Loyola University Chicago

What you'll study

The programme combines practical production work with conceptual study of media forms, audiences and industry practice. Coursework covers audio and video production, editing, scriptwriting, digital distribution, media management, and research methods. Students engage with both traditional broadcast techniques and emerging digital formats such as podcasting, web video and social media content.

• Production and Technical Skills: multi-camera studio and field production, location sound, lighting, nonlinear editing (Avid/Final Cut/Adobe Premiere), and audio engineering for radio and podcasts.
• Storytelling and Content Creation: narrative craft for short-form and long-form media, script and segment development, investigative and feature storytelling, and storyboarding for visual media.
• Digital Strategy and Distribution: audience analytics, platform-specific content strategy, social media promotion, search and discoverability, and monetisation models for digital media.
• Media Law and Ethics: copyright, libel, privacy, FCC/regulatory considerations and ethical decision-making in reporting and content production.
• Research and Theory: media effects and audience studies, communication theory, qualitative and quantitative research methods relevant to broadcast and digital media.
• Capstone/Project: a supervised practicum or major production project (such as a documentary, multi-episode podcast, or polished television pilot/series pitch) demonstrating mastery of production and strategic planning.

The programme typically offers elective options and opportunities for collaborative projects, lab work in Loyola's studios, and internships with Chicago-area media organisations.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution or an equivalent qualification. Admissions consider undergraduate performance, professional experience in media or related fields, and readiness for graduate-level work.

• Academic background: a degree in communication, journalism, media studies, film, or a related discipline is typical, though applicants from other fields with demonstrable media experience are also considered.
• Work or creative experience: relevant professional or portfolio evidence (e.g., samples of audio/video work, published pieces, or production credits) strengthens an application.
• Supporting materials: personal statement outlining goals and fit with the programme, CV/resume, and academic transcripts are required. Letters of recommendation are usually requested.
• Language requirement: applicants whose first language is not English may need to demonstrate proficiency through recognised English-language testing or institutional equivalency, in line with university policy.

Admissions are assessed holistically; prospective students with strong creative portfolios or significant industry experience may be admitted even if their academic background is non-traditional.

Career prospects

Graduates pursue careers across broadcasting, digital media, and related communication sectors. The programme prepares students for creative, editorial and managerial roles that require both production skills and strategic media understanding.

• Broadcast producer, segment producer, or field producer for radio and television stations
• Podcast producer, audio engineer, or host
• Digital content producer, social media manager, or video editor for online platforms and streaming services
• Multimedia journalist, investigative reporter, or documentary maker
• Content strategist, audience development specialist, or media planner for agencies and brands
• Production manager or technical director in studio and live-event environments

The programme’s emphasis on applied work, portfolio development and industry placements helps graduates demonstrate practical competence to employers in the competitive Chicago media market and beyond.

Why study at Loyola University Chicago

Loyola University Chicago offers this programme within a Jesuit, liberal arts context that emphasises ethical practice, critical thinking and social responsibility in media work. Students benefit from small class sizes, close mentorship from faculty with professional and academic credentials, and access to university production facilities.

• Facilities and hands-on learning: studio spaces, editing suites, audio labs and mobile production gear support realistic production experiences.
• Location: being in Chicago provides proximity to a diverse, active media ecosystem — public and commercial broadcasters, production companies, independent media outlets, and cultural organisations — which supports internships and networking.
• Industry connections: faculty ties and alumni working in regional and national media help students secure internships, freelance assignments and employment.
• Interdisciplinary opportunities: collaboration with related departments (such as journalism, theatre, business and communication studies) allows students to broaden skills in management, storytelling and audience engagement.

Taken together, Loyola’s resources, urban location and emphasis on ethical media practice make the programme suitable for students seeking to advance craft, leadership and strategic thinking in radio, television and digital communication.