Communication and Media Studies
- WVU Parkersburg
Overview
Communication and Media Studies
Are you passionate about journalism, publishing, radio or television? Do you want to use your skills to help create meaningful content that will impact those around you? The Bachelor of Applied Science in Communication and Media Studies may just be the degree program for you! As a Communication and Media Studies student, you can choose to pursue a pathway in Digital Communication or Strategic Communication. Both pathways have amazing internship opportunities with advertising agencies, graphic design firms, radio and television stations and the Disney College Program.
If you choose Digital Communication, we will prepare you for a career in broadcast announcing and production, video production, sports and news reporting, digital media and marketing. You will even receive hands-on experience in radio production at WPKM 96.3 FM, the first community college radio station in West Virginia!
Strategic Communication students focus of the meld of good communication and planning with an organization, and will have the opportunity to craft specific, public messages by writing for the campus newspaper, The Chronicle, while learning social media management, advertising and more.
Learn and Earn Program
West Virginia University at Parkersburg offers students the opportunity to gain paid work experience while completing their associate in Digital or Strategic Communication through a state-funded program called Learn and Earn.
The Learn and Earn program is sponsored by the West Virginia Community and Technical College System, and is part of the Workforce Development Initiative Program. It is an opportunity to create partnerships between industry and community and technical colleges by allowing students hands-on learning experience, and employers to train ideal future employees.
Programs
Associate of Applied Science in Digital Communication
This is a valuable transfer degree that enables you to be a part of the only community college radio station in West Virginia, WPKM 96.3 FM The Beet. If you want to work in broadcasting, journalism, digital media or marketing, a digital communications degree can help you launch a successful career.
Associate of Applied Science in Digital Media Production
Digital Media Production is a cutting-edge program designed to prepare students for the rapidly changing world of digital media. Learn the foundation skills of pre-production, production, and post-production in a variety of formats. Using and adapting to changing technology and using critical thinking skills gives students the opportunity to provide a voice to their community and their stories.
Associate of Applied Science in Strategic Communication
This is a two-year program that prepares students for a career in advertising, marketing, public relations or corporate management. The curriculum concentrates on the relationship between organizational communication and the globalized market. You will learn theories and best practices to solve real-world problems by developing effective communication strategies. You will also be introduced to social media strategies and metrics.
Bachelor of Applied Science in Communication and Media Studies with a concentration in Digital Communication
The Bachelor of Applied Science in Media and Communication Studies with a concentration in Digital Communication is a program that prepares students for a career in broadcasting, journalism, digital media or marketing. Students gain real broadcasting experience through our campus radio station. As a communication professional, you will learn and shape how people share, receive and process information. The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that roughly 27,400 new positions will open up in this field before 2024.
Bachelor of Applied Science in Communication and Media Studies with a concentration in Strategic Communication
This is a four-year program that prepares students for a career in advertising, marketing, public relations or corporate management. The curriculum concentrates on the relationship between organizational communication and the globalized market. You will learn theories and best practices to solve real-world problems by developing effective communication strategies. You will also be introduced to social media strategies and metrics.
Course Listing
Associate of Applied Science in Digital Communication
Associate of Applied Science in Digital Media Production
Associate of Applied Science in Strategic Communication
Bachelor of Applied Science in Communication and Media Studies with a concentration in Digital Communication
Bachelor of Applied Science in Communication and Media Studies with a concentration in Strategic Communication
Careers
What Can I Do With This Degree?
Communication and Media Studies graduates typically enter careers in the media, cultural and creative industries. Areas of work include television and radio, film and video, digital media, computer games, journalism, writing and publishing, PR and media practice.
Potential Careers
- Multimedia Reporter
- News Correspondent
- Public Relations Specialist
- Social Media Manager
- Audio Engineer
Costs
Tuition
Estimated rates for the 2024-2025 academic year. Additional course fees may apply and rates are subject to change.
*Early College fees may differ per program, for example, in Welding and Cosmetology.
| Residency | Per Credit Hour | Per Semester | Fall & Spring Semesters |
|---|---|---|---|
| WV & OH Residents | $188 – $260 | $2,256 – $3,120 | $4,512 – $6,240 |
| Non-Residents | $376 – $401 | $4,512 – $4,812 | $9,024 – $9,624 |
| High School Students | $50 | $600 | $1,200 |
Estimated Costs Of Attendance
Estimated total costs of attendance for students, varied based on residential status and living situation.
| Category | WV & Ohio Residents Living with Parents | WV & Ohio Residents NOT Living with Parents | Non-Residents Living with Parents | Non-Residents NOT Living with Parents |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Room & Board | $9,144 | $14,544 | $9,144 | $14,544 |
| Transportation | $2,400 | $2,400 | $2,400 | $2,400 |
| Tuition & Fees | $5,783 | $5,783 | $10,506 | $10,506 |
| Books & Supplies | $1,500 | $1,500 | $1,500 | $1,500 |
| Miscellaneous | $1,173 | $2,273 | $1,173 | $2,273 |
| Total | $20,000 | $26,500 | $24,723 | $31,223 |
Request Information
Dr. Bobbi Marshall
Dean (Professional Studies Division)
- Room: 1306
- 304-424-8000 Ext.442
- bobbi.marshall@wvup.edu