Communications and Media Arts

Study Communications on the Coast of Maine

Do you have a talent for crafting a message, selling an idea, or telling an interesting story? UNE’s Bachelor of Arts in Communications and Media Arts cultivates professional and personal communications skills in a supportive, student-focused environment. In addition to studying the traditional communications disciplines, such as marketing, public relations, global communications, journalism, and business communications, you will develop highly marketable skills in digital media production — so you’ll be prepared to engage 21st-century audiences through multiple media platforms.

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A student runs a video camera during a mock interview

A communications student uses a clapperboard in between shots for a videotaped interview during class

Portrait of U N E student Emily Hedegard

Emily Hedegard ’25

Communications and Media Arts, English, Writing

Why UNE

I’ve had a passion for writing since I was a little kid, which led to me pursuing journalism. When I came to UNE, I knew that was the path I wanted to follow. I started as an English major, but my interest in storytelling led me to eventually double major in Communications and Media Arts, combining my love for writing with a deeper understanding of the media landscape.

Both programs offer concentration tracks, which I find incredibly helpful in allowing me to tailor my studies to align more closely with my passion for journalism. I’m on the PR and Reporting track for Communications and Media Arts and the Writing track for English. I also decided to minor in writing.

The [School of Arts and Humanities] program at UNE is truly incredible. All my professors are very personable and genuinely care about each individual student. The smaller class sizes allow for more hands-on, one-on-one time with professors, creating an interactive learning experience. Unlike the larger lecture-style classes found in some of the sciences, the humanities classes really encourage conversation and engagement.

Making Connections Through Experiential Learning

The Communications and Media Arts degree program at UNE is full of experiential learning activities. One project that really made an impact on me was in my broadcast media class when the university had its first production shoot in the new Nor’easter Studio. My class had the incredible opportunity to interview Stacia Deshishku, former VP of ABC News.

I was fortunate to conduct the interview and ask the questions on behalf of my classmates. It was so exciting to work hands-on in the studio for the first time. Seeing all of the incredible opportunities opening up for students in the arts and humanities makes me so happy!

I was also given the opportunity to become an editor-in-chief of UNE’s student paper, The Bolt, in my sophomore year. As editor, I learned to navigate the business side of journalism while continuing to grow my portfolio. Additionally, as editor, I was able to introduce dozens of students to the world of news writing, helping them strengthen their writing and interviewing skills.

Engaging in Valuable Internship Opportunities

UNE strongly encourages you to take advantage of internship opportunities. I’ve had several throughout my time here, each offering unique experiences. My first internship started when one of my professors approached me to serve as the reference checker for Across the Disciplines, an academic journal where he is the editor. This wasn’t a typical internship, but it was a good resume builder for when I went forward in my future internships.

From there, I became part of a Community News Fellowship and was partnered with the Portland Press Herald. I wanted to do more than just write two articles during the school year, which was the requirement for the fellowship, so I asked my professors for help expanding the experience. They worked with me to secure two consecutive internships with The Herald. Most recently, I interned with The Maine Monitor, which is an investigative newsroom. The organization has since hired me part-time and taken me on as a staff writer through the Community News Fellowship.

The faculty at UNE truly act as mentors throughout our internship experiences. There’s an internship class where we meet with our peers to casually discuss how things are going at our sites. I find it really helpful to hear from others and receive advice from my professors.

Ready for Success After Graduation

After I graduate from UNE, I am going to be a graduate student at ASU Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication where I will be pursuing my master’s in investigative journalism. I will be working as a graduate assistant and was offered a full ride to the program.

None of this would have been possible without the support of the faculty at UNE, who always encouraged me to take risks and helped me seize the opportunities I found. It’s been a wonderful experience, and I am beyond excited for the future.

UNE strongly encourages you to take advantage of internship opportunities. I’ve had several throughout my time here, each offering unique experiences. The faculty at UNE truly act as mentors throughout our internship experiences.

Why UNE for Your B.A. in Communications and Media Arts

Located on our oceanfront Biddeford Campus, an idyllic setting for undergraduate study, the Communications and Media Arts major offers small class sizes and close working relationships with peers and faculty. We emphasize the practical application of skills, acquired through doing and creating, that will put you a cut above others in the industry.

Focus on digital media production/media writing and marketing/advertising
Hands-on training with the latest tools and technologies of the field
Broad coverage of the classic communications disciplines
Introduction to the history and ethics of the communications industry
Intriguing internships to polish your skills – and your resume

Career Paths for Communications and Media Arts Majors

In addition to the oral and written communication skills that are the cornerstone of this major, you will acquire technical mastery of the tools of the trade and an ability to think critically as you explore the different perspectives of your audiences. Combined with your internship experiences, these skill sets will help you become an expert storyteller and will fully prepare you for a highly successful career in the communications field.

Our graduates have pursued many fulfilling professions, including:

Filmmaker
Public Relations Professional
Blogger
Journalist
Videographer
Marketing Professional
Video Editor
TV Studio Manager
Screenwriter

Career Advising for B.A. in Communications and Media Arts Students

Whether you have a specific career goal in mind or a vague idea of the field that interests you, Career Advising is here to help you plan your next step.

Tour the Art and Design Media Facilities

Explore Art Studio Spaces With UNE Students Johnna and Will

Learn about the different studio spaces along with the ceramics, printmaking, and digital photography lab in the Creative and Fine Arts facility.

Interested in our Communications and Media Arts program?

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What will you study? Communications and Media Arts degree Curriculum Overview

B.A. in Communications and Media Arts Courses

The following are some examples of the exciting courses that you can take in the Communications and Media Arts major:

Understanding Mass Media
Digital Video Production
Communication Law and Regulation
Marketing
Writing for the Screen
Global Communications
Topics in Digital Storytelling

Curriculum

CAS Core Requirements	Total Credits
Credits	42–43

CAS Core Requirements	Credits
Total Credits	42–43

Program Required Courses	ART 230 – Graphic Design
Credits	3

Program Required Courses	CMM 110 – Intro to Communications
Credits	3

Program Required Courses	CMM 122 – Oral Communication or SPC 100 – Effective Public Speaking
Credits	3

Program Required Courses	CMM 210 – Understanding Media
Credits	3

Program Required Courses	CMM 320 – Intercultural Communication or CMM 416 – Global Communication
Credits	3

Program Required Courses	CMM 430 – Internship in Communication
Credits	3

Program Required Courses	LIL 120 – Introductory Arts and Humanities Seminar* or open elective
Credits	3

Program Required Courses	LIL 420 – Arts & Humanities Capstone
Credits	3

Program Required Courses	One (1) Communications and Media Arts Concentration (see below)
Credits	12

Program Required Courses	Three (3) credits of program-specific electives from List A (see below)
Credits	3

Program Required Courses	Six (6) credits of program-specific electives from List A or List B (see below)
Credits	6

Program Required Courses	Total Credits
Credits	45

Program Required Courses	Open Elective Courses (as needed to reach 120 credits)
Credits	Variable

Program Required Courses	Credits
ART 230 – Graphic Design	3
CMM 110 – Intro to Communications	3
CMM 122 – Oral Communication or SPC 100 – Effective Public Speaking	3
CMM 210 – Understanding Media	3
CMM 320 – Intercultural Communication or CMM 416 – Global Communication	3
CMM 430 – Internship in Communication	3
LIL 120 – Introductory Arts and Humanities Seminar* or open elective	3
LIL 420 – Arts & Humanities Capstone	3
One (1) Communications and Media Arts Concentration (see below)	12
Three (3) credits of program-specific electives from List A (see below)	3
Six (6) credits of program-specific electives from List A or List B (see below)	6
Total Credits	45
Open Elective Courses (as needed to reach 120 credits)	Variable

Minimum Total Required Credits	120

*LIL 120 - Introductory Arts and Humanities Seminar is a required course for new, first-year students in the School of Arts and Humanities

Communications and Media Arts Concentration options

Sports Media Concentration

Select three (3) of the following:	CMM 215 – Video Field Production or CMM 216 – Sports Field Production
Credits	3

Select three (3) of the following:	CMM 310 – DV Studio I
Credits	3

Select three (3) of the following:	CMM 311 – Digital Video Production
Credits	3

Select three (3) of the following:	CMM 410 – Writing for the Screen
Credits	3

Select three (3) of the following:	Total Credits
Credits	9

Select three (3) of the following:	Credits
CMM 215 – Video Field Production or CMM 216 – Sports Field Production	3
CMM 310 – DV Studio I	3
CMM 311 – Digital Video Production	3
CMM 410 – Writing for the Screen	3
Total Credits	9

Select one (1) of the following:	CMM 216 – Sports Field Production
Credits	3

Select one (1) of the following:	CMM 290 – Intro to Broadcast Media Writ
Credits	3

Select one (1) of the following:	CMM 310 – DV Studio I
Credits	3

Select one (1) of the following:	CMM 405 – DV Studio II
Credits	3

Select one (1) of the following:	Total Credits
Credits	3

Select one (1) of the following:	Credits
CMM 216 – Sports Field Production	3
CMM 290 – Intro to Broadcast Media Writ	3
CMM 310 – DV Studio I	3
CMM 405 – DV Studio II	3
Total Credits	3

Digital Video Production Concentration

Select three (3) of the following:	CMM 300 – Documentary Video
Credits	3

Select three (3) of the following:	CMM 310 – DV Studio I
Credits	3

Select three (3) of the following:	CMM 311 – Digital Video Production
Credits	3

Select three (3) of the following:	CMM 410 – Writing for the Screen
Credits	3

Select three (3) of the following:	Total Credits
Credits	9

Select three (3) of the following:	Credits
CMM 300 – Documentary Video	3
CMM 310 – DV Studio I	3
CMM 311 – Digital Video Production	3
CMM 410 – Writing for the Screen	3
Total Credits	9

Select one (1) of the following:	CMM 216 – Sports Field Production
Credits	3

Select one (1) of the following:	CMM 290 – Intro to Broadcast Media Writ
Credits	3

Select one (1) of the following:	CMM 310 – DV Studio I
Credits	3

Select one (1) of the following:	CMM 405 – DV Studio II
Credits	3

Select one (1) of the following:	Total Credits
Credits	3

Select one (1) of the following:	Credits
CMM 216 – Sports Field Production	3
CMM 290 – Intro to Broadcast Media Writ	3
CMM 310 – DV Studio I	3
CMM 405 – DV Studio II	3
Total Credits	3

Reporting and Public Relations Concentration

Select three (3) of the following:	CMM 211 – Introduction to Journalism
Credits	3

Select three (3) of the following:	CMM 220 – Organizational Communication or WRT 233 – Professional and Technical Communication
Credits	3

Select three (3) of the following:	CMM 290 – Intro to Broadcast Media Writ
Credits	3

Select three (3) of the following:	CMM 305 – Public Relations in the Digital Age
Credits	3

Select three (3) of the following:	Total Credits
Credits	9

Select three (3) of the following:	Credits
CMM 211 – Introduction to Journalism	3
CMM 220 – Organizational Communication or WRT 233 – Professional and Technical Communication	3
CMM 290 – Intro to Broadcast Media Writ	3
CMM 305 – Public Relations in the Digital Age	3
Total Credits	9

Select one (1) of the following	BUMK 200 – Marketing
Credits	3

Select one (1) of the following	CMM 410 – Writing for the Screen
Credits	3

Select one (1) of the following	CMM 415 – Sports Reporting and Writing
Credits	3

Select one (1) of the following	SLM 225 – Sport and Recreation Marketing (formerly SRM 325)
Credits	3

Select one (1) of the following	Total Credits
Credits	3

Select one (1) of the following	Credits
BUMK 200 – Marketing	3
CMM 410 – Writing for the Screen	3
CMM 415 – Sports Reporting and Writing	3
SLM 225 – Sport and Recreation Marketing (formerly SRM 325)	3
Total Credits	3

Program-Specific Elective Options

List A Electives	CMM 130 – Media Literacy
Credits	3

List A Electives	CMM 135 – Evolution of Television
Credits	3

List A Electives	CMM 170 – Evolution of Documentary Film
Credits	3

List A Electives	CMM 201 – Digital Media & Software Tools
Credits	3

List A Electives	CMM 211 – Introduction to Journalism
Credits	3

List A Electives	CMM 220 – Organizational Communication
Credits	3

List A Electives	CMM 225 – Topics in Digital Storytelling
Credits	3

List A Electives	CMM 240 – Social Media: Theory & Practice
Credits	3

List A Electives	CMM 290 – Intro to Broadcast Media Writ
Credits	3

List A Electives	CMM 300 – Documentary Video
Credits	3

List A Electives	CMM 305 – Public Relations in the Digital Age
Credits	3

List A Electives	CMM 311 – Digital Video Production
Credits	3

List A Electives	CMM 340 – Women and Film
Credits	3

List A Electives	CMM 350 – Video Game Studies
Credits	3

List A Electives	CMM 410 – Writing for the Screen
Credits	3

List A Electives	CMM 411 – Communication Law & Regulation
Credits	3

List A Electives	CMM 415 – Sports Reporting and Writing
Credits	3

List A Electives	CMM 420 – Senior Project
Credits	3

List A Electives	WRT 233 – Professional and Technical Communication
Credits	3

List A Electives	WRT 304 – Read & Write in Digital Env.
Credits	3

List A Electives	WRT 317 – Proposal and Grant Writing
Credits	3

List A Electives	Credits
CMM 130 – Media Literacy	3
CMM 135 – Evolution of Television	3
CMM 170 – Evolution of Documentary Film	3
CMM 201 – Digital Media & Software Tools	3
CMM 211 – Introduction to Journalism	3
CMM 220 – Organizational Communication	3
CMM 225 – Topics in Digital Storytelling	3
CMM 240 – Social Media: Theory & Practice	3
CMM 290 – Intro to Broadcast Media Writ	3
CMM 300 – Documentary Video	3
CMM 305 – Public Relations in the Digital Age	3
CMM 311 – Digital Video Production	3
CMM 340 – Women and Film	3
CMM 350 – Video Game Studies	3
CMM 410 – Writing for the Screen	3
CMM 411 – Communication Law & Regulation	3
CMM 415 – Sports Reporting and Writing	3
CMM 420 – Senior Project	3
WRT 233 – Professional and Technical Communication	3
WRT 304 – Read & Write in Digital Env.	3
WRT 317 – Proposal and Grant Writing	3

List B Electives	ART 105 – Elements of Acting
Credits	3

List B Electives	ART 106 – Two-Dimensional Design
Credits	3

List B Electives	ART 111 – Scientific Illustration
Credits	3

List B Electives	ART 214 – Color Digital Photography
Credits	3

List B Electives	ART 234 – Digital Animation
Credits	3

List B Electives	BUMK 200 – Marketing
Credits	3

List B Electives	BUMK 310 – Advertising
Credits	3

List B Electives	ENG 140 – Indigenous Film and Literature
Credits	3

List B Electives	ENV 321 – Env Comm: Expert Prac Eco
Credits	3

List B Electives	HIS 150 – Telling Tales of the Past
Credits	3

List B Electives	HIS 295 – Medicine and the Media
Credits	3

List B Electives	SLM 160 – Introduction to Sport Leadership and Management (formerly SRM 160)
Credits	3

List B Electives	Credits
ART 105 – Elements of Acting	3
ART 106 – Two-Dimensional Design	3
ART 111 – Scientific Illustration	3
ART 214 – Color Digital Photography	3
ART 234 – Digital Animation	3
BUMK 200 – Marketing	3
BUMK 310 – Advertising	3
ENG 140 – Indigenous Film and Literature	3
ENV 321 – Env Comm: Expert Prac Eco	3
HIS 150 – Telling Tales of the Past	3
HIS 295 – Medicine and the Media	3
SLM 160 – Introduction to Sport Leadership and Management (formerly SRM 160)	3

Honors Program

Meet our faculty and professional staff

Learn about UNE’s Digital Storytelling Podcast Class

Experiential Learning in the Bachelor’s Degree in Communications and Media Arts

The Communications and Media Arts major emphasizes hands-on, real-world learning, providing you with experiences that will set you apart from others. At UNE, communications isn’t just about what you say or write; it’s about what you do.

Opportunities for Communications and Media Arts Students

Create videos using HD cameras, lighting, sound recording equipment, and editing tools
Develop your own screenplay
Learn to use photo editing software
Design video games using 3D design software in UNE’s innovative Makerspace

Internships for Communications and Media Arts Majors

Internships allow you to explore career options, gain valuable work experience in your field, and network with professionals. Intern near campus during the academic year or elsewhere over the summer. Sites include:

Television Stations
Radio Stations
Newspapers/Magazines
Non-Profit Organizations
Minor League Sports Teams
School/University Communications Offices

For more information email the Academic and Career Advising Center at advising@une.edu.

Learning to film in the Sports Field Production Course

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Ready to begin your future in UNE’s B.A. in Communications and Media Arts degree program? Get started today.

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Communications and Media Arts FAQ

What is a communications major?

What can you do with a communications degree?

What's the average salary for a communications major?

What classes are required for a communications degree?

Should I major in communications?

Which colleges have the best communication degree program for me?

If a communications job is the right career path for you, it starts with choosing the right degree program. Here’s what you should look for in a communications program.

Faculty

Identify your priorities in an instructor and learn more about your potential teachers and their professional experience. Discover what kind of professional connections you can make there that will further your career.

UNE’s Communications and Media Arts program boasts small class sizes which offers a closer working relationship with peers and faculty while earning a communications degree in Maine.

Meet faculty and professional staff in the School of Arts and Humanities

Curriculum

Learn about the types of classes you’ll be taking and the types of internships offered. Ask about things that matter to you including the types of media you’ll be studying, skills you’ll learn, and the technology available.

UNE offers a B.A. in Communications and Media Arts. We prioritize hands-on skill application, gained through practical experience and creation, to set graduates apart in the industry.

Our comprehensive curriculum includes a focus on digital media production/media writing and marketing/advertising plus broad coverage of the classic communications disciplines. The following are some examples of the exciting courses that students can take in this program:

Understanding Mass Media
Digital Video Production
Communication Law and Regulation
Marketing
Writing for the Screen
Intercultural Communications
Topics in Digital Storytelling

Unique learning opportunities include creating videos using HD cameras, lighting, sound recording equipment, and editing tools; developing your own screenplay; learning to use photo editing software and designing video games using 3D design software in UNE’s innovative Makerspace.

UNE takes pride in its commitment to experiential learning. Internships allow Communications and Media Arts students to explore career options, gain valuable work experience in their field, and network with professionals. Sites include television stations, radio stations, newspapers/magazines, non-profit organizations, minor league sports teams, and school/university communications offices.

Learn more about internship opportunities within the College of Arts and Sciences

Career goals

Determine if the program offers career advising and qualifies you for a lucrative, rewarding communications career.

Students in UNE's Communications and Media Arts program learn traditional disciplines like marketing, journalism, and more. They also gain highly marketable digital media production skills, preparing them to connect with modern audiences across various platforms.

UNE's Bachelor of Arts in Communications in Maine equips graduates with essential oral, written, technical, and critical thinking skills for success in both professional and personal spheres. Students are fully prepared for entry-level roles in the public or private sector, as well as for further graduate studies.

UNE offers Career Advising to help communications majors plan their next step. 93% of bachelor’s degree graduates are employed or continuing higher education within six months to one year of graduating.

Location and environment

Ask yourself what kind of environment suits you best. Figure out if you want to stay in your state or if you wish to move. See if you will be inspired or challenged by your fellow students and faculty.

UNE’s Communications and Media Arts program is located on our oceanfront Biddeford Campus, an idyllic New England setting for undergraduate study with over 4,000 feet of stunning shoreline. Overall, UNE boasts small class sizes. We have a 12:1 student-to-teacher ratio and an average class size of 20.

Learn more quick facts about UNE

Our Global Education Program makes it easy for students to gain valuable international experiences. Our Tangier Campus is a unique facility fostering connections among U.S., Moroccan, European, and more citizens. UNE Morocco provides educational and cultural programs to promote international understanding.

Learn more about study abroad opportunities at UNE

Financial aid

Does the school you are considering offer financial aid or scholarships to help you in your education?

A UNE education is very affordable. Our tuition is 16% below the average tuition for private universities in New England. All incoming full-time undergraduate students at UNE will receive Merit Scholarships in amounts from $5,000 to $22,000 per year.

Learn more about grants and scholarships available to students at UNE

UNE's Student Financial Services includes both Financial Aid and Student Accounts offices. Our program maximizes available institutional and federal funds. To discover ways to fund your education, reach out at sfs@une.edu or (207) 602-2342 during our Monday–Friday 9 a.m.–3 p.m. office hours.