Contemporary communication and information media — including traditional and digital media — are integral to political, economic and cultural life today. As a student in the BA in Media Studies, you will learn to examine critically the role and influence of media in our society. You will cultivate a broad understanding of media industries and will also gain communication skills that are applicable to almost any profession.
You will work directly with faculty who are producing research and creative work across the globe as you are challenged to develop a deeper understanding of how sexual orientation, race and ethnicity, gender, class, age and ability are represented in and by media — and why such representations matter.
Before you graduate, you'll build career experience by completing an internship in an industry you're passionate about. The BA in Media Studies will equip you with skills you can take to graduate or law school, into government and nonprofits and into a variety of careers in communication-related industries.
What Sets Us Apart
An emphasis on multicultural and global communication and a strong commitment to diversity, inclusion and social justice
Internationally recognized professors, dedicated to student success, who bring a wealth of expertise in corporate, nonprofit, health and political communication
Small classes that balance theoretical concepts with experiential learning and give you the personal attention and support you need to learn and thrive
An outstanding internship program and an extensive professional network of business, nonprofit and government partners in Colorado and beyond
Multiple opportunities for engagement beyond the classroom including exciting internships; the student-run podcast, PioCast; the student-run newspaper, The Clarion; and Project DU F.I.L.M., a partnership between students, faculty and alumni
The ability to double major and design your own path based on your unique passions and career goals
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Degree Requirements
- The Media Studies major requires a minimum of 40 credits.
- Students have the option to complete a professional internship for credit as one of their course electives.
- To earn distinction in the Media Studies major, students must have a 3.75 cumulative GPA and a 3.8 GPA in the major.
See the DU Undergraduate Bulletin for more information on courses and degree requirements.
Featured Courses
MFJS 2280
Politics and Media
About this Course
We examine the nature of the media and how media institutions shape the way citizens understand politics. We discuss global media institutions and the role media play in various societies. We explore the role of media in providing information for citizens in a democracy, examine how the media influence the political process, and investigate how the goals of and changes within the media industry influence the effect media coverage has on the political process. Through our study, we explore how the media either enhance or limit the potential for citizens to contribute to democracy. This course counts toward the Scientific Inquiry: Society and Culture requirement.
MFJS 2290
Innovations in Media, Artificial Intelligence, & Communication
About this Course
This course considers information and communication technologies in relation to “the new,” exploring the ways that technological, historical, legal, economic, and social contexts combine to enable the changes that we think of as innovations in media and communication. Taking a critical/cultural historical perspective, we explore questions such as where technologies come from, who controls them, who profits from them, how they are used, and with what potential implications? We also consider how today’s artificial intelligence technologies are similar to and different from the new technologies of previous ages, how bias and misinformation are (re)produced, and countermovements such as “slow” technology, with an eye toward imagining what the future might hold. This course counts toward the Analytical Inquiry: Society and Culture requirement.
MFJS 3120
Media Ethics
About this Course
Analysis of problems affecting mass communications profession that result from interaction among governmental, legal, institutional and socioeconomic forces in mass communications systems. Senior standing required.
Cultivate a deep, well-rounded knowledge of media.
Study the platforms that shape our political, economic and cultural lives.
