TRF-1310 Introduction to Mass Communication

Credits 3
In this course students learn the foundations of mass media industries, including print, audio, broadcast, video, film, and digital media. Students examine the history, economics, current landscape, future directions, and job opportunities of the mass media industries. Additionally, students explore contemporary issues in media as well as how media affects society, culture, and politics and vice versa.
Course Outcomes

Discuss the history of the mass media industries.
Explain the economics of modern mass media, including concepts of audience measurement and advertising as a subsidy system.
Analyze the current landscape of the mass media industries, including major factors influencing the growth or decline of each.
Discuss job opportunities and the future direction of the mass media industries.
Describe the influence and major contemporary issues of the media, including media effects on society, culture and politics.
Identify the legal and social controls on the media, including major FCC regulations, social responsibility theories of media regulation, industry self-regulation and citizen access movements.