In today's dynamic, communications-driven world, those working in every field increasingly need backgrounds in effective strategic communication planning, media criticism, social media management, video editing and more. The Media, Film & Journalism Studies minor gives students in every major across the University the opportunity to hone these skills.
This highly flexible minor allows you to design a program that supports your career goals by choosing the media, film and journalism courses that fit your specific interests. Learn how to better promote your work, find out how media affects your major field and learn how to think critically about the media world we live in today.
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
Degree Requirements
- To minor in Media, Film & Journalism Studies, students will need to complete 20 credit hours.
- These include eight credits from foundational courses and 12 elective credits
See the DU Undergraduate Bulletin for more information on courses and degree requirements. Please note, the MFJS minor information is located at the very bottom of the page.
Featured Courses
EDPX 3725
Activist Media
About this Course
Today’s alternative cultures use internet and mobile technologies to access and circulate mainstream information, but also to exchange rapidly information that exists outside mainstream media channels. Activist movements today with access to digital tools and networks are no longer dependent on newspapers and broadcast networks to represent them and to disseminate their message. We are, however, just beginning to see how the proliferation of alternative networks of communication, and the content, practices, and identities they facilitate, interact with traditional political and business organizations as well as with traditional media products and practices. This course focuses on media activism over the past half-century tied to various social movements with an emphasis on contemporary protest movements and their use of new and old media tools and strategies. This course satisfies a cultures requirement for emergent digital practices majors and minors.
MFJS 3212
Sound Cinema
About this Course
This course explores the international history of film, from the development of sound cinema through the post-World War II period, 1926-1960. We examine the ways in which important events such as the Great Depression, the rise of fascism, the Second World War, and the Cold War have altered the face of film history, and look at some of the most important cinematic movements of the period. We discuss film historiography and the special challenges posed by film historical research and writing.
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.
