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Bachelor of Arts in Radio, TV, and Digital Media
Our program combines practical and analytical study in producing television, video, animation, audio, and radio, together with electronic journalism, the global media industries, the music business, and research on traditional and emerging media.
Our production and research faculty guide you in the use of the latest technologies and help you develop an understanding of the social, political, and economic contexts of the media. Our production faculty have major market experience in documentaries, electronic journalism, 3D animation, television narrative, and sound arts. Our world-class researchers focus on media industries, global media communication law and ethics, corporate media creativity, and alternative media worldwide.
Majoring in Radio, Television, and Digital Media is majoring in what comes next. This major blends technology and personal skills, business savvy and artistic expression. You’ll gain a solid knowledge base combining historical and critical knowledge with hands-on practice to help you become a cutting-edge media producer and scholar.
Degree Requirements
The program prepares students for positions in the communications sector. The program combines practical and analytical study in producing television, video, animation, audio and radio, together with electronic journalism, the global media industries, the music business, and research on traditional and emerging media.
Each student enrolled in the Radio, Television, and Digital Media program must declare a specialization before progressing to any Radio, Television, and Digital Media course beyond RTD 200 and RTD 201.
- Radio, Television, and Digital Media students must receive a grade of B or better in ENGL 101 (LING 101) and ENGL 102 (LING 102). If an RTD student does not receive a grade of B or better in these courses, they will need to take ENGL 290, ENGL 291, or ENGL 300 and receive a grade of C or better.
- Students must receive a grade of C or better in both RTD 200 and RTD 201 before taking any other RTD courses. RTD 200 and RTD 201 can only be repeated one time.
Check out the Course Requirements and Specialized Curricular Guides (PDF) which helps you outline what courses you would want to take each semester for this four year degree. Also you can view all related Radio, Television, and Digital Media courses.
Specializations
Each student enrolled in the Radio, Television, and Digital Media program must declare one of the following specializations before progressing to any course beyond RTD 200 and 201.
- Digital Media Arts and Animation
- Electronic Journalism
- Electronic Sports Media
- Media Industries
- Radio/Audio
- Television/Video Production
Three-Year Curriculum Plan
The program offers a three-year graduation plan option for students entering the program as freshmen. Students who attempt to pursue this plan will successfully complete 40 credit hours per academic year.
For more information, please contact the Radio, Television, and Digital Media academic advisor.
Facilities
Whether in the classroom, studio, or out in the field, you will be able to take full advantage of our state-of-the-industry facilities and equipment as you showcase your talent and hone your skills.
Minor
Game Design and Development Minor
The minor in Game Design and Development is a multi-disciplinary minor within our Information Technology program as well as the Radio, Television, and Digital Media program. The purpose of this minor is to prepare students who wish to enter the field of game design and development. You’ll learn:
- Animation Techniques
- Game Narrative Development
- Virtual World Soundscapes
- Programming
- Mobile, Web and App Development
- Software Engineering and Management
Student Activities and Organizations
Whether producing quality media, engaging in spirited discussions that involve media theory, or critiquing projects, our program provides myriad opportunities for students who want to immerse themselves in experiential learning.
Check out our student organizations and many other student opportunities.
We Shine Bright In the Shadow
In August 2017, students collaborated with faculty and staff on a award-winning documentary about SIU's preparations for the Great American Eclipse.
Contact Information
Rob Spahr
Interim Director and Associate Professor
1056 B Comm Bldg
1100 Lincoln Dr.
Carbondale, IL 62901
Ph: 618-453-6992
rspahr@siu.edu
Jean Miner
Advisor
1048 Comm Bldg
1100 Lincoln Dr.
Carbondale, IL 62901
Ph: 618-453-6902
jeank@siu.edu
Scholarships
Communication and Media students are eligible for a variety of scholarship opportunities through the University, as well as degree specific scholarships available specifically for communication and media students.