Information & Communication Technologies
Information and communication technologies (ICTs) are now central elements across all sectors of the economy and society, from global media firms to households and everyday life. The Information and Communication Technologies concentration focuses on the creative and effective use and management of ICTs, ranging from cell phones and laptops to emerging applications of the Internet and World Wide Web. This track addresses not only the impacts of technologies in many different arenas, but also the implementation and integration of technology into diverse social, organizational, cultural and political settings. It is particularly valuable for individuals with career interests in the strategic use of ICTs within governmental or corporate settings, as well as to those who have an entrepreneurial interest in the development of new applications of ICTs in whatever setting the student wishes to pursue a career.
Courses in the Information and Communication Technologies track include:
CMGT 530—Social Dynamics on Communication Technologies (4, SpSm)Impact of television, satellites, computers and other new technologies; competing theories about the role of technology in society; historical effects of introducing new technologies.
CMGT 533—Emerging Communication Technologies (4, FaSp)Basics of multimedia; new forms of audio and video interactive technologies; computer communication networks; social, political, cultural, interpersonal and organizational issues related to emerging communication technologies.
CMGT 535—Virtual Groups and Organizations (4, FaSp)How electronic networks affect interpersonal and organizational communication; types of interactive media; issues related to cyberspace and virtual community; collaborative teams; business on global networks.
CMGT 542—Business Strategies of Communication and Entertainment Firms (4, Sp)Competitive analysis and strategic formulation of entertainment and communications firm; cases examine product differentiation, marketing, emerging networks and technological strategies for traditional and new media.
CMGT 553—Political Economy of Global Telecommunications and Information (4, Sp)The political, economic, regulatory and technological changes that are together creating a new world information economy. The politics of international telecommunications is emphasized.
CMGT 570—Economics of the Communication Industries (4, Fa)The economic forces that determine the structure and outputs of communication and media industries, including newspapers, broadcasting, cable and telecommunications.
CMGT 571—Communications Technologies (4, FaSp)Basic technological concepts necessary to understand the workings of modern communications products and services, to include frequency, bandwidth, electricity, modulation and digital conversion.
CMGT 572—Telephone, Data and Video Telecommunication Systems (4, Sp)Technological principles and workings of telephone, data and video telecommunication systems. Issues for management and policy from a technological perspective.
Prerequisite: CMGT 571.
Additional valuable cognate courses are offered through the USC Marshall School of Business and the USC School of Cinema-Television.