Mass Communications. Undergraduate Student Handbook

Transcription

1 Mass Communications Undergraduate Student Handbook for students entering

2 SCHOOL OF MASS COMMUNICATIONS 901 West Main Street T. Edward Temple Building, Room 2216 P.O. Box Richmond, VA (804) UNDERGRADUATE STUDENT HANDBOOK TABLE OF CONTENTS Introduction... 2 Program Overview... 2 The Foundation... 2 Applying to the Sequence... Rules, Policies, and Procedures... 4 Advising... 5 Advising Referrals... 6 Graduation Requirements Overview... 7 Math and Statistic Requirements... 7 Foreign Language Requirements... 7 What should I do with my Electives?... 8 Electives to Consider..8 Study Abroad... 8 Override Policy Transfer Information Degree Requirements General Education Additional Degree Requirements Advertising Sequence Suggested Schedule of Courses - Strategic Advertising Creating Advertising Journalism Sequence Suggested Schedule of Courses - Broadcast Journalism Print Journalism Public Relations Sequence Suggested Schedule of Courses - Public Relations Helpful Hints... 2 Study Abroad Mass Communications Course Descriptions Faculty Directory

3 INTRODUCTION Welcome to the School of Mass Communications at Virginia Commonwealth University. This handbook is designed to explain and clarify the procedures and practices of the VCU School of Mass Communications program, including advising, registration, policies and graduation requirements. The VCU Bulletin is the official source for the University s academic regulations and degree requirements. Students are responsible for knowing and fulfilling all general and specific degree requirements as described in the bulletin. It is the responsibility of all undergraduate students to be familiar with academic regulations in the School of Mass Communications. Using the Bulletin and this handbook, students should be able to understand and master these requirements to efficiently complete their degree. PROGRAM OVERVIEW The MASC program is divided into two parts: foundation and sequence. All freshmen, transfer and new majors will enter the School of Mass Communications as a foundation student. It will take students a minimum of three semesters to complete the foundation requirements. THE FOUNDATION When students declare Mass Communications as their major, they are automatically placed into the foundation, even if they are changing from another major at VCU or transferring from another 2 or 4-year school. Transfer students should see the section in the Mass Communications student handbook titled Information about Transfer Credits. The foundation requirements can be completed as early as sophomore year for students who began Mass Communications as a freshman. Typically, students petition to a sequence their third semester or once they have completed the courses in Part A of the graduation worksheet. Students can choose from the following sequences: Creative Advertising, Strategic Advertising, Broadcast Journalism, Print Journalism or Public Relations. While in the foundation, students will complete many of their general education requirements and two to three MASC courses depending on the Sequence. Students must maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.5 to petition to a sequence. The following MASC courses must be taken in the foundation according to Sequence: 1) MASC 101 Mass Communications, a three-credit, freshman-level course that provides a broad survey of mass media, with emphasis on new media, global media and the business of media. The history and evolution of mass media are also examined. 2) MASC 201 Curiousness (required for Advertising), a three-credit, freshman-level course that engages students in practical applications, readings, lectures, demonstrations and in class exercises that build curiosity and help students identify and trust their natural curious nature. Provides advertising and nonadvertising majors with rigorous and proactive challenges to stimulate further interest in creating for media. ) MASC 20 Journalism Writing (for Journalism and Public Relation students only), a three-credit, sophomore-level course that begins instruction into the gathering, writing and reporting of the news. Prerequisites for MASC 20 include MASC 101, UNIV 111, UNIV 112 with a grade of at least a C, and cumulative GPA of at least

4 4) MASC 204 Story (for Advertising students only), a three-credit, sophomore-level course that focuses on writing for advertising and consumer communications (the best advertising stories to which consumers can relate). Prerequisites for MASC 204 include MASC 101, UNIV 111, UNIV 112 with a grade of C or better, and cumulative GPA of at least 2.5. APPLYING TO THE SEQUENCE The School of Mass Communications major is divided into three sequences of specialized study: 1) Advertising - including the creative and strategic concentrations 2) Journalism - including the broadcast and print concentrations ) Public Relations Each sequence is designed to provide specific classes in its area of study. Students must petition to a sequence during the semester in which they will complete foundation requirements. To be admitted in to a MASC sequence, you must: 1) Achieve a GPA of at least 2.5 for all course work at VCU plus a minimum MASC GPA of 2.0; 2) Complete MASC 101 and MASC 20 or 204 with grades of at least a C. Advertising students must complete MASC 201 with a grade of at least a C or better in addition; ) Successfully complete the following general education requirements: UNIV 111 & 112 ( C or better in UNIV 112) Science & Technology Math & Statistics (STAT 208) Diverse and Global Communities STAT 208 ECON 20 or BOTH ECON 210 & 211 Human, Social & Political Behavior * (Journalism & PR only: must complete POLI 10 for this general education requirement) 4) Apply (petition) to a sequence by the posted deadlines using the link located on the Mass Comm website and Facebook Advising page. Applications received after these deadlines will not be processed until the semester has ended. Students will therefore miss the opportunity to participate in advance registration for the next semester as a MASC major. Applications are processed once during the fall, spring and summer semesters. After students are accepted into a sequence, they will complete the remainder of their general education requirements, MASC required courses in the sequence, and electives. MASC majors must maintain a cumulative and major GPA of 2.5 each semester to graduate. MASC majors must make grades of at least C in all courses that are prerequisites for other MASC courses, as well as their senior capstone courses.

5 RULES, POLICIES, & PROCEDURES The rules and procedures of the MASC program have been carefully created to make sure the School operates efficiently, to make a student s education as beneficial as possible and to assure fair and equal treatment of all students. All requests for exceptions must be processed through either the School s Academic Appeals Committee or by the School s director. Note that exceptions are rare and are granted only in special circumstances. There are numerous policies and procedures within the School of Mass Communications that students need to be familiar with. The Mass Communications curriculum is very structured and sequential; many courses build on one another. It is the student s responsibility to check prerequisites of classes before enrolling. Also, there are many deadlines such as enrollment requests for MASC 20/204, submission of petition to the sequence, and internship reports, etc. The School s deadlines are posted in the office, on the School s website and Facebook Advising page. The following is a quick overview of School policies: Enrollment Request for MASC 20/204 In order to register for either MASC 20 (for Journalism & Public Relation students) or MASC 204 (Advertising only), students must meet all prerequisites. The Coordinator of Advising performs periodic prerequisite checks to ensure students enrolled meet requirements. Petition to the Sequence Students must complete petition form/contract with an advisor by the posted deadline to be admitted to a sequence. In this petition meeting, students will review graduation requirements and create an academic plan through to graduation. The School s Coordinator of Advising will process the petition requests and notify students with a thorough of School requirements, policies, overrides and expectations in an once they have been successfully admitted to a Sequence. Required Cumulative GPA To be allowed entry into either MASC 20 or 204 and a Sequence, students must earn a cumulative GPA of exactly 2.50 or higher. In order to graduate, students obtain a cumulative and major GPA of 2.50 or higher. The School does not grant exceptions to this requirement for enrollment into MASC 20/204, to petition, or to graduate. 80 non-masc hours and 65 liberal art courses As part of the School s accreditation, students must graduate with 80 non-masc credits. Out of those 80 credits, 65 must be liberal art courses. The following is a quick overview to determine what is or is not a liberal arts course; it is recommended they seek advising for clarification or questions about a course s status. Liberal Art Courses Anything offered in the College of Humanities and Sciences Non-Liberal Art Courses Any course taken in the School of Business, Engineering, or Arts. 4

6 ADVISING The University College provides advising to all Mass Communications freshmen in the foundation; the UC is located in Hibbs Hall, first floor. Sophomores and transfer students will meet with either a MASC Graduate Assistant or Peer Advisors. It is recommended that students meet with an advisor at least once per semester until graduation. Advising is conducted on a walk-in basis only. Check the Mass Comm website and Facebook page for posted hours. In addition, MASC faculty are available as mentors to discuss various career opportunities and job placement possibilities. Your advisor is there for assistance only; ultimately, you are responsible for keeping track of and meeting all the requirements of the School and the University, as well as staying informed about procedural changes. Advisor Responsibilities: Assist students in assessing interests and abilities Understand and effectively communicate the curriculum, graduation requirements, and university (and School s) policies and procedures Encourage and guide students as they define and develop realistic goals Advise on the selection of of appropriate courses and other educational experiences Provide student with information about, and strategies for, utilizing the available resources and services on campus Monitor and accurately document student progress Be accessible for meeting with students via telephone, , or web access, and during office hours for advising Assist students in developing decision making skills, as well as aid students in developing an educational plan Maintain confidentiality Assist students in working closely with professors and faculty Student Responsibilities Schedule regular appointments or make regular contact with their advisor each semester Come prepared to each appointment with questions and/or material for discussion Be an active listener by participating fully in the advising experience Ask questions if something is not understood or if there is a concern Complete all assignments or recommendations from your advisor Gather all relevant decision-making material Clarify personal values and goals and provide advisor with accurate information regarding interests and abilities Become knowledgeable about University and School policies and procedures Accept responsibility for decisions ADVISORS Graduate and peer advisors are on hand during the fall, spring and summer semesters to assist students with advising needs. Peer advisors are MASC students who can answer general advising questions. The peer advisors are usually seniors all of whom have at least a 2.75 overall GPA and at least a.0 Mass Communications GPA. Their office is located in Temple In addition, there are Graduate Assistants who are students pursuing their Master s or Doctorate degrees at VCU in a MASC related field. Office hours and locations are posted on-line and other various places in Temple. Students may also the peer advisors at vcumasscommadvising@gmail.com. 5

7 ADVISING REFERAL For questions on Go to. Location Phone/ Academic Appeals (ARAC) Academic Suspension or Probation Your Advisor or Records Harris Hall 1 st floor Billing (questions about owing $) Student Accounting Harris Hall 1 st floor Career & Jop Opportunties Career Center Student Commons CLEP Learning Center Hibbs 1 st floor Closed Classes (overrides) Professor and/or Varies department that offers course Co-op programs Career Center Student Commons, Difficulty in classes Learning Center Hibbs 1 st floor Disabilities Disabilities Support Services Student Commons Escort Service (walk to car/dorm at night) Financial Aid Financial Aid Office Harris Hall 1 st floor Health Concerns Student Health Services Sports Medicine Bldg Honor s Courses Honor s College 701 W. Grace St Internships Career Center or Student Commons MASC Parking (tickets or permits) Parking & Transportation 1111 W. Broad St Personal problems or issues Counseling Services Student Commons Placement Testing (foreign lang.) World Studies Hibbs Media Center Tutoring or Campus Learning Center Hibbs 1 st floor Supplemental Instructions Transcript Student Services Center Harris Hall 1 st floor (to obtain an official copy) Transfer Credit Transfer Center Hibbs VCU Portal or Techonology Services Cabell Library B Writing Assignments/Papers Writing Center Hibbs 1 st floor

8 GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS OVERVIEW To graduate from VCU, students must complete a minimum of 120 credits in three areas: general education requirements, MASC requirements and electives. The general education requirements total approximately half of the required 120 credits, covering work in English, mathematics, science, foreign language and other liberal arts. The MASC requirements total at least 4 but no more than 40 credits, providing training in a chosen sequence. Students must also graduate with 80 non-masc hours and 65 liberal art courses all within the 120 total credits needed for graduation. Electives are courses in which students choose from a variety of subject areas to help meet career goals, pursue a specialized interest or complete a minor. Mass Communications majors are encouraged to choose a minor that will complement their chosen sequence (see page 8, What Should I Do With My Electives? ). At least 45 of all credits must be 00- or 400- level courses (upper-level). MATH and STATISTICS REQUIREMENTS Students must take the MATH placement test to determine skill level unless a student transfers credit for an equivalent MATH course from another school. The test is offered by the Testing Coordinator in the University College. Once your skill level is determined you will be able to register for certain classes: MATH 11 (or higher) and STAT 208. You must complete STAT 208 for your Mass Communications degree. MATH 11 Introduction to Contemporary Mathematics. If students placed out of Math 11, then they are eligible to enroll in STAT 208. Students are not required to take MATH 11, however, if you place into MATH 11, it must be taken before enrolling in STAT 208. STAT 208 If students place into STAT 208 (or MATH 200), then they have placed out of MATH 11. This means that students will not have to take MATH 11. Students will not receive credit for MATH 11. FOREIGN LANGUAGE REQUIREMENT Students are required to complete a foreign language through to the 102 level for a Mass Communications degree. Placement is determined by previous coursework and/or proficiency in a foreign language. Students who have completed three years or more of study of one foreign language at the high school level have fulfilled the foreign language requirement through the 102 level. To have high school courses evaluated for application of this policy, visit for the Foreign Language Placement Form. Complete the form and return it to 211 Hibbs. Students who have not completed at least three years of foreign language in high school are encouraged to take the foreign language placement test. For more information on the foreign language placement test, visit 7

9 Native and heritage speakers of languages other than French, German, Spanish, and Russian may be eligible to have the foreign language requirement waived. See for details. WHAT SHOULD I DO WITH MY ELECTIVES? Mass Communications credits plus the required general education credits do not add to 120 credits. So what should students do with the remaining credits? That s entirely up to each student. But consider the following options: Take all the writing courses possible. Clear, grammatical, concise and graceful writing will always help one s career, no matter what sequence or interest. Courses such as ENGL 114 English Grammar and Usage; ENGL 04 Advanced Composition; and ENGL/MGMT 27 Business and Technical Report Writing are among many that can help polish these skills. Obtain a minor. A minor is a concentration of courses usually 18 credits allowing students to develop a specialty to complement a major or develop another interest. Mass Communications majors can benefit by obtaining minors in areas such as English, writing, history, political science, international studies, art history, economics, psychology, women s studies, African-American studies, American studies or a foreign language. Many of the courses required for a Mass Communications degree can be counted as part of a minor. For example, the history classes required for the MASC degree (JR) can also count toward a minor in history. Study a foreign language. A working knowledge of a foreign language will not only make any trips abroad easier and more interesting, it literally will open up a new world of career opportunities. VCU offers courses in Chinese, Italian, Latin, Portuguese and Russian; minors are offered in French, German and Spanish. Study-abroad opportunities are also available. It is possible to obtain a double major? Although choosing to double major may extend one s time in school, it is possible to pursue another discipline or seek another concentration within Mass Communications. See an advisor and read the VCU Undergraduate Bulletin for complete details. When selecting electives, it is useful to consider that they will complement a student s degree. The following classes relate directly to some of the careers in mass communications; however, there are dozens of classes that may pique one s interest. The key is to try to select electives carefully and thoughtfully. ELECTIVES TO CONSIDER ARTH MGMT 2 MGMT 25 MGMT/ENGL 27 MGMT 1 MGMT 7 MGMT 420 MGMT 421 MGMT 474 ECON 05 ECON 06 Survey of Western Art Legal Environment of Business Organizational Communication Business and Technical Report Writing Personnel Management Consumer Behavior Seminar in Industrial Relations Small Business Management Personal Selling and Sales Management Public Finance State and Local Public Finance Federal 8

10 ECON 07 ECON 21 ECON 421 ENGL 04 ENGL 05 POLI 01 POLI 14 POLI 21 POLI 2 POLI 28 POLI 29 POLI 1 PSYC 08 PSYC 10 PSYC 21 PSYC 24 PSYC/SOCY 41 SOCY 27 SOCY 70 Money and Banking Urban Economics Government and Business Advanced Composition Creative Writing U.S. Parties and Elections U.S. Constitutional Law Urban Government and Politics Virginia Government and Politics Seminar in Urban Problems Intergovernmental Relations Public Administration Stress and Its Management Industrial Psychology Social Psychology Psychology of Advertising Group Dynamics Urban Sociology Mass Media and Society STUDY ABROAD Want to spend a summer or semester studying overseas? There are hundreds of reasons why one should. In today s environment, an international educational experience makes one more marketable in the broadcasting and media indusrty. With globalization of the news and the media, having an international mindset is an absolute necessity. In addition, the cultural experience will enhance a student s understanding of self and give them a better idea of who they want to be. Living overseas expands horizons on everything from food to footwear. And think about it: a summer study would be a great way to fullfil one s foreign language requirement! Because Mass Communications does not allow for major credits to transfer in, planning ahead is essential. Students should plan to participate in study abroad before they enter the School of Mass Communications. This means you should begin arranging your study abroad during your first semester at VCU. See how VCU s many summer programs could fit into your schedule: fulfill either your general education requirements or your minor requirements while studying in such locations as the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Malta, Thailand or Sweden. Studying abroad can be expensive, but students do it all the time and so can you. If you are eligible, you may apply for financial aid (with the exception of work-study) to an approved Study Abroad Program. In addition, there are scholarships available through a wide variety of programs for study and research. Talk to the staff in the Education Abroad Resource Room to find out more about available funding. Students in the Honors Program may also wish to consult with an Honors Program adviser to see what type of funding may be available there. The sooner you start to plan your study abroad, the sooner you will find that you have many more program options, and it may save you money! For more information, contact the Office of International Education at abroad@vcu.edu, by phone at or visit the Study Abroad Resource Room, at 817 West Franklin Street, Franklin Street Gym. 9

11 OVERRIDES The following is the official policy for course overrides in VCU s School of Mass Communications: A course override (permission for a student to enroll in a class that would otherwise be denied) is granted only under extraordinary circumstances. Decisions are made on a case-by-case basis. Examples of extraordinary conditions include medical emergencies, family tragedies and other events that are clearly beyond the control of the student. Documentation will be required. NOTE: Work schedule conflicts, failure to register in a timely manner and need it to graduate are examples of reasons that will NOT be accepted. Overrides are granted by the instructor of the course one wishes to take, except for MASC 20/204. Please the Coordinator of Advising for override inquiries. INFORMATION ABOUT TRANSFER CREDITS Upon transferring into the School from another university or from another program at VCU, students are automatically classified as being in the foundation. The School requires all MASC courses be taken at VCU, since mass communication courses at other institutions are not transferable. Therefore, students will probably spend a minimum of two semesters at VCU in the foundation regardless of the number of credits you transfer. It may take students longer to complete foundation coursework depending on courses that transferred and the ability to meet other petition requirement such as GPA. Also, it is important to note that once students begin their major coursework, it will take two years (or 4 semesters) to meet graduation requirements due to course sequencing. There are a number of other points about transfer courses and they are as follows: 1) The transfer of course credits from another university is not automatic. Students must request that the other institution send their transcript(s) to VCU once grades are finalized. Evaluation of general education transfer credits are done through the Transfer Center, not in the School of Mass Communications. Any questions about transfer credits should be directed there. The Transfer Center is currently located in 22 Hibbs Hall, and can be reach by phone at ) The School of Mass Communications does not accept upper-level mass communications courses for transfer from other colleges or universities. ) No MASC course taken at a community or two-year college will transfer to VCU as upper-level (00- or 400-level) credits, even if it has the same title or covers the same material as a VCU major course. Students transferring 60 or more credits from a two-year institution should be aware that 45 upper-level credits must be completed at VCU. Students are encouraged to take 00- and 400- level courses when you have the option. 4) Only courses in which students earn a grade of C or better will transfer. 5) Before taking courses at another college to transfer back to VCU, Students must fill out a request to take course at another institution form, and have it signed by their advisor. Once that form is signed, students must take it to the Dean s office for approval in 211 Hibbs Hall. The form can be found at the following link: 10

12 6) Even if a course does not fulfill a specific VCU requirement, it might transfer to VCU as an elective, as long as a grade of C or better is earned. 7) Transferring 60 or more credits from a community college does not guarantee that students will finish within two years at VCU (4 years total). Students may not have taken the correct courses to fulfill specific VCU requirements. In addition, students must take MASC courses in the correct sequence which may take longer than two years. 8) Advanced Placement and College-Level Examination Program tests may be used to fulfill general education or elective requirements. However, they may not fulfill specific Mass Communications major course requirements. 9) A.A., A.S. and A.A.S. degree holders should notify their advisor. 11

13 DEGREE REQUIREMENTS The following pages list the specific course requirements for graduation. The first section lists the general education courses required of all Mass Communications majors, regardless of Sequence, including foundation requirements (MASC 101 and MASC 20/204 are prerequisites for all upper-level mass communications courses). Second is the College of Humanities and Sciences approved lists. Next is the list of course requirements along with a suggested four-year schedule for each of the sequences: advertising, journalism and public relations. Prerequisites are listed in parentheses after each course title. At the end of this section is a list of suggested electives you may find useful. Use these pages as a worksheet to track your progress toward graduation. GENERAL EDUCATION These courses are required of all MASC students. Prerequisite courses are shown in parentheses and italicized. 1. Writing UNIV 111 Focused Inquiry I UNIV 112 Focused Inquiry II (Grade of C or better is required for UNIV 112) 2. Math and Statistics STAT 208. Human, Social, & Political Behavior: Choose one ANTH 10 Introduction to Anthropology ECON 101/INTL 102 Intro to Political Economy HUMS 00 Great Questions of the Social Sciences POLI 10 U.S. Government** PSYC 101 Introduction to Psychology SCTS 200 Science in Society SOCY 101 General Sociology **Journalism and PR student must take POLI Science and Technology, -4 credits total: Choose one BIOL 101 Biological Concepts (4 credits) BIOL/ENVS 10 Environmental Science (4 credits) CHEM 110 Chemistry and Society FRSC 202 Crime and Science INSC 201 Energy! PHYS 10 Elementary Astronomy 5. Diverse & Global Communications: Choose one INTL 101 Human Societies and Globalization POLI/INTL 105 International Relations RELS 108 Human Spirituality WMNS 201 Introduction to Women s Studies -4 credits 12

14 Economics ECON 20 or ECON 210 AND ECON 211 MASC Foundation MASC 101 Mass Communications * MASC 201 Curiousness (for Advertising only) MASC 20 Journalism Writing (JR & PR only)(masc 101) * 4 credits MASC 204 Story (for Advertising only) (MASC 101 & 201)* Courses below this line are not required before admission into the major. 6. Literature and Civilization: Choose one course ENGL 215 Readings in Literature HIST 201 The Art of Historical Detection HUMS 250 Reading Film PHIL 201 Critical Thinking About Moral Problems WRLD 20/INTL 20 Cultural Texts and Contexts WRLD 20 Introduction to World Cinema 7. General Education Electives Choose any 2 additional courses from sections, 4, 5, and/or 6 (must be from two different boxes). 6 credits 8. General Education Modules Experiencing the Fine Arts: successfully complete one course from the School of the Arts (1-) **Advertising students must take ARTH 104 HUMS 202 Choices in a Consumer Society 1 credit 9. Foreign Language: Verification Form: Level: 4 credits 102 Level: 4 credits Additional Degree Requirements UNIV 200 Writing and Rhetoric II (C or better required and must complete 24 credits prior to enrollment) HIST 10 Survey of American History I HIST 104 Survey of American History II Additional Literature at 00 level or above POLI or URSP at 00 level or above 1

15 Additional Graduation Requirements Students must earn: Minimum of 120 credits 80 non-masc 65 liberal art courses Minimum cumulative GPA: 2.50 Minimum MASC/major GPA: 2.50 Minimum of 45 upper-level credits -Upper-level credits are any level courses (can be either in or outside of your major) Minimum of 80 non-masc earned hours -Total number of MASC credits cannot exceed one third of the overall credits required for the major. Hence, students are limited to taking 40 MASC credits. At least 0 of the last 45 credits taken at VCU 14

16 ADVERTISING SEQUENCE FOUNDATION All courses are worth except where indicated. MASC prerequisites are noted in parentheses. MASC 101 Mass Communications MASC 201 Curiousness MASC 204 Story (MASC 101, UNIV 111 and 112, cum. GPA of 2.50 or higher) SEQUENCE MASC 101, 201, and 204 are prerequisites for all upper-level MASC courses. Additional MASC prerequisites are listed in parentheses. Check later in this student handbook for course descriptions. All Advertising students: MASC 80 History of Advertising (204) MASC 408 Communications Ethics and Law MASC 481 Completeness (for Creative 92, 94 for Strategic 98, 99) Creative Concentration MASC 00 Technical Prowess ( 101 & 201) MASC 92 Perspicuousness (204, UNIV 200) MASC 94 Imagination (204, 00) MASC 450 Style (92, 94) MASC 451 Invention (450) MASC Elective MASC Elective Strategic Concentration MASC 98 Awareness (204) MASC 99 Empathy (204) MASC 459 Judgement (98, 99, plus 6 credits of MASC Electives) MASC 49 Fieldwork/Internship MASC Elective MASC Elective MASC Elective Additional Collateral Requirements for ALL Advertising students ACCT 202 or MKTG 01 NOTES Students are required to complete a total of 120 credits to graduate. Students may not take more than 40 credits in mass communications courses. In addition, students must take 45 credits in 00- and 400-level courses (including MASC courses). 15

17 STRATEGIC ADVERTISING SUGGESTED SCHEDULE OF COURSES First Year UNIV 111 UNIV 112 MASC 101 MASC 80 MASC 201 STAT 208 Science & Technology -4 ECON 20 Human, Social, & Political Behavior Total Credits 12-1 Total Credits 15 Second Year MASC 204 MASC 98 Diverse & Global MASC 99 Communications Literature and Civilization MASC Elective at level ARTH 10 UNIV 200 ACCT 202 or MKTG 01 General Education Elective from Box 7 HUMS Total Credits 16 Total Credits 15 Third Year MASC Elective at MASC 408 level General Education Elective MASC Elective at from Box 7 level Additional Literature Course POLI or URSP at at level level Foreign Language 4 Foreign Language 4 HIST 10 HIST 104 Total Credits 16 Total Credits 16 Fourth Year MASC 49 MASC 459 MASC 481 Elective at level Elective at level Elective Elective at level Elective Elective Elective Total Credits 15 Total Credits 15 Total credits needed to graduate =

18 CREATIVE ADVERTISING SUGGESTED SCHEDULE OF COURSES First Year UNIV 111 UNIV 112 MASC 101 MASC 80 STAT 208 OR 210 MASC 201 ECON 20 Science & Technology -4 Human, Social, & Political Behavior Total Credits 12-1 Total Credits 15 Second Year MASC 204 MASC 00 Diverse & Global MASC Elective at Communications level Literature and Civilization ENGL 200 ARTH 10 General Education Elective from Box 7 ACCT 202 or MKTG 01 HIST 10 HUMS Total Credits 15 Total Credits 16 Third Year MASC 92 MASC Elective at level MASC 94 MASC 408 General Education Elective Additional Literature Course 4 from Box 7 at level Foreign Language Foreign Language HIST 104 POLI or URSP at level Total Credits 16 Total Credits 17 Fourth Year MASC 450 MASC 451 Elective at level MASC 481 Elective at level Elective at level Elective Elective Elective Elective Total Credits 15 Total Credits 15 Total credits needed to graduate =

19 JOURNALISM SEQUENCE FOUNDATION All courses are worth except where indicated. MASC prerequisites are noted in parentheses. MASC 101 Mass Communications MASC 20 Journalism Writing (MASC 101, UNIV 111 and 112, cum. GPA of 2.50 or higher) SEQUENCE MASC 101 and 20 are prerequisites for all upper-level MASC courses. Additional MASC prerequisites are listed in parentheses. Check later in this student handbook for course descriptions. All Journalism students: MASC elective MASC 0 General Assignment Reporting (20) MASC 6 Electronic Media Writing I (with 65 & 66) MASC 67 Audio and Video Production (with 6) MASC 408 Communications Ethics and Law MASC 49 Fieldwork/Internship MASC 61 History and Development of Broadcasting and requirements under Broadcast or Print concentrations credit Broadcast Concentration MASC 460 Electronic Media Writing II MASC 415 Advanced Television Production (67, with 460) choose three to four credits from the following capstone courses: MASC 461 The Documentary (6, 67 ) MASC 462 Photojournalism (67) MASC 465 Newscasting (6, with 466) MASC 466 Television Studio Production MASC 475 Capital News Service Print Concentration MASC 01 Graphics for Journalism MASC 05 Copy Editing (01) choose two of the following capstone courses: MASC 40 Advanced Reporting (0, 05) MASC 404 Specialized Project Reporting (40) MASC 475 Capital News Service (00, 0) MASC 496 Multimedia Journalism (02, 0, 6, 67) credit 1 credit Additional Collateral Requirement for ALL Journalism Students History Elective at level NOTES: Students are required to complete a total of 120 credits to graduate. Students may not take more than 40 credits in mass communications courses. In addition, students must have taken 45 credits in 00- and 400-level courses (including MASC courses). 18

20 BROADCAST JOURNALISM SUGGESTED SCHEDULE OF COURSES First Year UNIV 111 UNIV 112 MASC 101 STAT 208 POLI 10 Elective Science & Technology -4 ECON 20 Total Credits 12-1 Diverse & Global Communications Total Credits 15 Second Year MASC 20 MASC 02 General Education Electives MASC 6 from Box 7 General Education Modules MASC 67 HUMS Foreign Language Foreign Language General Education Electives from Box 7 Total Credits 15 Total Credits 15 Third Year MASC 0 MASC 408 MASC 61 POLI or URSP at level UNIV 200 Additional Literature at level HIST 10 HIST 104 Literature and Civilization MASC 49 Total Credits 15 Total Credits 15 Fourth Year MASC 460 to 4 credits from MASC , 462, 465, 466, or 475 MASC 415 HIST elective at Upper-level Elective level Upper-level Elective Upper-level Elective Upper-level Elective Upper-level Elective Elective Elective Total Credits 16 Total Credits Total credits needed to graduate =

21 PRINT JOURNALISM SUGGESTED SCHEDULE OF COURSES First Year UNIV 111 UNIV 112 MASC 101 STAT 208 POLI 10 Elective Science & Technology -4 ECON 20 Total Credits 12-1 Diverse & Global Communications Total Credits 15 Second Year MASC 20 4 MASC 01 General Education Electives MASC elective from Box 7 General Education Modules General Education Electives from Box 7 HUMS UNIV 200 Foreign Language Foreign Language Total Credits 15 Total Credits 16 Third Year MASC 0 MASC 05 MASC 6 MASC 408 MASC 67 Additional Literature at level HIST 10 POLI or URSP at level HIST 104 Elective Total Credits 14 Total Credits 15 Fourth Year MASC Elective MASC 49 Choose from MASC 40, 404, 475 or 496 Choose from MASC 40, 404, 475 or 496 HIST elective at MASC 61 level Upper-Level Elective Upper-Level Elective Elective Elective Elective Elective Total Credits 18 Total Credits Total credits needed to graduate =

22 FOUNDATION PUBLIC RELATIONS SEQUENCE All courses are worth except where indicated. MASC prerequisites are noted in parentheses. MASC 101 Mass Communications MASC 20 Journalism Writing (MASC 101, UNIV 111 and 112, and cum. GPA of 2.50 or higher) MAJOR MASC 101 and 20 are prerequisites for all upper-level major courses. Additional MASC prerequisites are listed in parentheses. Check later in this handbook for course descriptions. MASC 2 Public Relations MASC Public Relations Writing (MASC 2) MASC 4 Public Relations Graphics MASC 5 Public Relations Production (MASC ) MASC 408 Communications Ethics and Law MASC 425 Public Relations Research MASC 49 Public Relations Campaigns (MASC 2,, 5 and 425) MASC 49 Fieldwork/Internship (permission required) MASC electives -- choose six of the following classes MASC 41 Digital Public Relations (1 credit) MASC 42 Media Relations (1 credit) MASC 4 Public Relations and Special Events (1 credit) MASC 44 Public Relations and Risk Communication (1 credit) MASC 45 Public Relations and Crisis Communication (1 credit) MASC 46 Public Relations and Reputation Management (1 credit) MASC 47 Public Relations and Integrated Brand Integration (1 credit) MASC 48 Public Relations and Employee Communication (1 credit) 1-6 credits Collateral Requirements ACCT 202 Accounting for Non-Business Majors MKTG 01 Introduction to Marketing... MGMT 19 Organizational Behavior NOTES Students need to complete a total of 120 credits to graduate. Students may not take more than 40 credits in mass communications courses. In addition, students must take at least 45 credits in 00- and 400- level courses (MASC courses are included in this count). 21

23 PUBLIC RELATIONS - SUGGESTED SCHEDULE OF COURSES First Year UNIV 111 UNIV 112 MASC 101 Human, Social & Political Behavior course (Box ) POLI 10 Science and Technology -4 Foreign Language course (Box 4) General Education Foreign Language 102 Elective (Box 8) General Education 4 Elective (Box 8) Total Credits 17 Total Credits Second Year MASC 20 MASC 2 ECON 20 UNIV 200 Literature and Civilization Diverse & Global (Box 6) Fine Arts course (Box 8) STAT 208 or 210 Total Credits Communications (Box 5) HIST 10 ACCT 202 Total Credits Third Year MASC MASC 4 POLI or URSP Class MASC 408 (00 level or above) Literature Course (00 level or above) MKTG 01 Elective Total Credits 15 MGMT 19 MASC 425 HIST 104 Total Credits Fourth Year MASC 5 MASC PR elective MASC PR elective MASC PR elective MASC 425 HUMS 202 Any (non-masc) elective Total Credits MASC 49 MASC PR elective MASC PR elective MASC PR elective MASC 49 Any (non-masc) elective Any (non-masc elective Total Credits Total credits needed to graduate =

24 HELPFUL HINTS 1) The following publications will be helpful throughout a student s career: this handbook and the VCU Undergraduate and Professional Programs Bulletin for University curriculum, rules and procedures change, but students are governed by the version of the bulletin and handbook in effect when they entered the University. 2) Many of the questions students may have are answered in the VCU Bulletin or this handbook, so please read thoroughly before seeing an advisor. ) Don t catch an advisor in a hallway and ask, Do I need course XXX to graduate? That question is much more complex than one might realize, since one course might not be necessary for your MASC degree, but it might be necessary for your 45 upper-level credits. 4) Typing is a critical skill, not only in college, but also in most professional job settings. The School recommends that students be able to type at least 5 wpm. 5) Students must be able to write and speak well to be successful in any of the mass communications professions. If a student has problems with English grammar, spelling, punctuation or sentence construction, it is highly advised to make extra efforts to overcome them. The University offers writing courses of many kinds and the Writing Center can assist with improving a student s skills. 6) Students may not take 00 or 400 level MASC courses unless they have been admitted to the MASC major. If students try to register for them, he/she will be blocked by the university registration system. This does not apply to upper-level courses given by other departments. For example, you do not have to be a MASC major to take POLI 22 or MKTG 01; each department has its own restrictions. 7) Students will be dropped from major courses if they do not have the stated prerequisites, found in the degree requirement section of this handbook. Prerequisites are also listed in the VCU Undergraduate Bulletin. Also note that overrides into closed classes are generally not allowed. 8) After a student decides on a sequence in Mass Communications, it quickly becomes difficult to change to another sequence because students are limited to a set amount of MASC credits (no more than 40). It is highly recommended that students gather information about the various mass communications careers, talk to an advisor and other professors and participate in the student clubs and student media. 9) Student clubs and student media are excellent activities. They connect students with similar interests, provide the opportunity for professional contacts and offer additional experience that will be useful in a student s chosen profession. These activities also can strengthen one s resume and help in the job-hunting process after graduation. The School has student chapters of the Society of Professional Journalists, the National Association of Black Journalists, the Association of Black Communicators, Public Relations Student Society of America, Radio Television News Directors Association and the Ad Club. Student media include the student-run newspapers, The Commonwealth Times and the campus radio station, WVCW. 10) Students also should take advantage of the numerous opportunities for practical experience in their chosen area. Practical experience outside the classroom is an invaluable asset when students begin looking for a job. Internships are available in each sequence for credit and some are paid positions (note that internships for credit are not available to pre-major students). The university also has a cooperative education program that can place students 2

25 into paying jobs in their area of interest. Contact the University Career Center at (804) for more information on cooperative education opportunities. 11) Remember, that students are allowed a total of three credits of fieldwork (MASC 49) within their program (except for Creative Advertising students). It may be wise, therefore, to sign up for only one or two internship credits per semester, thereby allowing one as much varied internship experience as possible. For more information about internships, contact the School s Internship Coordinator at ) Students must earn between 4-40 (depending on your Sequence) credits in Mass Communications course work for graduation. This helps ensure that students receive a solid foundation in liberal arts to support the chosen MASC concentration. Therefore, where there is space in a particular sequence for a MASC elective, choose it carefully. TECHNICAL STANDARDS FOR MASS COMMUNICATIONS PROGRAMS This description of technical standards is to inform prospective and enrolled students of the skills needed for the various professions within communications, including but not limited to print journalism, broadcast journalism, on-line journalism, advertising, public relations and photography. These technical standards reflect the performance abilities and characteristics that are necessary to successfully complete the requirements of the programs in the School of Mass Communications. These standards are not requirements of admission into the program. People interested in applying for admission to the program should review these standards to develop a better understanding of the personal and professional attributes, skills, experiences, education, physical, medical, safety and other requirements that are necessary to successfully complete the program. The School of Mass Communications complies with the requirements and spirit of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and Americans with Disabilities Act of Therefore, the School will endeavor to make reasonable accommodations for otherwise qualified students with disabilities. The School recognizes that the B.S. degree in Mass Communications carries with it the full authority of the institution and communicates to those who might seek the services of the bearer of the degree that he or she is competent in the practice of communications. Therefore, the student must demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and attitudes that the faculty has determined are essential for the practice of communications and their specialties. Mass communications pre-majors and majors with disabilities documented by the VCU Office of Disability Support Services can request a meeting with the director of the VCU School of Mass Communications to discuss academic adjustment(s) to accommodate their disability. Reasonable accommodations will be determined by the VCU Office of Disability Support Services with input from the student, mass communications faculty who teach courses in the student s curriculum and the VCU School of Mass Communications administration. The following technical standards describe the essential functions that students must demonstrate in order to fulfill the requirements within each area of concentration in the School of Mass Communications. These technical skills are unique to each area of concentration; therefore a student who does not meet the technical standards in one area of concentration may meet them in another. 24

26 Technical Standards 1. Physical/Motor Skills General: Students should have sufficient motor function to operate the equipment needed to meet curriculum requirements in all communications fields. Specific: All concentrations: A student must possess the motor skills to operate personal computers; use word processing software; manipulate graphic software; access the Internet and other online information; use spreadsheets, databases and other analytic software. In addition, students must have the speed and dexterity to use this equipment and software in such a manner as to be able to meet strict deadlines, similar to those imposed in their chosen professional field. Broadcast Journalism Student: 1. Student must have sufficient fine motor skills to manipulate a computer keyboard with fingertips or using an adaptive and/or accessibility device. 2. Ability to independently transport professional video field gear (approximately 60 lbs. total) and operate a professional video camera (approximately 0 lbs.) and lift it to shoulder height.. Ability to maneuver in small, unique and/or unusual spaces. 4. Sufficient fine motor skills to manipulate, process and edit video/audio materials and produce a finished product within strict deadlines. 5. Students must be able to complete projects/activities within short periods of time and/or adhere to strict deadlines. 2. Sensory/Observation General: Students should be able to acquire a predetermined level of required information through observation and personal experiences in basic and advanced courses. Students should be able to acquire visual and auditory information. Specific: Advertising Creative: A student must possess the visual acuity to see fine detail; discern differentiations in color, shape and texture with or without corrected vision. Journalism Print: A student must possess the visual acuity to read charts, records and small print and handwritten notations with or without corrected vision. Journalism Broadcast: A student must possess the visual acuity to see fine detail; discern differentiations in color, shape and texture; read and manipulate a digital sound wave on a computer screen; and see and manipulate a video image frame-by-frame. A student must also possess the visual acuity to read charts, records and small print and handwritten notations, and be able to focus on details for such activities as framing and capturing video and computer images with or without corrected vision. A Student must be able to accurately hear and distinguish sounds, voices, and other auditory stimulus in order to gather and complete audio/video projects. 25

27 . Communication General: A student must be able to communicate effectively and accurately both orally and through writing. Students must be able to use these skills to gather and convey information. Specific: All concentrations: A student must have sufficient facility with English to retrieve information from texts, lectures and personal interviews and to communicate concepts and ideas on written exams and written and oral assignments. Journalism Broadcast: Students must have an effective broadcast voice, which includes industry standards such as clear articulation, enunciation and authoritativeness. 4. Cognitive General: A student must be able to measure, calculate, reason, analyze, integrate, and synthesize. Specific: All concentrations: A student must be able to comprehend three-dimensional relationships and to understand basic spatial and mathematical relationships. Problem solving requires all of the intellectual abilities listed above. A student must be able to perform these problem solving skills in a timely manner and under strict deadlines, similar to those found in the communications profession. 5. Behavioral General: A Student must adhere to the universities student code of conduct. Specific: All concentrations: 1. Ability to endure physically taxing workloads and to function effectively under stress. 2. Ability to adapt to changing environments, display flexibility, and function in the face of uncertainties inherent in the communications field. Integrity, interpersonal skills and motivation are all personal qualities that will be assessed during the admissions and education processes.. Ability to accept criticism and respond by appropriate modification of behavior. 4. Ability to interrelate among fellow students, team members, internship providers, human news sources, community members and faculty with honesty, integrity, respect and nondiscrimination. 5. Ability to tolerate and function effectively under stress, time constraints and distracting conditions. 6. Ability to adapt to changing environments and display flexibility in the classroom and in handson/practical assignments. 26