College of the Siskiyous Launches New Communication Studies: Social Media A.A. Degree

For Immediate Release: January 26, 2026

Public Relations Office
Dawnie Slabaugh
Phone: (530) 938-5373
Email: slabaugh@siskiyous.edu

Weed / COS – Hands-on podcasting, live streaming, and digital storytelling prepare students for transfer and modern media careers.

College of the Siskiyous is proud to announce the launch of a new Associate of Arts degree in Communication Studies: Social Media, beginning spring 2026. Designed for today's digital world, the program focuses on podcasting, live streaming, social media strategy, and ethical digital storytelling — skills that are increasingly essential for careers, transfer, and community engagement. At the heart of the new degree there are two innovative courses offered fully online via Zoom this spring:

• COMS 2100 – Podcasting & Live Streaming
  Mondays & Wednesdays, 10:35 am – 12:00 pm. Begins January 26, 2026 on Zoom
• COMS 2200 – Advanced Podcasting & Live Streaming
  Tuesdays, 6:00 – 8:50 pm. Begins January 27, 2026 on Zoom
• Students may enroll in either class first — or take both at the same time. No prior podcasting experience is required.

"These courses are designed to meet students where they are," said Jayne Turk, Course Coordinator and faculty lead for the program. "Whether students want to create a podcast, stream community events, build a digital portfolio, or prepare for transfer, they'll gain practical skills they can use immediately."

Additionally, this semester offers students this opportunity:

• ENGL 1021 Writing for Contemporary Digital Platforms
  Begins January 27, 2026 online

Podcasting and live streaming are no longer niche platforms — they are mainstream communication tools. According to Edison Research (2025), more than 210 million Americans have consumed a podcast, and over half of the U.S. population now listens monthly. This new associate of arts degree responds directly to this shift by teaching students how to:

• Design and produce audio and video content
• Communicate effectively with specific communities and audiences
• Analyze engagement using real-world data
• Create ethical, professional digital media
• Build portfolios for transfer or employment

Students will work hands-on using the college's new podcasting studio and industry-relevant tools, with opportunities to collaborate, experiment, and publish original content.

The 18-unit degree is transferable to both CSU and UC systems, aligning with media, communication, and digital studies programs across California. It also complements coursework in English, Business, and Public Speaking, making it a flexible option for a wide range of students. "This program is especially important for rural communities," Turk added. "Social media and digital broadcasting allow our students to connect locally, regionally, and globally — without the barriers of traditional media."

Enrollment is now open for COMS 2100, COMS 2200, and ENGL 1021, and strong enrollment this term is critical to launching the program successfully. Students are encouraged to enroll this spring, even if they are just exploring the field. Both courses count towards the new degree and can be taken in any order.

For enrollment information, visit College of the Siskiyous Admissions & Records or search for the following course numbers: COMS 2100, COMS 2200, ENGL 1021 in the spring 2026 schedule of classes. You may also contact the Public Relations Office by calling (530) 938-5373 or send an email to pio@siskiyous.edu for more information or assistance.