Mar 28, 2024  
2018-2019 Catalog 
    
2018-2019 Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Radio, BA


The Radio major aims to provide students with a comprehensive education in radio and audio media with a focus on innovation and creativity in terrestrial radio, online, streaming and web-based audio in a multimedia environment. Technologies that host as social media, advanced production software and radio automation systems are integrated throughout the curriculum to prepare students to engage in the most current applications across digital platforms. The curriculum emphasizes core skills and knowledge for on-air talent, writing, producing, production and creative content programming in the arts and entertainment fields. Students have the opportunity to create a body of work that can be used as an audio resume when seeking employment. Specialty courses and a wide range of electives allow students to pursue individual areas of interest in voice over, radio theater, documentary, and audio storytelling, as well as club DJ mixes for live entertainment venues. Faculty who work in the industry as talent, writers, producers, production experts and program directors provide teaching, advising and mentorship throughout the program.

All Radio majors complete at least one semester working at the award-winning WCRX 88.1 FM and wcrxfm.com, giving all students experience in both broadcast radio and online media. Students receive individual guidance while learning to be on-air show hosts, producers, music curators, sportscasters, newscasters, production directors and social media/web content producers. After completing one semester, students can propose a new music, talk, news or sports program to further develop their unique voice and talent. With a strong sense of responsibility to the community and a mission to create future media leaders, WCRX students engage in annual fundraising events for charity and participate in special programs in the public interest such as election night coverage.
 WCRX has won numerous awards, including Best College Radio Station from New York Festivals International competition, and has been named one of the top ten college radio stations by The Huffington Post and The Washington Post.

The Radio internship program, one of the oldest and largest in the country, places students in commercial, public, internet, and satellite radio, as well as in production and voice-over companies. Individual advising is provided to assess student interest and help secure an internship placement. All qualified students are assigned an internship if requested.

As a result of successfully completing program requirements, students should be able to:

  • demonstrate an understanding of the history and operations of the radio station including programming, engineering, rules and regulations of the Federal Communications Commission, and sales/marketing;
  • identify and understand the decision-making process involved with ethical dilemmas and issues;
  • possess Standard English pronunciation and appropriate vocal techniques for effective radio/audio communications;
  • demonstrate proficiency of technical and production skills required for radio/audio production;
  • create and execute various radio formats;
  • write, direct, produce, and execute both long and short form radio/audio programs; and
  • produce a professional quality radio/audio portfolio.

The Radio Department offers a Second Bachelor of Arts and two radio minors: a Radio minor program for specialized study in radio and audio media and a minor in Voiceover.