Montevallo Mass Communication Maintains Strong Standing in 2026 BEA Rankings 

June 12, 2026

The University of Montevallo’s Mass Communication Program has once again been recognized in the Broadcast Education Association’s Recognition of Institutional Excellence in Media rankings, standing out among 159 ranked schools. UM earned first place in the film and video competition in Alabama (22nd internationally) and ranked 74th for overall top programs internationally.

The rankings are based solely on the creative achievements of each schools’ students and the results from the BEA Festival of Media Arts, the preeminent international media competition focused on student and faculty creative endeavors. Entries go through a blind-juried review in the following competitions: audio, documentary, film and video, interactive multimedia and emerging technologies, news, scriptwriting and sports.

The recognition comes as the Mass Communication Program launches its newly updated media and film production concentration, formerly known as broadcast production. The revised curriculum reflects the evolving needs of the media industry, providing students with broader skills across the production landscape and ensuring they are well versed in all storytelling formats.

“We are proud of our mass communication students and faculty who continue this trend of outstanding performances at BEA and other film and video competitions,” said Dr. Ray Ozley, chair of UM’s Department of Communication. “This ongoing trend of successful productions reflects the high-quality experiential learning opportunities students in our new Media and Film Production concentration can expect to receive.”

The Broadcast Education Association is the premiere international academic media organization, driving insights, excellence in media production and career advancement for educators, students and professionals.

To learn more about Mass Communication at UM, visit montevallo.edu/mass-communication.