Communication and Media Studies

Communication and Media Studies Programs at Reinhardt University

School of the Arts

Bachelor | On Campus

Our program offers a comprehensive overview of the contemporary global media landscape, covering subjects such as intercultural communication, film and television studies, graphic design, and digital media production. Students will hone their skills in various forms of storytelling and visual communication, while also developing critical thinking, research, and leadership capabilities. The curriculum includes a capstone experience through either a professional internship or a transmedia storytelling project, providing students with hands-on opportunities to apply their knowledge in real-world settings.

What You’ll Learn at RU

Throughout the duration of this program, students will embark on a comprehensive journey covering every aspect of production, from initial planning to final touches. They will explore the depths of pre-production and post-production, acquiring invaluable insights and skills as they progress. Highlights of this curriculum include hands-on experience with cameras, mastering storytelling through editing, and honing teamwork skills. What sets this program apart is its emphasis on practical experience, allowing students to collaborate with industry professionals. Upon completion, students will have a solid understanding of the entire production process, fully prepared to launch into a successful career in the field.

The CMS program emphasizes:

Creativity
Critical Thinking
Oral, written, and visual communication skills
Interpersonal skills
A range of research methods

Communication and Media Studies Classes You’ll Take

Here are just a few of the classes you might take while pursuing your degree:

Introduction to Media Production
Introduction to Film and TV
Digital Video Editing
Cinematography
TV Writing

Open Course Catalog

Who You will Learn From

Students will learn from a team of esteemed professionals with vast industry experience. Our professors have a strong background in the field and are seasoned experts. Additionally, students will have exclusive access to our Communication Department’s professional advisory board, consisting of four industry professionals, two of whom are Emmy Award winners. These experts are at the top of their field and are dedicated to keeping our faculty and students up-to-date with the latest industry trends. Their extensive experience and expertise make them valuable resources for gaining valuable insights, knowledge, and guidance in the dynamic world of communication. By leveraging their advice and mentorship, students will undoubtedly receive a wealth of knowledge and insights to thrive in the communication industry.

Christine Dean

Christine has worked as an Associate Professor with a specialty in TV Production for The State University of New York for fourteen years and at Western Kentucky University for two years. Before her academic work, Christine was a Producer/Director in the TV industry for over fifteen years, producing live sports entertainment programming worldwide, first for WWE and then for Time Warner. In addition, Christine had several other opportunities, producing packages for: The Jay Leno Show, Extra, and the feature film “Ready to Rumble: starring David Arquette and Oliver Platt.

During her tenure at The State University of New York, she produced two video projects in conjunction with the Geology Department that was recognized and distributed to conservatories nationwide. In addition, she ran the University Television Station for 12 years.

In the summer of 2015, she had the privilege of working as a Field Producer with the Les Paul Foundation for their red-carpet event, “The Les Paul 100th Anniversary Celebration,” at the Hard Rock Café in Times Square. The project and Christine were awarded a Bronze Telly. Along with the Bronze Telly, Christine is the recipient of two additional Telly Awards.

Christine has established and continues a trusted relationship with various recruiters/department heads of different national television companies throughout the years. As a result, many of her students have benefited and secured positions with these production companies as full-time employees or interns.

Georgia Film Business

Georgia film business – as set the stage for a bright future in entertainment, thanks to decades of investment and strategic planning that continue to bring film and television projects to the state. This month, Georgia was ranked No. 1 in Film Production by Business Facilities Magazine, featured in the publication’s annual 2024 Rankings Report, an accolade that demonstrates the state’s competitive advantages in this multi-billion-dollar industry

Reinhardt Students learning how to rig studio equipment.

The Georgia Film Office, a strategic office within the Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD), reported that film and television productions spent $2.6 billion in Georgia during fiscal year 2024, a total of $11 billion over the last three fiscal years.

The State of Georgia hosted 273 productions between July 1, 2023, and June 30, 2024, including:

25 feature films.
30 independent films.
166 television and episodic productions.
37 commercials.
15 music videos.

Studios and support service companies, which do not benefit from the Film Tax Credit, provide additional infrastructure and jobs not included in productions’ direct spends.

Careers in Communication and Media Studies

$66,000+

Average annual salary for careers based in Communication and Media as reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics

2%

Expected growth rate for for careers based in Communication and Media as reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics

Communication and Media Studies Program Details

Tuition and Fees

Reinhardt’s affordable tuition helps you get the personal attention and real-world experiences that will give you a competitive edge in the job market.

[button href=”/admissions-aid/tuition-and-fees/” text=”View Cost of Attendance” inverse=”true” alt=”false” newtab=”false” inline=”false”

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Nearly all students at Reinhardt University receive some sort of financial aid or scholarship. Find out what options you may be eligible for.

Check Scholarship and Aid Eligibility

Clubs and Organizations

Student organizations and activities round out the total educational program at Reinhardt University. And there is something for everyone, from sports and outdoor recreation, to student government and leadership opportunities, to multicultural and faith-based groups.

Get Involved on Campus

Campus Living

Living on campus is an essential part of the college experience and will help you adjust to college life. You’ll have more opportunities to interact with faculty and friends, get involved in activities, and have easy access to classes, the library, performing arts, recreational, and athletic facilities.

Explore Dorm Life