Television Arts Major Receives Formal Approval
Television Arts Major Approved by State
The Communication Department received formal approval from the New York State Education Department for its newly established television arts program.
The multidisciplinary undergraduate program -- which leads to a bachelor of arts degree in television arts -- draws from courses in communication, English and theater. It is SUNY's only such program.
The new major prepares students for careers as screenwriters, producers and directors in the entertainment industry. Students learn a mix of criticism, theory and technical skills as they gain practical experience during internships with industry professionals.
The highly selective program accepts only 15 students each year in one of two concentrations -- writing and storytelling or directing and producing.
Assistant professor Jeffrey Hirschberg joined the Communication Department last year to coordinate the program. A professional screenwriter, he has worked at NBC, Warner Brothers and Viacom, and written numerous screenplays and television scripts for ABC, Showtime Networks and Lifetime Television.
A newly formed Television Arts Committee -- consisting of Lou Rera, assistant professor of communication; Kevin Railey, professor of English and associate provost and dean of The Graduate School; and Drew Kahn, associate professor of theater -- assists Hirschberg in guiding the program and establishing internships and outreach opportunities for its students.
Hirschberg emphasizes that outreach and internships are as integral to success in the program as they are to success in the industry, noting that the "industry is based on relationships." Hands-on experience and internships will allow students to connect with television and film professionals in New York City and Los Angeles. "Along with technical skills," Hirschberg adds, "the marketing and business tools students will acquire will give them the best chance to succeed in this highly competitive field."