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Media Studies (BA)


2024-2025 UNDERGRADUATE STUDIES CATALOG

Effective 1 June 2024 through 31 May 2025

Please see the Undergraduate Catalog Archives for PDF versions of past catalogs.

This program is offered by the School of Communications/Communications and Journalism Department. It isÌýavailable online, at the St. Louis main campus and at select international campuses. Please see the Locations Offering Undergraduate Programs section of this catalog for a list of campuses where this program is offered.

Program Description

The media studies major is a broad communication experience within the School of Communications. In this program, students explore the design, delivery and effects of media messages in a range of communication fields and across multiple communication platforms. Media studies majors approach media from academic and practical standpoints, develop diverse professional portfolios and hone skills integral to a variety of media careers. The media studies degree affords an excellent foundation for pursuing a variety of careers within any organization that uses and values communication.

Learning Outcomes

Successful graduates of this program will be able to:

  • Develop media content for different fields, platforms and audiences.Ìý
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the need to think ethically when creating messages.Ìý
  • Evaluate media in historical and global context.Ìý
  • Conceive and implement effective communication strategies.Ìý
  • Analyze media content and effects.

Degree Requirements

For information on the general requirements for a degree, see Baccalaureate Degree RequirementsÌýunder the Academic Policies and Information section of this catalog.

  • 39-44 required credit hours
  • Applicable University Global Citizenship Program hours
  • Electives

Required Courses

  • EPMD 1000 Introduction to Media ProductionÌý(3 hours)
  • MDST 1010 Media Foundations (3 hours)
  • MDST 1050 Media Writing (3 hours)
  • MDST 1160 Communication for Media Professionals (3 hours)
  • MDST 2100 Media Literacy (3 hours)
  • MDST 2800 Media, Diversity and Society (3 hours)
  • MDST 2500 Professional Development for Media Careers (3 hours)
  • MDST 3100 Social Media Strategies & Tactics (3 hours)
  • MDST 3260 Global Media Practice (3 hours)
  • MDST 3300 Media Law, Ethics & Policy (3 hours)
  • MDST 4110 Digital Media & Culture (3 hours)
  • MDST 4200 Media Research (3 hours)
  • MDST 4620 Media Practicum/Thesis* (3-4 hours**)
    or MDST 4950 Internship* (3-8 hours)

*Capstone Course - student must earn a grade of no less than B.

**Students wishing to complete their degree at Webster Vienna Private University must select the thesis option and register for 4 hours.

Students in the media studies program are encouraged to explore minors, certificates or even other majors to expand their experience.Ìý

Students may petition to complete a professional media practicum (internship) or senior overview with a focus in their area of concentration.