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.
The Media & Entertainment department, as part of the School of Creativity + Practice (SoCaP), supports the mission of the University by offering an applied major that integrates technological innovation and creativity with a humanities and social sciences curriculum. 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; 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, 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 46-hour core, comprised of:
- 11 hours of SoCaP courses
- 29 hours of Media & Entertainment courses
- 6 hours of Student Media practicum
Each concentration has its own specific 39-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 requires either a certificate or Minor in Communication & Information Design or a certificate in User Experience
- 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 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 Student Media, students are encouraged to develop their voice and content, and practice their professional skills. Student Media practicum are student-led, faculty advised. Faculty have oversight of curriculum, operations, and enrollment of all practicum. All practicum faculty are part of the School of Creativity + Practice. 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 Student Media practicum per semester. Student Media options include 200-level general and 300-level leadership options across our school’s media outlets:
- The Today 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.
- SoCaP TV & Film Studios 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 shortform and longform content: producer, technical director, camera operator, floor director, sound mixer, audio supervisor, talent, writer, editor, and production manager.
- The Agency is the art, advertising, and design outlet for external client and in-house multimedia design work. Students gain valuable experience in working through a variety of advertising and design projects in a professional, client-based atmosphere.
- Internships are not required but strongly encouraged. Students seeking an internship must have a 3.0 grade point average in their Media & Entertainment and SoCaP courses. 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 meets standards of the professions represented.
- Provide a student-centered experience for learning and advising
- Create a proactive student-faculty advising experience.
- Create a collaborative department culture.
- Recognize student accomplishments and outstanding performance.
- Create an applied learning environment with cutting-edge technology
- Provide media laboratory opportunities for all Media Communication majors.
- Offer a full range of internships at the junior and senior level.
- Provide technology for pedagogical and professional purposes.
- 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 graduating senior surveys annually and alum surveys every five years.
- Serve as mentors and role models for current students and alumni.
Academic Programs
Undergraduate Programs
- Media & Entertainment: Media & Entertainment Production Concentration, Bachelor or 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, 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.
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: ARC 174.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: Permission of instructor.
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: ARC 174.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: Permission of instructor.
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: ARC 174.
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 including voiceover, live remotes, on-air broadcasting, podcasting, television and video, vodcasting, and hosting/emcee work.
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 traditional media (print, broadcast and digital) by studying and getting hands-on experience in long-form storytelling.
Prerequisite: ART 274 and MAE 220 and MAE 230 and MAE 240.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: ART 274 and MAE 230 and MAE 240 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: ART 274 and MAE 220 and MAE 230 and MAE 240.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: MAE 230 and MAE 240 highly recommended prerequisites, but may be taken concurrently.
As Needed.
Students are introduced to photography as a journalistic medium and hone their skills as visual storytellers across subjects, including ethical image creation and editing for print, broadcast and digital media.
Prerequisite: MAE 220.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: Permission of instructor.
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: ART 274 and MAE 220 and MAE 230 and MAE 240.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: ART 274 and MAE 220 and MAE 240 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: Permission of instructor.
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: ART 274 and MAE 220 and MAE 230 and MAE 240.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: ART 274 and MAE 220 and MAE 230 and MAE 240 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: ART 274 and MAE 220 and MAE 230 and MAE 240.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: ART 274 and MAE 220 and MAE 230 and MAE 240 highly recommended prerequisites, but may be taken concurrently.
As Needed.
A comprehensive overview of website development through hands-on development of an interactive website.
Prerequisite: MAE 251.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: Permission of instructor.
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, and public address announcers in professional gameday environments. Students learn and practice and how to execute a successful performance for various media.
Prerequisite: ART 274 and MAE 220 and MAE 230 and MAE 240.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: ART 274 and MAE 220 and MAE 230 and MAE 240 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.
Seminar emphasizing tactics and strategies of branding, advertising planning, utilizing media techniques, marketing posture and creative media buying.
Prerequisite: MAE 320.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.
As Needed.
Seminar emphasizing tactics and strategies of branding, advertising planning, utilizing media techniques, marketing posture and creative media buying.
Prerequisite: MAE 220.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.
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 provides an opportunity for understanding best practices and strategies for managing creative talent from the music business perspective and applying concepts to other sectors of the media, arts, & entertainment.
Prerequisite: MAE 101.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.
As Needed.
This course covers legal, commercial and managerial aspects of domestic and international live entertainment events, with an emphasis on concerts and festivals.
Prerequisite: MAE 101.
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.
Students working in teams will deep dive into a social issue of their choice and use the breadth of their skills to complete a multimedia investigation. Classes will be conducted in the classroom and in the field.
Prerequisite: ARC 310 or MAE 320.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: Permission of instructor.
As Needed.
Students delve into the world of political reporting, covering debates, keeping up with breaking news from the political campaign and presenting stories in a fair and balanced manner. Special sessions for events will be held.
Prerequisite: ARC 310 or MAE 320.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: Permission of instructor.
As Needed.
In this advanced reporting, hands-on seminar, students explore the role that media plays in the maintenance of a fiscally and culturally healthy community. Course work will be split between the classroom and in the field.
Prerequisite: ARC 310 or MAE 320.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: Permission of instructor.
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: ARC 310 or ART 274 or MAE 220 or MAE 230 or MAE 240.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: Permission of instructor.
As Needed.
An advanced sound course that explores the theoretical and applied aspects of sound in video games through conceptualization, recording, mixing, and coding for immersive environments.
Prerequisite: ARC 310 or ART 274 or MAE 220 or MAE 230 or MAE 240.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: Permission of instructor.
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: ARC 310 or ART 274 or MAE 220 or MAE 230 or MAE 240.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: Permission of instructor.
As Needed.
An exploration of the concepts, philosophies, and techniques to produce immersive video and audio content for use in virtual (VR), augmented (AR), and/or mixed (MR) realities.
Prerequisite: ARC 310 or ART 274 or MAE 220 or MAE 230 or MAE 240.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: Permission of instructor.
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: ARC 310 or ART 274 or MAE 220 or MAE 230 or MAE 240.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: Permission of instructor.
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.
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).
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.
The pinnacle course designed to prepare students for the professional world through a series of mini-workshops. Students evaluate their position and work towards refining their career goals.
Prerequisite: ARC 310 and ART 274 and MAE 220 and MAE 230 and MAE 240.
Corequisite: None.
Registration Information: None.