Bachelor of Arts in Media Studies

Expand the way you see the media, the world and even yourself. Learn to identify issues in your community and develop skills that will empower you to make positive change.

The undergraduate degree in media studies at CMCI trains students in the critical, creative and cultural skills needed to operate in a media-saturated world. Throughout the program, students learn to understand current and future trends in media––both nationally and around the globe––as they explore media theory, popular culture, history, criticism, practices, technology and emerging cultures. Beyond theory, students also practice and train in media design, storytelling, digital art, online community engagement, documentary filmmaking and social media.

  • Sharpen your media and artistic literacy
  • Learn to analyze, deconstruct and critique media, texts and institutions 
  • Develop your understanding of the historical, social and legal practices of media

Gain relevant, off-campus experience with internship and career resources from your first semester to your last

130+ renowned organizations employ CMCI graduates, including National Geographic, Rogers & Cowan, Condé Nast, Microsoft, NPR, Uninterrupted and NBC

CMCI is home to several internationally recognized centers and initiatives that provide valuable new research and insight on contemporary issues, including the Center for Media, Religion and Culture; the Media Enterprise Group; and the Media Archaeology Lab

Be successful.

Our students gain a competitive edge by developing skills that are highly valued in today’s constantly changing professional landscape.

 
$64,720

Median salary of CU Boulder media studies students 1–5 years after graduation

 

Community relations coordinator, corporate communications specialist, film and television critic, industry researcher, international media specialist, conference planner, media entrepreneur and media strategist are common job opportunities for our graduates

 

Adobe Systems, Access Marketing, IHeartMedia, NBCUniversal Media, Sony and Sound Strategies employ our graduates

Academic Plan & Requirements

Students earning a major in media studies gain conceptual, technical and practical skills in media analysis, production and management and learn to think critically about the creation, distribution and reception of contemporary and emergent media cultures across a global context. Students also choose an area of concentration.

  • Media, Technology and society
  • Global media industries and culture
  • Advocacy, entrepreneurship and social change

Community & Involvement

CMCI is a place for community and collaboration. Learn how you can make connections, gain hands-on experience, further your studies and get involved.

Be Involved