Communication 122 - Intro to Media Progrmng&Instns

The course is an introduction to the entire media programming process, with a special focus on the institutional structures and constraints that shape the content of electronic media. We will consider a variety of historical, technological, cultural, legal, political, economic, ethical, and other factors which influence programming, especially in terms of how they are playing out on the currently unfolding media scene. We will explore dynamic interactions among communications institutions and industries, new technologies, and governmental and other regulatory bodies, all in terms of their impact on the production, distribution, and consumption of electronic media content.

Open to Sophomores & Freshmen only. For students entering UMASS beginning in the Fall 2011 Semester, COMM 122 is one of the two (2) 100-level COMM Subject Area courses that can be used as prerequisites for applying to the COMM major. (The other 100-level COMM prerequisite courses that can be used for applying to the COMM major are COMM 118, COMM 121, COMM 125 and COMM 140). 50 seats reserved for COMM majors.