SUNY Cortland’s Communication and Media Studies (CMS) Department is working to increase awareness of its Media Production program through a stronger focus on student work, hands-on learning experiences, and collaboration with campus media organizations. While the program continues to grow in resources and student opportunities, many prospective students and families still report limited awareness of what the major actually offers.
The Media Production program provides students with practical training in video production, editing, broadcasting, podcasting, and digital storytelling. With access to the newly renovated C-Wing facilities, students are able to work in professional-style studios, editing labs, and production spaces designed to mirror real industry environments. These resources allow students to gain experience while building portfolios that prepare them for careers in media and communication fields.
Despite these opportunities, CMS faculty and students note that the program is often misunderstood or overlooked. Many prospective students are unaware of how flexible the major can be or how many different career paths it can support. Rather than being limited to one field, Media Production students can explore interests ranging from sports media and broadcasting to film production, journalism, and marketing.
This flexibility was also reflected during a campus open house event held on Saturday, April 11. Many parents asked questions on behalf of their children and expressed that they were surprised by the breadth of the Communications and Media Studies department. Some noted that they had not previously heard much about the program, even when their students were interested in media-related careers.
One common question involved whether students interested in sports marketing could also gain experience in broadcasting or radio production. CMS representatives explained that this is not only possible, but actively supported through campus media organizations such as CSTV, SUNY Cortland’s student-run television station, and WSUC-FM “The Dragon,” the campus radio station. These outlets allow students to gain real-world experience in production, broadcasting, and content creation while exploring specialized career interests.
To further spotlight the program, current Media Production students have been sharing their experiences to help prospective students better understand what life in the major is like. Students were asked about why they chose Media Production, why they selected SUNY Cortland, what surprised them about the program, what skills they developed, and how the program has prepared them for future careers.
Nolan Weber, a senior Media Production major, said his decision to enter the program came from a long-standing interest in media creation.
“I chose Media Production because it’s something I’ve been doing ever since I was young. I’ve always had a passion for it—Cortland was a good place for me to continue that passion,” Weber said.
Weber also brought light towards the level of support and resources available within the program as one of its biggest strengths.
“What surprised me was the amount of resources that were available. I liked that you’re able to rent equipment and always have professors that are there to help you, and you can use the labs, which impressed me,” he said.
Students consistently point to the C-Wing facilities as a major advantage of the program, emphasizing that access to professional equipment and production spaces allows them to practice skills in real-world conditions. These experiences help students develop confidence, creativity, and technical ability while preparing them for future careers in the media industry.
As the CMS Department continues to expand its outreach, the focus remains on increasing awareness of what the Media Production program truly offers. Through student testimonials, campus media collaborations, and hands-on learning opportunities, the department aims to show that Media Production at SUNY Cortland is not only flexible and creative, but also directly connected to real career pathways in a growing media landscape.