MASS COMMUNICATIONS
Preparation
Students planning to study Mass Communications should have an interest in writing and the potential to communicate information obtained by observation and interview. Other helpful characteristics are curiosity, eye for detail, and desire to learn by reading and talking to others. A background in writing, technology, business and political science is helpful. Experience with publications or broadcast is also beneficial.
Program Requirements
Students who complete the curriculum requirements can complete a transfer degree, a technical degree or graduate with both degrees.
ABOUT THE
PROGRAM
Recent changes in the media world have shown that students entering this industry need training beyond the journalism concentration of writing and reporting. BSC now offers video and audio broadcast, as well as electronic (Web) publishing and digital elements as part of the Mass Communications program. The degree plan provides background in the journalism/mass communications profession and conveys the importance and responsibility of presenting accurate information in the media. Courses cover ethical writing skills, news photography, print publication, Web publication and video-audio production. The program offers hands-on professional experience working on The Mystician, BSC's student print and online news magazine, and the broadcast components, MystiCast and The MYX. Journalism scholarships are available through the BSC Foundation. Scholarship recipients act as leads for the student newspaper and the video and radio broadcasts.
Transfer - Associate in Arts or Associate in Science
Students earning one of these degrees will complete general courses with a focus on communications classes as electives.
Technical - Associate in Applied Science
In this two-year program, students take core communications courses and then choose one focus area to specialize. Focus areas are Writing and Reporting, Media Production, Publication and Web Design, and Public Relations and Marketing.
Those transferring to other institutions or earning both transfer and technical degrees should consult the catalog of the transfer school and modify BSC's suggested curriculum where necessary. Contact your BSC advisor for assistance with transfer planning.
Career Opportunities
With society continually in need of information, careers in the communications industry are diverse. Graduates will find employment in a variety of areas: print, broadcast and electronic media, advertising, public relations, government agencies, and industries, including energy and digital technology.
Career Possibilities: journalist-reporter, correspondent, editor, news analyst, news director, broadcast producer, photographer, videographer, audio-video technician, Web page writer/editor/designer, technical writer, public relations specialist, freelance writer, blogger or vlogger.
ABOUT THE PEOPLE
MYSTIC MEDIA MISSION STATEMENT AND DISCLAIMER
The purpose of college media is to serve and give voice to the students. We, as the student based forum of journalism on the Bismarck State College campus, provide content that is information, fair, concise and of importance to students and the community. With this goal in mind, Mystic Media is dedicated to accuracy and maintaining ethical journalistic practices. We strive to give a voice to student issues and policies within the local community. Our goal is to incorporate as many students as possible and be an outlet for student expression. Mystic Media strives to be objective and is not affiliated with any outside organizations. Mystic Media upholds the principles guaranteed by the First Amendment and utilizes these rights to bring diverse, entertaining, and thought-provoking material to the college community. Thoughts expressed may not be the opinion of all the staff or BSC community.