Media Studies, MA

Contact:

Bradley Gorham, Director of Media Studies Program
318 Newhouse 3, 315-443-3372, masscomm@syr.edu

Faculty:

See Faculty for the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications

This program emphasizes media processes and effects. Areas of inquiry include, but are not limited to, political communication, social effects, and media and diversity. This program stresses media theory and research, with students exploring a topic of their choosing in a culminating thesis. It is excellent preparation for more advanced study at the doctoral level or for research-oriented jobs in the private or public sector.

This 36-credit program leads to a Master of Arts (M.A.) in Media Studies.

Student Learning Outcomes

In addition to the comprehensive Newhouse School learning outcomes listed in the School’s Educational Mission , students in the Media Studies program are expected to achieve the following additional learning outcomes:

1. Apply the core communication theories and concepts of mediated communications

2. Apply the key qualitative and quantitative research methods used in the field of communications

3. Recognize the role of contemporary media systems and processes in society and culture

4. Recognize the basic principles of the First Amendment and communications law

5. Recognize the role of media in a diverse and global environment

6. Complete and write - in the appropriate style - an original research project that fulfills the requirements for a Master’s thesis

Requisite

Three credits of undergraduate or graduate coursework in media skills. Extensive professional experience can be substituted by petition.

Required Courses

COM 601 - Thesis Design 3 credit(s)
COM 605 - Quantitative Methods for Mass Communications Research 3 credit(s)
COM 606 - Qualitative Methods for Mass Communications Research 3 credit(s)
COM 698 - Media Law 3 credit(s) or
TRF 637 - Telecommunications Law&Policy 3 credit(s)
COM 701 - Proseminar for Graduate Study 0 credit(s)
COM 755 - Communications Theory 3 credit(s)

Perspectives In Communications Course (Choose Three)

ADV 645 - International Advertising 3 credit(s)
COM 600 - Selected Topics 1-6 credit(s)
COM 646 - Media and Diversity 3 credit(s)
COM 688 - Origins of Contemporary Media Issues 3 credit(s)
COM 740 - Topics in Research Communication 3 credit(s)
COM 777 - Seminar in Media Effects 3 credit(s)
COM 788 - Theories of Media Content 3 credit(s)
ICC 617 - Issues in Media Management 3 credit(s)
MNO 601 - Principles: Business, History, and the Ethics of Journalism 3 credit(s)
TRF 592 - Film Business 3 credit(s)
TRF 594 - Television Business 3 credit(s)
TRF 595 - Programming and Audience Analysis 3 credit(s)
TRF 600 - Selected Topics 1-6 credit(s)
TRF 636 - Critical and Historical Perspectives on Television, Radio, and Film 3 credit(s)
TRF 683 - Communications Industry Frontiers 3 credit(s)

Electives 9 Credits (Choose Three)

Elective courses will be selected in consultation with the student’s advisor from the broad range of graduate offerings in the Newhouse School and the University at large.

Course Catalog