XI. Course Descriptions
Media Studies
| MDST*1010 Internet Survey & Research F (3-0) [0.50] | |
|---|---|
| This course is a hands-on overview of the world of online research. Students will be introduced to the variety of resources offered through the Internet for research purposes. They will also discover how to sort through the increasing amount of online material efficiently and productively. Spreadsheets and databases will be examined for use as tools for the media professional. |
| MDST*1030 Visual Communication and Design W (3-1) [0.50] | |
|---|---|
| This course is an introduction to the theory and practice of visual design as a form of social communication in print and broadcast media. The course enables students to develop skills in visual design and to develop the critical tools necessary to apply those skills. |
| MDST*1050 Introduction to Media Writing F (3-0) [0.50] | |
|---|---|
| This interdisciplinary course covers the theory and practice of writing and editing for media publications and public relations purposes. It examines the usefulness of these types of communication and analyzes the differences in journalistic and public relations intent. Students study and practice writing news stories, news releases, speeches, and other forms of media writing. |
| MDST*1070 Photography and Digital Imaging F (3-0) [0.50] | |
|---|---|
| This course introduces students to the contexts necessary to understand the roles and purposes of photography and their impact on the mass media. It examines the evolution of photography in its historical context through to modern electronic image-making. Students combine practical photo-based projects with the art and vocabulary of image-making, critiquing and photographic communication. |
| MDST*1080 Introduction to Journalism & Public Relations W (3-0) [0.50] | |
|---|---|
| In this course students will learn about the historical and social contexts of journalism. They will explore critical theories about the news media and examine the impact and implications of technological change. This course also will delve into the basic principles and theories of public relations in order for students to better understand the dynamics of the relationship between journalists and public relations practitioners. | |
| Prerequisite(s): | MDST*1050 |
| MDST*2000 News Gathering F (3-0) [0.50] | |
|---|---|
| This course examines the role of the journalist in communicating public intelligence and the basic principles of news writing. Emphasis is placed on recognition of news values and on the development of clear, concise writing, research skills and effective interviewing techniques. | |
| Prerequisite(s): | MDST*1010, MDST*1050 |
| MDST*2020 Media Structure and Policy F (3-0) [0.50] | |
|---|---|
| Students study the diverse organizational and industrial structures of the press, electronic media and cultural industries and examine the ways in which those industries have been controlled by regulatory policies and agencies. With the emergence of the Internet and new information technologies in a globalizing world, students assess whether the traditional role of the state in regulating media continues to be relevant or even possible. | |
| Prerequisite(s): | AHSS*1060 |
| MDST*2030 News Editing and Writing F (3-0) [0.50] | |
|---|---|
| Students focus on the fundamental elements of writing, style and copy editing which form the basis of all print journalism. Students identify and fix common spelling, grammar and syntax errors in their own and colleagues’ writing and communicate the needed changes in a clear and positive manner using standard copy editing symbols. An understanding of news values aids in the selection and ranking of stories for front and inside pages. Assessment of audience and regional differences guides students in news judgment and selection. Newspaper design principles, headline and cutline writing, and knowledge of the readability and legibility of typographic and design elements help students create complete newspaper pages. | |
| Prerequisite(s): | AHSS*1060, MDST*1030, MDST*1050, MDST*1070 |
| MDST*2040 Media Relations F (3-0) [0.50] | |
|---|---|
| Students examine the role and practices of the media as they relate to public relations. They learn how to develop targeted media relations strategies to achieve organizational goals, and learn the tools required by public relations practitioners to proactively and reactively work with the media. Using a combination of lectures and writing labs, students gain a theoretical understanding of media relations while creating relevant communication to targeted media. | |
| Prerequisite(s): | MDST*1080 |
| MDST*2050 Specialized Reporting W (3-0) [0.50] | |
|---|---|
| This course introduces students to the concept and practices of specialized reporting. Students examine the structure of government in Canada, Ontario and municipalities. They learn how to cover Queen’s Park, municipal councils, the police and the courts, using journalistic skills and research methods to get the information they need. The course also discusses how to cover business (including the business of sports and the arts) and labour news, and studies how economic forces create and shape such news stories. Students also begin studying opinion writing – both editorial and critical reviews. | |
| Prerequisite(s): | MDST*2000, MDST*2030 |
| MDST*2060 Marketing Communications F,W (3-0) [0.50] | |
|---|---|
| Students develop an understanding of marketing objectives as key elements of Public Relations. Students examine the marketing mix and analyze integrated marketing communication. Application of planning techniques and forecasting trends is covered. | |
| Prerequisite(s): | MDST*1080 |
| MDST*2070 Digital Design I W (2-2) [0.50] | |
|---|---|
| This course introduces students to the current tools used in the development of visual design and develops skills in practical manipulation of these applications for both journalism and public relations. The course also develops skills in research and critical analysis related to culturally-based communication in local, national and international contexts. | |
| Prerequisite(s): | MDST*1030 |
| MDST*2130 Photographic Practices: Theory and Printing F (3-2) [0.50] | |
|---|---|
| This course introduces students to the theory of digital and chemical based materials and processes and the practical application of digital printing. Exposure, shooting and file management are examined in an effort to help students become proficient at producing quality images with their digital cameras. The densitometry of traditional media and digital file technologies are investigated and tested to understand the limitations and dynamic range of the associated materials. Digital inkjet output is explored, giving the student the necessary skill in producing correctly sized and tonally expressive prints. | |
| Prerequisite(s): | MDST*1070 |
| Restriction(s): | Registration in Media Studies Image Arts Specialization. |
| MDST*2210 Image Processing: Capture and Manipulation F,W (3-2) [0.50] | |
|---|---|
| This course will introduce students to historical photographic practices and image processing, theory, practice and technique using digital cameras. Students will learn to use manual controls of digital cameras to control exposure, movement and depth of field as well as learn basic techniques of file management, digital and historical printing procedures, image software use and lighting techniques. Design and composition will be emphasized. The course is designed to provide students with the skills to use image capture as a tool for self-expression and visual communication, to encourage visual literacy and creativity and to help students become proficient at producing quality digital images. | |
| Prerequisite(s): | MDST*1070 |
| Restriction(s): | Registration in the Media Studies Image Arts Specialization. |
| MDST*2510 Studio Lighting Fundamentals F (3-2) [0.50] | |
|---|---|
| In this course students cover the fundamentals of applied studio lighting, an essential component of photographic techniques. They are introduced to lighting controls and lighting patterns for the human anatomy and tabletop products. Students also study lighting in the contexts of history and issues related to business. | |
| Restriction(s): | Registration in the Media Studies Image Arts Specialization. |
| MDST*3000 Magazine Writing, Editing, and Research W (3-2) [0.50] | |
|---|---|
| Students explore all aspects of magazine writing and editing in this course, including developing sources, leads, interviews, and research techniques. Students also analyze the current Canadian magazine market and the impact of the magazine industry in Canadian society. Theories of media and technology examined in previous courses are applied as students choose feature-writing topics, study audience analysis, and debate media ethics. | |
| Prerequisite(s): | MDST*2000 |
| MDST*3010 Fundraising Principles and Practice F (3-5) [0.75] | |
|---|---|
| In this course students demonstrate knowledge of communication strategies for work in various public relations sectors, including non-profit, corporate, foundation, and branches of government. Students study how to prepare grant proposals, sponsorship requests, relationship marketing initiatives, capital campaign strategies, and planned giving programs, and acquire practical skills associated with evaluating requests and proposals. They also analyze the historical and social contexts of fund raising. Assigned field placement activities are part of this course. | |
| Prerequisite(s): | MDST*2010 |
| MDST*3020 Television Broadcasting W (3-2) [0.50] | |
|---|---|
| This course introduces students to the particular styles of writing and gathering news for radio and television, and to the differences between writing for the ear and for the eye. Students also learn how to use cameras, sound, and editing equipment and will shoot and edit their own video. The course examines the work of professional reporters working at local television stations, and requires students to analyze and critically evaluate the effectiveness of newscasts. | |
| Prerequisite(s): | MDST*2000 |
| MDST*3030 Event Management W (3-1) [0.50] | |
|---|---|
| Special Events play a vital role in virtually every sector of public relations. In this course students develop their analytical, organizational, and creative thinking skills as they individually prepare detailed special event plans and, as a group, organize, execute, and evaluate an event on behalf of an external client. They develop event themes, select appropriate venues, prepare budgets, explore protocol and etiquette issues, and select appropriate evaluation techniques. Students also tour a facility to examine its administrative, catering and meeting/convention services facilities. | |
| Prerequisite(s): | MDST*1080 |
| MDST*3040 Perception, Power, and the Media F (3-0) [0.50] | |
|---|---|
| Using an interdisciplinary approach, this course critically examines how the media construct, reinforce, and maintain perceptions of the world and attitudes towards society. The link between media-constructed perception and social and political power is examined and critiqued. Students are encouraged to evaluate their own roles as both citizens and future media practitioners. | |
| Prerequisite(s): | 7.50 credits |
| MDST*3050 Advanced Magazine Production F (3-2) [0.50] | |
|---|---|
| In this advanced-level magazine course students create and produce a full-color glossy magazine and an online edition. They practice publication management skills by assuming editorial and production duties and by taking responsibility for the publication from concept through creation. This professional-level project includes examination and critique of award-winning Canadian publications and discussion of the current role of magazines in mass communication. | |
| Prerequisite(s): | MDST*3000 |
| MDST*3060 Public Affairs F (3-0) [0.50] | |
|---|---|
| In this course, students will acquire a working knowledge of the roles and functions of governments in governing Canada, from a public affairs perspective. Students will analyze the range of strategies and comprehensive communications tools that are utilized by the public affairs community to influence change in government, as part of a major research paper and in group presentations. On the government side, students will study how Canada’s multi-party, three level political systems coincide with bureaucratic structures to drive major decision-making and the parliamentary legislative process. | |
| Prerequisite(s): | 10.00 credits |
| Restriction(s): | Registration in the Bachelor of Applied Arts program. |
| MDST*3070 Advanced Newspaper Production F,W (3-2) [0.50] | |
|---|---|
| This course reviews key elements of the newspaper industry in Canada and its role in the current media world. Students apply this knowledge to the production of a newspaper that meets professional standards by applying the writing, reporting, editing and design skills from previous semesters, students produce a newspaper with a designated target market. Students will rotate through positions as both editors and reporters, and take part in all aspects of production to publish multiple editions of the newspaper. | |
| Prerequisite(s): | MDST*2030, MDST*2070 |
| Restriction(s): | Registration in the Bachelor of Applied Arts program. |
| MDST*3080 Writing for Public Relations I F (0-4) [0.50] | |
|---|---|
| This course concentrates on the development of the specific types of writing skills required of public relations professionals with an emphasis on work that is clear, concise, and complete. Students have the opportunity to analyze and write several public relations vehicles including news stories, features, public service announcements, biographies, brochures, newsletters and news releases. | |
| Prerequisite(s): | MDST*1050, MDST*1080 |
| MDST*3090 Advanced Broadcasting: Television II W (3-2) [0.50] | |
|---|---|
| This practical course continues the learning from MDST*3020. It consolidates and reinforces the skills of the previous semester and applies them in more complex ways. Students produce field reports that are used in television current affairs programs. The production of these shows simulates the workings of a real newsroom. Students rotate through various editorial and production positions and work as a team to produce live news magazine shows. Students also produce a major critical analysis of network news programs in Canada. | |
| Prerequisite(s): | MDST*3020, MDST*3080 |
| MDST*3100 Corporations and Agencies F (3-0) [0.50] | |
|---|---|
| In this course students study about large corporations, public relations agencies and small business. Course material covers a wide variety of business concepts and terminology including accounting, finance, structure and legal considerations. Students expand their knowledge by reading the business section of the daily newspaper. Given parameters, students work in teams to develop and present a business plan for their own Public Relations agency. | |
| Prerequisite(s): | MDST*1080 |
| Restriction(s): | Registration in Media Studies Public Relations Specialization |
| MDST*3110 Intermediate Theory and Location Photography W (3-3) [0.50] | |
|---|---|
| This course is designed to develop students’ proficiency in professional portable and studio electronic flash photography. Exposure control through digital and traditional “Zone System” is also studied along with Digital colour management as it applies to analog and digital photography. Assignments require students to apply the principles and practices taught in this course. | |
| Prerequisite(s): | 7.50 credits, MDST*2510 |
| MDST*3120 Digital Design II W (3-0) [0.50] | |
|---|---|
| The course focuses on process, word/image interaction, meaning, hierarchy and the impact of dimensional form on effective communication. Students will learn to distill complex ideas into concise and convincing two and three-dimensional elements through a series of experimental projects. All studio-based assignments require research and presentations that include verbal, written and visual components. The course will integrate current software and tools in both physical and virtual environments. | |
| Prerequisite(s): | MDST*2070 |
| MDST*3130 Applied Commercial and Studio Portraiture F (3-2) [0.50] | |
|---|---|
| In this course students explore more advanced lighting and camera techniques as applied to both commercial catalogue and studio portraiture. The course also is designed to provide students with an understanding of the business side of both commercial and portrait photography and the evolution of styles in these fields. In addition, it offers insights into career opportunities. | |
| Prerequisite(s): | 7.50 credits, MDST*2510 |
| Restriction(s): | Registration in the Bachelor of Applied Arts program. |
| MDST*3140 Intermediate Commercial and Studio Portraiture W (3-3) [0.50] | |
|---|---|
| This course continues to examine the advanced lighting techniques used in advertising, commercial, and consumer portrait photography. Composition of photographs, layouts, business, history, projects and critiques challenge the student to enter into a professional level of production in these fields. Some location work with a professional photographer is included in this course. | |
| Prerequisite(s): | MDST*3110, MDST*3130 |
| Restriction(s): | Registration in the Bachelor of Applied Arts program. |
| MDST*3150 Advanced Prepress and Digital Imaging F (3-3) [0.50] | |
|---|---|
| This advanced editing course is a continuation of earlier PhotoShop activities and is designed to add to the working proficiency of the student in this software. In addition, the student acquires in-depth knowledge of how the digital studio of today handles its production flow and prepress needs. | |
| Restriction(s): | Registration in Media Studies Image Arts Specialization |
| MDST*3160 Industrial Location Production W (3-3) [0.50] | |
|---|---|
| This course is designed to provide the advanced techniques associated with location photography. In addition, students are exposed to advanced location lighting associated with architecture, location fashion, editorial and interiors photography. | |
| Prerequisite(s): | MDST*3110, MDST*3130 |
| Restriction(s): | Registration in the Bachelor of Applied Arts program. |
| MDST*3170 Writing for Public Relations II W (3-1) [0.50] | |
|---|---|
| Students build on the skills learned in MDST 3080 Writing for Public Relations I. Writing for both traditional and electronic public relations vehicles is examined. Students have the opportunity to analyze and write several public relations vehicles including news releases, pitch letters, feature articles, promotional brochures and on-line newsletters. In-depth research for assignments is required. | |
| Prerequisite(s): | MDST*3080 |
| MDST*3180 Radio Broadcasting F (3-2) [0.50] | |
|---|---|
| This course introduces students to the radio industry in Canada, and the unique characteristics of radio as an information medium. Students study the basic skills required to produce various forms of information radio, including broadcast writing, interviewing and the use of sound and clips. They also practice audio editing, using digital software. The course provides an overview of journalistic radio formats, compares private and public radio, and requires students to analyze and evaluate their differences. | |
| Restriction(s): | Registration in Media Studies Journalism Specialization. |
| MDST*3200 Photo-Based Practices F (3-2) [0.50] | |
|---|---|
| This course introduces students to a variety of historical and photo-based techniques comparing those with the techniques used in the digital world of the 21st century. Creative cross-pollination and appropriation between the fine art and commercial photography markets are explored from yesterday and today. Students experiment with alternative approaches exploring the future direction of the photographic process. | |
| Prerequisite(s): | AHSS*2170, MDST*2510 |
| Restriction(s): | Registration in the Bachelor of Applied Arts program. |
| MDST*3210 Videography I F (3-2) [0.50] | |
|---|---|
| This introductory, intensive hands-on course engages students in the techniques associated with planning, shooting and editing video for corporate communication purposes. Students will work with industry standard production equipment and software to produce technically proficient short documentary and dramatic projects in a variety of formats. In the process, they will learn the terminology, mechanics and aesthetics of planning, lighting, shooting, editing. | |
| Prerequisite(s): | 10.00 credits |
| MDST*3220 Client Relations & Project Management W (3-0) [0.50] | |
|---|---|
| In this course students will acquire the business planning and project management skills required for business. Topics include business planning, use of project management software, strategic thinking, project planning principles, conflict resolution, problem-solving and negotiation skills. | |
| Prerequisite(s): | 12.50 credits |
| MDST*3350 Web Design for Digital Communication II W (3-2) [0.50] | |
|---|---|
| Using Scalar Vector Graphics (SVG) and the software program Adobe Flash, students will learn how to make prepared video content available through Web sites. They will also study animation in Flash, scripted animation, and the programming language called ActionScript. | |
| Prerequisite(s): | MDST*3250 |
| MDST*4040 Multimedia Journalism F (3-2) [0.50] | |
|---|---|
| In this advanced level course, students build on previous print, radio, television and web skills to produce two multimedia projects. After reviewing the current theories about and various uses of multimedia communication in Canada, students select one topic for each project. Each student then develops a print, radio, or television item covering different aspects of the topic. Each student will have an opportunity to work in at least two different media. | |
| Prerequisite(s): | AHSS*3080, MDST*3180 |
| MDST*4050 Examining Public Relations Sectors W (3-0) [0.50] | |
|---|---|
| In this course students have the opportunity to develop their organizational, analytical and critical thinking skills. Given parameters, students are responsible for selecting and briefing speakers, organizing and facilitating seminars, that address issues from a public relations perspective, and analyzing the merit of the information provided. | |
| Prerequisite(s): | MDST*2010 |
| Restriction(s): | Registration in the Bachelor of Applied Arts program. |
| MDST*4060 Journalism Internship W (1-16) [1.50] | |
|---|---|
| Students gain practical experience in their area of specialization by completing an eight-week internship during their final semester. During the seventh semester faculty meet with students to review the internship process and requirements. All internships require the completion of a portfolio including various written components that prepare students for the workplace and consolidate their understanding of their profession. Students must be enrolled as full-time during the semester they are completing the internship. A critical analysis of the workplace and a portfolio based on student’s experience and acquired skills will be prepared. | |
| Prerequisite(s): | 15.00 credits |
| Restriction(s): | Registration in the Bachelor of Applied Arts program specialization in Journalism. |
| MDST*4070 Public Relations Internship W (1-16) [1.50] | |
|---|---|
| Graduating students gain practical experience in their area of specialization by completing an eight-week internship during their final semester. During the seventh semester faculty meet with students to review the internship process and requirements. All internships require the completion of a portfolio including various written components that prepare students for the workplace and consolidate their understanding of their profession. Students must be enrolled as full-time during the semester they are completing the internship. A critical analysis of the workplace and a portfolio based on student’s experience and acquired skills will be prepared. | |
| Prerequisite(s): | 15.00 credits |
| Restriction(s): | Registration in the Bachelor of Applied Arts program specialization in Public Relations. |
| MDST*4080 Globalization and the Global Media F (3-0) [0.50] | |
|---|---|
| In this course students examine how contemporary "globalization" and international relations link with revolutionary transformations in the global media, communications technology, and cultural industries. The course surveys and critically evaluates the major debates, critical perspectives, and theories pertaining to the political economy, history, and social-cultural aspects of globalization, global communication and media culture. By doing so, the course equips students with skills, knowledge, and attitudes that are required to communicate in globalized work environments. | |
| Prerequisite(s): | 10.00 credits |
| Restriction(s): | Registration in the Bachelor of Applied Arts program. |
| MDST*4110 Advanced Editorial and Digital Editing F (3-3) [0.50] | |
|---|---|
| In this course students photograph interior spaces and people for professional publications and corporate annual reports. The business of location photography is studied as well as layout design for publication. The digital image-editing component of this course allows students to use various techniques and image-making strategies. Advanced techniques and colour management is also taught. | |
| Prerequisite(s): | MDST*3140, MDST*3150, MDST*3160 |
| Co-requisite(s): | MDST*4140 |
| Restriction(s): | Registration in the Bachelor of Applied Arts program. |
| MDST*4130 Image Arts Internship W (1-16) [1.50] | |
|---|---|
| Graduating students gain practical experience in their area of specialization by completing an eight-week internship during their final semester. During the seventh semester faculty meet with students to review the internship process and requirements. All internships require the completion of a portfolio including various written components that prepare students for the workplace and consolidate their understanding of their profession. Students must be enrolled as full-time during the semester they are completing the internship. A critical analysis of the workplace and a portfolio based on student’s experience and acquired skills will be prepared. | |
| Prerequisite(s): | 15.00 credits |
| Restriction(s): | Registration in the Bachelor of Applied Arts program specialization in Image Arts. |
| MDST*4140 Advanced Commercial and Corporate Photography F (3-3) [0.50] | |
|---|---|
| Illustrative commercial and corporate portraiture places an emphasis on photographing advertised product and business style portraits shot on location. A variety of illustrative photographic techniques and styles are studied and professional quality images produced. | |
| Prerequisite(s): | MDST*3140, MDST*3150, MDST*3160 |
| Co-requisite(s): | MDST*4110 |
| Restriction(s): | Registration in the Bachelor of Applied Arts program. |
| MDST*4170 Videography II W (3-2) [0.50] | |
|---|---|
| In this course students build on skills and knowledge learned in Videography I to create a range of professional quality corporate communications videos. Working in production crews, students learn to create effective studio and location-based videos by writing proposals, scripts, storyboards and other planning documents for projects they will shoot and edit. Students learn to sweeten, edit, mix and output sound for their videos in a variety of new media channels such as DVD, internet, iPod, and mobile phones. | |
| Prerequisite(s): | MDST*3210 |
| MDST*4200 Digital Communication Internship W (1-16) [1.50] | |
|---|---|
| In this course students gain practical experience in their area of specialization by completing an eight-week internship during their final semester. During the seventh semester faculty meet with students to review the internship process and requirements. All internships require the completion of a portfolio including various written components that prepare students for the workplace and consolidate their understanding of their profession. Students must be enrolled as full-time during the semester they are completing the internship. A critical analysis of the workplace and a portfolio based on student’s experience and acquired skills will be prepared. | |
| Prerequisite(s): | 15.00 credits |
| Restriction(s): | Registration in the B.A.A Media Studies Specialization in Digital Communications |
| MDST*4210 Media Practices W (3-3) [1.00] | |
|---|---|
| Through a multi-platform, multi-disciplinary approach this course exposes students to the full breadth of media in the 21st century. Working within their area of emphasis, students will collaborate with students in other media disciplines on a major media endeavour. This course will reflect the consolidation and vertical integration of media in the twenty-first century while providing students with an immersive media environment. | |
| Prerequisite(s): | 15.00 credits |
| Restriction(s): | Registration in the Bachelor of Applied Arts in Media Studies |
| MDST*4250 Web Design for Digital Communication III F (3-2) [0.50] | |
|---|---|
| In this course students will arrange, write and update blogs. They will also study how small-to-medium sized organizations operate sophisticated Web sites through open source content management systems (OSCMS). In addition, students will also learn to install, configure, and operate a Web site for a proposed organization using an OSCMS. | |
| Prerequisite(s): | MDST*3350 |
| MDST*4500 Applied Research Project F (3-0) [1.00] | |
|---|---|
| The fourth year capstone course in the Media Studies program provides students with the opportunity to explore an area of the field in an independent project. This course synthesizes both theoretical and practical learning aquired throughout the program and provides an opportunity for students to develop their portfolio in preparation for further studies or professional work. | |
| Prerequisite(s): | 15.00 credits |
| Restriction(s): | Registration in the Bachelor of Applied Arts in Media Studies program |
| MDST*4900 Independent Study in Media Studies S,F,W (3-0) [0.50] | |
|---|---|
| The independent study course is designed to provide senior undergraduate students with an opportunity to pursue library or field research under faculty supervision and to prepare an integrated paper or literature review. Formal agreement between the student and the faculty supervisor is required, as is approval of the program head. | |
| Prerequisite(s): | 15.00 credits |
| Restriction(s): | Registration in the Bachelor of Applied Arts in Media Studies. Instructor consent required. |
| MDST*4910 Independent Study in Media S,F,W (3-0) [0.50] | |
|---|---|
| The independent study course is designed to provide senior undergraduate students with an opportunity to pursue library, field research or project under faculty supervision and to prepare a research report of literature review. Formal agreement between the student and the faculty supervisor is required, as is approval of the program head. | |
| Prerequisite(s): | 15.00 credits |
| Restriction(s): | Instructor consent required. Registration in the Bachelor of Applied Arts program. |