Ask questions. Be critical. Engage in research.

Question the media鈥檚 relationship with and role in a democratic society.

The interdisciplinary major in film and media studies enables students to gain a complex understanding of media and the ways it shapes the world and our ability to act in it. Students engage in critical analyses of media practices, texts, and audiences. Graduates are broadly trained to think and write critically in a variety of academic and professional settings. 

Draw on all communication disciplines

From journalism to advertising to public relations and film, you'll examine media within a historical, cultural, social, economic, legal and ethical context. Understand and make sense of contemporary society that is constructed through mediated messages.

Develop theoretical and methodological skills

Apply research to understand and critically evaluate the media. Examine the historical and legal practices and relationships between media, culture and society. Understand and critically evaluate the ethical responsibilities of the media. Learn to critically evaluate the media and media messages and their individual and social impact.

Learning Outcomes

Upon graduation film and media students can: 

• Apply their knowledge of theory and research methods to critically evaluate media texts in a variety communication contexts. 
• Understand the ways in which law and policy affect media practices, texts, and discourses. 
• Critically evaluate the ethical responsibilities of media in society. 
• Articulate how media both affects and is affected by technological, historical, and social forces.  
• Identify and communicate how media shape social and power dynamics of gender, race, sexuality, age, disabilities and other identities.   

For more information, check out the curriculum for the and or contact Dr. Amanda Keeler, chair of the Journalism and Media Studies department.