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Frequently Asked Questions

So you’ve seen the videos, you’ve read the overviews and now you’re thinking, “Great. I still have all these unanswered questions. How do I apply? What’s it like to be an EM student?” Read on to find the answers.

How do I become an EM student?

Do I need a computer?
The Electronic Media Department is a $1.7 million facility with the most up-to-date equipment used in the industry. The Carter Creativity Center features 17 Power G5s and is open to all EM students enrolled in courses taught in the lab during the current quarter (see lab hours/rules). You are certainly welcome to work on your projects at home. There are many discounts available to OUS students for Gateway, IBM/Lenovo, and Apple/Mac computers. For more information on how to purchase a computer or software, go to the Computer Lab (located in the Dingus Technology Center) or visit the OUS Information Technology Website.

What kind of equipment/supplies do I need?

  • You are assigned file storage space on the EM server for temporary storage of class project files.
  • As the EM server is only intended for temporary storage, you still need to backup files on your own external hard drive, jump drive, CD, or other device. It is recommended that you backup your work daily.  Files saved on the desktop or on the scratch disk will be deleted.
  • You will need blank CDs (CD-R) for turning in class project files. CDs can be purchased at the TASC lab (located in the Dingus Technology Center). As a student, you can also check out digital cameras, laptops and a variety of equipment for a small deposit.
  • Multimedia students: a digital camera (4-5 MP or higher) is recommended, but not required.
  • Audio/Video students: You will need blank DVDs (DVD-R). Your own personal set of headphones is also required for advanced video classes.

Lab hours/when will I have access to the technology/equipment?
Only students enrolled in courses taught in the lab during the current quarter have permission to use the lab (all others must see Don Moore). Additionally, during open lab hours, each workstation is open only on a first-come, first-serve basis. Open lab hours are posted every quarter.

What kind of classes will I be taking?
In addition to General Requirements (required of all students), you must complete an EM core of classes. These Technical Requirements are the same for all EM students. Depending on specialization (Audio, Video, Multimedia), follow the Sequence Requirements. A list of EM course offerings can be found here. For a complete list of majors, classes, and descriptions, go to the OU Online Catalogue.

Video? Audio? Multimedia? How soon do I have to decide on a specialization?
If you haven’t already made up your mind, you don’t have to decide right away. The introductory-level classes (required of all EM students) are designed to let you get a feel for what electronic media has to offer. With these classes under your belt, you can begin to take advantage of the extracurricular production opportunities available for students to gain hands-on experience in the field. You’ll find your niche before you know it.

What types of projects will I be working on?
Multimedia Production:

  • Animation
  • Computer Graphics
  • Graphics for Video
  • Movie Posters
  • CD/DVD cover jackets
  • CD/DVD Authoring
  • Presentations/Projector Files
  • Interactive Flash Websites/Games

Video Production:

  • News features
  • Documentaries
  • Commercials
  • On-Air promotions
  • On-Camera Performance
  • Live sporting events and concerts
  • Video postcards
  • Long form entertainment programming
  • Non-broadcast promotional videos
  • Live community and special events
  • Music Videos

Audio Production:

  • Commercials
  • On-Air promotions
  • Live sporting events and concerts
  • News writing and production
  • Sound mixing
  • On-Air performance

What’s this I hear about extracurricular productions? How do I get involved?
Throughout the year, there are many opportunities for EM students to gain hands-on experience in extracurricular productions in and out of the studio. These include on-location sports production, parades, press conferences, non-broadcast video for hospitals and various organizations, etc. Sign-up sheets and information will be posted on the Bulletin Board on in the Electronic Media Department as well as the EM home page

Is there a club/organization for students interested in Electronic Media?
Yes. The EM club was started in the spring of 2004.  It is made up of students interested in video, audio, and multimedia production. The purpose of the organization is to create a common assembly for students interested in electronic media production where they can learn, develop skills, and express their ideas. They are involved in many extracurricular productions and plan various student-related activities throughout the year.

Still have questions? Contact Don Moore, director of the Electronic Media Department. Call (740)-533-4575 or email moored@ohio.edu.