Some common questions asked by undergraduate students about the Media Study major include...
Can undeclared/undecided majors take Media Study courses?
Yes, but it is difficult for non-majors to get into Media Study courses. Currently, the Department of Media Study allows non-majors and undecided majors to take most Media Study courses. As the department continues to grow, this policy may change. Because students are not admitted to the department until they have completed 50 credit hours and 3 Media Study courses, the department does not discriminate by major for course registration in Media Study.
What do I study as a Media Study major? Students in the Department of Media Study elect to concentrate their studies in either Production or Critical Studies. Within the Production concentration, students can pursue interests in Virtual Reality, Robotics, New Media, Film, Video, or Documentary. Students in the Production concentration take a basic production course in all three production areas: basic digital, film, and video or documentary (for a total of 3 basic production courses). While conservatories and film schools often limit students to their concentration, Media Study encourages students to explore different mediums. This way our students gain more production exposure, technique, and skill.
Critical Studies courses involve students in traditional and new methods for analyzing the meaning of narrative, documentary, experimental, and iconic modes of image/sound composition. The Department encourages interdisciplinary studies with Art, Architecture, Communications, Music, Linguistics, Psychology, Philosophy, or any number of other disciplines.
Is Media Study a journalism degree?
The Department of Media Study has developed a curriculum that will encourage students to become independent filmmakers, video, artists, digital artists, and theorists. Media Study is not a communications, TV broadcasting, or journalism program.
Can I do both Production and Critical Studies concentrations in Media Study?
Students often ask if they can do both concentrations in Media Study. Students choose only ONE concentration, however, students can elect to use their open elective credits in the major to pursue interests in the other media concentration. The University requires students to take 120 credit hours to graduate. Should students choose to do so, they can take additional Media Study courses to count toward this university requirement.
