2025-2026 Catalog

Creative Media Production Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) Degree

Program Goals

1.  To demonstrate proficiency in foundational digital media tools and techniques including camera operation, audio recording, editing, and graphic design software.

2.  To apply visual storytelling principles to create emotionally engaging and conceptually strong content across various media platforms.

3.  To develop original narratives for diverse formats, including video, podcast, documentary, and written media.

4.  Analyze and apply ethical and legal considerations in the creation and distribution of media content.

5.  Communicate effectively through writing, speaking, and visual mediums tailored to specific audiences and media channels.

6.  Collaborate within creative production teams, contributing to all stages of planning, production, and post-production.

7.  Create a professional digital portfolio showcasing multi-platform storytelling skills, ready for job placement or transfer into a four-year program

8.  Critically evaluate media messages and trends, demonstrating media literacy, strategic thinking, and creative problem-solving.

Program Learning Outcomes (PLOs)

PLO 1. Students will be able to operate industry-standard equipment and software used in audio, video, and digital media production. 
PLO 2. Students will be able to write and produce original content for video, audio, web, and social platforms using appropriate formatting and audience strategies.
PLO 3. Students will be able to execute complete production workflows, from pre-production planning to post-production editing.
PLO 4. Students will be able to demonstrate ethical decision-making in content creation through adherence to copyright laws, journalistic ethics, and storytelling.
PLO 5. Students will be able to deliver professionally presented projects that reflect technical skill, narrative sophistication, and visual creativity.
PLO 6. Students will be able to build and maintain a digital presence, including a personal brand and online portfolio.
PLO 7. Students will be able to enter the narrative media workforce with practical skills and a transferable skill set adaptable to emerging technologies and platforms.

 

Program Description

This program is built on a simple but profound belief: storytellers shape the world.  They shape how we see others, how we see ourselves, and how we imagine what’s possible.  In an era defined by screens, content, and connection, those who can craft compelling narratives hold one of the most powerful and transferable tools in any field.

The Creative Media Production program prepares students to become intentional, responsible storytellers—equipped with technical skills, creative discipline, and an ethical framework.  From video production and podcasting to digital publishing, journalism, and design, students learn to communicate with clarity, emotion, and purpose.

But this program is more than a path into media careers.  It is a foundation for leadership, advocacy, entrepreneurship, and influence.  Whether shaping public opinion, building a brand, or changing a heart, narrative is the force that moves people—and this program teaches students how to wield it with intelligence and integrity.

General Information

  • Developmental coursework may be required in addition to the courses required for this degree and/or certificate(s).
  • A [P] indicates that a prerequisite is required before the course can be taken. Refer to the prerequisites table listed below the degree plan or the course description in the College Catalog to determine the prerequisite.

General Requirements

  • This degree requires successful completion of 60 credit hours.
  • All degree-seeking students are required to take Rocket Awareness Orientation.
  • A minimum 2.00 cumulative grade point average is required for graduation.
  • Satisfaction of all financial obligations due to the college is required for graduation.

Residency Requirement

The student is required to complete a minimum of 15 semester hours in residence at SAU Tech for associate degrees and technical certificates and half of the credit hours required for certificates of proficiency as well as complete all other graduation requirements.  Students who wish to pursue additional degrees must complete a minimum of 15 credit hours of difference between the degrees.

ACTS Course Numbers

The Arkansas Course Transfer System (ACTS) contains information about the transferability of courses within Arkansas public colleges and universities. Students are guaranteed the transfer of applicable credits and equitable treatment in the application of credits for admissions and degree requirements.

Degree Plan

Semester I (15 hours)

CMPR 1003Digital Media Concepts

3

CMPR 1013Technical Skills for Media

3

CPSC 1003Introduction to Computers

3

ENGL 1113Composition I

3

GSTD 1043Rocket Awareness Orientation

3

Semester II (15 hours)

CMPR 1023Creative Writing for Media

3

CMPR 1033Video Production

3

ENGL 1123Composition II

3

MATH 1063Mathematical Reasoning

3

Choose three (3) hours from these courses:

HIST 2013U.S. History I

3

HIST 2023U.S. History II

3

Semester III (15 hours)

CMPR 2003Visual Storytelling

3

CMPR 2013Podcasting

3

CMPR 2023Documentary Filmmaking

3

SPCH 1113Principles of Speech

3

PSCI 2003American Government National

3

Semester IV (15 hours)

CMPR 2033Advanced Visual Storytelling

3

CMPR 2043Design for Digital Media

3

CMPR 2053Sports Journalism

3

ART 2013Art Appreciation

3

CE 2403Internship I

3

Total Credit Hours: 60