MA Courses
Advanced Sports Storytelling
This course introduces students to both the theoretical and technical aspects of non-fiction sports storytelling. Students examine both historical and contemporary examples of sports storytelling, including various styles of documentaries, branded and commercial content, social media and web-based content, and podcasts. In addition to engaging with and discussing the theoretical aspects of this content, students will learn the technical principles required of sports storytelling, including cinematography, lighting, audio design, and video editing. As the course is divided between theory and practice, students will be encouraged to take a hands-on approach so as to translate the theoretical examples into their own work.
Business of Sports Media
The business of sport is booming – more fans – more content – more money, and all of it is being disrupted by technology. From the new forms and styles of communication re-defining the fan experience, to the legacy media companies being forced to re-do their business models, “change” has become a spectator sport in itself. In this course, students will get a high level understanding of the business of sports media and how the digital revolution is changing the game for content creators, leagues and teams. Through lectures, current periodicals, projects and guest speakers, students will learn to look beyond the final score and better understand the entire sports communication eco-system.
Cinematography and Sound
In this class you will be introduced to the fundamental principles of visual storytelling techniques. Through hands-on technical workshops, screenings, lectures, projects and discussions, you will develop cinematography, lighting and sound design skills.
Documentary Law and Ethics
Students explore the legal and ethical issues that can arise in the course of documentary filmmaking. The discussion points in this class will evolve from the in-depth examination of a select group of films and their directors. The overriding focus of our conversations will be on the aspects of these films that illustrate the filmmaker’s struggle to capture and present reality, the various methods they employ to achieve this and the potential impact on all involved–filmmaker, subject and audience.
Documentary Storytelling I
The course provides an introduction to the fundamental theory and craft of non-fiction visual storytelling and familiarizes students with concepts such as drama, structure, story development and visual style.
Documentary Storytelling II
This course teaches students how to research, conceptualize and develop a non-fiction story idea. Students receive instruction on effective research strategies, idea development, production planning, and proposal writing and pitching.
Fundamentals of Documentary Editing
This class is designed to complement the storytelling skills students will be receiving in the research, cinematography and writing courses by focusing on the theoretical, aesthetic and technical principles of non-linear editing for documentary. Special emphasis will be placed on understanding and using rhythm, pacing, point-of-view, screen direction, matching cuts, sound design and graphics to craft compelling stories.
Social Media and Marketing in the Creative Arts
Takes a deep dive on how social media is changing not just what content creators produce, but also changing the way creators engage with their audience by using social media and marketing techniques to drive attention to their work and enhance their overall brand. This course will survey how communication is continually changing, different forms of social media as well as creativity in the digital space. Through guest lectures, case studies and hands-on production – students will study each social media platform, learn how it’s being used and see how it can be leveraged to enhance all aspects of the creative arts. Course may be offered on campus or online.
Sports, Culture, and Society
Sports serves as the lens through which important societal issues are examined. More specifically, through case studies and discussions with sports professionals and scholars students will explore how sports and media representation of athletes have impacted race relations, gender issues and human rights.