Degrees in Communications
Luzerne County Community College offers eight exciting majors for students interested in the field of communications. Students interested in a career in graphic design might consider enrolling in the Advertising/Graphic Design program. This program is designed to prepare students for employment in the advertising field after graduation through learning software skills such as Photoshop, Dreamweaver, and InDesign, as well as effectively utilize the communication skills they have learned in their studies. Many graduates of this program go on to careers at advertising firms and graphic design agencies.
The Audio/Video Communications program is an excellent option for students interested in radio, television and video production. Through this program, students will learn how to operate the equipment used behind the scenes during a production, and will also be able to demonstrate the ability to write scripts in various formats. Students also have the opportunity to work in the student-run radio station, WSFX-FM.
Computer Graphics/ New Media is a program designed for students who wish to pursue a career in creating websites, computer animation, and computer graphics. Students will be taught how to use a variety of computer programs, such as Photoshop and Dreamweaver.
Journalism and Media Writing students will be prepared to seek employment in the field of journalism and mass media. Students will be trained in areas such as advertising, news writing, public relations, and web design. Graduates of this program will go on to pursue careers as journalists, news anchors, and various other positions in the fast-growing media market.
The Music Recording Technology program is a great option for students who are interested in what goes on behind the scenes in a recording studio. This program teaches students how to operate studio equipment, as well as the fundamentals of music production, music theory, sound mixing, and the legalities of the music industry.
The Painting Illustration program is designed to prepare students for careers in the field of art. Students will learn skills such as sculpting, drawing, painting, and basic photography. Graduates of this program will also be able to identify and use different styles of art, such as charcoal, pencil, pastel, watercolor, pen and ink, and clay.
The Photography program offers students the chance to learn skills needed to pursue a career in the photography field. Through this program, students will learn photography skills such as black and white photography, color photography, lighting, image enhancement, and digital design tools.
Finally, the Theatre program is designed for students who are interested in the performing arts. Students will learn various acting techniques, script analysis, costume and makeup design, lighting and sound, and stage management. Graduates of this program will often go on to pursue careers in stage, film, and voice acting, as well as behind the scenes work.
Ron Reino, Broadcasting Coordinator and WSFX-FX Supervisor, says that the hands-on atmosphere in the Communications department "allows students to mirror a professional experience." Thomas McHugh, a department Chairperson, notes that the eight programs in the Communications department often collaborate with one another. "The reality is that students need skills in all of these departments," he admits. "Were are the first college to mesh commercial arts with communications. It makes our students more marketable."
According to McHugh, the best part of his job is "coming to work everyday and dealing with creative students. You have this juxtaposition of the old and the new. I'm sharing my knowledge and experience with them, and vice-versa."
By Brianna Redding