About our Communication & New Media Studies Associate Degree
Communications and New Media Studies (CNMS) is a multimedia, technology, and arts-driven program that prepares students for their next steps. Some of our alumni transfer their credits to a baccalaureate program where they can expand their studies. Others graduate from SMCC with an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree, and start a career that embraces and emphasizes communication and storytelling. CNMS students design and create content for social media, podcasts, graphic novels, gaming, animation, film and video, print and web, and radio.
The program provides students with a strong foundation in web, video/audio and print media. Once the fundamental courses have been completed, students can choose to specialize by selecting from a flexible menu of advanced curriculum options including digital imaging, design and illustration, video and audio production, animation or website production. Students in the program can transfer to a baccalaureate program in visual communication or art. The program is designed to prepare students for entry-level employment in graphics and production.
This is a hands-on program. Whether students work remotely or in person, they have access to industry-standard software and gear. We work in state-of-the-art labs that are regularly endowed and fully funded by STEM grants. Our program promotes a solid foundation in design theory and practice, organized management of media, and adaptability to new and emerging technologies.
Specialize in an area of interest:
CNMS students can choose to specialize in one of the following CNMS pathways:
- Animation
- Graphic Design and Illustration
- Journalism
- Photography
- Radio and Podcast Production
- Video and Audio Production
- Web and UX/UI Design
In addition to a flexible menu of intermediate and advanced courses within their chosen pathway, CNMS students may also choose courses in the Business, Arts, and Computer Science departments.
What opportunities does this program provide?
Launch Your Career
SMCC graduates in this program have gone on to work as:
- Television Editor
- Camera Operator
- Producer
- Graphic Designer
- Photographer
- Web Designer
- Sound Engineer
- Video Game Artist
- Motion Graphic Designer
- Illustrator
- Graphic Novel Artist and Author
Continue Your Education
Available transfer agreements for this program include:
How do I complete this program?
Browse the information below to view our program requirements and how you might complete this program.
CNMS: Animation Focus
CNMS: Audio/Video Focus
CNMS: Journalism & Broadcast
Communications Focus
CNMS: Photography Focus
Estimated Full-Time Degree Completion Time
Please note, these estimates are based on a student taking an average of 15 credits per semester and do not include college preparatory or developmental courses.
Interested in viewing full program and course details?
- View full program details in our academic catalog.
- View a list of current major-specific courses for this program.
- View all current courses.
Are you a current student?
Be sure to view the degree program requirements for your specific program. Log into MySMCC and click My Maine Guide, MyDegree to learn more.
Related Programs
Not ready to commit to a degree program? We may have other options that work for you.
Did you know that we offer a broad array of short-term workforce training programs that allow you to enter the workforce and start earning quickly? These programs are a great way to enter a career in your area of interest and to become accustomed to college classes. They are also often grant-funded (free of charge to trainees). And, if you find you want to keep going, we can help you find a related academic degree or certificate program of interest with which you can continue your education.
Costs & Financial Aid
This degree program may have specific associated costs which are important to know before attending. We encourage you to apply for financial aid which provides funds in the form of grants and scholarship (free), loans (need to repay) and student employment (earned money.)
Want to learn more?
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Ready to apply?
Learn how to apply and fill out our online application when you’re ready.
Contact Us:
Admissions: 207-741-5800 or smccadmissions@mainecc.edu
Department Chair: Kate Sibole, 207-741-5768 or ksibole@mainecc.edu