2010-2011 Undergraduate & Graduate Catalog
Broadcasting - Program Description
For additional information about opportunities your college offers, please refer to the School of Communications.
Website: www.gvsu.edu/soc
The broadcasting major prepares students for entry into any of the various electronic media commonly understood by the terms: television, radio, cable, direct broadcast satellite (DBS), and whatever Internet-based convergence ultimately evolves. This is an especially exciting time for broadcasters, who will be a part of the creation of the new media.
The core is required of all majors. It ensures that students will have broad understanding of the history, operation, regulation of broadcast media, and economic, social, and cultural influences on those media. The major then divides into two tracks, broadcast production and broadcast news. The overriding objective of both tracks is to provide the intellectual and ethical tools that will allow students to operate successfully and responsibly in the professional world of broadcasting.
Career Opportunities
Broadcast production majors will learn studio-based, multiple-camera TV production. This emphasis prepares students to step into a TV studio or video production facility and function professionally at the entry level.
Broadcast news majors will learn the basic reporting concepts and practices common to print, video, and radio. This emphasis prepares students to step into small- to medium-market TV or radio stations as a reporter.
Most media outlets today have developed an Internet outlet. Broadcasters are hiring print journalists to assist with online information delivery. Print publishers are hiring broadcast majors to assist with audio and video online presentations. There are lots of opportunities for a graduate with specialized skills.
Internships
Broadcast majors are strongly encouraged to take multiple internships in a variety of settings: print, broadcast, and online. Most local media have developed online services, where students also find a variety of internship opportunities. Students may apply up to 15 internship credits toward graduation. Students are strongly urged to work closely with their faculty advisor or internship coordinator in identifying internships that best suit their interests and career ambitions.
Broadcasting majors are offered internship opportunities with television, radio, and cable stations in West Michigan. The Grand Rapids area is a top-50 market for television and it features three commercial television stations, two public TV/radio stations, and more than 50 radio stations.
Scholarships
The School of Communications' Scholarships honor upper level School of Communications students who have demonstrated promise in their chosen field of study.
The Corky Meinecke Memorial Scholarship is intended to benefit students with an interest in a career in sports, be it in radio, television or print media, or in media relations.
The Grand Valley Lanthorn Merit Scholarships benefits student staff members working in editorial, advertising and business departments.
The Jennifer Youssef Journalism Scholarship benefits a student who intends to pursue a career in print or broadcast journalism.
The Warren Reynolds Scholarship
This scholarship is named in honor of the longtime sports director at WOOD-TV in Grand Rapids. Warren Reynolds, who died of cancer in 2000 and was a champion of charitable causes throughout the region, left a legacy of integrity in broadcast journalism. This scholarship is intended for students who exemplify these ideas and show a passion for electronic media.
Eligibility: Must be enrolled as a full time junior or senior in the School of Communications. Must have demonstrated leadership in courses, internships, broadcasting assignments and extracurricular activities. Must have demonstrated financial need by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Preference will be given to students pursuing a career in sports broadcasting.
Amount: In the range of $1000 per semester.
Renewal: May be renewed without reapplication provided the recipient continues to meet the qualifications. May be awarded for a maximum of four total semesters.
Student Organizations ( www.gvsu.edu/stuey )
The primary student media outlet is the twice-weekly print edition of the Grand Valley Lanthorn and its online associated outlet, www.lanthorn.com. Staff positions in all departments are paid.
Students also have the opportunity to gain experience at WCKS, the student-run radio station, and GVTV, the student-run television station.