in this course. A student who does not write with the skill normally required of an upper-division student will not earn a passing grade, no matter how well the student performs in other areas of the course.

Prerequisite(s): JCM 112 or JCM 212
PW: Global Engagement, US and Global Citizenship, Writing
JCM
315
Hours
3
Advanced News Writing and Reporting

Advanced practice of newsgathering and newswriting for specialized topic areas ranging from government, education to more soft news and human interest stories. Writing proficiency is required for a passing grade in this course. A student who does not write with the skill normally required of an upper-division student will not earn a passing grade, no matter how well the student performs in other areas of the course.

Prerequisite(s): JCM 303
Writing
JCM
318
Hours
3
Documentary Storytelling

In Documentary Storytelling, students will examine the broad expanse of films that exist under the documentary label and consider how these films operate within U.S. and global society. Students will analyze films with varied approaches to documentary storytelling navigate and consider what it means to truthfully represent individuals, communities, and society at large. Through textual analysis and close reading of documentary films, students will explore the workings and boundaries of the documentary form, ultimately preparing them to engage ethically and responsibly with documentary film production practices.

Prerequisite(s): (JCM 100 or MC 101) with a C- or higher
US and Global Citizenship
JCM
323
Hours
3
News Editing and Multimedia Production

This course covers the preparation of copy for publication across media platforms, with an emphasis on careful writing, accuracy and presentation. In this class, you will study and learn the art of connecting language with shared meaning in a news context. By the end of the course, you should have the skills necessary to land entry-level professional editing jobs and you should have gained a conceptual foundation that will serve you well in higher editing positions.

Prerequisite(s): JCM 327 and JCM 303 with a minimum of C-
JCM
324
Hours
3
Audience Analysis

This course will familiarize students with the ways in which industry research professionals think about their work and about the opportunities and challenges they face as they assess audiences in our highly competitive, rapidly evolving, and increasingly complicated media environment.

Prerequisite(s): (JCM 100 or MC 101 or TCF 100) with a C- or higher
JCM
325
Hours
3
Sports Writing and Reporting

In this course students will learn how to cover live sporting events, including writing game stories, covering press conferences and writing feature profiles. The course will operate much the same as a real-world newsroom. You will receive hands-on experience in news gathering, interviewing and writing for print and online media. You also will learn to brainstorm and pitch story ideas, which is an invaluable skill in today’s media environment. The course is driven by deadlines. Writing proficiency is required for a passing grade in this course. A student who does not write with the skill normally required of an upper-division student will not earn a passing grade, no matter how well the student performs in other areas of the course.

Prerequisite(s): JCM 303 with minimum grade of C-
Writing
JCM
326
Hours
3
Television and Radio Performance

A practical approach to techniques necessary for effective presentation on radio, television, and the internet; emphasizes copy interpretation, interview skills, and studio and field performance for microphone and camera.

Prerequisite(s): JCM 331
JCM
327
Hours
3
Visual Journalism

Visual Journalism is a 3-credit-hour beginning course that will help students of all abilities learn about visual tools used in the gathering and distribution of news. This course will challenge students, intellectually and technically, regardless of the prior experience and skills each brings to class. No prior knowledge of visual reporting is required.

Prerequisite(s): JCM 180
Prerequisite(s) with concurrency: JCM 303
PW: Digital Literacy Pract
JCM
328
Hours
3
Sports Announcing

Students will explore the principles and practice of broadcast sports announcing including play-by-play, analysis, and sideline reporting skills through examination, discussion, and execution. The class gives students a chance to put pre-production, background research and interview skills into practice by calling games for television and radio broadcasts.

Prerequisite(s): JCM 146, JCM 303, and JCM 331 with a C- or higher
JCM
330
Hours
3
Social Media Storytelling

This course engages students in a variety of social media storytelling, including Instagram, TikTok and YouTube. Students will develop many narratives within these platforms to share in creator economy. Students are expected to create a professional platform to add to their portfolio.

Prerequisite(s): JCM 235 or APR 325
JCM
331
Hours
3
Introduction to Electronic Reporting

Students will learn the terminology of the electronic reporting industry and will begin writing for broadcast. This course also covers basic equipment used in the newsroom and in the field.

Prerequisite(s): JCM 102 and MC 101
Prerequisite(s) with concurrency: JCM 303
PW: Digital Literacy Pract
JCM
333
Hours
3
Working for Television News

The purpose of this class is to build electronic news skills. Students will build on skills such as writing for broadcast, shooting video, editing video and audio, on-air delivery, enterprising story ideas, finding different angles on stories, and how to evaluate the finished product. This course concentrates on broadcast news, emphasizing on-camera work and the various responsibilities involved in studio and remote production.

Prerequisite(s): JCM 331 with a minimum grade of C-
JCM
335
Hours
3
Audio Production

This course focuses on voice, music, and sound effects, and the impact they have on the visual image. It addresses the principles of recording sound and explains sound characteristics, basic acoustics, ergonomics, and proper audio recording techniques for field and studio recording, as well as time code and mixing.

Prerequisite(s): JCM 201
PW: Digital Literacy Pract
JCM
340
Hours
3
Digital News

This class will give students the skills they need to adjust to a variety of modern and emerging media. Students will produce media projects that build on the skills they already possess from previous classes. Students will prepare and present news and sports for various media outlets, including online and web formats.

Prerequisite(s): JCM 303 AND JCM 331 with minimum grade of C-
JCM
344
Hours
3
Entertainment Marketing

This course covers both the general principles of entertainment marketing and their traditional applications, as well as how these principles are being used in new and evolving ways. As consumers, we often encounter only discrete elements of a marketing campaign; however, students in this class will examine complete campaigns to understand the full scope of what goes into marketing a film or TV show. Students will also learn how studios, streamers, and online outlets differ in their strategic marketing of content.

Prerequisite(s): JCM 100
JCM
346
Hours
3
Screenwriting I

This course is designed to learn the elements of screenplay: structure, plot, character arc, subplot, inciting incident, climax, resolution, visual storytelling, dialogue, subtext, secondary characters. Writing will be critiqued and work-shopped by peers. It is imperative to give constructive criticism and participate in discussion.

Prerequisite(s): JCM 201
Writing
JCM
347
Hours
3
Television Writing

This course is designed to teach students about the elements of screenplay for television: structure, plot, character arc, subplot, inciting incident, climax, resolution, visual storytelling, dialogue, subtext, secondary characters. Writing will be critiqued and work-shopped by peers.

Prerequisite(s): JCM 201
JCM
350
Hours
3
Narrative Production

This course is designed to prepare students to tell fictional stories using the tools of cinematography: camerawork and lighting. Students will develop their creative vision, sharpen their aesthetic understanding, and progress their technical skills. By undertaking several challenging shoots, students will hone their ability to use cameras, lenses, camera support, and lighting equipment. This course requires extensive group work outside of class meeting hours.

Prerequisite(s): JCM 201
JCM
351
Hours
3
Videography for Digital Content

This course is designed to help students understand the elements of narrative, essentials of production, working with crew, understanding set structure, mastering multiple cameras, grip and lighting equipment, visual storytelling in multiple genres and media.

Prerequisite(s): JCM 201
PW: Digital Literacy Pract
JCM
354
Hours
3
Production Management

In this course, students will come to understand one of the most misunderstood roles in film—that of the producer. Students will learn how producers shepherd an independent film from conception through distribution, straddling both the creative and business components of the process.

Prerequisite(s): JCM 100
Experiential Learning
JCM
361
Hours
3
Documentary Production

Documentary filmmaking requires skillfully and creatively collecting and assembling the visuals and sounds of reality into clear, coherent narratives. This course will provide students with a firm grounding in practical filmmaking skills in production and postproduction—cinematography, sound, and editing—required to successfully engage with the documentary form and create effective documentary films. Guided by in-class demonstrations, exercises, and lectures, students will work through a series of documentary production assignments and will ultimately edit the footage from these film shoots into a final short 4-5 minute documentary portrait.

Prerequisite(s): JCM 201
JCM
372
Hours
3
Media Effects

Study of individual and society effects of media, including the impact and influence on attitudes and culture beliefs.

Prerequisite(s): JCM 100 or MC 101 or JCM 235 or LS 350
PW: Digital Literacy Pract
JCM
380
Hours
1-3
Independent Study

Analysis of current issues and practices in news media and/or creative media under the supervision of a faculty member. May be repeated for credit provided the topics are different.

Special Topics Course
JCM
381
Hours
1-3
Digital Media Practicum

This course is designed to provide hands-on, real- world experience with guidance from an instructor to gain practical skills in a professional setting. Students will work with a media professional in a chosen field to gain skills, experience, and knowledge. Students will be required to log work hours, give daily descriptions of duties, write a midterm and final reflection, have a debriefing session with an instructor, and keep a daily written or online journal of experiences. Students will submit this work for review.

Prerequisite(s): JCM 103
Experiential Learning, Special Topics Course
JCM
382
Hours
1-3
News Media Internship

This course offers students the opportunity to apply in a professional work environment the skills and principles they have learned in the classroom setting. The internship is a part-time or full-time job experience for qualified undergraduates conducted under the joint supervision of the Journalism & Creative Media Department and a profession media organization.

Prerequisite(s): JCM 303 with a minimum grade of C-, minimum of 45 overall earned hours
Experiential Learning
JCM
383
Hours
1-3
Creative Media Internship

This course is designed to provide hands-on, real- world experience with guidance from an instructor to help navigate a workplace environment. Students will work with a media professional in a chosen field to gain skills, experience, and knowledge in a professional setting. Students will be required to log work hours, give daily descriptions of duties, write a midterm and final reflection, have a debriefing session with an instructor, and be evaluated by a supervisor. Students will submit this work for review.

Prerequisite(s): JCM 201 with a minimum of C-, minimum of 45 overall earned hours
Experiential Learning
JCM
411
Hours
3
Depth Reporting and Writing

Reporting and writing longer news and feature stories for publication in print and online. Students learn advanced techniques in information gathering, story organization, non-fiction writing and multimedia elements. Writing proficiency is required for a passing grade in this course. A student who does not write with the skill normally required of an upper-division student will not earn a passing grade, no matter how well the student performs in other areas of the course.

Prerequisite(s): JCM 315 or JCM 325
Writing
JCM
412
Hours
3
Seminar in American Cinema

Study of selected topics in United States film. Writing proficiency is required for a passing grade in this course. A student who does not write with the skill normally required of an upper-division student will not earn a passing grade, no matter how well the student performs in other areas of the course.

Prerequisite(s): JCM 212
Writing
JCM
413
Hours
3
Gender, Music, and Pop Culture

This course uses a critical-cultural studies approach to analyzing gender and popular music in order to better examine gendered sites within music culture. It draws upon theories and methodologies associated with media studies, popular music criticism, sociology, musicology, sound studies, cultural studies, performance studies, fan studies, star studies, ethnography, literary analysis, women’s and gender studies, critical race theory, and queer studies. Writing proficiency is required for a passing grade in this course. A student who does not write with the skill normally required of an upper-division student will not earn a passing grade, no matter how well the student performs in other areas of the course.

Prerequisite(s): JCM 212
PW: Global Engagement, Writing
JCM
414
Hours
3
Film Festivals and Independent Cinema

Course examines film festivals as historical, cultural, and economic spaces. In seminars, students explore topics of art house/experimental/avant garde cinema and documentary.

Prerequisite(s): JCM 112 or JCM 212
JCM
425
Hours
3
Digital Sports Coverage

The purpose of this class is to build on the sports skills that you should already possess. We will build on skills such as writing, shooting video, on-air delivery, enterprising story ideas, finding different angles on stories, and how to evaluate your work and your colleagues’ work. Topics will include on-camera work and the various responsibilities involved in sports production. This course will also include discussion of current issues in broadcast sports, ethics, and professional career possibilities.

Prerequisite(s): JCM 325 and JCM 331
JCM
426
Hours
3
Advanced Design and Visualization

This course focuses on editing, production and visual storytelling for print and digital media, including magazines and periodicals as an editorial standard. This class combines lectures, student presentations, in-class assignments/discussion and project work.

Prerequisite(s): JCM 327
Experiential Learning
JCM
429
Hours
3
Food Writing and Reporting

Conceptualizing, pitching, reporting, and writing food journalism. Students read and analyze examples of food news and feature articles. Students produce food.related content for digital and print publications.

Prerequisite(s): JCM 315 or JCM 325
Experiential Learning
JCM
431
Hours
3
Multicamera Production

This course will introduce students to the (preproduction, production and postproduction) theories and techniques of multicamera productions. There will be a major emphasis on hands-on instruction in this class throughout the entire semester. In addition, this class will emphasize live directing theory and execution, and multicamera studio/field techniques. Students will learn the language, protocol, and aesthetics used to produce industry standard multicamera programs. This is a course that allows students to experience all aspects of multicamera video production with an emphasis on directing, technical directing and camera operation.

Prerequisite(s): JCM 201
Experiential Learning
JCM
432
Hours
3
Advanced Production

This is an advanced production course focusing on television and film production. The students will serve as a production team responsible for the conceiving, shooting, editing and delivering of broadcast-ready content for television or film outlets.

Prerequisite(s): JCM 201
JCM
433
Hours
3
Editing II

This course builds upon students’ pre-existing skills in post-production and guides students through the process of locking a film for professional sound and picture finishing and eventual exhibition. Students will continue to navigate central editing concepts—rhythm, performance, pacing, story structure—while developing new skills in advanced project organization, sound mixing, color grading, motion graphics, and mastering. In particular, students will gain expertise in navigating the final stages of the post-production process, using advanced color grading and audio editing software to produce polished, finished films.

Prerequisite(s): JCM 202
PW: Digital Literacy Pract
JCM
434
Hours
3
Producing I

This course is a practical, hands-on approach to learning the art of story development for narrative film and television. Students in this course will learn to evaluate and analyze stories as producers critically and to work with writers to strengthen them creatively. Students will also know where to look for material to develop, as well as the legal agreements that must be in place first.

Prerequisite(s): JCM 100
JCM
435
Hours
3
Sports Documentary

The course will give students a better understanding of the theory and practice of sports documentary production. Students will explore the contemporary development, its many genres, and the journalistic and ethical questions that arise in the production of sports documentaries. Students will also research and create mini-documentaries on sport-related topics.

Prerequisite(s): JCM 331 or JCM 350 or JCM 351
JCM
436
Hours
3
Teaching Multimedia News

This course is designed to give students an overview of journalism and the process and pedagogy of instructing K-12 and college journalism classes.

PW: Innovation and Creativity
JCM
437
Hours
3
Directing I

This course is designed to help students understand the elements of narrative, essentials of production, working with actors, and visual storytelling. Directing I serves as a pre-production course for Directing II. Students will develop material in this course that will be the basis for their short film in Directing II. Students will take a scene and develop it through production using production design, blocking, costume/make-up, camera movement, lighting and all other film techniques. The scene will be developed into a short 5 minute film. The 5 minute film will be the spring board for a longer film in Directing II.

Prerequisite(s): JCM 350
Experiential Learning
JCM
438
Hours
3
Directing II

This course is designed to help students understand the elements of narrative, essentials of production, working with actors, and visual storytelling. Students will take a script and develop the narrative through pre-production, production and post-production into a short film with the hope of festival submissions. Students will learn the language of film and the importance of collaboration.

Prerequisite(s): JCM 437
Experiential Learning
JCM
441
Hours
3
Documentary Filmmaking I

Building on skills introduced in Documentary Production, Documentary Filmmaking I tasks students to work in small crews to successfully produce an original 7-10 minute short documentary film. Students will make detailed documentary pitches and form small production teams to produce documentary films. Over the course of the semester, students will apply skills of cinematography, sound recording, and editing to create documentary film projects in a mode and topic of their choosing. Through a series of post-production workshops and critique sessions and scaffolded presentation of cuts, students will move through the production and post-production processes and leave the course with short documentary films ready for exhibition.

Prerequisite(s): JCM 361
Experiential Learning
JCM
442
Hours
3
Specialized Magazine Writing

This course is designed to help students understand writing and editing of long-form articles for publication in print and online depth magazines. Students will learn advanced narrative non-fiction writing techniques and how to gather information for longer feature stories. Writing proficiency is required for a passing grade in this course. A student who does not write with the skill normally required of an upper-division student will not earn a passing grade, no matter how well the student performs in other areas of the course.

Prerequisite(s): JCM 315 or JCM 325
Writing
JCM
444
Hours
3
Advanced Sports Writing & Reporting

This course covers advanced techniques in reporting and writing for sports media. Students analyze published work, begin their own sports blog and write several articles, including two in-depth pieces. Several of the nation’s most prominent sportswriters will join us either in person or via Skype to offer insight into what it takes to flourish in an increasingly competitive media landscape. Writing proficiency is required for a passing grade in this course. A student who does not write with the skill normally required of an upper-division student will not earn a passing grade, no matter how well the student performs in other areas of the course.

Prerequisite(s): JCM 325
Writing
JCM
445
Hours
3
Analysis of Sports Writing

Students will analyze multiple pieces of longform, narrative journalism that have some connection to sports. This analysis will focus in large part on the finished story itself, but students will also look into the story’s cultural context and the process through which it came in to the world.

Prerequisite(s): JCM 325
JCM
448
Hours
3
News Analysis

This course is designed to help students understand the issues pertinent to news, from its production, function, effects to external influences on news. Students will look at what constitute news; who are the professionals producing news; who are the people consuming news; what factors affect production and consumption. The class will also examine how news serves its audience and society and how news affects the social, economic and political processes. Finally, students will examine how news can be manipulated and how news bias affects media credibility. Writing proficiency is required for a passing grade in this course. A student who does not write with the skill normally required of an upper-division student will not earn a passing grade, no matter how well the student performs in other areas of the course.

Prerequisite(s): JCM 100 or MC 101
Writing
JCM
450
Hours
3
Advanced Directing Workshop

In this intensive course, students will develop their cinematic voices by designing and completing a polished narrative short film. This course is intended to serve as a praxis-based bridge between the academic environment and the professional filmmaking world, emphasizing student leadership, independence, and ambition. This course models the creative, technical, logistical, and collaborative problem-solving methods used by successful directors and project leaders.

Prerequisite(s): JCM 350 or JCM 351
JCM
451
Hours
3
News Media Management

Development of leadership skills for managing media organizations in the global environment. Students will analyze media industries and media data, review case studies and try to resolve media challenges. Students will gain a deeper understanding of the impact of a digitized media world.

Prerequisite(s): JCM 303
JCM
452
Hours
3
JCM in LA Part I

Students will attend four virtual class sessions before traveling to Los Angeles for professional development and an introduction to the entertainment industry. During the weeklong program, students will tour facilities and hear from industry professionals, learning about all sides of the business while also reflecting upon their own career goals. Students will also learn how to successfully navigate Los Angeles and become familiar with its resources.

Prerequisite(s): JCM 100
Experiential Learning
JCM
453
Hours
3
JCM on Location

Students will attend four virtual class sessions before traveling to a media industry hub for professional development and an introduction to the entertainment industry. During the weeklong program, students will tour facilities and hear from industry professionals, learning about all sides of the business while also reflecting upon their own career goals. Students will also learn how to successfully navigate different industry hubs and become familiar with its resource.

JCM
454
Hours
3
Producing II

This course offers students the opportunity to learn the art of producing through hands-on experience. Students will take the principles and skills learned in Producing I and use them to produce a short film, resulting in a finished, festival-ready project by the end of the semester. There will be an emphasis placed on critical thinking, problem solving and working as part of a filmmaking team. This class will also teach producers how to support each other and function as a community.

Prerequisite(s): JCM 434
Experiential Learning
JCM
455
Hours
3
Documentary Filmmaking II

The course is designed as an advanced-level documentary production course, leveraging students’ pre-existing production skills to produce short documentary films of the highest caliber. The course will begin with an advanced pitch workshop, at which point the strongest film concepts will be selected for production. Students will be divided into teams and assigned production roles for the duration of the production. Over the course of the semester, students will research, film, and edit a short documentary film (10-15 minutes) and begin the process of submitting the film for exhibition.

Prerequisite(s): JCM 441
Experiential Learning
JCM
458
Hours
3
Entrepreneurial Journalism

This foundational course teaches the culture, practices and ethics of entrepreneurship applied to new, journalism-related ventures, with the aim of helping to preserve quality journalism amid industry disruption and shrinkage.

Prerequisite(s): JCM 303
JCM
462
Hours
3
Motion Graphics

This course introduces students to software in motion graphics creation platforms. Students will develop their creative abilities with emphasis on element creation, green screen technology, practical vs. digital effects, further developing an understanding of codecs, prepping a project for professional sound and picture finishing, and executing the final phases of post-production including output.

Prerequisite(s): JCM 202 or JCM 331
PW: Digital Literacy Pract
JCM
466
Hours
3
Screenwriting II

This course is designed to enhance screenwriting skills learned in the first course such as plot and character development and visual storytelling. Students will use pre-writing to develop a 10-15 minute film ready to submit to festivals. Students will create a video essay outlining the vision for their script.

Prerequisite(s): JCM 346 or JCM 347
Writing
JCM
467
Hours
3
Representational Ethics in Film and TV

This course is designed to explore the varied ways that race and gender intersect with the media industry. Time spent in class will largely consist of deconstructing a number of media industries, including film, television and digitized video, to show just how race and gender operate within media industries.

Prerequisite(s): JCM 212
PW: Global Engagement
JCM
475
Hours
3
Anatomy of a Trial I

A specialized interdisciplinary service-learning course in narrative nonfiction. Focusing on a single story of injustice, the class collaborates to use film, audio and other media to create a rich, web-based narrative in its broader social and historical context.

Prerequisite(s): This course requires departmental approval.
JCM
477
Hours
3
Production House

This course will support the production of video projects working with clients. Aimed at teaching student producers who have primarily produced content independently or as part of class projects, this course will show creative producers how to work “for hire” on projects with campus partners and community organizations who will serve as “clients.” The course will engage students in commercial production where they must develop ideas and produce video projects for a client, develop ideas, pitch to clients, filming in studios and on location, and learn how to work through feedback notes from clients. The aim of this course is to help student understand how to develop projects working with campus partners, community organizations and act as producers, directors and crew to create work “for hire.”.

Prerequisite(s): JCM 201
Experiential Learning
JCM
484
Hours
3
Sports Portfolio

This course is the most advanced skills course in the University’s sports media sequence It draws heavily on the writing journalistic, production, and performance skills learned in prior classes. Students will enhance their video, writing and editing skills produce a high-quality sports-related product.

Prerequisite(s): MC 401 and (JCM 425 or JCM 445) and Senior Status
JCM
485
Hours
3
Community News in a Digital World

Students adopt staff roles at Dateline Alabama, a news site showcasing the original work of journalism students at the University of Alabama. Students produce and publish original articles, photography, multimedia stories and other reportage. Through team-based coverage, students will shine light on the important events, issues and people of our communities: The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa and the state of Alabama. Students will hone the skills they need to succeed as professional journalists, finishing the semester with the portfolios needed to land internships and jobs.

Prerequisite(s): JCM 303 and JCM 331
Experiential Learning, PW: Digital Literacy Pract
JCM
488
Hours
3
Seminar in Media Studies

This is a rotating topic course intended to allow faculty and students to dive deep into specific subject matter through close formal analysis, original historical research, and critical engagement with pertinent scholarly literature. Potential course topics might include specific national/regional media cultures and industries, periods of significant technological change, norms and contexts for particular genres, careers of impactful directors/practitioners, and intellectual history of research areas in the media studies field. Students are expected to produce writing that is suitable for presentation at academic conferences and/or publication in peer-reviewed undergraduate scholarly journals.

Prerequisite(s): JCM 212
Special Topics Course
JCM
489
Hours
3
Making Media Innovation

This course teaches a number of methods for testing news content to determine the effectiveness of that content. Students will learn when it is appropriate to use which methods, along with the limitations of each method, to create better information and storytelling for audiences and communities.

Prerequisite(s): JCM 331
JCM
490
Hours
3
Electronic News Producing

This class provides a real world experience of how to produce news, weather, and sports content for a television station, network, or cable outlet. By producing daily newscasts, students gain extensive experience in writing for broadcast and producing content for various story forms. The emphasis is on the organization and analysis of newsworthy content as well as understanding how to work as a news team to put together a professional on-air product.

Prerequisite(s): JCM 333
Experiential Learning
JCM
491
Hours
1-3
Special Topics in Journalism and Creative Media

Course content varies to explore current topics relevant to news media and creative media majors and minors. Repeatable for up to 6 credits if the topics are different.

Prerequisite(s): JCM 100 or MC 101
Special Topics Course
JCM
492
Hours
3
Media Professional Development

This course supports the professional development of JCM media production (application track) majors interested on careers in film, television or broader media industry careers. This course helps to prepare graduates to enter the competitive and challenging landscape of the industry. The course engages students in industry research, career mapping, building resumes, drafting cover letters and exploring formats for portfolios. Students study industry hierarchy and structure, research companies, industry terminology, and learn how to plan successful paths from graduation to a career in the entertainment industry.

Prerequisite(s): JCM 212 or JCM 331
JCM
493
Hours
3
Ethics and Diversity in Media

Examination of current issues and ethical practices in the field of journalism. Students complete a major research project on issues and ethics. This includes discussion of current events, of course, but through the prism of a systematic study of applied ethics. This class focuses on the “why” of journalism and creative media.

Prerequisite(s): JCM 212 or JCM 331
PW: Global Engagement
JCM
494
Hours
3
Global Media Systems

What students see in U.S. media is like what students see in media in other countries, and what students see in U.S. media is not like what students see in media in other countries. That's a contradiction, but it makes sense: The world's media production and policies have been dominated by powerful Western countries like the U.S., but other countries are becoming major producers and influencing policy. Countries like India, South Korea, Brazil and Nigeria are producing and spreading their own news, films, TV shows and social media, challenging this dominance. In this course, students will explore media and media production in particular countries -- the film industries of India's Bollywood and Nigeria's Nollywood, the cable news networks of China and Russia, the soap operas of Latin America and Turkey, among others. Students will learn about the hidden policies, politics and economics of media “globalization” and explore theories that explain the strange mix of diversity and sameness in media around the world. Students will also “put themselves” in the context of these other countries’ media cultures and systems, imagining the challenges and benefits they might experience as media producers and consumers, the decisions they might make, and how these compare to the U.S. context.

Prerequisite(s): JCM 212
Prerequisite(s) with concurrency: JCM 331
PW: Executive Systems, US and Global Citizenship
JCM
496
Hours
3
Issues and Ethics in Sports Journalism

The purpose of this class is to examine the social, political, economic and historical significance of the intersection of sports, media and culture, with an emphasis on ethical decision-making.

Prerequisite(s): JCM 325 OR JCM 331
JCM
497
Hours
3
Creative Media Careers

In this course, students will prepare for a job in the world of creative media. Students will learn how the business side of various entertainment industries function, as well as the broad scope of jobs that exist. Students will explore and analyze current industry trends and familiarize themselves with industry news outlets. An emphasis is also placed on preparing professional materials, researching potential employers and learning best practices in applying for jobs and building a career. Students will also set strategic professional goals to help guide their job search.

JCM
498
Hours
3
Digital Media Workshop

In this workshop, we will experiment with different forms of digital media. Each student will produce three main projects using text, photos, video and other visuals, along with research.

Prerequisite(s): JCM 303 and JCM 331
JCM
499
Hours
3
Digital News Capstone

This class will give students the skills they need to adjust to a variety of modern and emerging media. Students will produce media projects that build on the skills they already possess from previous classes. Students will prepare and present news and sports for various media outlets, including online and web formats.

Prerequisite(s): JCM 331 AND MC 401 AND 9 hours JCM/MC 400-level coursework

Mass Communications Courses

MC
101
Hours
3
Intro To Mass Communic

Introduction to the fields of communication, including theory, law and regulation, history, social implications, and mass media operations.

Social and Behavioral Sciences
MC
401
Hours
3
Mass Comm Law & Regultn

Study of laws and regulations affecting the mass media and the fields of mass communication.

Prerequisite(s): MC 101 with minimum C-
MC
407
Hours
3
Mass Communic Research

Overview and application of the methods used in quantitative and qualitative mass communication research.

Prerequisite(s): MC 101
MC
409
Hours
3
History Mass Communctn

Study of the historical development of mass communication. May be taken for graduate credit. Writing proficiency is required for a passing grade in this course. A student who does not write with the skill normally required of an upper-division student will not earn a passing grade, no matter how well the student performs in other areas of the course.

Prerequisite(s): MC 101
Writing
MC
413
Hours
3
Mass Comm Service & Diversity

In this service-learning designated class, students study and analyze mass communication issues of diversity as they relate to groups in society. Students work with area partners on projects related to reaching diverse, mass audiences. Writing proficiency is required for a passing grade in this course. A student who does not write with the skill normally required of an upper-division student will not earn a passing grade, no matter how well the student performs in other areas of the course.

Prerequisite(s): MC 101
Experiential Learning, Writing
MC
421
Hours
3
Political Communication

The purpose of this course is to explore the general character and dimensions of the cross-disciplinary field of political communication. The principal aim is to familiarize each participant with the literature and propositions surrounding key approaches, methods, and substantive areas of inquiry in political communications. Writing proficiency is required for a passing grade in this course. A student who does not write with the skill normally required of an upper-division student will not earn a passing grade, no matter how well the student performs in other areas of the course.

Prerequisite(s): MC 101
Writing
MC
425
Hours
3
Media Management

The structure and function of media organizations. The decision-making processes inherent in running complex media businesses. Effective leadership styles. Traditional marketing perspectives applied to media. Laws and regulations that affect media management. Writing proficiency is required for a passing grade in this course. A student who does not write with the skill normally required of an upper-division student will not earn a passing grade, no matter how well the student performs in other areas of the course.

Prerequisite(s): MC 101
Writing
MC
426
Hours
3
Race, Gender and Media

This discussion-oriented class examines the mass media through the lenses of race, ethnicity and gender. The course helps future media practitioners be aware of their roles in creating content that reflects increasingly multicultural audiences. Using current, contemporary and classic media texts, students critically analyze media messages and understand the importance of a diverse workforce.

Prerequisite(s): MC 101
MC
430
Hours
3
Video Games and Media

This course provides a comprehensive overview of video game media as it pertains to students preparing for careers in the entertainment industry, news, creative media, computer programming and related careers. Video games are a globally relevant medium that entertain, educate, inform us; define and are defined by contemporary culture. The course will prepare students for developing projects that can be used as part of their professional portfolios as they prepare for their careers.

Prerequisite(s): MC 101
PW: Digital Literacy Pract
MC
431
Hours
3
Sports & Social Media

This course will focus on the connections and engagement of social media within sports communication. This will include topics such as personal/professional branding, audience analytics, media campaigns and messaging.

Prerequisite(s): MC 101 or JCM 146
PW: Digital Literacy Pract
MC
446
Hours
3
Contemporary Issues in Sports Media

This course is designed to synthesize work in mass communication to be able to construct and critique arguments about modern sports media issues and controversies.

Prerequisite(s): MC 101 or JCM 146
PW: Digital Literacy Pract, Special Topics Course
MC
464
Hours
3
Sports Media Research

The purpose of this course is to introduce core sports media research scholarship to make students literate on this research. By the end of the class, students should be able to interpret, critique, and advance knowledge that can be gleaned from sports media researchers.

Prerequisite(s): MC 101 or JCM 146
MC
495
Hours
3
Special Topics

Special topics in mass communication theory and research. May be taken for graduate credit.

Prerequisite(s): MC 101
Special Topics Course