Associate of Arts in Mass Communications & Media Studies

The Mass Communication Department serves the general education student and the aspiring communications professional. The department's popular Mass Communications 101 course is tailored to general education students and media majors wishing an overview of the mass media. The department's Mass Communications 120 course is an introduction to the field of public relations.

Students may earn an Associate in Arts Degree in Media / Communications, an Associate in Science Degree in Media/Communications, or a Certificate of Completion in Mass Communication / Public Relations.

Mass Communications 101

101 Introduction to Mass Communications
(Also listed as Journalism 101)
3.0 Units

MCOMM 101 is a survey course that examines mass communication and its interrelationships with society in the digital age. This introductory course explores the history, institutions, and social impact of mass communication media, including the Internet and social media, print, photography, recordings, film, television, computers, and the role of advertising and public relations. The course includes a discussion of theories and effects, economics, technology, law and ethics, global media, media literacy, and social issues, including gender and cultural diversity. Special attention is given to the impact of mass media on how we live and believe as individuals and as a society. Lecture 3 hours.

Recommended Preparation: Eligibility for ENGL 101.
Course Typically Offered: Winter/Spring/Summer/ Fall.
Transfer Credit: CSU, UC, USC. (C-ID JOUR 100)

Mass Communications 102

120 Introduction to Public Relations
3.0 Units

MCOMM 120 is a practical guide to effective public relations, its history, and its relationship with the media. The course is designed for persons who wish to make public relations a career, untrained persons who are currently or plan to be involved in publicity activities, and for journalism majors or minors who wish to enhance their studies. Lecture 3 hours.

Prerequisite: None.
Course Typically Offered: Spring.
Transfer Credit: CSU.

This program prepares students to recognize and replicate the methods by which the Mass Media inform and persuade, with language or pictures, and the cognitive and emotional impact mass media messages have on the audience. Students are prepared to transfer to baccalaureate degree programs in mass communications and communications, including public relations. Students must complete all required core courses and choose other courses from the additional course listed to a total of 18 units.

Program Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, students will be able to analyze and differentiate the primary influences of dominant mass media on major cultural practices and social and political institutions; and research and explain the historical influences of dominant communication technologies on society, culture, and human behavior.

Academic Calendar

• Semester system (16 weeks).
• Fall Semester begins at the end of August.
• Spring Semester begins mid-February.
• Summer Session (mid-June to mid-August.); along with a short-term Winter Session of six weeks in early January.

New International students applying directly from overseas can only apply for the Fall or Spring Semesters. The short-term Sessions offer limited class scheduling for "new" students and are best designed for "continuing students."

Admission Requirements

High School transcripts and Diploma; minimum of 2.0 or "C" grade point average, if transferring directly from a U.S.-based College or University. TOEFL score minimum 45 on iBT, or IELTS 'band score' of 4.5 minimum – if English is not your first language of instruction. Also, Affidavit of Support Form & Bank Statement, and one-page personal essay. "Conditional Admission" is available for students without TOEFL or IELTS, and transferring-in from a Language School program.

Application Deadlines (for overseas Applicants)

• July 1 for Fall Semester;
• December 1 for Spring Semester;
• [May 15th for “Summer Session” -- Summer only for students "transferring" inside the U.S. with a current and valid Form I-20.]
• Deadlines may be flexible; please contact the International Student Office for details.

Tuition & Fees/Living Expenses

• Tuition & Fees (Academic Year 2020-21): $7,581 USD (full-time; two semesters).
• Estimated off-campus living expenses: $13,000 USD.
• Total costs for bank statement = $22,965 USD.
• Note: above costs are subject to periodic/annual changes. [Please plan your budget accordingly].
• Tuition/Fees are paid per Semester upon registration.
• "Tuition Advanced Deposit" is not required.
• The College offers a tuition payment plan each semester.