In the Mass Communications program you will learn to be an independent thinker, learner, and producer while creating in a hands-on learning environment using professional programs, software, and equipment. You also work with classmates to create lengthy presentations and projects using the skills taught in class. Besides learning Adobe programs and the basics of journalism and video and print production, you learn valuable communication, interviewing, writing, and public speaking skills.
Frequently Asked Questions
How will the Mass Comm center prepare me for college and majoring in communications?
The Mass Communications program will be helpful in giving you a solid foundation for entering any university’s Mass Communications program.
We recently teamed with VCU’s and Brightpoint’s Mass Communications program to expand learning opportunities.
Our alumni include folks working in the fields of graphic design, sports broadcasting, journalism, film, politics, law, education, nursing, and tax accounting!
We recognize that as you grow and learn about who you are and what you want, your interests change. One beautiful aspect of the Mass Communications program is that despite where life takes you, the skills you learn while in our program - especially COMMUNICATION - are transferable to every profession.
How many people are typically in the program each year?
Each year approximately 50 students are invited to join the Mass Communications program.
I don’t live in the Manchester district. How would I get to school each day?
CCPS provides transportation for students to all specialty centers, regardless of home school. Pick up points include other CCPS schools.
What kind of work do you do with the community?
Each year we try to pair with one or more organizations within the community and schools. In the past we’ve worked with Chesterfield County Animal Services, CCPS health nurses, the Phoenix Center, as well as multiple campaigns used throughout the school and county.
Will I be with the same people for all of my classes?
You will be with fellow Mass Communications students all four years in your production classes. MC English and history will be with the same group of students freshman and sophomore years. All other classes are mixed within the Manchester community.
Do I need to purchase any special equipment or computer programs?
NO! In our print and video labs we use desktops to learn and create. For video production, equipment is supplied for you to use, and we teach you how to use everything!
Video equipment is available for checkout.
What programs are used in Mass Communications?
We currently use the Adobe Creative Cloud Suite which includes InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator, and Premiere with our desktops and Mac laptops. These are the same programs used by professionals in mass communications careers.
What's different about Mass Comm English/history classes and regular English/history classes?
MC English and history classes freshman and sophomore year pair with each other and your MC production class to create projects. Often we try to blend the three classes together with content, reading, writing, and topics to draw parallels among the three subjects.
What electives fulfill the two Mass Communications credit requirements?
Electives include yearbook, journalism, creative writing, graphic art design, and photography. Each year taken of these electives count as one MC elective for your seal. Other electives also include one year of one of the performing arts (band, theater, choir, orchestra). CLICK HERE FOR A FULL LIST
How can I make room in my schedule for electives and languages?
Now that middle school offers high school credit for world languages, most students finish their three language credits freshman year opening their schedules for the MC electives as well as other desired electives.
Other options to free room in your class schedule is to take 9/10 Health & PE or economics online during the school year or summer.
Am I still able to take AP and Dual Enrollment classes?
Absolutely! We have over 24 Dual Enrollment and AP courses available, including photo and computer art graphics.
FAQ about the Application Process:
Have a question? Can’t find your answer? Let us know!
Email questions to tracy_obrien@ccpsnet.net