Top Multimedia Schools in Kentucky: Academic Programs and Opportunities

Curious about multimedia schools in Kentucky? This guide details the top institutions, their unique programs, hands-on learning opportunities, and specialized facilities to help you choose the best fit for your career in media and technology.

Northern Kentucky University offers robust Media & Journalism and Cybersecurity programs with a strong emphasis on practical, hands-on experience through internships and co-curricular activities.
Eastern Kentucky University’s Broadcasting and Electronic Media program provides extensive hands-on learning opportunities, including summer film projects and participation in a student-run media network, supported by well-equipped facilities and multiple scholarship opportunities.
Kentucky State University’s Multimedia Journalism program includes comprehensive coursework and specialized concentrations in journalism and public relations, featuring practical experience requirements that prepare students for careers in mass communication and media.

Northern Kentucky University: Media & Journalism Programs

Known for its robust Media & Journalism programs, Northern Kentucky University (NKU) provides a variety of majors and minors including Public Relations, Communication Studies, and Health Communication. These programs emphasize practical experience alongside academic learning, ensuring students are well-prepared for the professional world. Students engage in real-world experiences through co-curricular activities, including the Black Student Union and the Society of Leadership and Success. Moreover, NKU provides numerous internship and co-op opportunities, allowing students to apply their classroom knowledge in real-world settings.

NKU’s Media & Journalism programs aim for a balanced approach to education, merging theoretical study with practical application. The focus on practical learning offers students invaluable experience, giving them an edge in the competitive media landscape. Whether you’re looking to dive into the realms of journalism or explore the multifaceted world of media, NKU’s academic program offers the perfect foundation.

Cybersecurity & Information Technology

The Cybersecurity & Information Technology department at NKU provides a diverse array of majors, minors, and certificates, catering to the rising demand for competent professionals in the sector. The program focuses on areas such as cloud computing, computer networks, and cybersecurity, providing students with a comprehensive education in these critical areas of technology. Designed to meet Homeland Security requirements, the curriculum includes a solid foundation in computer information technology, computer science, and business information systems.

To gain practical, hands-on knowledge, students in the Cybersecurity program must undertake a co-curricular applied experience. This real-world experience is crucial for preparing students to tackle the challenges of the cybersecurity field, making NKU’s program a standout choice for those interested in technology and communications.

Information Systems & Analytics

The Information Systems & Analytics (IS&A) programs at NKU cover a broad spectrum of topics, including:

Information technology
Data analytics
Project management
Database management
Decision-support systems

This comprehensive curriculum ensures that students are well-equipped to handle the complexities of modern technology environments. The programs are designed to be flexible, offering courses in full-time and part-time formats, as well as daytime, evening, accelerated, hybrid, and online options.

The flexible structure of the programs enables students to customize their education to their schedules and learning styles, facilitating a balance between school and other commitments. Whether you’re looking to dive deep into data analytics or master the intricacies of project management, NKU’s IS&A programs provide the academic and practical foundation needed to succeed in the technology sector.

Eastern Kentucky University: Broadcasting and Electronic Media

Eastern Kentucky University’s Broadcasting and Electronic Media program is renowned for its hands-on, practical learning experiences. The program prepares students for a wide range of careers in the media industry, offering concentrations in General, Film Techniques and Technology, and Multimedia Journalism. Students receive training in video, audio, and print production from experienced faculty, ensuring they are well-prepared for the demands of the media world.

One of the standout features of EKU’s program is the opportunity to work on a film project with faculty each summer. Additionally, students can participate in The Eastern Progress Media Network, a student-run media organization that provides experience in print, video, and podcast production. Graduates of the program have gone on to successful careers in broadcast journalism, government public information offices, and corporate video production, among other fields.

Facilities and Resources

EKU’s School of Communication boasts extensive facilities designed to provide students with the tools they need to succeed. Located on the third floor of the Combs Building, the school offers three Mac labs equipped with Adobe Creative Cloud software, allowing students to work with industry-standard tools. These labs play a vital role in enabling students to become proficient in software commonly utilized in professional media production.

In addition to the Mac labs, the school provides a full-size video studio, a web video studio, and a podcast studio. These facilities enable students to gain hands-on experience in various aspects of media production, from filming and editing videos to producing podcasts. The combination of these resources ensures that EKU students are well-prepared for careers in electronic media, communications, and related fields.

Admission Requirements

Gaining admission into EKU’s Broadcasting and Electronic Media program is uncomplicated as students have the liberty to select any of the program options when applying to the university. This flexibility allows prospective students to tailor their academic experience to their interests and career goals, making it easier to find a path that aligns with their aspirations.

Scholarship Opportunities

EKU’s School of Communication offers a variety of scholarships specifically for students enrolled in their programs. The objective of these scholarships is to provide financial aid to students, enabling them to concentrate on their studies and accumulate valuable field experience. Some notable scholarships include the Dan Mason Broadcasting and Electronic Media Endowed Scholarship and the Dr. Dean C. Cannon Endowed Memorial Communication Scholarship.

Additionally, students can apply for the Chris Schulte Memorial Scholarship and the Christy L. Guttridge Memorial Scholarship. Freshman students are also eligible for the Freshman Broadcasting and Electronic Media Scholarship, providing an excellent opportunity for new students to receive financial support as they begin their academic journey.

Kentucky State University: Multimedia Journalism

Kentucky State University’s (KSU) Multimedia Journalism program is designed to prepare students for careers in journalism and public relations. The program includes a robust core curriculum and specialized concentrations, ensuring that students receive a well-rounded education in the field of mass communication and journalism. With a requirement of 120 undergraduate hours, including a 30-hour MCJ Core Curriculum, students are equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in their careers.

KSU students acquire practical experience by working on The Thorobred News website and participating in diverse project-based classes. This real-world experience is invaluable, providing students with the opportunity to apply their classroom knowledge in practical settings, preparing them for the challenges of the media industry.

MCJ Core Curriculum

The MCJ Core Curriculum at Kentucky State University consists of 21 hours of coursework, including seven core courses that provide a strong foundation in journalism and mass communication. These courses include:

Introduction to Journalism
Introduction to Mass Communication
Digital Photojournalism
Visual Design
Public Affairs Reporting
Public Relations Seminar
Video Production

Students majoring or minoring in the program must attain a minimum grade of ‘C’ in all core and supporting courses, with a required GPA of 2.25 or better. Such high academic standards ensure that graduates are adequately prepared to meet the demands of the media industry, armed with the necessary skills and knowledge for success.

Multimedia Journalism Concentration

The Multimedia Journalism concentration at KSU requires a total of 15 credit hours, focusing on various aspects of journalism, including editing, writing, and broadcasting. Core courses within this concentration include The Editor’s Desk, Magazine and Feature Writing, Broadcast Announcing, and Practicum in Journalism.

These courses are designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of multimedia journalism, from producing written content to announcing on broadcast media. This diverse curriculum ensures that graduates are versatile and capable of handling various roles within the journalism industry.

Public Relations Concentration

The Public Relations concentration at KSU covers a wide range of topics, including media advertising, public relations campaigns, and event planning. Core courses in this concentration include Media Advertising and Sales, Public Relations Campaign, Public Events Planning, Advertising Seminar, and Practicum in Public Relations.

This concentration prepares students to thrive in public relations, covering all aspects from devising advertising strategies to planning and implementing public events. Graduates are well-prepared for careers in media, journalism, and communications, making KSU an excellent choice for those interested in public relations.

University of Kentucky: Media Arts and Studies

Dedicated to instruction and scholarly research in digital media content creation and use, the Media Arts and Studies (MAS) program at the University of Kentucky stands out. This program prepares students for careers in creative digital media industries by blending theory and practice. The curriculum includes undergraduate and graduate coursework in digital media content creation, including electronic music production and video/audio production.

Students in the MAS program gain hands-on instruction in:

film
video
audio
interactive games
other digital media

Additionally, they learn to analyze the cultural, institutional, and legal dimensions of media systems, providing a comprehensive understanding of the media landscape.

Video and Audio Production

The coursework in video and audio production at the University of Kentucky includes:

Producing
Directing
Writing
Technical supervision

Students receive skills-based instruction in the production of film, video, and audio, with a strong emphasis on hands-on experience.

This hands-on approach is crucial for students to develop the practical skills needed in the media industry. Students gain a comprehensive education in video and audio production, preparing them for a variety of roles in the entertainment and media sectors. Some of the skills they learn include:

Storyboarding
Short film creation
Color grading
Editing

By gaining experience in these areas, college students are well-equipped to pursue careers in the media industry.

Multimedia Design and Development

The Multimedia Design and Development program at the University of Kentucky covers interactive multimedia design and development for various purposes, including education, entertainment, and business. This program equips students with the skills to create computer-based interactive applications, integrating audio, graphics, video, text, animation, and interactive elements.

Students work on projects that require a broad spectrum of analogue and digital skills, essential for success in the creative industry. This diverse curriculum ensures that graduates are well-prepared to meet the demands of the modern digital landscape, making them valuable assets in any organization.

Media Management

Media management courses at the University of Kentucky cover various aspects of network management, sales, marketing, and entrepreneurship in the media industry. These courses include key components such as sales and marketing, telecommunication, and digital media company management, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of the business side of media.

Media Studies

Media Studies courses at the University of Kentucky are offered as both B.A. and B.S. degrees, focusing on:

media education
scholarship
advocacy
law and policy

This program includes coursework that analyzes media’s cultural, institutional, and legal aspects, providing students with a deep understanding of the media landscape and the ability to request further information on specific topics.

Students in the Media Studies program learn to critically analyze media systems, making them well-equipped to address the challenges and opportunities in the media industry. Whether you’re interested in media education, advocacy, or policy, the Media Studies program offers a comprehensive education that prepares students for a variety of careers in the media sector.

Bellarmine University: Digital Media and Communication

Bellarmine University’s Digital Media and Communication program focuses on new media technologies and digital storytelling, preparing students for the evolving media landscape. The program emphasizes hands-on learning and small group work within a mentoring academic environment, ensuring that students receive personalized instruction and support.

The curriculum comprises courses that involve students in the creation, evaluation, and utilization of modern communication tools. Emphasizing writing as a fundamental medium of learning and expression, the program places importance on crafting compelling digital narratives. Students explore digital innovations and breakthrough technologies that are changing the way business is conducted, making Bellarmine’s program a forward-thinking choice for aspiring media professionals.

Digital Storytelling

Bellarmine University offers courses that focus on digital storytelling, teaching students how to create engaging narratives using various media formats. These courses are designed to provide students with hands-on experience in storytelling, utilizing tools such as Adobe Creative Cloud, website content management software, and digital audio workstations.

By mastering these contemporary tools, students are well-prepared to create compelling digital stories that resonate across different platforms. Whether it’s crafting a captivating video, developing interactive web content, or producing a gripping podcast, Bellarmine’s digital storytelling courses equip students with the skills needed to excel in the digital media landscape.

Web Design and Development

The web design and development courses at Bellarmine University are integral to the Digital Media and Communication program, providing students with essential skills for modern communication professionals. These courses offer instruction in creating and managing websites, ensuring that students gain practical experience through projects and professional work experience.

This hands-on approach ensures that graduates are proficient in web technologies, making them valuable assets in any digital media or communication role.

Internship Opportunities

Bellarmine University’s Digital Media and Communication program considers internships as an integral part of its structure. Every student is guaranteed the chance to complete a three-hour internship, ideally in their complementary major, providing them with real-world experience and professional networking opportunities. Many students intern at local media organizations, allowing them to apply their academic knowledge in practical settings and develop a career plan.

These internships are invaluable for students as they transition from the academic environment to the professional world. By gaining practical experience and building a professional network, Bellarmine students are well-prepared to enter the media industry with confidence and competence.