MS in Television Frequently Asked Questions

The MS in Television at Boston University's College of Communication prepares students for creative, strategic, and management-focused careers in television and streaming media. The program blends creative development with the business and operational realities of the industry, covering how television content is conceived, financed, produced, and distributed. Whether you're interested in producing, development, programming, or media management, the program provides industry-relevant training for the evolving TV and streaming landscape.

Students develop hands-on skills across both the creative and managerial sides of television production. You'll learn how to pitch ideas, develop show concepts and bibles, manage budgets and schedules, collaborate across creative teams, and oversee projects from early development through delivery. Coursework emphasizes leadership, collaboration, and strategic decision-making, preparing students to work effectively in network, studio, production company, and streaming environments.

Yes. Experiential learning is central to the MS in Television. Students complete a required internship, placing them in television studios, production companies, networks, or streaming platforms. Many also gain experience through Real World Productions, COM's student-run production agency, or BUTV10, the university's award-winning television station. These opportunities help students build professional portfolios, industry connections, and real-world production experience.

Yes. Students may choose to spend a semester in BU's Los Angeles program, where they combine coursework with internships in the heart of the entertainment industry. This option provides direct exposure to Hollywood's creative, development, and business ecosystems and is especially valuable for students pursuing careers at major networks, studios, production companies, or streaming platforms.

The MS in Television is typically completed in three semesters of full-time study (fall, spring, and fall). Part-time study is also available for students balancing coursework with professional responsibilities.

The curriculum integrates creative development, production management, and media business strategy. Courses focus on producing, storytelling, leadership, audience engagement, and the economics of television and streaming. Students gain a clear understanding of how creative vision intersects with budgeting, scheduling, marketing, and distribution. Electives allow students to tailor the program toward creative producing, production management, digital media, or writing.

Yes. Students complete a capstone thesis project in their final semester. Depending on individual goals, this may take the form of a creative project, such as a pilot, documentary, or concept package, or a research-based or strategic project. The thesis serves as both a culmination of the program and a professional portfolio piece.

Graduates pursue careers across the television and streaming industries, including roles in development, producing, programming, content strategy, and production management. Alumni work as producers, associate producers, development assistants, content managers, production coordinators, and executives at networks and streaming platforms. The program's combined creative and managerial focus prepares students for leadership roles across scripted, unscripted, digital, and emerging formats.

Alumni work at major networks, studios, and streaming companies, including HBO, Netflix, Disney, NBCUniversal, and Warner Bros. Discovery, as well as independent production companies and digital media organizations. Graduates build careers in Los Angeles, New York, Boston, and beyond, including international media markets, supported by BU's strong alumni and industry networks.

COM graduate students consistently report strong employment outcomes. The program's required internship, hands-on coursework, and access to industry professionals, especially through the Los Angeles option, help students transition quickly into professional roles.

Your personal statement should describe your interest in television and streaming media, outline your career goals, and explain why BU's MS in Television is a strong fit. Successful statements demonstrate curiosity about the industry, clarity of purpose, and an understanding of how the program's creative and managerial training supports professional growth.

No, a portfolio is not required. However, applicants may submit creative or professional work, such as writing samples, production projects, or media experience if it helps to demonstrate their interests or preparation. A résumé or CV is required.

BU's MS in Television offers a balanced, industry-focused approach that combines creative producing, media management, and hands-on experience. Students learn from experienced producers, executives, and scholars, build portfolios through real-world projects, and gain access to major media markets, including Los Angeles. Supported by BU's professional network and Boston's media ecosystem, the program provides a strong pathway into television and streaming careers.