TELC 510 - Telecommunications Structure and Regulation

3 hours.
3 Credits

The telecommunications industry, and its regulation/deregulation by the federal, state, and local governments, is critically examined. “Telecommunication” is defined broadly as public and private electronic communication, such as broadcasting (local and network), cable and satellite-delivered television, wired and wireless telephone systems, and computer networks (Internet and WWW). Specifically, the course will investigate the historical and developing structures of these different electronic mass media industries, as well as provide in-depth analysis of those companies that provide common carrier services. Additionally, it will explore the influence of federal, state, and local administrative agency rulemakings, regulatory agencies such as the FCC, state public utility commissions, tariffs, and laws e.g., the Telecommunications Act of 1996, on the changing structure of the telecommunications industry. Current issues relating to the structure and regulation of the telecommunications industry will be discussed.