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SUNY GCC - Genesee Community College

The explosion of broadcast and print media over the past few decades has led to a range of new opportunities in radio, television, newspapers, and magazines. By studying Communications and Media Arts, you will be exposed to the fast-paced world of communication that we live in.

Why GCC?

GCC’s Communications and Media Arts program will train you to think and react like a communication manager using the latest concepts in programming and marketing. You will develop your skills in production, writing, and the business of media, as well as gain essential knowledge of computer and satellite technologies. In addition to your required coursework, you’ll have plenty of hands-on opportunities:

  • GCC’s internet radio station
  • Audio Vault computer system
  • Television production studio with Edit-Pro equipment
  • Photographic darkroom featuring individual workstations

Internships at radio stations in Batavia, Buffalo and Rochester offer additional real-world experience that is directly applicable to entry-level positions or even baccalaureate programs focusing in journalism, media studies, or film and video production.

Degree Types

Associate In Science (AS)

AS Program Learning Outcomes (PLO)

  1. Demonstrate the critical thinking skills required in the mass media field.
  2. Utilize the range of organizational skills required for effective functioning in the communication field.
  3. Apply the required performance skills needed in the mass media field.
  4. Demonstrate knowledge of emerging technology for radio, television, and satellite operations.
  5. Employ proficient writing skills for newspaper articles, trade publications, and business reports.
  6. Apply ethical standards in the reporting of news through media outlets.
  7. Demonstrate sufficient preparation for further career development and /or baccalaureate program transfer through a solid foundation in mass media concepts and computer applications in the operation of computer based equipment.
  8. Document knowledge of how to make management decisions in programming, business/finance, and general radio station organization.
  9. Demonstrate strong leadership and interpersonal skills as needed in media management.

Download the 2024-2025 Curriculum Worksheet for AS [PDF]

College Students walking on outside on campus

Career Outlook

Please contact Career Services for more information.

Transfer Opportunities

Starting at GCC saves many students and their families thousands of dollars in tuition. With an A.S. or A.A. degree you will be able to seamlessly transfer within the SUNY network of 64 college and universities as well as to many 4-year private institutions. GCC’s A.S. and A.A. programs were developed as part of the SUNY seamless transfer initiative allowing students to complete the first two years of a bachelor’s degree as a freshman and a sophomore at a community college, then seamlessly transfer to a SUNY four-year institution to earn a bachelor’s degree. Please reference the SUNY Transfer Pathways for degree programs to learn about any campus specific requirements. Visit the SUNY Core Course Finder to plan out the courses you should complete to transfer to a 4-year SUNY School.

If you are planning to transfer to a 4-year private institution you should work with our Transfer Services office to learn about possible articulation agreements and pathways that exist for many or our degree programs. Some GCC A.A.S. programs also have transfer opportunities.

To learn more about these opportunities and agreements contact the Transfer Services Office, we are more than happy to work with you and answer any questions you may have on building your own personalized transfer plan.

Transfer opportunities can include, but are not limited to:

  • Canisius College
  • Niagara University
  • St. John Fisher College*
  • SUNY Buffalo State College
  • SUNY College at Brockport
  • SUNY College at Fredonia
  • SUNY College at Geneseo
  • SUNY University at Buffalo

*GCC has current transfer agreements with the above noted institutions.