BA in Communications: Broadcasting New Media Emphasis

Overview

Begin Your Career in Broadcasting and New Media

New media and broadcasting encompasses any form of interactive media that relies on a computer for distribution. This includes, but is not limited to, blogs, virtual reality, social media, online newspapers, podcasts and digital games.

Broadcasting and new media is constantly being updated and can be easily retrieved, hyperlinked, searched for and accessed. One reason why companies turn to new media is so they can narrow their target audience, as traditional media only allows companies to target a broad audience. Additionally, modern broadcasting media can allow for interactive elements to boost user engagement.

Bachelor of Arts in Communications with an Emphasis in Broadcasting and New Media

Offered By

College of Humanities and Social Sciences

Class Settings

Online

Tuition Rate

Online: $485 per credit [More Info]

Cost of Attendance

Course Information

Credits: 120

Online: 7 weeks

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Transfer Credits

Up to 90 credits, only 84 can be lower division

Credits: Fill out the Lopes Eval to find out what will transfer

Admission Requirements

Admission Requirements (Bachelor's)

16+ years old
High School Graduate
3.0+ Unweighted GPA

OR 2.5+ Unweighted GPA and

ACT: 19
SAT: 1000*

Admission requirements may differ based on degree level, program and modality, or transfer status. Some programs of study may require a higher GPA and/or other qualifying criteria for admission. Please review full admission and program requirements in the University Policy Handbook.
*Math and reading only on a 1600 point scale (test date after 3/1/2016). SAT score of 1380 required for 2400 point scale (test date before 3/1/2016).

Why GCU

Earn Your BA in Communications Online

The College of Humanities and Social Sciences at Grand Canyon University offers the Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Communications with an Emphasis in Broadcasting and New Media for students who are passionate about mass communications and media.

This program focuses on developing skills to interpret visual and verbal communication in the mainstream and social media, examining modern communication techniques and learning about theories of mass media, as well as the characteristics and effects of mass communications channels. The media broadcasting emphasis teaches you the skills and knowledge to appeal to consumers by creating effective press releases, podcasts, social media and news stories.

This undergraduate program is available online. The online courses are available through GCU’s digital learning platform, allowing you to complete your undergraduate program on a more flexible and convenient schedule. While you take online media broadcasting courses, you will have access to knowledgeable faculty and to networking opportunities with your peers.

Coursework

New Media and Broadcasting Class Topics

To finish this 120-credit program, you must successfully complete classes that explore a range of topics, including:

Digital video production techniques and technologies
Cultural issues pertaining to digital technologies
Sound ethical principles for professionals in the communications field
Theories of media and media messages, and the relationship between the producer and the consumer
Verbal and nonverbal communication behaviors in light of cultural differences

$66,320

Median annual wage for media and communication workers in May 2023^{(See disclaimer 1)}

Communications Capstone

Courses in this program are taught by seasoned instructors who share knowledge and experience in their respective fields. In addition to passing the courses, you are required to showcase what you’ve learned in this program by completing a communications capstone.

All Communication Emphases

Human Relations Emphasis

Careers

Broadcasting Media Career Paths

When you graduate with a bachelor’s in communications with a focus in new media broadcasting, you will have the opportunity to pursue a range of positions. Although no guarantees can be made regarding career outcomes, you may decide to seek a career in advertising, marketing, public relations or print or broadcast journalism.

Some career possibilities within this field include the following:

Public relations manager

Postsecondary communications teacher

Broadcast announcer

Radio disc jockey

Public relations specialists

Writer

Author

Media and communication worker

Accreditation

Enroll in Broadcasting Courses From an Accredited University

GCU is an institutionally accredited university offering degree programs that can help prepare students for digital technology-related careers. If you’re excited about the possibilities in new media and broadcasting, you may find our blend of classroom instruction and hands-on learning activities to be the right fit for you. With classes available online, this broadcasting media emphasis offers flexibility as you pursue higher education.

FAQ

BA in Communications: Broadcasting and New Media Emphasis FAQs

Before you decide to apply for enrollment in a BA in Communications online, you may have some lingering questions. The following FAQs and answers may help address any uncertainties as you work on planning your career pathway. You may also wish to consult your university counselor while you make plans for higher education.

What is new media and broadcasting?

Broadcasting and new media, also called digital media, refers to any sort of media transmitted digitally. It can include everything from online newspapers to podcasts to videos. It also encompasses digital art, audiobooks, virtual reality, app content and even digital advertisements. Essentially, any time you consume media on a computer, smartphone, tablet or other digital device, you’re consuming new media. Broadcasting media can have many purposes: to entertain, inform, persuade or to sell something.

Is a bachelor’s in communications: broadcasting and new media emphasis program worth it?

Every student will have a unique experience with their broadcasting courses. However, if you’re passionate about the virtually limitless potential of new media and you’re excited to make your own contributions to the field, then you may find earning your degree in digital media to be worth it. One of the reasons why this type of program is often worth it for students is that you’ll gain skills and knowledge that are transferrable to a wide range of career paths and even different fields. So, even if you decide not to become a podcaster, TV presenter or similar digital media professional, you’ll have the opportunity to seek a wide range of exciting challenges elsewhere.

It is also important to look at salary expectations for any position you plan on pursuing. The median annual wage for media and communication workers (such as public relations specialists, news analysts and writers and authors) was $66,320 in May 2023, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.^{(See disclaimer 1)}

Do I need a degree to get into broadcasting and new media?

Although it may be possible to break into the field and land an entry-level position without a degree, many positions within the new media and broadcasting field do require a relevant degree. For example, public relations specialists,^{(See disclaimer 2 )}journalists^{(See disclaimer 3 )}and advertising or marketing managers^{(See disclaimer 4)} typically need a bachelor’s degree. Some advanced positions may also require some relevant entry-level work experience.^{(See disclaimer 4)}

Courses

Program Curriculum

Credit Summary

General Education Requirements34-40 credits

Major52 credits

Open Elective Credits28-34 credits

Degree Requirements120 credits

General Education Requirements

General Education coursework prepares Grand Canyon University graduates to think critically, communicate clearly, live responsibly in a diverse world, and thoughtfully integrate their faith and ethical convictions into all dimensions of life. These competencies, essential to an effective and satisfying life, are outlined in the General Education Learner Outcomes. General Education courses embody the breadth of human understanding and creativity contained in the liberal arts and sciences tradition. Students take an array of foundational knowledge courses that promote expanded knowledge, insight, and the outcomes identified in the University’s General Education Competencies. The knowledge and skills students acquire through these courses serve as a foundation for successful careers and lifelong journeys of growing understanding and wisdom.

Competency

4 Total Credits

Course Description

Upon completion of the Grand Canyon University's University Foundation experience, students will be able to demonstrate competency in the areas of academic skills and self-leadership. They will be able to articulate the range of resources available to assist them, explore career options related to their area of study, and have knowledge of Grand Canyon's community. Students will be able to demonstrate foundational academic success skills, explore GCU resources (CLA, Library, Career Center, ADA office, etc), articulate strategies of self-leadership and management and recognize opportunities to engage in the GCU community.

Competency

13-16 Total Credits

Competency

4 Total Credits

Competency

3-4 Total Credits

Competency

10-12 Total Credits

Course Description

Graduates of Grand Canyon University will be able to demonstrate awareness and appreciation of and empathy for differences in arts and culture, values, experiences, historical perspectives, and other aspects of life (psychology, sociology, government, Christian studies, Bible, geography, anthropology, economics, political science, child and family studies, law, ethics, cross-cultural studies, history, art, music, dance, theater, applied arts, literature, health, etc.). If the predefined course is a part of the major, students need to take an additional course.

Core Courses

COM-100

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course is an introduction to the field of communication with emphasis on the history of communication study, relevant communication theories guiding current research, the contexts in which communication occurs, and issues faced by students of communication. The course focuses on introducing students to various communication models as well as theories and skills in interpersonal communication, small group communication, mass communication, intercultural communication, and public communication.

DFP-111

4 Total Credits

COM-222

4 Total Credits

COM-263

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This writing-intensive course focuses on improving communication among people with different racial, ethnic, cultural, and minority backgrounds. Students explore verbal and nonverbal communication behaviors in a variety of communication media and contexts. Communication styles, rituals, and traditions are explored through an examination of mass media, family structure, religion, politics, education, social life, art, and literature.

COM-312

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course is designed to introduce the concepts and theories relevant to understanding conflict communication and the negotiation process. In this course, students are introduced to various elements of conflict and negotiation communication across a variety of contexts including interpersonal, organizational, and international. Upon completion of this course, students will be able to analyze power dynamics in relationships, identify conflict styles and tactics, and apply intervention techniques in contexts that are relevant to their future relationships and careers.

COM-333

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course introduces students to the study of ethics as it applies in the communication field. As aspiring communication professionals, students need to learn how to engage in communication that is not only appropriate but also responsive to sound ethical principles. In this course, students learn about major ethical theories and explore how these theories are applied in workplace communication, interpersonal relationships, mass media, and intercultural communication contexts.

COM-355

4 Total Credits

COM-362

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This writing-intensive course introduces students to the relationship between argumentation and advocacy as well as the role of worldviews in shaping the arguments surrounding relevant social issues. This course presents the concepts and skills related to the study of argumentation. Students are introduced to the principles and elements of argumentation in everyday communication across contexts, as well as the skills necessary in constructing and evaluating written and oral arguments.

COM-451

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This writing-intensive course focuses on the communication processes in personal relationships such as romantic relationships, family relationships, and friendships. Through quantitative and qualitative methods and other theoretical perspectives, students in this class examine the expression and interpretation of messages in everyday personal interactions as well as significant relational events. Students also explore communication processes involved in developing, maintaining, and dissolving relationships, how communication impacts partners and their relationships, and how to improve relational quality or individual well-being through communication.

COM-461

4 Total Credits

COM-463

4 Total Credits

Course Description

In this course, students learn the basic knowledge and skills necessary for creating broadcast and podcast messages. Students acquire a better understanding of the communication necessary in the preproduction, production, and postproduction stages of broadcasting and podcasting. Course materials include a special focus on auditory and audiovisual presentation elements for presentation on screen and support roles off camera and off air.

COM-465

4 Total Credits

COM-490

4 Total Credits

Course Description

This course includes a culminating reflection and collection of integral works from students' time in the major. Students engage in research specific to their career or graduate school goals and develop a project that displays what they have learned while in the program. Students are exposed to practitioners in the communication field. Students are taught how to effectively communicate their research and develop other skills that support a successful transition into the workforce or graduate school. Prerequisite: COM-333, COM-355.

GCU cannot and will not promise job placement, a job, graduate school placement, transfer of GCU program credits to another institution, promotion, salary, or salary increase. Please see the Career Services Policy in the University Policy Handbook.
Please note that this list may contain programs and courses not presently offered, as availability may vary depending on class size, enrollment and other contributing factors. If you are interested in a program or course listed herein please first contact your University Counselor for the most current information regarding availability.
Please refer to the Academic Catalog for more information. Programs or courses subject to change

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Start Your Journey Today

If you decide that a career in the broadcasting media field could be the right choice for you, apply for enrollment in GCU’s bachelor’s in communications degree with a broadcasting and new media emphasis today. Complete the form on this page to get started.

Apply Now

The earnings referenced were reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (“BLS”), Media and Communication Workers, as of May 2023, retrieved May 22, 2024. Due to COVID-19, data from 2020 to 2023 may be atypical compared to prior years. BLS calculates the median using salaries of workers nationwide with varying levels of education and experience. It does not reflect the earnings of GCU graduates as media and communication workers, nor does it reflect earnings of workers in one city or region of the country or a typical entry-level salary. Median income is the statistical midpoint for the range of salaries in a specific occupation. It represents what you would earn if you were paid more money than half the workers in an occupation, and less than half the workers in an occupation. It may give you a basis to estimate what you might earn at some point if you enter this career. Grand Canyon University can make no guarantees on individual graduates’ salaries. Your employability will be determined by numerous factors over which GCU has no control, such as the employer the graduate chooses to apply to, the graduate’s experience level, individual characteristics, skills, etc., against a pool of candidates.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023, Feb. 10). How to Become a Public Relations Specialist. Occupational Outlook Handbook. Retrieved July 27, 2023.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023, Jan. 24). How to Become a News Analyst, Reporter, or Journalist. Occupational Outlook Handbook. Retrieved July 27, 2023.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2022, Sept. 8). How to Become an Advertising, Promotions, or Marketing Manager. Occupational Outlook Handbook. Retrieved July 27, 2023.

BA in Communications: Broadcasting and New Media Emphasis

Begin Your Career in Broadcasting and New Media

Earn Your BA in Communications Online