Department of Communications, Journalism and Performing Arts

Communications and Media Arts Department - The First 25 Years Video

Communications and Media Arts - Associate in Arts Degree
Through entertainment and dissemination of information, the media reaches into our lives – both shaping and responding to American society – as no other profession does. Because of this power, a career in communications media offers immense challenges, responsibility, and excitement. Click for A.A. Degree Requirements.

Westchester Community College's Communications and Media Arts curriculum prepares students either to transfer into a baccalaureate program or to seek positions in broadcasting, journalism, public relations, and related fields. A large percentage of communications/media arts graduates have transferred to four-year colleges and universities within the SUNY system or to private colleges and universities such as Iona, St. John's, Hofstra, Emerson and Syracuse. Graduates also have obtained specific entry-level positions as film editor, script editor, announcer, cameraman, producer, news reporter, technical assistant, tape operator, editorial assistant, copy reader, layout technician or public relations generalist.

Special facilities available for communications/media arts majors include: a newly renovated television studio, fully-licensed, college-owned radio station (WARY-FM); award-winning desktop-published student newspaper, The Viking News; plus a student-produced, regularly televised program, "Westchester Community College, News in Review." An independent study program gives students additional learning opportunities. An internship program is available to selected students. Communications and Media internships can be taken for 1-9 credits; however, only three credits can be used toward the major. The curriculum also gives students the skills needed for effective oral expression, enabling them to communicate with greater clarity, conciseness and self-awareness

Recommended Activities
It is suggested that students become involved in the student newspaper, The Viking News; the college FM radio station, WARY-FM; or the Video Club. Activities in the performing and visual arts are also useful including involvement with local cable TV companies.

Curriculum Counselors
Students should see any of the following counselors. It is advisable to see the same counselor once a semester, particularly before pre-registration. Communications courses tend to close early. We suggest you register the previous semester to reserve a seat.

Professors
Clicking on any of the names below will link you to biographical and professional information about the selected professor, including representative syllabi.

Curriculum Handbook