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Media Studies, a four year program

The Media Studies option of the Mass Media program focuses on mass media history, theory, criticism and culture. Students will develop a broad understanding of mass media history, present and future; and it's impact on culture and society.

The below schedule is only one example of a four year plan for a student in the Media Studies option of the Mass Media program. This example plan should not be used as a strict guide to completion of the program. Please see your advisor early in your first semester to discuss possible variations of your own degree plan. Effective academic advisement is a partnership, with advisees sharing in the responsibility.

First Semester (Fall)

  • MED 120 - Mass Media and Society [fulfills one Gen. Ed - Culture and Society] (3)
  • IDS 110 - Intro to University Life (1)
  • CIS/CSC 101 - Computers for Learning (2-3)
  • COM 115 - Fundamentals of Public Speaking (3)
  • ENG 110 - Writing I (3)
  • Gen. Ed. - Self-Understanding (3)

Total hours = 15-16

Second Semester (Spring)

  • MED 204 - Media Theory (3)
  • MED 274 - Introduction to Film (3)
  • MTH 130 [or higher] (3)
  • PED 100 - Fitness for Living (2)
  • Gen. Ed. - Natural World (4)

Total hours = 15

Third Semester (Fall)

  • MED 365 - Media Design and Production (3)
  • JRN 270 - Intro to Journalism (3)
  • Gen. Ed. - Self-Understanding (3)
  • HST 121/122 or PLS 101 [Gen. Ed. - Public Affairs] (3)
  • Minor course (3)

Total hours = 15

Fourth Semester (Spring)

  • MED 325 - Broadcast History (3)
  • Gen. Ed. - Natural World [with lab] (4)
  • Gen. Ed. - Writing II (3)
  • HST 121/122 or PLS 101 [Gen. Ed. - Public Affairs] (3)
  • Minor course (3)

Total hours = 16

Fifth Semester (Fall)

  • MED Elective [with advisor approval in major] (3)
  • MED 454 - Media Analysis and Criticism (3)
  • Gen. Ed. - Culture and Society (3)
  • Minor course (3)
  • General Electives [125 hr graduation requirement] (6)

Total hours = 18

Sixth Semester (Spring)

  • MED Elective [with advisor approval in major] (3)
  • Gen. Ed. - Self-Understanding (3)
  • Minor course [at 300+ level] (3)
  • General Electives [may include JRN or MED courses] (6)

Total hours = 15

Seventh Semester (Fall)

  • JRN 407 - Media law (3)
  • MED Elective [with advisor approval at 300+ level] (3)
  • Minor course [at 300+ level] (3)
  • General Electives (6-8)

Total hours = 15-17

Eighth Semester (Spring)

  • MED 581 - Media Ethics (3)
  • MED Elective [at 300+ level] (3)
  • Minor course [at 300+ level] (3)
  • General Electives (6)

Total hours = 15

Students must earn a 3.0 or better GPA in MED 120, 204 and 274; and have a 2.25 combined GPA in order to be admitted to the major.

The B.S. in Mass Meda (Media Studies) major requires a minor. The minor should be selected in consultation with the advisor.

Periodicity of many classes is important, with many scheduled as F (fall) or S (spring) only classes.  Check catalog.

Students need a minimum of 40 hours of coursework at a 300+ course level in order to graduate.

Students will choose 12 hours of MED or JRN electives with advisor approval.

All statements in this document concerning requirements, prerequisites, conditions or other matters are for informational purposes and are subject to change.