Once upon a time, college newspapers were best known as a forum where aspiring journalists could gripe about university administration, air the Greek system's dirty laundry, and uncover where that money from the perpetual tuition hikes actually went.

While most of that still may be true, recent business developments show that college papers are also providing a formidable marketing opportunity in the ever-changing media world.

Two weeks ago, MTV Networks - through its MTVU division - announced that it would acquire ...