Communications and Journalism

Majors and Degrees Offered

Advertising and Marketing Communications (B.A.) *
Broadcast Journalism (B.A.)
Journalism (B.A.)
Journalism with an Emphasis in Global Journalism (B.A.)
Media Communications (B.A.)*
Media Communications with an Emphasis in Media Literacy (B.A.)
Scriptwriting (B.A.)
Public Relations (B.A.) *
Speech Communication Studies (B.A.)

Minors Offered

Advertising and Marketing Communications*
Broadcast Journalism
Journalism
Media Communications*
Media Literacy
Public Relations*
Scriptwriting
Speech Communication Studies

*Also offered at select international campuses.

Certificates Offered

Sports Journalism
Courses leading to Teacher Certification in Journalism (9-12th grades) See the School of Education for more details.

General Education Requirements

A minimum of 36 credit hours must be taken from the liberal arts and sciences with the following distribution:

Category One - Humanities - 18 hours

Literature, history, foreign language, general studies, religious studies, philosophy, visual art, dance, theatre, music, composition

Category Two -Social Sciences - 12 hours

Political science, sociology, psychology, anthropology, women's studies, multicultural studies, international relations, international studies, economics, human rights

Category Three - Math/Computer Science - 6 hours

Computer applications, computer science, mathematics, natural sciences, physical sciences

Special Study Opportunities

Internships
Students have opportunities to learn about their fields of interest through internships and externships in communication businesses and organizations. In recent years, students in the department of Communications and Journalism have secured internships at organizations in St. Louis as well as in New York, Chicago, Nashville, California, London, Japan, Switzerland and Thailand. Prestigious internships have included: MTV Network in New York, NBC "Late Night with Conan O'Brien," ABC "The View" in New York, KSDK-TV, KMOV-TV, KPLR-TV WB Channel 11, Busch Entertainment Corp., KTVI-TV Fox Channel 2, KETC-TV Public Broadcasting Service Channel 9, KMOX Radio, St. Louis Post-Dispatch , Fleishman Hillard Public Relations, Mary Engelbreit Studios, Barnes-Jewish Hospital, The Vision Factory, Waylon Advertising, Clayton Studios, The St. Louis Botanical Gardens, The St. Louis Science Center, The Ronald McDonald House, The Hughes Group, Zipatoni, the St. Louis Rams, Nestle Purina, Petcare and the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Independent study and reading courses add further flexibility to the established curriculum.

Double Majors

An area of concentration (major) in the School of Communications may be combined with a major in another Webster University School or College as part of the student's bachelor of arts degree plan. Double majors are not allowed between the departments of the School of Communications.

Minors

The following apply to all minors:

A minor must be comprised of 18 credit hours taken at Webster University.
No course counted toward a major can also count toward a minor.
Students may have a major and a minor within the same department in the School of Communications; they may not major and minor within the same area of emphasis. (For example, students who major in journalism may not also minor in global journalism.) Students must earn a grade of C- or better in any course they wish to apply toward a minor.

In addition to the requirements for all minors listed above, the following additional criteria apply:

Advertising and Marketing Communications
MEDC 1050 Introduction to Media Writing, MNGT 3510 Advertising, AND 12 additional credit hours of ADVT. Students planning to minor in this area should see their advisors in Advertising/ Marketing Communications to help plan their specific programs.

Broadcast Journalism
EPMD 1000 Introduction to Media Production AND 15 additional credit hours from BJRN 1830, 2410, 2850, 3580, 3590, BJRN 2110,VIDE 1810.

Journalism
MEDC 1010 Introduction to Mass Communications AND 15 additional credit hours of JOUR.

Media Communications
MEDC 1010 Introduction to Mass Communications AND 15 additional credit hours within the School of Communications.

Media Literacy
MEDC 1010 Introduction to Mass Communications AND 15 additional credit hours from MEDC 1500, 1630, 2630, 3190, 3850, 4110, 4620, and 4850.

Public Relations
MEDC 1010 Introduction to Mass Communications, PBRL 2100 Fundamentals of Strategic Communications and Public Relations, PBRL 2920 Writing for Public Relations, AND 9 additional credit hours of PBRL.

Speech Communication Studies
Any 18 credit hours from SPCM courses. Students may also count POLT 1550 OR 3550 toward this minor. A minimum of 6 credit hours must be at the 3000 or 4000 level.

Scriptwriting
MEDC 1050 Introduction to Media Writing, SCPT 2900 Scriptwriting, AND 12 additional credit hours selected from SCPT 3110, 3150, 3400, 3500, 4090, 4400, 4500.

Special Requirements

Portfolio Review

Students declaring a major within the Department of Communications and Journalism (except in speech communication studies) complete a portfolio of their work as part of their degree requirements. Students majoring in advertising and marketing communications, public relations, scriptwriting, media literacy and media communications must complete a portfolio review with a panel of faculty within their major after they have successfully completed the following course requirements:

EPMD 1000 Introduction to Media Production
MEDC 1010 Introduction to Mass Communications
9 credit hours as defined by each major

In the review students learn to develop personal portfolios of their work in their areas of interest. In addition, this mid-program review process enables the faculty to gauge the talent, aptitude, and potential of the student in his or her area of study.

The student’s portfolio is judged on both the quality and presentation of the material. Faculty members consider accuracy, creativity, content, and technical expertise in the work presented, and enthusiasm and professionalism of delivery when judging the student for formal admittance into his or her major in the School of Communications. Portfolio deadlines are announced each academic year, and reviews are held each semester.

Instead of the portfolio review panel, students majoring in journalism and global journalism complete a portfolio of their work as part of the requirement of JOUR 3300 Newspaper Production Workshop, under the guidance of their professors. Students majoring in broadcast journalism complete a résumé and résumé tape as part of the requirements for BJRN 4700 Professional Development in Broadcast Journalism, under the guidance of their professors. Students majoring in speech communication studies incorporate elements of all their coursework in their culminating senior overview in place of a portfolio review.

Students should contact their academic advisors in the School of Communications for more specific information about portfolio review requirements as soon as they enter Webster University.

Capstone Course

Successful completion of a capstone class with a grade of B or better is part of the degree requirement for each major and emphasis. A capstone class is an advanced course designated by the major in which students learn to demonstrate their mastery of the subject matter. The capstone class should be taken in the student's senior year.

Grade Requirements

Students must earn a grade of C- or better in any course they wish to apply toward their major or toward the 36 required credit hours in general education. The pass/fail option is not available for courses that students wish to apply toward their major or toward their general education requirements, unless those courses are offered only under the pass/fail option. (For example, creative writing courses in the English Department are offered only as pass/fail and may count toward Category I of general education.)

Transfer Students-Pre-Enrollment Interview

Transfer students with prior coursework in communications must submit a portfolio of their work in a pre-enrollment interview to determine placement within the curriculum and their standing regarding portfolio review. If the student meets the portfolio review criteria, this pre-enrollment interview may serve as the portfolio review.

Transfer students should not expect to obtain a degree in the Department of Communications and Journalism in less than four full semesters of sequenced courses.

Transfer students who have completed the associate of arts (A.A.) degree will have satisfied the school's general education requirement.

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Advertising and Marketing Communications

Students majoring in Advertising and Marketing Communications gain a strong academic base and an understanding of the marketing communications tools available to promote a business or an organization's goods and services. These include: newspaper, magazine, collateral, radio, television, Web-based, place-based and direct advertising; public relations and publicity; and trade and consumer promotions shows. Students learn the different phases of the marketing communications process through hands-on experience in research, planning, strategy development, copywriting, visual communication, budgeting, media buying, campaign analysis and the production of both stand-alone pieces and fully-integrated marketing communications campaigns to be used in student portfolios.

Important note for transfer students: Entry into this major as a junior or senior is limited. To improve admission prospects and ensure proper course sequence, junior and senior transfer students should apply for admission to the spring or summer semesters. All transfer students should plan on a minimum of five full semesters at Webster University to complete their degree in this major.

Student Learning Outcomes

Advertising and Marketing Communications program graduates will have:

Knowledge of the role of marketing communications in achieving organizational objectives. This includes awareness of American and international business practices, and familiarity with the functions of business departments relating to the marketing communications function;
An understanding of the role of marketing communications tools, including advertising, public relations, sales promotion, personal selling and direct communications, as well as an understanding of their interrelationships;
The ability to plan a complete marketing communication program including situation analysis, research, objective-setting, target audience definition, creative development, media planning, budgeting and program outcome evaluation;
The ability to craft creative, persuasive messages for specific target audiences, product/service categories and media formats;
An understanding of both traditional and non-traditional media and their uses;
An understanding of how to seek employment in specialized areas of the marketing communications industry;
Production skills in those areas important to functioning successfully as an entry-level professional;
The necessary interpersonal, organizational and presentation communication skills to enhance client service at any level; and
A polished professional portfolio of advertising and marketing communications materials with which to conduct a job search.

Portfolio Review Course Requirements

EPMD 1000 Introduction to Media Production
MEDC 1010 Introduction to Mass Communications
ADVT 1940 Introduction to Marketing Communications
ADVT 2550 Creative Strategies for Advertising
MNGT 3510 Advertising

Degree Requirements

60 required credit hours
36 general education credit hours
32 elective credit hours

Required Courses

EPMD 1000 Introduction to Media Production 3 hours
MEDC 1010 Introduction to Mass Communications 3 hours
MEDC 1050 Introduction to Media Writing 3 hours
ADVT 1940 Introduction to Marketing Communications 3 hours
PBRL 2100 Fundamentals of Strategic Communications
and Public Relations 3 hours
INTM 2350 Production Tools for Advertising and PR 3 hours
MEDC 2200 Ethics in the Media 3 hours
ADVT 2550 Creative Strategies for Advertising 3 hours
MEDC 2800 Cultural Diversity in the Media 3 hours
ADVT 2910 Writing for Advertising 3 hours
ADVT 3500 Visual Communication for Advertising
and Public Relations 3 hours
MNGT 3500 Marketing 3 hours
MNGT 3510 Advertising 3 hours
ADVT 4040 Advertising Production
(Print, Television, Radio, or Internet) 3 hours
MEDC 4100 The Law and the Media 3 hours
ADVT 4190 Advertising Research 3 hours
ADVT 4910 Advertising Campaign Production 3-6 hours
MEDC 4950 Professional Media Practicum OR
ADVT 4620 Senior Overview 3 hours

*Capstone Course

In addition, a minimum of 6 credit hours from the following:

PBRL 2920 Writing for Public Relations 3 hours
COAP 3010 Advanced Applications Topics:
Advanced Desktop Publishing 3 hours
ADVT 3150 Topics: Advertising 1-3 hours
PHOT 3190 Digital Photographic Imaging 3 hours
PBRL 3200 Specialized Publications 3 hours
ART 3850 Topics in Studio Art: Photoshop 1-3 hours
ADVT 3910 International Advertising 3 hours
PBRL 4050 Special Events 3 hours
ADVT 4200 Media Planning, Buying, and Selling 3 hours
MNGT 4510 Advanced Advertising 3 hours
MEDC 4550 Interactive Media 3 hours
ADVT 4700 Professional Development
in Advertising/Marketing Communications 3 hours
PBRL 4800 Media Relations 3 hours
PBRL 4920 Public Relations Campaign 3 hours

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Broadcast Journalism

Students majoring in broadcast journalism develop skills required in reporting, writing, producing, and editing news for radio and television. Students have hands-on experiences through class projects, work on various television news programs, news shifts at the University-sponsored radio station, and internships. The program also examines issues including the impact of TV and radio news, and ethical considerations.

Portfolio Requirements

Students majoring in broadcast journalism complete a resume tape as part of the requirements for BRJN 4700 Professional Development in Broadcast Journalism, under the guidance of their professor.

Student Learning Outcomes

Successful graduates of the program will learn:

Broadcast-style news writing skills;
The history of broadcasting;
Broadcast performance skills;
How to conduct interviews for broadcast;
How to record and edit sound for radio news;
How to shoot and edit video for television shows;
How to identify and create the components of radio and television newscasts;
The functions performed by broadcast news personnel;
How news judgment affects story choice;
How to address the ethical issues facing broadcast journalists.

Degree Requirements

54 required credit hours
36 general education credit hours
38 elective credit hours

Required Courses

EPMD 1000 Introduction to Media Production 3 hours
MEDC 1010 Introduction to Mass Communications 3 hours
JOUR 1030 Fundamentals of Reporting 3 hours
VIDE 1810 Video Production I 3 hours
BJRN 1830 Broadcast Delivery and Interpretation 3 hours
BJRN 2070 History of Broadcasting 3 hours
BJRN 2110 Production Techniques 3 hours
JOUR 2140 Advanced Reporting 3 hours
MEDC 2200 Ethics in the Media 3 hours
BJRN 2410 Introduction to Radio-TV Journalism 3 hours
MEDC 2800 Cultural Diversity in the Media 3 hours
BJRN 2850 Radio-TV News Reporting 3 hours
BJRN 3580 Radio News Reporting and Production 3 hours
BJRN 3590 Television News: Reporting and Producing 3 hours
MEDC 4100 The Law and the Media 3 hours
BJRN 4700 Professional Development in
Broadcast Journalism 3 hours
MEDC 4950 Professional Media Practicum* OR
BJRN 4620 Senior Overview* 3 hours

*Capstone Course

A minimum of 3 credit hours must be chosen from the following:

BJRN 1930 Sports Broadcasting 3 hours
JOUR 2360 History and Principles of American Journalism 3 hours
JOUR 3080 Global Journalism 3 hours
BJRN 3220 Presentation of TV News 3 hours
JOUR 3300 Newspaper Production Workshop 2-4 hours
JOUR 4170 Investigative Journalism 3 hours
AUDI 4600 Radio Production Workshop 4 hours

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Journalism

The print journalism major prepares students for entry-level jobs on weekly and daily newspapers, as well as for magazine and free-lance writing careers. Students learn all aspects of publication production, acquire desktop publishing computer skills, and write for the award-winning weekly campus newspaper, The Journal and its online edition. Majors are required to learn all genres of newspaper writing, as well as to receive a firm grounding in journalism history, media ethics, and communications law. Many students work in internships on monthly, weekly, and daily publications before entering the journalism career field.

Student Learning Outcomes

Successful graduates of the program will learn:

Associated Press (AP) style news writing skills;
The history of journalism;
How to interview sources and write stories;
How to identify and create the components of newspaper, magazine and websites;
The functions performed by newsroom personnel;
How news judgment affects story choice;
How to identify and address ethical issues facing journalists;
The legal rights and constraints affecting journalism.

Portfolio Requirements

Students majoring in journalism complete a portfolio of their work as part of the requirement of JOUR 3300 Newspaper Production Workshop, under the guidance of their professor.

Degree Requirements

50 required credit hours
36 general education credit hours
42 elective credit hours

Required Courses

EPMD 1000 Introduction to Media Production 3 hours
MEDC 1010 Introduction to Mass Communications 3 hours
JOUR 1030 Fundamentals of Reporting 3 hours
JOUR 2140 Advanced Reporting 3 hours
JOUR 2170 Copyreading/News Editing 3 hours
MEDC 2200 Ethics in the Media 3 hours
JOUR 2360 History and Principles of American Journalism 3 hours
MEDC 2800 Cultural Diversity in the Media 3 hours
JOUR 3060 Community Reporting 3 hours
JOUR 3130 Feature Writing 3 hours
JOUR 3300 Newspaper Production Workshop
(minimum of two semesters required) 8 hours
MEDC 4100 The Law and the Media 3 hours
MEDC 4950 Professional Media Practicum* 3 hours

*Capstone Course

A minimum of 6 credit hours must be chosen from the following:

JOUR 2300 Journalism: Layout and Design 3 hours
JOUR 2380 Free Expression and the First Amendment 3 hours
JOUR 3080 Global Journalism 3 hours
JOUR 3150 Topics in Modern Media 1-3 hours
JOUR 3750 Environmental Journalism
and Communications 3 hours
JOUR 4050 Sports Reporting 3 hours
JOUR 4170 Investigative Journalism 3 hours
JOUR 4380 Magazine Journalism 3 hours
JOUR 4610 Readings in Journalism 1-6 hours
JOUR 4620 Senior Overview 3-6 hours

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Journalism with an Emphasis in Global Journalism

The global journalism emphasis prepares students for careers in national and international reporting, as well as for graduate studies in the foreign service or international business areas. Students in this major will have an educational experience abroad and can be expected to achieve proficiency in another language.

Student Learning Outcomes

Successful graduates of the program share learning outcomes with those who major in journalism:

Associated Press (AP) style news writing skills;
The history of journalism;
How to interview sources and write stories;
How to identify and create the components of newspaper, magazine and websites;
The functions performed by newsroom personnel;
How news judgment affects story choice;
How to identify and address ethical issues facing journalists;
The legal rights and constraints affecting journalism.

In addition, students learn the technology and regulation of international communication, journalism philosophies and economic structures of media in both the developed world and in underdeveloped countries.

Portfolio Requirements

Students majoring in journalism with an emphasis in global journalism complete a portfolio of their work as part of the requirement of JOUR 3300 Newspaper Production Workshop, under the guidance of their professor.

Degree Requirements

53 required credit hours
36 general education credit hours
39 elective credit hours

Required Courses

EPMD 1000 Introduction to Media Production 3 hours
MEDC 1010 Introduction to Mass Communications 3 hours
JOUR 1030 Fundamentals of Reporting 3 hours
JOUR 2140 Advanced Reporting 3 hours
JOUR 2170 Copyreading/News Editing 3 hours
MEDC 2200 Ethics in the Media 3 hours
MEDC 2800 Cultural Diversity in the Media 3 hours
JOUR 3080 Global Journalism 3 hours
JOUR 3120 Global Affairs Reporting 3 hours
JOUR 3190 Topics in International Journalism 3 hours
JOUR 3300 Newspaper Production Workshop
(minimum of two semesters required) 8 hours
MEDC 4100 The Law and the Media 3 hours
JOUR 4220 Advanced Global Journalism 3 hours
MEDC 4950 Professional Media Practicum* 3 hours

*Capstone Course

A minimum of 6 credit hours must be chosen from the following:

COAP 2020 Desktop Publishing 3 hours
INTL 2030 International Law 3 hours
JOUR 2300 Journalism: Layout and Design 3 hours
HIST 3150 International Affairs 3 hours
POLT 3400 Comparative Politics 3 hours
JOUR 4170 Investigative Journalism 3 hours

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Media Communications

The B.A. in media communications enables students to become familiar with several areas within the communications curriculum. Students may devise a concentration in the theory and history of media, or may combine work in two or more media (for example, journalism and photography, or advertising and public relations).

Student Learning Outcomes:

Students majoring in Media Communications will learn:

The history of significant forms of mass communications, including print, radio, television, film, photography and interactive media;
Essential principles of regulations governing media;
How to apply ethical principles to the decision making processes in a media organization;
How to conduct basic quantitative and qualitative research in media studies;
The essential principles of writing for various forms of media.

In addition, students will choose a specific area of focus within the School of Communications, either in media theory or production, and will learn basic, intermediate and advanced concepts in that field, demonstrating their facility in a Senior Overview or a Professional Practicum.

Portfolio Review Course Requirements

9 credit hours in the School of Communications in addition to MEDC 1010 and EPMD 1000

Degree Requirements

48 required credit hours
36 general education credit hours
44 elective credit hours

Required Courses

EPMD 1000 Introduction to Media Production 3 hours
MEDC 1010 Introduction to Mass Communications 3 hours
MEDC 1050 Introduction to Media Writing, OR
JOUR 1030 Fundamentals of Reporting 3 hours
MEDC 1630 Media Literacy 3 hours
MEDC 2200 Ethics in the Media 3 hours
MEDC 3190 Introduction to Media Research 3 hours
MEDC 4100 The Law and the Media 3 hours
MEDC 4620 Senior Overview, OR
MEDC 4950 Professional Media Practicum* 3 hours

*Capstone Course

In addition, students must choose 6 credit hours from the following:

SPCM 1280 Interpersonal Communication 3 hours
MEDC 1500 Applied Media Aesthetics 3 hours
MEDC 2800 Cultural Diversity in the Media 3 hours
MEDC 3260 International Communications 3 hours

Students must choose 3 credit hours from among the following courses:

AUDI 1000 Audio Production I 3 hours
PHOT 1000 Photo I 3 hours
INTM 1600 Introduction to Interactive Media 3 hours
VIDE 1810 Video Production I 3 hours
ADVT 1940 Introduction to Marketing Communications 3 hours
BJRN 2410 Introduction to Radio-TV Journalism 3 hours
SCPT 2900 Scriptwriting 3 hours
PBRL 2920 Writing for Public Relations 3 hours

Students also must take an additional 15 credit hours in courses offered by the School of Communications (or in courses offered by other Webster University schools and colleges which are required courses for School of Communications majors, such as MNGT 3500, MNGT 3510, MNGT 4510, BUSN 1200, COAP 2020, COAP 3010, and INTL 2030, etc.). At least nine of those 15 credit hours must be within a single area (for example, within public relations, or journalism, or photography, etc.), and of those 9 credit hours within a single area, six must be at the 3000 level or higher.**

**Students may petition to pursue a senior overview in this area.

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Media Communications with an Emphasis in Media Literacy

Students of media literacy apply critical thinking skills in analyzing the source of much of our information: the media. The emphasis in media literacy consists of the following areas of study: an awareness of the impact of the media on the individual and society; an understanding of the process of mass communication; the development of critical approaches with which to analyze and discuss media messages; an awareness of media content as a "text" that provides insight into our contemporary culture and ourselves; an awareness of the depiction of diverse groups within a culture by the media; and the cultivation of an enhanced enjoyment, understanding, and appreciation of media content.

Student Learning Outcomes:

After completing their course of study in media literacy, students will demonstrate the ability to:

Identify media literacy concepts;
Develop an awareness of the impact of the media on the individual and society;
Apply media literacy concepts to media and media programming;
Develop an awareness of media content as a cultural "text" that provides insight into contemporary society;
Become familiar with quantitative and qualitative approaches to Media Literacy;
Conduct primary research and analysis, using media literacy quantitative and qualitative methodologies.

Portfolio Review Course Requirements

EPMD 1000 Introduction to Media Production
MEDC 1010 Introduction to Mass Communications
MEDC 1630 Media Literacy
MEDC 2630, Media Literacy II
MEDC 3190 Introduction to Media Research

Degree Requirements

51 required credit hours
36 general education credit hours
41 elective credit hours

Required Courses

EPMD 1000 Introduction to Media Production 3 hours
MEDC 1010 Introduction to Mass Communications 3 hours
MEDC 1050 Introduction to Media Writing 3 hours
MEDC 1630 Media Literacy 3 hours
MEDC 2200 Ethics in the Media 3 hours
MEDC 2630 Media Literacy II 3 hours
MEDC 2800 Cultural Diversity in the Media 3 hours
MEDC 3190 Introduction to Media Research 3 hours
MEDC 3900 Studies in Media Literacy 3 hours
MEDC 4100 The Law and the Media 3 hours
MEDC 4110 Digital Media Culture 3 hours
MEDC 4190 Media Research Methodologies 3 hours
MEDC 4620 Senior Overview* 3 hours
MEDC 4850 Seminar in Media Studies 3 hours

*Capstone Course

A minimum of 15 credit hours must be chosen from the following:

MEDC 1500 Applied Media Aesthetics 3 hours
VIDE 1810 Video I 3 hours
SPCM 2600 Nonverbal Approaches to the Media 3 hours
MEDC 3260 International Communications 3 hours
MEDC 3500 Political Communications 3 hours
MEDC 3850 Television: A Critical Study 3 hours
MEDC 3900 Studies in Media Literacy 3 hours
MEDC 4220 Genre Studies 3 hours
MEDC 4440 Patterns of Media Ownership 3 hours
JOUR 4500 Media Criticism for Publication 3 hours
MEDC 4950 Professional Media Practicum 3 hours

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Public Relations

The public relations major combines a strong base in academic study with opportunities to test concepts through projects with actual clients. Writing proficiency is a necessary element of the major, as writing and knowledge of target audiences form the basic foundation of good public relations. Students learn theories and gain hands-on experience in creating strategic information programs, internal communications plans, media relations, and special events as they build their professional portfolios using all available formats of media (print, video, radio and television, newspapers, and digital and electronic applications). Students learn from practicing professionals who are their professors, lecturers, mentors, and clients, bringing a real-world substance to the major. Internships augment the experience.

Student Learning Outcomes

Successful graduates of the program will gain:

Understanding and mastery of public relations and corporate communications functions employed in both business and non-profit organizations, including problem analysis, strategic planning, message development and tactical solutions;
A thorough knowledge of philosophy and function of the news media and the necessary skills to interface with members of the media in both proactive and reactive contact;
Knowledge of American business in its various forms and an awareness of the functions of business departments as they relate to public relations;
Solid writing skills in business, media and public relations formats, such as white papers, news releases, strategic and tactical public relations campaign materials and plans, etc.;
Production skills in those tactical areas important to successfully functioning as a public relations professional including: publishing graphics, internet web site management, computer software applications and any other medium relevant to the student's chosen career path;
Communication skills needed for superior client relationships, including interpersonal communications, organizational communications and business presentations.

Portfolio Review Course Requirements

EPMD 1000 Introduction to Media Production
MEDC 1010 Introduction to Mass Communications
PBRL 2100 Fundamentals of Strategic Communications and Public Relations
INTM 2350 Production Tools for Advertising and PR
PBRL 2920 Writing for Public Relations

Degree Requirements

60 required credit hours
36 general education credit hours
32 elective credit hours

Required Courses

EPMD 1000 Introduction to Media Production 3 hours
MEDC 1010 Introduction to Mass Communications 3 hours
JOUR 1030 Fundamentals of Reporting 3 hours
MEDC 1050 Introduction to Media Writing 3 hours
BUSN 1200 Introduction to Business 3 hours
SPCM 1280 Interpersonal Communications 3 hours
PBRL 2100 Fundamentals of Strategic Communications and Public Relations 3 hours
MEDC 2200 Ethics in the Media 3 hours
INTM 2350 Production Tools for Advertising and PR 3 hours
PBRL 2920 Writing for Public Relations 3 hours
INTM 3100 Programming for Web Communications 3 hours
ADVT 3500 Visual Communication for Advertising and Public Relations 3 hours
SPCM 3500 Presentations for Media Professionals 3 hours
MEDC 4100 The Law and the Media 3 hours
PBRL 4300 Crisis Communications Management 3 hours
PBRL 4800 Media Relations 3 hours
PBRL 4920 Public Relations Campaigns* 3 hours
MEDC 4950 Professional Media Practicum,
OR PBRL 4620 Senior Overview 3 hours

*Capstone Course

In addition, a minimum of 6 credit hours from the following:

MEDC 2800 Cultural Diversity in the Media 3 hours
PBRL 3200 Specialized Publications 3 hours
MEDC 3260 International Communications 3 hours
MNGT 3550 Public Relations 3 hours
PBRL 3920 Public Information Production 3 hours
PBRL 4050 Special Events 3 hours
PBRL 4200 Organizational Communication 3 hours
PBRL 4700 Professional Development in Public Relations 3 hours

Relevant electives (not required for the major, but the faculty suggests students consider these courses to supplement their major):

JOUR 2300 Journalism: Layout and Design 3 hours
MNGT 3500 Marketing 3 hours
MNGT 3510 Advertising 3 hours
PBRL 4190 Public Relations Research 3 hours
MEDC 4500 Interactive Media 3 hours

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Scriptwriting

The major in scriptwriting provides students with a structured approach to understanding the craft of writing scripts for film, television, and other electronic media. By analyzing scripts and producing their own creative work, students learn character development, plot, structure, suspense, and tension, as well as the conventions of various genres.

Student Learning Outcomes:

Successful graduates from the program will learn:

The conventions of structuring scripts for film and television, why the conventions are the conventions and the effect of using alternative structures;
How to create effective characters that engage an audience;
How to build and maintain suspense and tension using both structure and pacing;
The principle elements of storytelling for visual media--action, image and dialogue--and how and when to use each tool for greatest effect;
How to elicit an audience's emotional response using a variety of means;
The industry standard for proper script format.

Portfolio Review Course Requirements

EPMD 1000 Introduction to Media Production
MEDC 1010 Introduction to Mass Communications
MEDC 1050 Introduction to Media Writing
SCPT 2900 Scriptwriting
SCPT 3500 Writing Screenplays for Film or SCPT 3400 Television Scriptwriting

Degree Requirements

51 required credit hours
36 general education credit hours
41 elective credit hours

Required Courses

EPMD 1000 Introduction to Media Production 3 hours
MEDC 1010 Introduction to Mass Communications 3 hours
MEDC 1050 Introduction to Media Writing 3 hours
MEDC 2200 Ethics in the Media 3 hours
MEDC 2800 Cultural Diversity in the Media 3 hours
SCPT 2900 Scriptwriting 3 hours
SCPT 3110 Script Analysis 3 hours
SCPT 3400 Television Scriptwriting 3 hours
SCPT 3500 Writing Screenplays for Film 3 hours
MEDC 4100 The Law and the Media 3 hours
SCPT 4400 Advanced Television Scriptwriting: Genres 3 hours
SCPT 4500 Advanced Scriptwriting 3 hours
MEDC 4620 Senior Overview* 6 hours

*Capstone Course

A minimum of 9 credit hours must be chosen from the following:

MEDC 1500 Applied Media Aesthetics 3 hours
FLST 1800 Film Appreciation 3 hours
VIDE 1810 Video Production I 3 hours
FLST 2050 History of Film 4 hours
FLST 2060 Modern World Cinema 4 hours
FLST 2160 Introduction to Film Theory and Criticism 3 hours
FILM 2320 Filmmaking I 3 hours
BJRN 2410 Introduction to Radio-TV Journalism 3 hours
ENGL 3010 Playwriting 3 hours
SCPT 3150 Topics 3 hours
SCPT 4090 Screenplay Development 3 hours
MEDC 4950 Professional Media Practicum 3 hours
MEDC 5346 Writing for Media Communications:
Scriptwriting (for seniors only) 3 hours

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Speech Communication Studies

The undergraduate degree in speech communication studies provides students with an understanding of the processes of oral communication. Students are exposed to a variety of theory and skill development opportunities ranging from forensics and presentational applications to rhetorical awareness and analysis. The program offers opportunities to study in three areas: interpersonal/relational communication, professional speaking and performance, and a comprehensive general approach to the field. Each program incorporates coursework from a variety of discipline areas to provide a comprehensive theoretical and practical curriculum.

Student Learning Outcomes:

Successful graduates from this program will learn:

To deliver oral presentations appropriate for particular audiences and occasions;
To understand and demonstrate the differences between effective oral and written communications;
What distinguishes effective interpersonal communication from ineffective interpersonal communication;
To demonstrate the ability to critically apply rational communication principles to relationships;
To utilize strategies to effectively adapt messages to audiences in an effort to achieve their communication goals;
To critically listen to and evaluate messages;
To demonstrate skills essential to communicating and contributing effectively within group contexts;
To appreciate the importance of recognizing the role life experience and background play in one's unique communication style;
To apply their experiences within the speech communication studies program to contexts within their own experiences, continuing that application throughout their lives.

Portfolio Review Course Requirements
A portfolio review is not required for this major. Instead, students majoring in Speech Communication Studies incorporate elements of all their coursework in their culminating senior overview.

Degree Requirements

51 required credit hours
36 general education credit hours
41 elective credit hours

Required Courses

SPCM 1040 Public Speaking 3 hours
MEDC 1050 Introduction to Media Writing, OR
WRIT 1010 Composition, OR
JOUR 1030 Fundamentals of Reporting 3 hours
SPCM 1280 Interpersonal Communication 3 hours
POLT 1550 Introduction to Political Argumentation and
Debate, OR SPCM 2000 Forensics 3 hours
MEDC 1630 Media Literacy 3 hours
MEDC 2200 Ethics in the Media 3 hours
SPCM 2200 Group Communication 3 hours
SPCM 2400 Persuasion 3 hours
SPCM 2600 Nonverbal Approaches to the Media 3 hours
SPCM 3600 Rhetoric 3 hours
JOUR 2380 Free Expression and the First Amendment 3 hours
SPCM 3800 Communication and Diverse Populations, OR
MEDC 3800 Studies in Cultural Diversity: Communication
and Diverse Populations 3 hours
SPCM 4500 Conflict Resolution 3 hours
SPCM 4600 Communication Theory 3 hours
SPCM 4620 Senior Overview* OR
MEDC 4950 Professional Media Practicum * 3 hours

*Capstone Course

In addition, a minimum of 6 credit hours must be chosen from the following:

EPMD 1000 Introduction to Media Production 3 hours
SPCM 3100 Communication as Storytelling 3 hours
SPCM 3150 Topics in Speech Communication Studies 3 hours
MEDC 3190 Introduction to Media Research 3 hours
SPCM 3300 Navigating Relationships 3 hours
SPCM 3500 Presentations for Media Professionals 3 hours
POLT 3550 Competitive Political Argumentation and Debate 3 hours
SPCM 4610 Readings 3 hours
SPCM 4616 Communication Research and Analysis 3 hours

[ Course Descriptions ] [ Top of Page ]

Certificate Program: Sports Journalism

The certificate program in sports journalism provides students a basic understanding of the field of sports journalism. The program combines theoretical information with writing and production experience. Webster University will issue a certificate recognizing the successful completion (C or better in all courses) of a 19-credit-hour core in sports journalism. All courses must be taken at Webster University.

Portfolio Requirements

Students obtaining a certificate in Sports Journalism complete a portfolio of their work as part of the requirements of JOUR 3300 Newspaper Production Workshop, under the supervision of their professor.

Degree Requirements

19 credit hours

Required Courses

Introductory level media production class
(video, audio, interactive digital media, photography) 3 hours
JOUR 1030 Fundamentals of Reporting 3 hours
BJRN 1830 Broadcast Delivery and Interpretation 3 hours
BJRN 1930 Sports Broadcasting 3 hours
JOUR 3300 Newspaper Production Workshop 4 hours
JOUR 4050 Sports Reporting 3 hours