Students from CWI’s News Writing and Reporting class visited Boise’s KTVB recently to explore the roles available in journalism and explore what life is like inside a working newsroom.
Read more about CWI Students Tour Local News Station, Explore Journalism CareersMedia Arts
Unleash Your Creative Potential in Dynamic Media and Communication Fields
Program Overview
Are you drawn to the dynamic world of media and eager to express your creative vision? College of Western Idaho (CWI) offers an exciting Media Arts program that combines technical, creative, and collaborative skills essential for thriving in the media industry. Designed for those aspiring to careers in diverse fields like film, journalism, marketing, and entertainment, this program equips you with a comprehensive skill set highly valued in today's digital world.
As a Media Arts student at CWI, you will immerse yourself in video production, audio editing, writing, and performance communication. You will gain critical media literacy, enabling you to analyze and deconstruct media messages and discern truth from misinformation. The hands-on projects and real-world simulations prepare you for the workforce or further academic pursuits, while fostering your unique voice in various media forms.
Degree or Certificate Type
Associate of Arts
Cost
Additional cost may apply.
Time to Complete
2 years
Primary Locations
Learning Opportunities
- Diverse Skill Development: Master skills in video production, audio editing, and creative writing, preparing you for a range of media careers.
- Critical Media Literacy: Learn to critically analyze media messages, an essential skill for navigating today's media landscape.
- Practical Experience in Media Production: Engage in hands-on projects simulating real-world media production scenarios.
- Creative Exploration: Discover and develop your unique voice across different media platforms.
- Career Versatility: Prepare for diverse career opportunities in fields like film, journalism, and social media management.
Areas of Study
Degrees & Certificates
Media Arts – Associate of Arts Degree
Degree Requirements
Cost: $11,250
Career Opportunities
Postsecondary Teachers
1063
Annual Openings*
$35.10
Hourly Median Wage*
$73,008
Annual Median Salary
18.28%
Growth (2025 – 2035)*
Managers, All Other
All managers not listed separately.
346
Annual Openings*
$30.48
Hourly Median Wage*
$63,398
Annual Median Salary
18.26%
Growth (2025 – 2035)*
Web and Digital Interface Designers
Design digital user interfaces or websites. Develop and test layouts, interfaces, functionality, and navigation menus to ensure compatibility and usability across browsers or devices. May use web framework applications as well as client-side code and processes. May evaluate web design following web and accessibility standards, and may analyze web use metrics and optimize websites for marketability and search engine ranking. May design and test interfaces that facilitate the human-computer interaction and maximize the usability of digital devices, websites, and software with a focus on aesthetics and design. May create graphics used in websites and manage website content and links.
46
Annual Openings*
$25.06
Hourly Median Wage*
$52,125
Annual Median Salary
24.13%
Growth (2025 – 2035)*
Media and Communication Workers, All Other
All media and communication workers not listed separately.
6
Annual Openings*
$14.79
Hourly Median Wage*
$30,763
Annual Median Salary
23.82%
Growth (2025 – 2035)*
*Data sourced from Lightcast™, a labor market analytics tool, and limited to the state of Idaho. Contact CWI Institutional Research for questions regarding this data. Career pathways may require further education beyond CWI.
Testimonial Carousel
“In fine tuning my skills and knowledge, I have achieved personal and professional milestones giving me more than I ever thought possible. Because of CWI, I am ready for the future.” Read more > about Ready for the Future
Admissions
Step 1
- Apply to CWI.
- Choose Media Arts as your major.
Step 2
- Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
Cost & Aid
As a student in this program, you may be eligible for financial aid and scholarships.
Enrichment Opportunities
Enhance your academic experience, expand your knowledge, reach your goals, and celebrate your achievements.
Advising
Already a student? We are here to help you navigate your educational journey, connect you to academic and support resources, and achieve your academic or career goals.
Transfer Information
Plan ahead for a smooth transition to a four-year college or university.
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“CWI empowered me to become a more confident version of myself… Because of CWI, I am ready for the future.”
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