Media & Entertainment Department
Media & Entertainment Department Mission
The mission of the Media & Entertainment Department is to offer a pragmatic and professionally oriented program designed to prepare majors for successful careers or graduate studies in media, entertainment, and related areas. Our teaching and learning philosophy is theory through practice - students practice theory and concepts in an experiential, applied learning environment.
The Media & Entertainment department supports the mission of the University by offering an applied major that integrates technological innovation and creativity with a humanities and social sciences foundation. Students are prepared for careers in media, entertainment, and related disciplines while also being given the ethical and aesthetic foundations to make those careers meaningful.
General Requirements
Majoring in Media & Entertainment leads to the Bachelor of Science (BS) degree. Students select one of five concentrations: Multimedia Journalism & Storytelling; Sports & eSports Media; Strategic Communication (Communication or Design Track); Media & Entertainment Production (Film & Video Track or Sound, Radio & Podcasting Track); and Media, Entertainment, & Arts Management. A degree in Media & Entertainment leads to careers in multimedia journalism, reporting and editing for news, feature writing, sports writing, sports production (including esports), advertising, public relations, crisis and image management, event planning and promotions, strategic communication, social media marketing, media design and sales, broadcasting and streaming, film and video production, post-production, documentary production, sound production, radio and podcasting, live entertainment, interactive media, virtual/augmented/mixed reality production, media and entertainment management, artist management, venue and facility operations, and more.
All concentrations share the same 44-hour core, comprised of:
- 32 hours of Media & Entertainment courses
- 6 hours of Applied Interdisciplinary courses (must be from a minimum of two different prefixes)
- 6 hours of Student Media practicum
Each concentration has its own specific 41-hour requirements beyond the shared core. Courses are concentration-specific and include any certificate or minor requirements and university open electives. Important concentration-specific information is highlighted below:
- Strategic Communication has two tracks within the concentration: Communication or Design
- Media & Entertainment Production has two tracks within the concentration: Film & Video or Sound, Radio, & Podcasting
- Media, Entertainment, & Arts Management requires a certificate in Foundations of Business or a minor in Business Administration
Student Media Practicum & Internship Requirements
The thrust of the Media & Entertainment Department is pragmatic; therefore, all majors must enroll in a minimum of 6 hours of SOCO Student Media practicum. Practicum courses are designed to represent real-life practice across the various creative industries and media outlets with several open to non-majors. Through SOCO Student Media, students are encouraged to develop their voice and professional content, and practice their skills. Practicum are advised by faculty with students in leadership roles. Faculty have oversight of curriculum, operations, and enrollment of all practicum. SOCO Student Media leadership positions are available on an annual basis.
Practicum courses are demanding and are unlike traditional lectures. Because of the hands-on, experiential nature of the courses, students should expect to spend considerable time outside of the class completing assignments and tasks. Students are limited to taking 3 hours of practicum per semester, unless granted permission by the department. Student Media options include 200-level general and 300-level leadership options across the student media outlets:
- The Today and The Today Magazine online news website and print publication serving CSU Pueblo and the community. Students cover current issues at the local and regional level and produce multimedia content for distribution across online, streaming, broadcast, and social media outlets.
- The Revolution, REV 89 KTSC 89.5 FM is licensed to CSU Pueblo as a non-commercial, educational radio station by the Federal Communications Commission. Students are involved in programming, production, sports and news, live events, studio production, podcasts, and other sound-related projects.
- Digital Sandbox Film & TV provide students the opportunity to produce live and prerecorded video/film content for streaming and on-demand distribution. Students take on various roles related to producing regular short-form and long-form content: producer, technical director, camera operator, floor director, sound mixer, audio supervisor, talent, writer, editor, and production manager.
- SOCO Design is the media design and advertising outlet for SOCO Student Media. Students gain valuable experience working on a variety of advertising and design projects design work for The Today Magazine, collaborative student media projects, and with other internal and external clients.
- Internships are not required but strongly encouraged. Students seeking an internship must have a 3.0 grade point average in their Media & Entertainment coursework. Internships are at the discretion of the department and require the submission of an internship application and departmental approval prior to the semester start. Students may earn a maximum of 9 hours of internship credit, to be determined between the internship site and the department.
Department Goals
- Offer a marketable and professionally credible program
- Provide a comprehensive foundation of media practice, theory, and innovation.
- Integrate a core that introduces students to the creative, practical, and theoretical tools used across the creative industries for content creation and communication.
- Emphasize personal ethics and professional ethics codes.
- Ensure curriculum and policies meets standards of the professions and industries represented.
- Provide a student-centered experience for learning and advising
- Create a proactive student-faculty advising and mentor experience.
- Create a collaborative department culture.
- Recognize student accomplishments and outstanding performance.
- Create an applied learning environment with industry-standard technology and resources.
- Provide access to media technology and resources for all students enrolled in Media & Entertainment and student media courses.
- Offer a full range of applied learning opportunities in and outside of the classroom.
- Provide opportunities for professional development opportunities that complement coursework and industry standards.
- Create course content that is interactive, applied, and project-oriented.
- Maintain a reputation for excellence
- Maintain alumni relationships through an online database, guest speakers, and professional networking.
- Conduct annual assessment of program and department objectives.
- Integrate regular feedback from departmental Professional Advisory Council members.
- Serve as mentors and role models for current students and alumni.
- Develop partnerships with community and industry stakeholders.
Academic Programs
Undergraduate Programs
- Media & Entertainment: Media & Entertainment Production Concentration, Bachelor of Science
- Media & Entertainment: Media, Entertainment, & Arts Management Concentration, Bachelor of Science
- Media & Entertainment: Multimedia Journalism & Storytelling Concentration, Bachelor of Science
- Media & Entertainment: Sports & ESports Media Concentration, Bachelor of Science
- Media & Entertainment: Strategic Communication Concentration, Bachelor of Science
Minors
Media & Entertainment (MAE)
Fall.
Students are introduced to, and become familiar with, processes, resources, and strategies to help them succeed in their individual career fields.
Prerequisites: None.
Corequisites: None.
Registration Information: None.
Fall, Spring.
Survey course that examines the historical, sociological, economic, technological, and ethical foundations of mediated communication from a social scientific perspective.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.
(Gen Ed: SS, GT-SS3)
Spring.
Provides an introduction to the study of film as an art form and a medium of cultural communication. It is a survey of the major developments, movements, and critical approaches in cinema.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.
As Needed.
The historical and cultural implications of the mass media's portrayal of Hispanic, Chicanx, and Indigenous communities and the extent of their media participation from colonial to contemporary times.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.
Fall.
The historical and cultural implications of the mass media's portrayal of women and the extent of their media participation from colonial to contemporary times.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisites: None.
Registration Information: None.
As Needed.
Statistical overview of the current status of women, followed by examination of theories concerning equality of the sexes.
Prerequisite: PSYC 100.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.
Fall, Spring.
A foundational course examining professional fact-finding, reporting and writing techniques across the primary forms of media (print, broadcast, and online).
Prerequisite: ENG 101.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: Permission of instructor.
Fall, Spring.
An introductory course examining audio technology and recording techniques as they apply to radio and podcasting production. Students receive instruction and hands-on experience utilizing professional-grade studio equipment.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.
Fall, Spring.
An introductory video course designed to provide students with an overview of field and studio production including terminology, positions, cameras, lighting, editing, and distribution.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.
As Needed.
An introduction to professional media design concepts and techniques using industry-standard raster, vector, and layout software to achieve visual design objectives for print and digital media.
Prerequisites: None.
Corequisites: None.
Registration Information: None.
As Needed.
An introduction to gaming and interactive technologies and platforms through hands-on experience with fundamental coding for websites, gaming, immersive, and interactive media.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: Permission of instructor.
As Needed.
Application of theories to mass communication and media problems. Nature of the communication process in groups and between mass media and audiences. Contribution of theoretical concepts to solving specific problems.
Prerequisite: MAE 101.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: Permission of instructor.
As Needed.
This course examines audience research methods and how advertisers plan and buy across media platforms to reach their target audience.
Prerequisite: MAE 101.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.
As Needed.
Various short-form and long-form scriptwriting styles and standards are introduced for radio, podcasting, television, streaming, and film.
Prerequisite: ENG 101.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: Permission of instructor.
As Needed.
Students learn how to use their voice and image effectively across a variety of productions. Content focuses on performance and acting using the voice, body, and image across sound, film, and stage productions.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.
As Needed.
From the first printing press to deep learning smart machines, this class explores the evolution of media and technologies as they relate to message delivery and creative expression.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.
As Needed.
A discussion course which examines gender roles in theatrical and documentary film while considering the perspective of producers, actors and spectators and salient film theories.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.
As Needed.
Students further hone their reporting, interviewing, editing and writing skills across a range of media through hands-on experience in multimedia storytelling.
Prerequisite: MAE 220 and MAE 230 and MAE 240 and MAE 250.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: MAE 230 and MAE 240 and MAE 250 highly recommended prerequisites, but may be taken concurrently.
As Needed.
Students grow their data mining and investigative skills and their understanding of the importance of visual communication across media, introductory photojournalism and graphic creation.
Prerequisite: MAE 220 and MAE 230 and MAE 240 and MAE 250.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: MAE 230 and MAE 240 highly recommended prerequisites, but may be taken concurrently.
As Needed.
Multitrack recording and production concepts relevant to the role of a sound engineer are explored. Topics include microphone theory, consoles, technical standards, dynamic processing, effects, and digital audio theory.
Prerequisite: MAE 220 and MAE 230 and MAE 240 and MAE 250.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: MAE 220 and MAE 240 and MAE 250 highly recommended prerequisites, but may be taken concurrently.
As Needed.
This course is designed to provide students with the requisite theory and practical experience in applying listening and analytical skills to professional works of sound from the perspective of the sound engineer.
Prerequisite: MAE 230.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.
As Needed.
An introduction to the theory, equipment, and management of live sound. Topics include sound reinforcement system technology, installation and operation, stage types, installation techniques, and design consideration.
Prerequisite: MAE 230.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.
As Needed.
Students explore the fundamental principles and application of MIDI and audio synthesis as a foundation for beat-making, music, and sonic art.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.
As Needed.
Advanced study and application of the theories and techniques used in the production cycle. Students engage in the recording, editing and production of advanced multi-track sessions as it applies to radio and podcasting.
Prerequisite: MAE 230.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.
As Needed.
Advanced study and application of the theories and techniques used in the production of film and video. Students expand their skill set and are required to critically research and effectively produce high quality productions.
Prerequisite: MAE 220 and MAE 230 and MAE 240 and MAE 250.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: MAE 220 and MAE 230 and MAE 250 highly recommended prerequisites, but may be taken concurrently.
As Needed.
This course focuses on post-production for video and film with an emphasis on advanced editing techniques, effects, color, and professional delivery formats using non-linear editing software and equipment.
Prerequisite: MAE 220 and MAE 230 and MAE 240 and MAE 250.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: MAE 220 and MAE 230 and MAE 250 highly recommended prerequisites, but may be taken concurrently.
As Needed.
Advanced media design concepts and techniques are explored and integrated into professional digital and print media using industry standard raster, vector, and layout software and technology.
Prerequisites: MAE 250.
Corequisites: None.
Registration Information: None.
As Needed.
A comprehensive overview of website development through hands-on development of an interactive website.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.
As Needed.
Photographic techniques and workflow for commercial and creative outlets are explored, including framing, editing, and preparation for digital and print media.
Prerequisites: MAE 250.
Corequisites: None.
Registration Information: None.
As Needed.
An exploration of digital illustration techniques using vector and raster-based software to create original works for digital and print media.
Prerequisites: MAE 250.
Corequisites: None.
Registration Information: None.
As Needed.
A specialized advanced journalism course addressing the interpretation and reporting of sports-based stories, information, and statistics to create professional sports articles and multimedia packages.
Prerequisite: MAE 320.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.
As Needed.
This course examines the role of the sportscaster, shoutcaster, public address announcers, and sports information directors. Students learn and practice and how to execute a successful performance for various media.
Prerequisite: MAE 220 and MAE 230 and MAE 240 and MAE 250.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: MAE 220 and MAE 240 and MAE 250 highly recommended prerequisites, but may be taken concurrently.
As Needed.
An overview of social media and online platforms examining current technologies, trends, production and distribution strategies, consumption, data analysis, and ethical considerations.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.
As Needed.
Overview of public relations theories, strategies, and practices. Students learn how to construct strategic content using writing, images, video, and audio to message and deliver to various publics across platforms.
Prerequisite: MAE 220.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: MAE 230 and MAE 240 and MAE 250 highly recommended prerequisites.
As Needed.
This course explores the business aspects and management functions unique to creative and arts-based organizations and individuals.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.
As Needed.
This course covers legal, commercial, business, and managerial aspects of domestic and international live entertainment events, with an emphasis on concerts and festivals.
Prerequisite: MAE 101 and MAE 220 and MAE 230 and MAE 240 and MAE 250.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.
As Needed.
This course examines the laws, regulations, and ethical considerations of media and entertainment industries in the United States.
Prerequisite: MAE 101.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: Permission of instructor.
As Needed.
Journalism and storytelling is perfected through advanced application and practice of AP and broadcast writing styles, copy editing, and multimedia production across a variety of beats and features.
Prerequisite: MAE 220 and MAE 230 and MAE 240 and MAE 250 and MAE 320.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.
As Needed.
Students delve into the world of political reporting, covering debates, keeping up with breaking news from the political campaign and presenting multimedia stories in a fair and balanced manner.
Prerequisite: MAE 230 and MAE 240 and MAE 250 and MAE 320.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.
As Needed.
Students explore the role that media plays in the maintenance of a fiscally and culturally healthy community. Special emphasis will be placed on the ethical responsibilities of hyper-local, community-centric media.
Prerequisite: MAE 230 and MAE 240 and MAE 250 and MAE 320.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.
As Needed.
Multitrack record, mix, & master are explored. Concepts such as single/multiband compression & limiting equalization, effects, pitch-correction, MIDI implementation, & corrective techniques implemented at advanced level.
Prerequisites: MAE 330.
Corequisites: None.
Registration Information: None.
As Needed.
This course focuses on location & studio multitrack sound production techniques for television, streaming, & film. Topics include location & field recording, music selection, Foley, ADR, mixing, surround sound, & sync.
Prerequisite: MAE 230.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.
As Needed.
An advanced sound course that explores the theoretical and applied aspects of sound in video games through conceptualization, recording, mixing, and integration into immersive environments.
Prerequisite: MAE 230.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.
As Needed.
Advanced production course about non-fiction formats. The course combines theory, history, and production aesthetics specific to television documentary with the opportunity to produce a documentary.
Prerequisite: MAE 220 and MAE 230 and MAE 240 and MAE 250 and MAE 341.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.
As Needed.
This project-based course expands on the concepts of game design and development. Students design a game using advanced multimedia assets, game theory, and coding.
Prerequisite: MAE 352.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: Permission of instructor.
As Needed.
This course focuses on sports and esports production techniques, technologies, workflow, and roles. Students learn how to produce a sports-based event from pre-production to gameday to post-mortem review and critique.
Prerequisite: MAE 220 and MAE 230 and MAE 240 and MAE 250.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.
As Needed.
This course focuses on image brand management and strategies for developing an influential presence online. Emphasis is placed on the practical application of multimedia image branding content across social platforms.
Prerequisite: MAE 370.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.
As Needed.
This course focuses on crisis and issues management from a strategic communications approach. Emphasis is placed on practical application of crisis communications theory and real-life case studies.
Prerequisite: MAE 370.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.
As Needed.
Strategic communication theory and techniques are used to examine the basic elements of nonprofit organizations from economic, political, and social perspectives.
Prerequisite: MAE 370.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.
As Needed.
The course examines the organization, structure, components and preparation of an integrated communication campaign focusing on advertising, public relations, sales promotion and direct response.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.
As Needed.
Course presents a historical and legal context necessary for understanding intellectual property rights in the media, entertainment, and arts industries.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.
As Needed.
Special Projects affords students the opportunity to concentrate for a semester on the intensive production of a professional, tangible product.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: Repeatable (6).
As Needed.
Special Topics allows students to explore a specific theme or issue in the field of media and entertainment.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: Repeatable (6).
Fall, Spring.
The first of two capstone courses, students conceptualize and defend a final capstone project proposal supported by research and influenced by aspirations, skills and abilities, and purpose.
Prerequisites: MAE 220 and MAE 230 and MAE 240 and MAE 250.
Corequisites: None.
Registration Information: None.
As Needed.
This course introduces topics in a seminar format that are not offered as part of the standard curriculum.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.
As Needed.
Experiential learning opportunity provided by an organization with a mentoring component.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: Repeatable (6).
As Needed.
This course provides an opportunity for the student who wishes to undertake a well-defined, independent project under the guidance of a faculty member of his or her own choosing.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: Repeatable (6).
As Needed.
Provides professional experience in a variety of media and entertainment environments, including large corporations, media outlets, educational institutions, non-profit agencies and others.
Prerequisite: None.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: Repeatable (6).
As Needed.
Students demonstrate proficiency in their field(s) through the production, presentation, distribution, and critique of their capstone project and paper. Students refine and prepare their portfolios and resumes.
Prerequisite: MAE 220 and MAE 230 and MAE 240 and MAE 250 and MAE 492.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.