At Northeast Community College, the Media Arts programs are designed to prepare students for success in today’s dynamic media industry. Whether you dream of working behind the camera, editing video content, producing broadcast-quality media, or telling compelling stories, Northeast provides the training and tools to help make it happen.
Students build hands-on skills using fully equipped radio, television, sound recording, and video production facilities, while gaining a solid foundation through courses in video production, editing, sound design, storytelling, and media management. Coursework combines theory, multimedia software and hardware training, and hands-on labs, offering a well-rounded production background.
Students can choose between two options:
- Associate Degree: Prepares students for a wide range of entry-level positions in broadcasting, journalism, and production. Job opportunities include video editor, field videographer, audio/video support technician, broadcast camera operator, multimedia journalist, movie production assistant, or independent filmmaker.
- Certificate Program: Focuses on building the basic skills necessary for quick entry into roles such as assistant audio engineer, broadcast production support, and multimedia production. All certificate coursework can be applied toward the Associate of Applied Science in Media Arts for students who wish to continue their education.
With small class sizes, expert faculty, and access to professional-grade equipment, students at Northeast not only build strong technical and creative skills, but also graduate with a professional portfolio that sets them apart in a competitive job market.
Why Students Choose This Program
Students gain knowledge that aligns with real-world media trends and technologies—ensuring they're prepared for today’s competitive creative fields. Students build a broad range of skills applicable to multiple industries, from filmmaking and broadcasting to marketing and digital content creation. This versatility allows graduates to pursue a wide array of career opportunities.
Small class sizes in the program offer individualized support and allow students to learn directly from experienced, passionate faculty. With fewer students, instructors can provide personalized guidance, hands-on coaching, and targeted feedback to help each student build confidence and master key concepts.
Students appreciate that the program provides options to gain foundations skills and quickly enter the workforce, to pair the program with another area of emphasis or to transfer to a four-year institution. Transfer students build a strong academic base while saving on tuition. For students planning to transfer, it's important to work closely with academic advisors at both Northeast and the transfer institution, utilizing the Transfer Guide to make informed course selections that align with your transfer goals.
Hands-On Learning Opportunities and Courses
Students in Northeast’s Media Arts programs gain real-world experience. With access to professional video cameras, editing suites, sound equipment, and studio spaces, students learn by doing—shooting short films, producing broadcast pieces, editing video and audio projects, and creating digital media content. Projects are structured to mirror industry workflows, giving students a taste of professional production environments. By the time students graduate, they leave with a professional portfolio and practical experience that sets them apart in the job market. The program also celebrates student work through capstone projects, which are showcased at local venues like the Norfolk 7 Theatre.
The program includes a diverse range of courses designed to provide students with both foundational knowledge and specialized skills, including:
- Camera and Lighting
- Post Production
- Radio Production and Performance
Program Details
Associate of Applied Science, 2 years (60 credits)
Certificate, 1 year (21 credits)
Courses are offered in-person.
The application for admission at Northeast is free. Apply for admission, and learn more about your next steps.
Werner Althaus, Nebraska Public Media
Clete Baker, Studio B, Ltd
Keith Bliven, KTIV-TV
Andy Bottger, KCAU-TV
Lisa Guill, Asian Community & Cultural Center
David Kelley, KTCH/KCTY
Emily Kreutz, Nebraska Public Media
Dallas Nau, NRG Media
Scott Posse, KBRX FM
Jessica Walker, Flood Communications
Jeffrey Steffen, WJAG, Inc
J.B. Tyson, Ides of March Productions
Doug Van Sloan, Focus Mastering
Billy Wolf, WJAG, Inc
