General CMS Pathway

Description

This pathway is all about embracing the wide range of study that the CMS program has to offer. It's a perfect balance between communication, media, and screen studies, giving you the chance to focus on what interests you most. Not only that, but you'll also get a mix of practical skills and critical/theoretical approaches.

In the General CMS Pathway, you'll get a comprehensive understanding of communication, media, and screen studies through a variety of courses. You'll dive into fascinating topics like interpersonal communication, media literacy, advertising, film studies, and screen production. And the best part? You'll be equipped with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, so you can develop critical thinking, unleash your creativity, and become an effective communicator in all kinds of professional settings.

Suggested Courses

Courses listed are suggestions for this pathway. You may want to select other courses that empahsize other skills or that may allow you to customize the pathway according to your goals.

CMS Electives (7)

More than 7 courses are listed to emphasize the flexibility of the pathway. A good mix between all levels is strongly recommended.

• CMS 205 - Capturing, Analyzing, and Presenting Family Stories

• CMS 240 – Introduction to Media Studies

• CMS 260 - Reading Film II: Approaches to International Film

• CMS 327 - Interpersonal Conflict and Communication

• CMS 342 - Hip Hop, Rap and Media

• CMS 365 - Television, New Media, & Culture

• CMS 445 - Seminar in Media Studies

• CMS 460 - Social Media Campaign Planning

• CMS 473 - Advanced Studio Production

• CMS 490 - Practicum in Communication, Media, & Screen Studies

• CMS 498 - Advanced Special Topics

Possible Free Electives

The following courses are offered by departments outside of the major that may serve as a good compliment to this Interest Pathway. Keep in mind that registration for these courses be limited by the pre-requisites and permissions set by the other departments for their courses. Check the course catalog for specific couse requirements.

• ART 317 – History of Women and Art

• ART 364 – Documentary Photography

• ENG 421 – Feminist Theory and Literary Criticism

• JRN 200 – Basics of Journalism

• JRN 230 – Fundamentals of Public Relations

• JRN 260 – Anthropology of Media

• JRN 311 – Television News Workshop

• JRN 330 – Advanced Integrated Public Relations

• MGT 300 – Organizational Behavior

• MGT 305 – Human Resources Management

• MKT 200 - Principles of Marketing

• MKT 321 – Consumer Behavior

• PHI 331 – Philosophy of Media

• PSC 312 – Media and American Politics

• PSY 303 – Perception

• REC 363 – Event Management

• SOC 404 or WGS 404 – Gender and the Law

• THR 285 – American Silent Film

• THR 382 –The Movies

• THR 383 – The Westerns

• THR 384 – American Film Directors: Ford, Hawks, and Wilder

Key Features: 

1. Communication Theory and Analysis:

   • Study foundational theories and models of communication.

   • Analyze communication processes in interpersonal, organizational, and media contexts.

   • Explore the role of communication in shaping attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors.

   • Examine the impact of new media technologies on communication dynamics.

2. Media Literacy and Critique:

   • Develop critical thinking skills to analyze and evaluate media content.

   • Understand how media representations influence cultural norms and values.

   • Identify biases, stereotypes, and misinformation in media messages.

   • Explore the ethical implications of media production and consumption.

3. Digital Media Production:

   • Gain hands-on experience in creating digital media content.

   • Learn multimedia storytelling techniques for online platforms.

   • Develop skills in video editing, graphic design, and audio production.

   • Understand the principles of visual and interactive design for digital media.

4. Strategic Communication Planning:

   • Develop strategic communication plans for different organizational contexts.

   • Conduct audience research and identify communication objectives.

   • Determine key messages and select appropriate communication channels.

   • Evaluate the effectiveness of communication campaigns and initiatives.

5. Visual Communication Design:

   • Explore principles of graphic design and visual communication.

   • Create visually engaging content using typography, color, and imagery.

   • Understand the importance of user experience (UX) design in digital media.

   • Develop skills in using design software tools such as Adobe Creative Suite.

6. Writing and Editing:

   • Hone writing skills for various communication formats, including articles, reports, and social media posts.

   • Practice editing and revising content for clarity, coherence, and style.

   • Develop storytelling techniques to engage and captivate audiences.

   • Understand the principles of copywriting and persuasive communication.

7. Media Ethics and Law:

   • Explore ethical considerations in media production, distribution, and consumption.

   • Understand legal regulations governing media content, including copyright and defamation laws.

   • Examine case studies and real-world examples of ethical dilemmas in media.

   • Discuss the role of media professionals in upholding ethical standards and promoting accountability.

8. Audience Analysis:

   • Learn techniques for conducting audience research and segmentation.

   • Analyze demographic, psychographic, and behavioral characteristics of target audiences.

   • Tailor messages and content to meet the needs and preferences of specific audience segments.

   • Understand the role of audience feedback and engagement in communication campaigns.

9. Interpersonal and Intercultural Communication:

   • Develop interpersonal communication skills for building relationships and resolving conflicts.

   • Enhance intercultural competence to communicate effectively across diverse cultural contexts.

   • Explore communication strategies for managing diverse teams and fostering inclusivity.

   • Understand the impact of culture, gender, and power dynamics on communication interactions.

10. Professional Development:

    • Prepare for careers in media, management, advertising and public relations, journalism, and related fields.

    • Build a professional portfolio showcasing skills and achievements in communication and media.

    • Develop networking and job search strategies to pursue career opportunities.

    • Stay updated on industry trends and emerging technologies in communication and media.

Who is this Interest Pathway best for?

The General CMS Interest Pathway is ideally suited for students who have a passion for understanding and engaging with various forms of communication, media, and screen studies. This pathway caters to individuals who are interested in exploring the multifaceted nature of communication across different contexts, including interpersonal interactions, organizational dynamics, and media representations. It is well-suited for students who possess strong critical thinking skills and a curiosity about how communication shapes society, culture, and individual identities. Additionally, students who are creative, adaptable, and open to exploring new ideas and technologies will find this pathway enriching. Whether aspiring to pursue careers in media production, management, advertising and public relations, human resources, social media management, or other communication-related fields, the General CMS Interest Pathway provides a solid foundation for success in a rapidly evolving media landscape.

Career Focus

The skills and knowledge provided by the CMS degree has a broad application across careers. Rather than point to specific job titles, below are categories of careers related to this interest pathway. This list is not exhaustive because the career trajectory for graduates is only limited by their individual initiative, imagination, and ability to connect skills to professional opportunities. Towards this end, links to sample occupation descriptions the O*Net Online website that relate to this pathway are listed to offer additional guidance.

Advertising and Promotions

• • Description: Involves creating and implementing campaigns to promote products, services, or ideas through various media channels to reach target audiences..

  • Sample Occupations:

    • Advertising Sales Agents (41-3011.00)

    • Market Research Analysts and Marketing Specialists (13-1161.00)

    • Media Planners (13-1161.00)

    • Marketing Managers (11-2021.00)

    • Advertising and Promotions Managers (11-2011.00)

Corporate Communication:

• • Description:  Involves managing communication between organizations and their audiences, including the media, customers, investors, and the public.

  • Sample Occupations:

    • Public Relations Specialists (27-3031.00)

    • Social Media Managers (11-9199.11)

    • Corporate Communications Specialists (27-3031.00)

    • Marketing Managers (11-2021.00)

    • Event Planners (13-1121.00)

Digital Media and Content Creation:

Description: Involves developing and producing digital content for online platforms, including websites, social media, blogs, and streaming services.

Sample Occupations:

• • • Content Creators (27-3042.00)

    • Digital Marketing Specialists (11-2021.00)

    • Social Media Influencers (27-3042.00)

    • Digital Content Managers (11-2021.00)

    • Web Developers (15-1134.00)

Digital Media Management:

Description: Involves overseeing digital media assets, platforms, and campaigns for organizations, ensuring effective use of digital channels to achieve communication goals.

Sample Occupations:

• • • Digital Media Managers (11-2021.00)

    • Online Community Managers (11-2021.00)

    • Digital Marketing Managers (11-2021.00)

    • Social Media Strategists (11-2021.00)

    • Web Analytics Specialists (15-1199.08)

Cultural and Media Advocacy:

Description: Involves advocating for social, cultural, and political causes through media platforms, raising awareness and promoting social change.

Sample Occupations:

• • • Media Advocates (27-3042.00)

    • Community Organizers (21-1093.00)

    • Advocacy Directors (11-9039.02)

    • Nonprofit Fundraisers (13-1131.00)

    • Political Campaign Managers (11-9032.00)

Education and Training:

Description: Involves teaching communication skills and media literacy to students at various educational levels, including K-12 schools, colleges, and universities.

Sample Occupations:

• • • Communication Teachers, Postsecondary (25-1121.00)

    • Media Studies Teachers, Postsecondary (25-1125.00)

    • Instructional Coordinators (25-9031.00)

    • Training and Development Specialists (13-1151.00)

    • Education Administrators, Postsecondary (11-9033.00)