ONLINE MEDIA SPECIALIST DIPLOMA
Program Course Requirements

Semester One (15 credits)
BUSN 1166  Business Communications, 3 cr
GDES 1146  Video Graphics, 3 cr 
MUSC 2414  Advanced Audio Productions, 3 cr
VPRO 1110  Video Editing Workflow, 3 cr 
VPRO 1114  Camera Operations, 3 cr

Semester Two (16 credits) 
BUSN 2116  Social Media Marketing, 3 cr
GDES 2128  After Effects, 3 cr
VPRO 2106  Social Media Production, 4 cr
VPRO 2114  Online Content, 3 cr
VPRO 2116  Advanced Field Methods, 3 cr

Semester Three (14 credits) 
BUSN 2101  Business Entrepreneurship, 3 cr
MUSC 2413  Introduction to Pro Tools, 3 cr
VPRO 2104  Video Productions, 4 cr
VPRO 2350  Videography Internship, 4 cr

GRADUATION REQUIREMENT -  45 credits

Click here to download the Online Media Specialist Diploma Program Planning Form (PDF)

Career Description: Nationally and regionally, the industry is in a dramatic growth period with the explosion of internet and mobile delivery options. Organizations are increasingly turning to web-based video conferencing for corporate communications. Video content has become the de facto form of communication in business. According to Minnesota State CAREERwise, the outlook for editors, producers, directors, graphic designers and social media directors is for high growth between now and 2026. Our focused approach to hands-on learning at Central Lakes College ensures graduates will be positioned appropriately for successful entry into the industry. Careers include: Freelance Videographer or Camera Operator, Editor, Media Specialist, Multimedia News Journalist, Independent Filmmaker, Social Media Manager, Content Creator, Streaming and Webcasting Manager, Video Specialist.

Program Information: For students who want the full videography and social media learning experience, this 3-semester diploma is a perfect fit. The entire Social Media Producer track is completed in the first year, followed by one semester of advanced videography courses. CLC Videography is designed to simulate an actual production environment creating content for all media entities. We have a large client base demanding high-quality online social media content. Our students produce authentic videos for actual clients on a regular basis. Then they learn to distribute visual content in current online platforms for marketing purposes. The curriculum emphasizes lab-based learning in a predominantly online environment. Many courses can be taken entirely online, while others include intensive in-person workshops. Classes have flexible lecture schedules and labs can be performed remotely. Our goal is simple: to prepare students for entry-level careers in new media.

Program Outcomes:
Graduates will be able to:

• Apply knowledge in script writing, camera operation, sound recording, editing, and production design for video applications; 
• Utilize contemporary video production equipment and software for videography and social media platforms; 
• Create visually artistic motion graphic designs for all types of programming; 
• Develop an understanding of basic marketing principles adaptable to social media distribution; 
• Create content specific to social media marketing; 
• Analyze and apply appropriate lighting techniques for all types of media;  
• Encode video files for distribution to broadcast, web, and digital recording; and, 
• Apply protocol and safety in video production working environments.
  

Special Program Requirements:

In addition to the program requirements, students must meet the following conditions in order to graduate:

1. College Cumulative GPA Requirement: cumulative grade point average (GPA) of credits attempted and completed at CLC must be at least 2.0;
2. College Technical Core GPA Requirement: cumulative GPA of credits attempted and completed towards the technical core of the diploma or degree must be at least 2.0;
3. Residency Requirement: students must complete 25% of their credits at Central Lakes College.

Faculty Biography:

Mark Ambroz is a television producer specializing in corporate communications, commercials, and documentary programming.  His 35 years in production include 11 years at KARE 11 in Minneapolis, 7 years at Babe Winkelman Productions, 6 years as producer for Gander Mountain’s “We Live Outdoors” television series and 20 years running his own video production company.  His client list includes Federal Ammunition, Bemidji State University, Lindner Media Productions, Seven Clans Casino, Deluxe Corp., and Mills Fleet Farm. He believes the key to successful production is a broad knowledge of the entire video workflow. Ambroz has been the principal instructor in the Videography program at Central Lakes College for 11 years.