Applied Media Communications

Small Classes. Big Projects. Real Results.

Our students don’t just study media, they create it! From the first week of class, you’ll be working with professional tools and getting feedback from instructors who know the industry. You’ll leave with a portfolio of work, a final capstone project, and the creative confidence to take the next step—whether that’s a job, a freelance gig, or continue for a bachelor’s degree on UC’s Uptown Campus.

What sets our students up for success:

• Instructors who are also media professionals
• A supportive community of creators who collaborate, critique, and grow together
• Access to professional gear and studio space so you can practice when inspiration hits
• Optional internship opportunities for real-world experience

This isn’t a giant lecture hall program. This is creative work, done right, with attention, intention, and support.

Launchpad to the Creative World.

Graduates from Applied Media Communications go on to become editors, web designers, filmmakers, photographers, content creators, audio producers, and motion graphics artists. Some jump straight into the workforce. Others build on their associate degree by transferring to UC’s Uptown Campus to complete a bachelor’s in Media Production, Digital Media, or related fields. Our program gives you the technical skills and creative confidence to go in many directions because the media industry is always changing, and you will be ready for it.

This program does not currently offer a formal minor. However, students in other majors are welcome to take Applied Media courses with advisor approval, and we welcome creative students looking to broaden their skills. Additional certificate programs are also available.

In Applied Media Communications, your academic advisor isn’t just checking boxes. They’re helping you design your future. Our advising team includes faculty who work in media and understand your goals. You’ll get one-on-one help planning your classes, choosing your focus area, and deciding whether to jump into the workforce or transfer to a four-year degree.

UC Education. Blue Ash Location.

At UC Blue Ash, you’ll get all the power of a University of Cincinnati education—with the access, affordability, and community feel of a small campus. AMEC students learn in professional studios, work with industry-standard software, and have access to over 500+ pieces of production gear through our equipment checkout office. You’ll get hands-on from day one—no waiting, no waiting list, no giant lecture halls.

And because you’re part of the UC system, you’ll still have full access to:

• UC’s library, tech, and academic support services
• Opportunities to transfer to Uptown for a bachelor’s degree
• Faculty and staff who know your name and want to see you succeed

Why students choose UCBA:

• Tuition nearly 40% lower than Uptown
• Smaller class sizes for more personal attention
• Suburban location = easier parking and less daily stress
• Creative labs, gear checkout, and broadcast facilities like UCTV
• Strong support for first-gen and underrepresented students

Specialize in What Moves You.

The Applied Media degree gives you broad exposure to media production: video, design, audio, photography, web, and motion graphics. Along the way, you’ll choose electives that let you go deeper in the areas you enjoy most.

For students who already know they want to specialize, we now offer an Animation Track, a focused path within the AAS degree that builds skills in animation, motion graphics, and visual storytelling. This track was designed to align with transfer into the Animation program at UC’s College of Design, Architecture, Art, and Planning (DAAP). Note: That transfer option is currently paused and under review, with plans to resume once DAAP completes internal transitions.

We’re also in the process of redesigning our certificate options to better reflect the creative job market. These new choices will give students more ways to sharpen their skills and build competitive portfolios.

What You Need to Graduate

To earn the Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Applied Media Communications, students must:

• Complete a minimum of 60 credit hours, including both media production and general education courses
• Maintain a 2.0 cumulative GPA
• Earn a C– or higher in all courses required for graduation

In addition to hands-on media classes, students complete UC’s general education requirements such as writing, communication, and social science to build the well-rounded skills needed for success in creative fields.

An Associate Degree That Opens Doors.

Applied Media Communications is a career-focused AAS degree, but it’s also a smart starting point for students who want to continue at UC’s Uptown Campus. With support from your advisor and the right planning, AMEC grads can transfer into:

• Media Production (BFA) at the College-Conservatory of Music (CCM)
• Digital Media (BA) at the College of Arts & Sciences
• Animation (BS) at the College of Design, Architecture, Art, and Planning (DAAP). Note: The DAAP transfer option is currently paused and under review, with plans to resume once DAAP completes internal transitions.

And it works the other way, too, because UC Blue Ash is open admission, it’s easy to transfer into our program from other UC majors or colleges. We welcome students with all backgrounds, experience levels, and educational goals.

Already a Bearcat? We Make It Easy to Switch.

If you’re a current UC student, you can change your major to Applied Media Communications without reapplying. We welcome students from any major, whether you’re looking for a fresh start or ready to finally follow your creative interests.

Most media production courses begin in the fall, so starting then makes it easier to stay on track. But you can begin your Applied Media journey in any semester with the help of your academic advisor.

All courses are taught in English and require in-person attendance. International students must meet UC Blue Ash admission and English proficiency standards. Support services are available through UC International and our advising staff.

Nationally Accredited. Creatively Respected.

The Applied Media Communications AAS degree is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD) the national accrediting agency for art, design, and media programs. NASAD accreditation means our curriculum, faculty, and facilities meet rigorous national standards for academic and creative quality. It’s a mark of excellence that supports both career entry and transfer into four-year creative programs.

Applied Media is also accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), which accredits all University of Cincinnati programs and ensures overall academic quality and institutional integrity.

These accreditations reflect our commitment to preparing students for real success in the creative industries.