A media production associate's degree program could give you knowledge of audio and video and how to apply it to a career in film, television and graphic design. Find out about classes offered in these programs and career paths in media production.
What Does a Media Production Associate's Degree Program Cover?
Programs at this level generally focus on digital media production. Through associate's degree programs, such as the Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Digital Video and Media Production, AAS in Electronic Media Production and AAS in Digital Media Production, you can learn the basics used to create a variety of media, including websites, film and audio.
You can also learn how to edit digital and analog film, as well as record and edit sounds. You may find that some programs teach you to produce media for the Internet and cover the fundamentals of mass communication.
Your program can require you to complete hands-on training using computer editing software, such as Final Cut Pro, audio and video recording devices, computer rendering programs and television production equipment. Your program may also offer opportunities for co-ops or internships. Online associate's degree programs in media production are rare.
<table border="1"><tr><td><b>Program Fields</b></td><td> Digital video and media production; electronic media production; digital media production</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Common Courses</b></td><td> Graphic design, technical writing, digital special effects, video systems, audio production</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Possible Careers</b></td><td> Graphic design assistant, broadcast technician</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Job Outlook (2019-2029)*</b></td><td> -4% (for graphic designers)</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Median Salary (2020)*</b></td><td> $53,380 (for graphic designers)</td></tr>
</table><p><i>Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics</i>
</p><h3 id="section---WhatCoursesCanIExpect">What Courses Can I Expect?</h3><p>Your coursework will cover production career topics, such as how to budget and schedule for video projects, as well as provide artistic and technical training. In addition to general education courses in mathematics, English, communication, social sciences and other areas, you can expect core courses similar to the following:
</p><ul><li>Televisions studio production
</li><li>Audio production
</li><li>Graphic design
</li><li>Technical writing
</li><li>Digital special effects
</li><li>Video systems
</li></ul><h3 id="section---WhatCanIDoWithMyEducation">What Can I Do With My Education?</h3><p>Your associate's degree program can train you for a variety of careers in media-related fields, such as television, motion pictures, Internet film production, music, sound production and game design. You may consider pursuing entry-level positions, such as graphic design assistant or broadcast technician. If you are interested in career advancement or gaining additional training, you can also apply your studies to a bachelor's degree in media production, digital media or another similar area.</p>
