Television-Radio Courses

221-10100 Introduction to Media Production   NLA

An applied, practical introduction to the fundamentals of audio and video production. Covers theory, terminology, and techniques, with an emphasis on the function and operation of equipment to achieve basic broadcast production skills. 3 credits. (F-S)

221-10200 Television Production and Direction   NLA

Emphasis on a disciplined approach to the principles and practical application of television directing and the aspects of production that determine aesthetic quality. Techniques and concepts of video field production and video editing are introduced. Prerequisites: 221-10100. 3 credits. (F-S)

221-12100 Introduction to Mass Media   LA

Survey of American mass media with emphasis on the historical development, structure, organization, function, and effects of mass media in society. Discussion includes issues such as ethnic, racial, age, and sex-role stereotyping; violence; children and the media; and economic control and the role of governmental regulation. 3 credits. (F-S)

221-12200 Introduction to Media Aesthetics and Analysis   LA

Teaches techniques and criteria for analysis of media productions. Examines the basic production techniques used to communicate with visual images and sound. Topics such as light, composition, motion, sound, editing, and time may be covered. Aesthetics in the production, consumption, and critique of media are surveyed. 3 credits. (F-S)

221-13100 Media Writing   LA

Exposure to a diverse selection of writing styles and formats used in the mass media, introducing critical and analytical media writing skills and providing an opportunity to write in areas such as journalism or advertising. 3 credits. (F-S)

221-20100 Television Field Production   NLA

Introduction to scripting, lighting, camera work, continuity, editing, logistics, and budgeting for video production on location. A survey of various types of electronic field production. Students complete and critique production exercises for technical and aesthetic aspects of form and content. Prerequisites: 222-11000 or 221-10100; 221-10200. 3 credits. (F-S)

221-20200 Television Directing   NLA

Covers program design, including writing, visualization, production procedures and techniques, studio preparation, production, and individual evaluation. Prerequisites: 221-10100; 221-10200. 3 credits. (F-S)

221-21300 Ethical Issues in Mass Communication   LA

An introduction to ethics and responsibility in mass communication; designed to develop responsible professional attitudes and practices by applying a range of ethical analyses to problems in journalism, advertising, and entertainment programming; examines classic and contemporary cases involving a variety of ethical and, sometimes, legal questions. Prerequisites: Sophomore standing. Open to nonmajors. 3 credits. (Y)

221-22000 Global Flow of Information   LA

A critical review and analysis of theories, policies, and issues in international and intercultural communication and the flow of information among nations of the world through traditional and contemporary communication channels. Includes interpersonal communications, the mass media, satellite communications, diplomacy, international conventions, and others. Readings and discussions of research studies in intercultural and international communication demonstrate the interconnections of communication and international relations. Emphasis is on the impact of the flow of information on political, economic, cultural, legal, and social aspects of various countries and regions. Prerequisites: One course in the social sciences; sophomore standing. 3 credits. (F)

221-23200 Public Relations   LA

Defines public relations functions and processes. Examines public relations history, ethics, theories, tactics, specializations, and career opportunities. Prerequisites: Sophomore standing. 3 credits. (F-S)

221-24100 Advertising   LA

A survey of the history, organization, operation, and regulation of the advertising industry. Emphasis is on the economics of advertising, including rate structures, media analysis, and demographics, and on the creation and evaluation of advertising. Prerequisites: Sophomore standing. 3 credits. (F-S)

221-25000 History of U.S. Mass Media   LA

Examines the development of the mass media in the United States, beginning with Western European antecedents and proceeding to the present era of complex new technologies. Focuses on the factors influencing the evolution of U.S. media history, emphasizing the development of the U.S. press philosophy, the interaction of industrialization and media, and the rise of mass culture. Prerequisites: Sophomore standing; 221-12100 and/or background in U.S. history recommended. 3 credits. (F-S)

221-26000 Quantitative Mass Media Research Methods   LA

A basic introduction to quantitative research methods in mass communications including sampling, survey, experimental, and content analysis. Review of literature, identification of basic concepts, problems, responsibilities, and research ethics; procedures and basic techniques of computer data analysis. A research project is undertaken. Prerequisites: 221-12100. 3 credits. (F-S)

221-26200 Qualitative Mass Media Research Methods   LA

A basic introduction to theories and research skills used in qualitative research as applied to mass communication. Major topics include cultural studies theories, ethnography, historical research, depth interviews, qualitative content analysis, and focus groups. Review of literature, identification of basic concepts, problems, and responsibilities. A research project is undertaken. Prerequisites: 221-12100. 3 credits. (S)

221-27100 Audio Production   NLA

Examines the theory and practice of audio production and highlights the unique properties of the medium. The concept of sound design is examined as applied to programming intended for persuasion, information, and entertainment. Emphasis is on critical listening as well as hands-on experience through production exercises and projects. Prerequisites: 554-14500 for B.M. recording majors only; 221-10100 for all other majors. 3 credits. (F-S)

221-28600 Television Journalism   NLA

Emphasizes the practice of electronic news gathering in the video medium. Students prepare news stories and develop effective interviewing techniques for television. Regular critiques of student work and local and national television newscasts are an integral part of the course. Prerequisites: 221-10100; 221-18000; 221-18100; 221-28400. 3 credits. (F-S)

221-29200 Minicourses in Communications   NLA

A series of short courses in specialized areas of communications that do not meet the College guidelines for liberal arts designation. Visiting lecturers and faculty of the school participate in areas of their expertise. May be repeated. Prerequisites: Vary by topic; refer to Course Offerings each semester. 1-2 credits. Pass/fail. (IRR)

221-29300 Minicourses in Communications   LA

A series of short courses in specialized areas of communications that meet the College guidelines for liberal arts designation. Visiting lecturers and faculty of the school participate in areas of their expertise. May be repeated. Prerequisites: Vary by topic; refer to Course Offerings each semester. 1-2 credits. Pass/fail. (IRR)

221-29600 Audience Research   NLA

Survey of the major forms of audience research in television and radio, with particular emphasis on the Nielsen and Arbitron ratings reports. Covers principles of sample surveys; interpretation of audience data; and application to programming, promotion, and sales. Prerequisites: 221-12100; 221-26000. 3 credits. (F-S)

221-29700 Documentary Research   NLA

Emphasis is on research skills used in documentary production and news reporting. Major topics include gathering information from primary and secondary sources and evaluating information. Students carry out research for a documentary feature and present a formal program proposal. Communications majors only. Prerequisites: 221-12100; sophomore standing. 3 credits. (F-S)

221-31000 Experimental Video: Production and Criticism   NLA

Examines the history and theory of video as a visual art form. Semiotics, structuralism, post-structuralism, and psychoanalysis are employed as critical and theoretical tools. Genres covered include abstract, conceptual, performance, and new narratives. Students produce both critical papers and their own video work to familiarize themselves with these genres and theories. Prerequisites: 221-10100, 221-10200, 221-20100; or 222-11000, 222-21200; or 222-22100 or 222-22200. 3 credits. (S)

221-31200 Government and Media   LA

Provides an understanding of the policy making process used to formulate various regulations that govern the media. The role of relevant policy making bodies, such as Congress, the courts, Federal Communications Commission, and lobby groups, are discussed. Specific regulation concerning the First Amendment, obscenity, libel, privacy, copyright, commercial speech, access to information, antitrust, etc., are also examined. A major research paper on a relevant media regulation topic is required. Prerequisites: 221-12100; either 221-18100 or 221-12200 and 222-25500; or a level-2 TV-R research course. 3 credits. (F-S)

221-32100 Broadcast Programming and Promotion   NLA

Examination of the principles and practices of programming for television and radio stations, networks, cable and pay cable television, and satellite services. Analysis of the relation between programming and promotion, and of the role of promotion in public relations and in building audience and sales. Prerequisites: 221-12100; 221-26000; 221-29600. 3 credits. (F)

221-32200 New Telecommunications Technologies   LA

Examines the development of new technologies and communication networks. The structure of the marketplace, government policy, and the social impacts of new technologies are discussed. Issues such as globalization, computer security, privacy, and changes in regulations may be covered. Prerequisites: 221-12100; two level-2 courses in one or more of the following fields: television-radio, psychology, sociology; junior standing. 3 credits. (F-S)

221-32300 Broadcast Sales   NLA

Fundamentals of selling radio, television, and cable advertising. A practical approach covering methods and techniques of selling, advertising research, ratings, surveys, merchandising, cooperative advertising, and sales promotion. Guest lecturers include station owners, managers, sales managers, media buyers, and agency personnel. This course is usually offered only in the Los Angeles program. Prerequisites: 221-19600; 221-224100; 221-29600. 3 credits. (F)

221-32400 European Mass Media   LA

A comparative study of Western and Eastern European mass media, with emphasis on their historical development, structure, organization, function, and effects in society. Issues discussed include privatization, satellite broadcasting, East-West media relations, and contemporary political use of the mass media. Prerequisites: Three courses in social sciences; junior standing. 3 credits. (F)

221-32500 Seminar in Development Communications   LA

A forum for discussion and analysis of various issues involved in the use of mass media in the development effort of Third World countries. Examples in a number of African and Asian nations are used to illustrate the use of media support in the development process, successfully or otherwise. External as well as internal forces that affect media implementation are analyzed. The issue of a communications workforce, its lack in Third World countries, and its impact on the present state of affairs are discussed. Prerequisites: Three courses in social sciences; junior standing. 3 credits. (S)

221-33000 Advertising Copy Writing and Visualization   NLA

Develops creative ideas that meet strategic marketing communication goals through compelling advertising copy and visuals in the media. Prerequisites: 221-24100. 3 credits. (F-S)

221-33200 Writing for Public Relations   NLA

Fundamentals of writing for public relations. Emphasis is on format requirements of materials submitted to the media; writing for a client; persuasion in writing; and clarity, flow, and other elements of proper public relations writing style. Provides applications using news release, feature, article, editorial, and financial report formats. Prerequisites: 221-23200. 3 credits. (F)

221-33300 Writing for Series Television   NLA

Theory and practice of dramatic writing for television with emphasis placed on the development of the various series television formats. The course will feature a writing workshop with topics including character development, plotting, and marketing the finished product. Prerequisites: 221-13100 or 222-10100 and 222-23300. 3 credits. (F-S)

221-33500 Electronic Media Criticism   LA

Exploration of electronic media programming in terms of aesthetic and socioeconomic contexts. The focus may include broadcast television, radio, audio recording, and nonbroadcast video. Various approaches for analyzing electronic media programming are examined, such as psychoanalytic, Marxist, sociological, and semiotic. Deals with electronic media criticism from both academic and public perspectives. Prerequisites: 221-12100; junior standing. 3 credits. (IRR)

221-35100 Critical Journalism   LA

Examines critical, logical, and theoretical approaches to journalism, offering techniques of rational decision making that can be used by media professionals who assess information before distributing it, and by media consumers who rely on published and broadcast information. Prerequisites: Three courses in social sciences, humanities, and/or communications. 3 credits. (IRR)

221-37100 Advanced Audio Production   NLA

The study and application of the creative capabilities of advanced audio equipment. Students learn the theory and techniques of sophisticated audio production, including analog and digital multitrack recording, mixing, signal processing, live remote recording, digital editing, creative sound production, and sound design for other media. Prerequisites: 221-10100; 221-27100. 3 credits. (F)

221-38200 Feature Writing for Newspapers   NLA

An introduction to the techniques of writing newspaper articles not limited to the "hard news" approach. Emphasizes interviewing, research, and writing techniques resulting in feature articles that are, at the same time, factual and highly informative. A student may not receive credit for this course and 377-33100 Feature Writing (offered in the writing department). Prerequisites: 221-12100 and 221-13100 or 221-18000 and 221-18100; 221-28200. 3 credits. (S)

221-38800 Alternative Media   LA

Examines a series of specific examples of alternative media (such as community radio, public access cable television, not-for-profit news services), and how they are used in the United States and other countries. The course covers theoretical and historical materials related to alternative media and how the social, cultural, and political contexts within them have emerged and exist today. Prerequisites: At least two courses in the social sciences; junior standing. 3 credits. (F-S)

221-39100 Advanced Field Production   NLA

This course has two primary agendas, one aesthetic and one technical. The aesthetic focus is on authorship, an exploration of strategies and methods for presenting sound/image statements with an emphasis on the overall structure of the work. The technical focus is on increasing sophistication in all areas of field production --- sound recording, camera operations, lighting, and production planning --- and proficiency with cameras and digital nonlinear editing systems. Prerequisites: 221-10100, 221-10200, 221-20100; or 222-11000, 221-20100. 3 credits. (F-S)

221-41200 Selected Topics   LA

Exploration and analysis of a specific area of communication. Topics vary based both on student demand and on faculty expertise and research interest --- consult the department. Course content and pedagogical methods meet the College guidelines for liberal arts designation. May be repeated once. Not a production course. Total number of credits in any combination of 221-41200, 221-41210, 224-41200, 224-41210, 225-39000, and 225-39010 may not exceed 6. Prerequisites: Junior standing; others vary depending on the topic; refer to Course Offerings each semester. 3 credits. (IRR)

221-41210 Selected Topics   NLA

Exploration and analysis of a specific area of communication. Topics vary based on student demand and faculty expertise and research interest --- consult the department. Course content and pedagogical methods do not meet the College guidelines for liberal arts designation. May be repeated once. Not a production course. Total number of credits in any combination of 221-41200, 221-41210, 224-41200, 224-41210, 225-39000, and 225-39010 may not exceed 6. Prerequisites: Junior standing; others vary depending on the topic; refer to Course Offerings each semester. 3 credits. (IRR)

221-41300 Seminar on Ethical Issues in the Media   LA

Seminar in ethics and responsibility in journalism, advertising, and entertainment. Students identify, analyze, and lead discussions on ethical areas such as invasion of privacy by the news media, honesty in advertising, and violence in television and motion pictures. Prerequisites: 221-21300; senior standing. 3 credits. (IRR)

221-41400 Case Studies in Advertising   LA

Examines how advertising contributes to specific communication campaigns. Analyzes specific cases to evaluate specific advertising techniques and principles. Prerequisites: 221-24100; junior standing. 3 credits. (F-S)

221-42000 Critical Issues in Advertising and Public Relations   NLA

Review and critical analysis of long- and short-term issues in advertising and public relations, focusing on how critical and ethical considerations affect the sender and receiver of these messages. Prerequisites: Advertising/public relations concentration or minor. 3 credits. (F)

221-43100 Advanced Writing for Television and Radio   NLA

Practice and guidance for advanced students in writing television and radio scripts, with special attention in conference to individual writing problems. Prerequisites are either option A: 221-13100, 221-33300, and 377-10600 or 377-10700; 377-23600; or option B: 222-10100, 222-23300, 222-33300. 3 credits. (IRR)

221-43200 Issues in Telecommunications Management   NLA

Examination of issues important to managers in the media industries. Topics include current trends in media management style, evolving communication environments, the impact of public policy, and the role of electronic media industries in the American economic system. Telecommunications management majors will be given priority. Prerequisites: 221-12100; 221-26000; 221-24100; 221-29600; 221-32100. 3 credits. (S)

221-44000 Public Relations Lab   NLA

An advanced workshop dedicated to the planning of an actual public relations case study, including analysis of the publics involved and the media options for the practitioner; planning, budgeting, and scheduling; and development of problem-solving messages, actions, and/or events. For advanced students in business or communications or those planning a career in public relations. Prerequisites: 221-26000; 221-23200; 221-33200; acceptance of portfolio. 3 credits. (S)

221-44100 Ad Lab   NLA

The essentials of advertising campaign planning, including media strategy, positioning, and ad design, culminating in a comprehensive plan for a specific product. For advanced students in marketing or communications, or those planning a career in advertising. Prerequisites: 221-26000; 221-24100; 221-29600; 221-33000; acceptance of portfolio. 3 credits. (S)

221-46000 Senior Seminar: Topics in Media Effects   LA

Informed by social science and cultural and/or critical theories, these seminars offer in-depth explorations and analyses of the complex relationship among the mass media, individuals, society, and/or culture. Topics vary based on student demand and on faculty expertise and research interest. Prerequisites: Senior television-radio or media studies major. 3 credits. (F-S)

221-46200 Seminar in Geomedia   LA

This advanced seminar is concerned with the analysis of conglomeration and globalization processes as they affect print and broadcast media today. While the main focus is on international news and information, some attention is also given to other media industries. The course also examines citizens' and nongovernmental organizations' responses to globalization locally, nationally, and internationally. The course covers readings and analytical frameworks in several disciplines, including traditional market economics, Marxist analysis, feminist analysis, postcolonial analysis, world system theory, and others. Students take major responsibility for leading discussions and have an opportunity to research an issue of personal interest within the context of the seminar. Prerequisites: Three courses in social sciences; junior standing. 3 credits. (IRR)

221-47100 Audio Workshop   NLA

The course refines the student's abilities related to audio theory, professional digital audio equipment, critical listening, and the evaluation of audio products. Students record and edit an extensive audio project outside class. Students may take a second semester of this course with permission of instructor. Prerequisites: 221-10100; 221-27100; 221-37100. 3 credits. Total may not exceed 6 credits. (S)

221-48000 Senior Seminar in Mass Media Studies   LA

A major research project involving a topic in media studies. Each student is responsible for developing and executing a suitable research design and presenting the results (written and oral) in a seminar. The course is the capstone of the media studies major, and, therefore, research projects must reflect the skills and knowledge developed through previous coursework. Prerequisites: Senior media studies major; others: permission of instructor. 3 credits. (Y)

221-49000 Internship   NLA

Jointly supervised work experience with a cooperating institution or corporation in the field of communications, intended to motivate the student toward professional growth through observation and participation, to provide opportunities to meet active professionals, and to stimulate career planning. Skill and academic knowledge put into practice. May be repeated. Prerequisites: Junior television-radio, journalism, or media studies majors or minors; completion of Park School internship procedures. 1-6 credits. Total may not exceed 12, including London and Los Angeles internships. (F-S)

221-49100 Video Workshop   NLA

Advanced work and special projects in writing and producing on an individual or small group basis. Programs may be developed for telecast on ICTV or produced for Park Productions. Students may take a second semester of this course with permission of instructor. Prerequisites: 221-10100; 221-10200; 221-20100 or 221-20200; approval of design statement. 3 credits. Total may not exceed 6 credits. (F-S)

221-49800 London Communications Internship   NLA

See "International Programs." 3 credits. (F-S)

221-49900 Independent Study   LA

Intensive study under the supervision of a faculty adviser and the approval of the department chair. Possible topics include quantitative or qualitative research in an area relating to media production, consumption, regulation, or criticism. Comprehensive research paper (not project) is required. Prerequisites: Television-radio, journalism, media studies, or telecommunications management major; junior standing; permission of department. 3 credits. (F-S)