Bachelor of Arts in Emerging Media and Communication

“A new kind of digital divide ten years from now will separate those who know how to use new media to band together from those who don’t.”

— Howard Rheingold

In today’s Web 2.0 environment, effective communicators must possess the ability to work within a transmedia environment. The rapid expansion of Internet access — whether through mobile phones or netbooks — allows for immediate updates of news, ideas, opinions and business information. Our everyday communication is changing, and the new generation of media producers needs to be ahead of the curve.

The emerging media and communication (EMAC) degree focuses on creating transmedia literate professionals. Students will learn how to create compelling Web content, use social media intelligently, work with the latest mobile phone technologies and create a substantial presence on the Web. Most importantly, coursework will also address the societal implications of an “always on” world. Our focus results in students who not only are able to create Web 2.0 content, but will also be fluent in video, audio, text and design so that the results are meaningful and accurately tell the stories of the world around us.

Careers in Emerging Media and Communication

Students graduating with an emerging media and communication degree will have options for several career paths and, most importantly, have the ability to adapt to a rapidly shifting media and technology landscape. Many will gravitate toward careers in Internet media, design, journalism 2.0 and related forms of content for the Web. Others will create their own startup companies, focusing on various aspects of Web 2.0 and 3.0 communication. There will also continue to be careers in the “traditional” business world, as large companies, nonprofits and government agencies move to incorporate the Web and social media in their marketing and business strategies.

The University’s Career Center is an important resource for students pursuing postgraduate employment. Licensed counselors are available to provide strategies for mastering job interviews, writing professional cover letters and resumes and connecting with campus recruiters, among other services.

High School Preparation

Students who wish to major in emerging media and communication should complete:

• Four units of language arts, including at least one unit of writing skills
• Three units of a single foreign language
• Four units of math
• Three units of science
• Four units of social science
• One unit of fine arts
• Two and a half units of general education electives