Television and Media Management MS

2 Years On Campus Masters Program

Drexel University

Program Overview

The Master of Science in Television and Media Management at Drexel University prepares students for leadership careers in the television, broadcasting, entertainment, and digital media industries. The programme combines media strategy, business management, audience analytics, financial planning, technology, and media law, helping students develop the skills to make data-driven decisions, manage creative teams, understand changing media platforms, and lead organisations in the evolving global entertainment industry.

Curriculum Structure

The programme requires 48.5 quarter credits under the current catalogue structure. It is available both online and on campus, with a full-time study option and a flexible part-time online pathway. Students build their knowledge through television management, media business, technology, analytics, and research courses, alongside business electives and a final capstone project.

First Year – Television Management and Business Foundations

Students begin by exploring the television industry, its organisational structures, and the business principles behind media operations. Core subjects include The Field of Television Management, Media Law for Television Management, Programming for TV Management, and Essentials of Financial Reporting. Students also study Money and the Media and Media Systems and Dynamics, gaining an understanding of financial models, revenue generation, content distribution, regulatory frameworks, and the relationship between traditional broadcasting and emerging digital platforms.

Second Year – Media Analytics, Technology and Professional Leadership

Students develop advanced expertise through courses such as Audience Data and Analytics, TV Technology & Innovation, Diversity in Media Management, and Media Ethics of Television Management. These subjects help them evaluate audience behaviour, understand technological developments, manage diverse media environments, and make responsible leadership decisions. Students also complete Media Research Lab, Capstone Project Seminar, and Capstone Project Completion, applying their knowledge to a substantial industry-focused project while selecting additional electives and a business course to strengthen their professional specialisation.

Focus Areas

Television management, media business strategy, programming and content development, audience analytics, media finance, revenue generation, digital media platforms, television technology and innovation, media law, intellectual property, media ethics, diversity in media management, media research, content distribution, broadcasting, strategic leadership, entertainment industry management, and organisational development.

Learning Outcomes

Graduates will be able to analyse the modern television and media industry, understand multi-platform and multi-device content consumption, evaluate emerging media technologies, apply financial and revenue models, develop television programming strategies, analyse audience behaviour and engagement, understand content creation and distribution processes, apply media law and ethical principles, evaluate organisational structures, make data-driven business decisions, manage creative teams, and develop effective leadership strategies for the television and entertainment industries.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The programme provides industry-focused professional preparation through business-oriented coursework, practical projects, media research, and exposure to professional networks. Students benefit from facilities and opportunities such as field visits to broadcasting stations and television networks in Philadelphia, Washington, DC, and New York, civic engagement projects, business plan competitions, and access to the Rudman Institute for Entertainment Industry Studies and URBN Center laboratories. The official programme information does not specify a separate external professional accreditation for this degree.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

Industry-focused curriculum: The programme combines television management, media business, audience analytics, technology, and leadership to prepare graduates for the evolving entertainment industry.
Professional exposure: Students have opportunities to engage with broadcasting stations, television networks, industry professionals, and media-related projects.
Practical learning facilities: The Rudman Institute for Entertainment Industry Studies and URBN Center laboratories support industry engagement and creative learning.
Leadership development: The programme focuses on developing graduates who can manage creative teams, evaluate business opportunities, and make strategic decisions in television and media organisations.
Career preparation: Graduates develop knowledge relevant to television management, media programming, audience research, media strategy, broadcasting operations, and entertainment business management.

The official programme catalogue does not provide a specific programme-level employability ranking or graduate employment percentage.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

The MS Paul F. Harron Television Management Program at Drexel University is designed to immerse students in the dynamic world of television and media management. Through a blend of theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience, students gain practical skills that are essential for success in the industry. The program leverages state-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge tools to ensure that students are well-prepared for their careers.

In this program, you will have access to:

- Drexel's Television Studio: A fully equipped studio where you can work on real projects, gaining experience in production and management.
- Digital Media Labs: These labs are outfitted with the latest software and technology, including Adobe Creative Suite, Avid Media Composer, and other industry-standard tools.
- Internship Opportunities: The program emphasizes real-world experience, offering internships with leading media companies in Philadelphia and beyond, allowing you to build your professional network.
- Group Projects: Collaborate with your peers on various projects that simulate real-world scenarios, enhancing your teamwork and leadership skills.
- Field Trips: Engage in field trips to major media organizations, providing insights into industry practices and networking opportunities.
- Research Facilities: Access to dedicated research labs where you can explore topics related to media management and production.
- Libraries and Resources: Utilize Drexel's extensive library system, which includes a wealth of resources on media studies, management, and production techniques.
- Industry Connections: Benefit from Drexel's strong ties with the media industry, including guest lectures and workshops led by industry professionals.

These experiential learning opportunities are designed to equip you with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in the fast-paced world of television management. If you're ready to take the next step in your career, consider applying to the MS Paul F. Harron Television Management Program at Drexel University.

Progression & Future Opportunities

The MS Paul F. Harron Television Management Program at Drexel University prepares graduates for a dynamic career in the television and media industry, equipping them with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in various roles. Alumni have successfully transitioned into positions such as Television Production Manager, Media Strategist, and Broadcast Operations Supervisor. With a strong foundation in both the creative and business aspects of television, graduates are well-prepared to thrive in this competitive field.

Here’s how Drexel supports your journey toward a successful career:
- Career Services: The university offers personalized career counseling, resume workshops, and interview preparation to help you stand out in the job market.
- Employment Statistics: Graduates of the program have an impressive employment rate, with many securing positions within six months of graduation, and average starting salaries in the range of $60,000 to $80,000.
- University–Industry Partnerships: Drexel has established strong connections with leading media companies, providing students with internship opportunities and real-world experience that can lead to job placements.
- Accreditation Value: The program is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, ensuring that your degree holds value in the industry and meets high educational standards.
- Graduation Outcomes: The program boasts a high graduation rate, with many students going on to achieve leadership roles in their organizations or pursuing further education.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing the MS Paul F. Harron Television Management Program, you may choose to further your studies by pursuing a PhD in Media Studies or a related field. This could open doors to academic positions, research opportunities, or advanced roles in media consultancy. Additionally, you might consider specialized certifications in areas like digital media or project management to enhance your expertise and marketability in the ever-evolving media landscape.