Point Park University

What you'll study

This master's programme combines practical production work with critical and strategic study of contemporary media. Core areas include advanced audio and video production, multi-platform storytelling, digital content strategy, media theory and research methods. Students learn scriptwriting for broadcast and web, studio and field production techniques, post-production editing, sound design, and audience analytics.

Typical modules and topics you can expect to study are:

• Advanced Production Techniques — multi-camera studio production, live switching, location shoots and production management.
• Audio and Radio Production — advanced audio capture, podcast formats, sound editing, and mixing for broadcast and streaming.
• Digital Media and Convergence — producing content for social platforms, OTT services, and integrating cross-platform distribution strategies.
• Storytelling and Script Development — long- and short-form narrative development, documentary storytelling and investigative reporting.
• Post-Production and Editing — nonlinear editing, colour correction, motion graphics and sound design workflows.
• Media Law, Ethics and Policy — legal and ethical considerations in broadcasting and digital communication.
• Research Methods for Media — qualitative and quantitative methods for audience research, content evaluation and capstone projects.
• Capstone Project or Thesis — a major production or research project demonstrating mastered skills, often developed in collaboration with industry partners.

Instruction emphasises hands-on learning in production labs and studios, collaborative projects, and opportunities to build a professional portfolio. Faculty combine academic expertise with industry experience, and the curriculum is designed to adapt to evolving technologies and formats.

Entry requirements

Applicants are typically expected to hold a bachelor’s degree in communication, media studies, broadcasting, journalism or a related field. Applicants with professional experience in media or a demonstrable portfolio of relevant work may also be considered. Usual application materials include:

• Official transcripts from undergraduate study showing satisfactory academic performance.
• A personal statement outlining professional goals and interest in the programme.
• A CV or résumé detailing relevant education, work and production experience.
• A portfolio or samples of work (audio, video, digital projects) demonstrating production skills and storytelling ability.
• Letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees.

Some applicants may be asked to attend an interview or provide additional evidence of technical skills. International applicants must meet the university’s English language proficiency requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates of this programme move into a wide range of roles across broadcast, streaming, digital media and communications. Common career paths include:

• Broadcast producer, director or production manager for radio and television.
• Digital content producer, social media manager or multiplatform editor for online outlets and brands.
• Podcast producer, audio engineer or sound designer.
• Multimedia journalist, field producer or documentary filmmaker.
• Media strategist, communications specialist or content strategist for organisations and agencies.
• Station management, programming director or technical operations roles in broadcast stations and networks.
• Further academic study or research in media studies and communications.

Fieldwork, internships and industry collaborations embedded in the programme help graduates build networks and practical experience valued by employers in Pittsburgh's media market and beyond.

Why study at Point Park University

Point Park University offers a programme grounded in practical, career-oriented training delivered from an urban campus in downtown Pittsburgh. Students benefit from access to professional-standard production facilities and labs, small class sizes that support close mentorship from faculty with industry backgrounds, and opportunities for internships with local broadcasters, production companies and digital media organisations.

The university’s location provides close proximity to a diverse regional media ecosystem, including public and commercial broadcasters, independent production houses and cultural institutions, creating strong opportunities for networking and applied projects. The programme emphasises portfolio development and real-world production experience to prepare graduates for immediate entry into the evolving fields of radio, television and digital communication.