Central Washington University

What you'll study

This programme combines foundational communication theory with intensive practical training in radio, television and digital media production. Course work emphasises storytelling, technical production skills, media law and ethics, and multiplatform distribution.

• Core modules: media writing and reporting, broadcast journalism, multimedia storytelling, media law and ethics, and communication theory.
• Production skills: audio production and engineering, video production and editing, field production, studio directing, camera operation, lighting, and post-production workflows.
• Digital and new media: social media strategy, podcast production, web video formats, digital content analytics, and mobile journalism.
• Technical and design: sound design, mixing, graphics for broadcast, control-room operations, and use of industry-standard software and hardware.
• Practical experience: lab classes in radio and TV studios, practicum placements, and opportunities to produce live or recorded programming for campus outlets and partner organisations.
• Capstone: a senior project or practicum in which students produce a portfolio-quality piece(s) — such as a documentary segment, series of newscasts, or a podcast series — demonstrating integrated skills across production, editing and storytelling.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a secondary school completion qualification equivalent to a U.S. high school diploma. Typical entry standards include a combination of academic grades and evidence of potential in media work.

• Academic credentials: successful completion of secondary education or equivalent; specific grade expectations may vary by applicant background and transfer credit.
• Portfolio or audition: applicants may be asked to submit a short portfolio, demo reel, or samples of written or audio/visual work to demonstrate creativity and technical aptitude.
• Transfer students: credit may be awarded for prior college-level coursework in communication, media production or related fields; transcripts are required.
• English language: non-native English speakers must meet the university's English proficiency requirement through an approved test or prior education in English.
• Additional requirements: some applicants may be invited to an interview with the programme faculty to discuss interests and career goals.

Career prospects

Graduates leave with a portfolio of practical work and the technical skills needed for a range of roles across traditional and digital media. Typical career paths include:

• Broadcast journalist, reporter or news anchor for radio or television stations
• Producer, assistant producer or director for TV and radio programming
• Audio engineer, sound designer or podcast producer
• Video editor, camera operator or field production specialist
• Multimedia content creator, social media manager or digital strategist for media organisations and brands
• Corporate communications, public relations and media relations roles that require broadcast and digital content skills
• Technical roles in broadcast operations, transmission and studio management

Why study at Central Washington University

Central Washington University offers a hands-on learning environment with relatively small class sizes and direct access to production facilities. The programme emphasises real-world experience through studio labs, field production equipment and practicum placements that help students build industry-standard portfolios.

• Practical facilities: on-campus radio and television labs and digital media suites equipped with industry-standard cameras, audio consoles and editing software.
• Experienced faculty: instructors with professional backgrounds in broadcasting, journalism and digital media who provide mentorship and industry insight.
• Regional industry connections: opportunities for internships and work placements with local and regional media outlets, production companies and communication departments.
• Portfolio focus: a curriculum designed to produce tangible work — demo reels, podcasts, news packages and digital campaigns — that graduates can present to employers.
• Flexible pathways: options to combine production skills with studies in journalism, public relations or media management to suit varied career goals.