Media Studies: Radio, A.A.S.

Academic Programs

Start Term

Program Options

Degree, Certificate or Diploma

Locations

Council Bluffs Campus

Program Information

Iowa Western is the home of 89.7 The River, the Omaha metro’s only alternative rock radio station!  The Media Studies: Radio program of study allows students to work intensively with professional radio personnel and develop the skills needed to succeed in all aspects of the radio industry. There are so many different jobs in radio – On-air talent, production, promotions, event planning, sales, and social media.

Course work includes performance, promotions, sales, management, writing and producing commercials, social media, and programming. Students can enhance their classroom experience by participating in all station operations at 89.7 The River.

Graduates of this program are awarded an Associate of Applied Science degree in two years and are ready to move directly into the radio industry.

Job Outlook

-4% projected change in job outlook from 2023-2033 from the National Bureau of Labor Statistics.

What will you do

This program is designed for students intending to enter the workforce upon completion of this two-year degree. Radio announcing is a competitive field; however, many students begin working part-time or at small stations and move their way up. Graduates of this program are prepared for careers as on-air announcers, morning show hosts/co-hosts, production assistants, production directors, creative services specialists,  account executives, promotions directors, and social media managers.

Wages

  • Entry: $12.33
  • Average: $18.16
  • Experienced: $21.13

Career Examples

  • On-Air Talent
  • Production Assistant or Director
  • Creative Services Specialist
  • Account Executive
  • Promotion Director
  • Social Media Manager
  • Copy or Content Writer
  • Entry Level Technical Writer
  • Multimedia Journalist
  • Editorial Assistant
  • Photojournalist
  • Freelance Writer

First Semester

MMS 105 - Audio Production 3.0 Credit(s)
MMS 123 - Electronic Media Performance 3.0 Credit(s)
MMS 338 - Radio Practicum I 1.0 Credit(s)
JOU 110 - Introduction to Mass Media 3.0 Credit(s)
SPC 112 - Public Speaking 3.0 Credit(s)
ENG 105 - Composition I 3.0 Credit(s)

Semester Total: 16.0 Credits

Second Semester

MMS 190 - Broadcast Promotions 3.0 Credit(s)
MMS 204 - New Media Production 3.0 Credit(s)
MMS 205 - Advanced Audio Production 3.0 Credit(s)
MMS 317 - Digital Content Creation 3.0 Credit(s)
MMS 341 - Radio Practicum II 1.0 Credit(s)
MAT 711 - Business and Financial Mathematics 3.0 Credit(s)

Semester Total: 16.0 Credits

Third Semester

MMS 202 - Social Media Marketing 3.0 Credit(s)
MMS 216 - Social Media Capstone 4.0 Credit(s)
MMS 311 - Podcasting 3.0 Credit(s)
MMS 316 - Broadcasting and Streaming Online 3.0 Credit(s)
MMS 350 - Media Sales Practicum 1.0 Credit(s)
MMS 342 - Radio Practicum III 1.0 Credit(s)

Semester Total: 15.0 Credits

Fourth Semester

MGT 195 - Workplace Empowerment 3.0 Credit(s)
PHI 211 - Ethics in the Media 3.0 Credit(s)
MMS 134 - Media Writing 3.0 Credit(s)
MMS 933 - Media Studies Internship 2.0 Credit(s)
MMS 186 - Digital Media Analytics 3.0 Credit(s)

Semester Total: 14.0 Credits

Total Semester Hours Required: 61.0

Notes:





Additional Information

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Program Outcomes

Upon the successful completion of the program students will:

  • Demonstrate vocal performance abilities.
  • Use digital editing software and audio production equipment to produce professional quality materials.
  • Demonstrate a variety of effective promotions, sales, and marketing techniques and approaches.
  • Demonstrate a variety of writing styles for use in the media.
  • Create a post-graduation packet including a resume, cover letter, demo, and web/social media components.
  • Fully assess radio stations including management structure, revenue streams, and adherence to FCC policy.

Program Disclaimers

  • Wage data was obtained from OEWS (occupational employment and wage statistics) through Iowa Workforce Development.