B.S. in Digital Media Production

The B.S. in Digital Media Production is structured to provide a comprehensive foundation in digital and broadcast media production. Students learn to develop accurate and effective messaging by blending communication theories with practical application. The program focuses on providing students with hands-on experience using industry-standard video recording and editing equipment in state-of-the-art studio facilities. This concentration aims to prepare students for "on-air and production work in a variety of modern broadcast and digital media contexts," enabling them to produce diverse media content for informing and entertaining audiences.

STEM-designated: Yes, the B.S. in Digital Media Production at Mississippi College is recognized as a STEM-designated program. This classification is significant as it indicates that the curriculum integrates a strong component of science, technology, engineering, or mathematics. For Digital Media Production, this STEM designation likely stems from the technical aspects of digital computing, data analysis, programming, and the use of sophisticated software and hardware involved in media creation and distribution. This designation can be particularly beneficial for international students seeking post-graduation work opportunities in the U.S. and signals to employers the program's rigorous technical foundation.

Curriculum: The B.S. in Digital Media Production curriculum is comprehensive, requiring approximately 130 credit hours, including the university's core courses. The program includes a foundational selection of communication courses covering public speaking, communication law and research, public relations, mass media, graphic design, and journalism. Key concentration courses in Digital Media Production include offerings like "Campus Media Production" (multiple levels), "Church Media Production," "Digital Storytelling," and "Social Media Communication." Students also take courses in "Multimedia Journalism" and have the flexibility to choose electives. The curriculum aims to provide students with "theoretical training and impressive portfolios" as they learn to communicate stories effectively across various digital formats.

Research Focus: While the B.S. in Digital Media Production is primarily a hands-on production program, it integrates a research-informed approach to media creation and strategy. Students are required to take "Communication Research & Writing," which introduces them to methods of inquiry and analysis in the field. The curriculum's emphasis on "data-based decision-making" (as seen in related graduate programs at MC and communication studies in general) encourages students to understand audience analysis, media trends, and the effectiveness of different communication strategies. Students are taught to critically evaluate digital information and to apply digital skills and knowledge in various fields, implying an underlying research foundation for effective practice.

Industry Engagement: The B.S. in Digital Media Production program at Mississippi College demonstrates strong industry engagement through its practical, hands-on approach and direct preparation for professional roles. Students gain valuable experience through participation in Campus Media Production (COM 200, 300, 400), where they utilize professional equipment and facilities to produce campus programs and reports. Opportunities such as working with Blue & Gold Media (the student-led media group producing digital stories, podcasts, and MCTV) and the Blue & Gold Sports Team (producing broadcasts for MC Choctaws athletics) provide invaluable real-world experience and direct engagement with industry-standard practices. The department also strives to offer students additional experience with local high schools, further solidifying industry connections and providing avenues for job placement.

Global Perspective: The B.S. in Digital Media Production inherently fosters a global perspective by preparing students to create content for a globally connected digital landscape. Digital media, by its very nature, transcends geographical boundaries, and effective communication in this field often requires an understanding of diverse cultural contexts, global audiences, and international communication trends. While the specific production work may be locally focused, the skills learned in digital storytelling, social media communication, and multimedia journalism are universally applicable. Mississippi College's diverse student body and commitment to a broader worldview also contribute to enriching discussions about media's role in global society and engaging with diverse perspectives in content creation.

Undergraduate Entry Requirements

Application Fee: $40

Academic Qualifications: Applicants for undergraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 70% or above in their previous academic qualifications.

English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS: Overall band score of  6.0 or 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
• TOEFL: Overall score of 71 or higher.
• PTE: Overall score of 45 or higher.

Mississippi College is making quality education affordable for students from around the world. To support this goal, the college offers a variety of scholarships and financial aid opportunities specifically for international students, helping to reduce the overall cost of tuition and living expenses.

Merit-Based Scholarships: International students with strong academic records are eligible for merit-based scholarships. These awards are determined by evaluating high school GPA (or equivalent), standardized test scores (such as SAT or ACT), and other academic achievements. The scholarship amount varies, with awards ranging from partial to significant tuition discounts, which are renewable based on academic performance.

Presidential and Dean’s Scholarships: Highly qualified international students may receive Presidential or Dean’s Scholarships, two of the most prestigious awards offered by Mississippi College. These scholarships are based on exceptional academic credentials and leadership potential and can cover a substantial portion of tuition costs.

A Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Digital Media Production from Mississippi College provides a robust foundation for entering the rapidly evolving media landscape. This STEM-designated program, offered through the Department of Communication, equips graduates with both the theoretical understanding of communication and the essential hands-on technical skills to create compelling digital content across diverse platforms.

Video Producer/Editor: Create and edit video content for various purposes, including corporate videos, documentaries, commercials, web series, and social media, often utilizing professional editing software and techniques.

Social Media Manager: Develop and implement digital campaigns, track analytics, and produce original photo, video, and written content for social media platforms to engage audiences and promote brands or organizations.

Digital Content Creator: Generate a wide range of digital content, including blog posts, articles, infographics, podcasts, and videos, for websites, social media, and other online channels, often specializing in a particular niche or industry.

Multimedia Journalist: Work for news organizations or online publications to research, write, shoot, and edit stories across various media formats, including video, audio, and interactive digital elements.

Broadcast Production Assistant/Technician: Support live television or radio broadcasts, handling tasks such as camera operation, audio mixing, lighting, graphics, and technical troubleshooting in a studio or on location.

Graphic Designer: Create visual concepts and designs for digital platforms, including websites, social media graphics, digital advertisements, and branding materials, often using industry-standard design software.

Web Content Specialist/Developer: Focus on the visual and functional aspects of websites, creating and managing web content, ensuring user-friendly navigation, and potentially working with basic coding or content management systems.

Digital Marketing Specialist: Help businesses promote products or services through various online channels, including search engine optimization (SEO), paid media, social media advertising, and email marketing, often with a strong focus on content creation.

Corporate Communications Specialist: Work in a corporate setting to manage internal and external communications, producing digital content for employee training, company announcements, investor relations, and brand messaging.

Freelance Digital Media Specialist: Offer a variety of digital media services on a project basis, including video production, photography, graphic design, social media management, or website content creation for multiple clients across different industries.