Best Radio and Television Degrees in Jonesboro, Arkansas

Best Radio and Television Degrees in Jonesboro, Arkansas

Jonesboro, Arkansas is home to one of the state’s most respected hubs for broadcast and media education. For students pursuing careers in radio, television, digital broadcasting, or strategic media production, choosing the right program can shape long-term opportunities in a highly competitive industry.

Key Takeaways

• Arkansas State University is the primary institution in Jonesboro offering specialized radio, television, and media-related degrees.
• Students can pursue concentrations in Media Production, Strategic Communication, and Digital Media.
• Hands-on studio training, internship pipelines, and regional media partnerships set top programs apart.
• Both on-campus and online options are available depending on career goals and scheduling needs.
• Career outcomes include broadcasting, multimedia production, news, public relations, and digital content strategy.

Why Study Radio and Television in Jonesboro?

Jonesboro serves as a regional center for media in Northeast Arkansas. As the home of Arkansas State University, the city offers students direct access to professional-grade production facilities and connections with local radio stations, television outlets, and multimedia organizations.

The demand for broadcast and digital media professionals continues to evolve. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, media and communication occupations are projected to grow steadily through the decade, driven by digital media expansion and multiplatform broadcasting.

Students seeking practical training, affordable tuition, and strong internship pathways will find Jonesboro competitive with larger metropolitan programs, while benefiting from smaller class sizes and focused faculty mentorship.

Top Radio and Television Degree Programs in Jonesboro

1. Arkansas State University (A-State)

Location: Jonesboro, AR
Institution Type: Public University
Primary Department: School of Media and Journalism

Arkansas State University is the leading option for radio and television education in Jonesboro. Its media-focused programs blend traditional broadcasting skills with modern digital production training.

Most Relevant Degrees

• Bachelor of Science in Media Production
• Bachelor of Arts in Strategic Communication
• Bachelor of Science in Multimedia Journalism
• Master’s programs in Communication Studies

Best for Hands-On Broadcast Training: Media Production (B.S.)

The Media Production degree emphasizes studio production, field broadcasting, audio engineering, and digital editing. Students gain experience with:

• Multi-camera television production
• Audio recording and radio broadcasting
• Video editing software such as Adobe Premiere Pro and Avid
• Live broadcast management
• Scriptwriting and programming

Students benefit from access to campus media outlets, including student-run radio and television platforms that simulate real-world professional environments.

Facilities and Equipment

A-State’s facilities are among the strongest in the region. Students have access to:

• Television production studios
• Digital editing labs
• Audio recording suites
• Professional-grade cameras and lighting equipment
• On-campus broadcast channels

This emphasis on experiential learning distinguishes the program from more theory-heavy communications degrees.

Best for Media Strategy Careers: Strategic Communication (B.A.)

For students interested in the intersection of broadcasting, branding, and media messaging, the Strategic Communication program offers training in:

• Public relations
• Content creation
• Media campaigns
• Social and digital media strategy
• Audience analytics

This program is ideal for students who want flexibility in their career paths beyond traditional radio and TV, including digital marketing and multimedia communication.

On-Campus vs. Online Options

Arkansas State University offers both in-person and online pathways depending on the degree track.

FormatBest ForProsConsiderationsOn-CampusAspiring broadcasters and production specialistsStudio access, equipment training, live production experienceRequires in-person attendanceOnlineWorking professionals, flexible learnersScheduling flexibility, remote accessLimited access to physical studio equipment

Students pursuing radio and television careers typically benefit most from on-campus training due to the technical and performance-based nature of broadcasting.

Internships and Industry Connections in Jonesboro

One of the most overlooked factors in selecting a program is internship access. Students at A-State frequently pursue internships with:

• Local television affiliates in Northeast Arkansas
• Regional radio stations
• Digital marketing firms
• Community media networks
• Sports broadcasting organizations

These internships allow students to build professional reels, develop on-air confidence, and establish regional industry connections before graduation.

Career Outcomes for Graduates

Graduates from Jonesboro-based media programs pursue careers in:

• Television production
• News reporting
• Sports broadcasting
• Radio hosting
• Audio engineering
• Video editing
• Content creation
• Media management
• Public relations and digital strategy

Many students begin with entry-level production roles or newsroom assistant positions before advancing into anchor, producer, or media director roles.

Because digital streaming and online video platforms are expanding rapidly, graduates are not limited to traditional AM/FM or cable broadcasting. Many transition into podcasting, YouTube production, and multimedia brand storytelling.

How to Choose the Right Program

When evaluating radio and television degrees in Jonesboro, consider the following criteria:

1. Production Access

Does the program provide studio time and real broadcasting opportunities?

2. Faculty Expertise

Look for instructors with professional media and broadcasting backgrounds.

3. Internship Pipeline

Ask about structured internship requirements and placement support.

4. Graduate Outcomes

Research alumni career paths and local hiring relationships.

5. Specialization Options

Some students prefer pure broadcasting. Others want digital expansion and media strategy training.

Cost and Financial Aid Considerations

Arkansas State University offers competitive in-state tuition rates compared to many regional universities. Students can reduce costs through:

• Academic scholarships
• Departmental awards
• Work-study opportunities
• Federal and state financial aid

In-state students often find A-State one of the strongest value options in Arkansas for media education, balancing affordability with professional-grade training resources.

Is Jonesboro the Right Fit for a Media Career?

While larger cities like Little Rock or Memphis may offer broader media markets, Jonesboro provides a focused educational environment that prioritizes practical training and mentorship. Students looking for immersive studio access and a close-knit academic setting consistently identify Arkansas State University as the leading choice in the region.

By combining hands-on production, digital innovation, and regional industry connections, radio and television programs in Jonesboro prepare students not only for traditional broadcast roles but also for the expanding world of multimedia storytelling and digital content production.

Frequently Asked Questions about Radio and Television Degrees in Jonesboro

Which school in Jonesboro offers radio and television-related degrees?

Arkansas State University in Jonesboro offers the main radio, television, and media-related degrees, including Media Production, Strategic Communication, and Multimedia Journalism.

What degree is best if you want hands-on TV and radio production experience?

If you want studio and field production experience, the Bachelor of Science in Media Production at Arkansas State University is the most direct option, with training in video, audio, and live broadcasting.

Can you study radio and television in Jonesboro fully online?

You can take some media and communication courses online, but if you want full radio and TV studio training, you will benefit most from on-campus classes at Arkansas State University.

What careers can you get with a radio and television degree from Jonesboro?

You can pursue roles in TV production, radio hosting, news reporting, sports broadcasting, audio engineering, video editing, content creation, media management, and digital or public relations work.

Does Arkansas State University help you get media internships in Jonesboro?

Yes. Arkansas State University connects you with local TV stations, radio outlets, sports media, and digital firms in Northeast Arkansas so you can gain internship and portfolio experience before you graduate.

Is studying radio and television in Jonesboro affordable?

For many in-state students, Arkansas State University offers competitive tuition, and you may reduce costs through scholarships, departmental awards, work-study, and federal or state financial aid.