The radio major provides 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 such as social media, computer automation systems and advanced production software are integrated throughout the curriculum to prepare students to engage in the most current applications across digital platforms. To encourage creative entrepreneurship each student receives a live-streaming internet radio station to use in the classroom and at home. The curriculum emphasizes core skills and knowledge for on-air talent, writing, producing, production and creative content programming and is designed to provide students with 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 sportscasting, voice over, radio theater, documentary, and radio 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 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 directors. 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 FM has won numerous awards, including “Best College Radio Station” from New York Festivals international competition and the “Best in Festival” award from Broadcast Education Association international competition. WCRX was named one of the nine top college radio stations by the Huffington Post and one of the top 10 college radio stations by the Washington Post.
The radio internship program, one of the oldest and largest in the country, places approximately 50 students per year in commercial, public, internet and satellite radio, as well as in production and voice-over companies. A full-time staff member provides individual advising to assess student interest and help secure an internship placement. All qualified students are assigned an internship if requested.
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.
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