school of communication
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Public Relations Major
1.	What advantages are there to choosing a major in Public Relations?
	There are several strong advantages for choosing a major in Public Relations.  Here are just a few.  The Public Relations Major: Offers a broad range of career options. Is a desirable degree in business and organizational settings. Provides a strong background for many communication entry-level positions. Integrates professional communication skills and knowledge with a Christian Worldview.
2.	What kind of classes would I take if I majored in Public Relations?
	If you major in Public Relations you will have courses in interpersonal communication (making you a better one-on-one communicator), small group communication (developing expertise in leading and working in small groups), organizational communication (understanding the way communication flow affects organizations), leadership communication, persuasion, marketing, and a number of other course options.  An internship of on-the-job training is also required.  The major really helps you become a much stronger communicator along with developing communication skills necessary for success in a number of careers and ministries.
3.	If I earn a degree in Public Relations, what kinds of career and future options are available for me?
	There are a number of great career and future options for you! The Public Relations broad-based degree can help you find entry-level careers in management, human resources, administration, personnel, public relations, sales, marketing, customer service, and a host of other positions. If you are interested in graduate school, you could pursue Master’s Degrees in any of the above areas.
Journalism and Print Media Major
1.	What does a journalism and print media major do for me?
	It prepares you for fulfilling professional and ministry careers in newspaper, magazine and book publishing organizations.  Journalism skills are also required for careers in public relations and related print-based corporate communications, as well as the production of written material for the internet.
2.	What kind of classes does the program require?
	We have stimulating classes that sharpen your thinking and writing skills and equip you to design and lay out publications on the computer.   You also get to work as a staff writer, editor, or photographer on the campus paper.   In addition, there will be instruction on what the law says about press freedom and your rights to access public information.  An internship at a newspaper office or other print media company is also required.
3.	What difference does it make to take journalism at a Christian College?
	Your study of journalism and print media at Toccoa Falls College is grounded in and guided by scriptural truth. Moral and ethical standards are upheld, and a biblical worldview becomes the lens through which contemporary events are observed and reported.  The first four reporters to cover the life of Jesus (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John) powerfully impacted the world with their written accounts.  We believe more Christians should be fully equipped to impact the world through the print media.
Radio Broadcast Major
1.	Can I get practical radio experience beyond what is offered in the classroom?
	Yes. Students taking radio c/asses are actually required to work at least 10 hours each semester at a radio station. There are many opportunities to supplement your classroom learning with practical experience  offered through WTXR-FM, our own student-run 24-hour contemporary music station; WRAF-FM, the flagship station of the TFC Network; and sometimes through WNEG-AM, a local commercial station.  An internship at a radio station is also required.
2.	What kind of radio programming do you teach?
	You will be able to work in any kind of radio station when you graduate as a radio broadcasting major.  In an effort to teach the kind of radio that attracts the most listeners, however, most of the emphasis in class is on how to run a full-time music station, a/though other formats are considered and explained. Training in broadcast journalism will also prepare you for work in news/talk formats.
3.	Can I take radio broadcasting as a minor?
	Often it can be a very good idea. If you are likely to be in a ministry or career that will involve contact with the media, or plan to be the next James Dobson or Charles Stanley, knowing how the media works and even how to produce material for the media will be a tremendous help. Youth Ministries majors sometimes find a radio minor to be a good fit with their ministry plans.
Video Broadcast Major
1.	If I major in Video Broadcasting, would I be limited to working in television, or are there other opportunities?
	There are many possibilities that go beyond work in television broadcasting. Some students work independently to produce and edit video material.   Others may seek work in an established ministry or business that uses video production.
2.	Is what I use in class going to be used in actual employment situations?
	Yes! Our program is designed to give you hands-on training that will equip you with professional skills in production and editing. We teach you how to use some of the latest production equipment, including digital videocams for recording, as well as the Casablanca and non-linear systems for video editing.  We do many projects with local organizations and businesses, and some students actually work with television affiliates to produce news and sports features. An internship at a television station or production house is also required.  Our goal is to prepare you for your profession through real-world experiences designed to build your skills and professional knowledge.