J409 – Media Entrepreneurship – SOJC Preview Video from SOJC on Vimeo.

Overview 

The digital age is marked by constant innovation. Having an entrepreneurial mindset is becoming essential to succeeding in many emerging media professions. Whether you choose to go into business for yourself or not it is important to understand the business of media. Freelance assignments and telecommuting are increasingly commonplace in media work. Thriving in this uncharted terrain requires: ingenuity, flexibility, persistence, and an understanding of basic business structures.

This course introduces students to fundamental entrepreneurial principles. Student teams will develop, pitch and launch prototype business ventures. Established media professionals will be featured as guests.  The project-based nature of the course necessitates that students supplement class sessions with outside group meetings.

Key Learning Goals

Students will:

• Gain an understanding of basic media business concepts and structures.

• Become better skilled at ascertaining the merits of their creative ideas and whether those ideas will succeed in the marketplace.

• Experience the social dynamics of working within a team towards a common goal.

• Gain confidence about organizing and presenting ideas to prospective funders and partners.

Required Text

Ulin, Jeff. The Business of Media Distribution: Monetizing Film, TV & Video Content in an Online World, Burlington, MA: Focal Press, 2009.  ISBN-10: 024081200X, ISBN-13: 978-0240812007

This course requires instructor consent. Click here to apply.