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Program Description
This major is designed for students who wish to possess the analytic and critical skills needed to succeed in a professional world increasingly dominated by media. Students are exposed first to a breadth of approaches to understanding different forms of media (e.g. aesthetic, cultural, humanistic, psychological, economic, social, political) and then select specific areas of concentration to prepare them for different fields of research or professions involving media. All areas of concentration help students hone their analytic skills.
The following four options are offered:
Film and Television Studies Option
This option is designed for students interested in studying the art, history, and criticism of film and television. Electives offer students the opportunity to pursue a related field, such as art, art history, creative writing, speech communication, or theatre arts. This option merges aesthetics and social sciences and is appropriate for those seeking a more theoretical/critical approach to the study of film and video.
International Communications Option
This option is designed for students who want to study the mass media systems of the world and their role in international affairs. The option offers students an opportunity to enhance their occupational opportunities in international business, organizations, or government and to be better prepared to participate in the world community. Students must select either a University-approved minor in a foreign language, area studies, or international studies; a University-approved education abroad program; or other international-related courses or programs with prior departmental approval.
Media Effects Option
This option focuses on the social and psychological effects of media messages and technologies. Students progress through a general introduction to problems and issues, such as the effects of televised sex and violence, to courses that emphasize more theoretical approaches and advanced applications. A minor in a complementary area of study, such as Psychology or Sociology, is encouraged.
Society and Culture Option
In this option, a student and faculty adviser work together to tailor a program of courses to meet the student's individual interest in a coherent theme in media studies. These courses are usually selected in tandem with a minor or other supporting cluster of non-major courses in the area of specialization. Examples of themes include, but are not limited to, communication and the environment, communication and health campaigns, sports and the media, minorities and the media, and gender and the media. A minor in an area of specialization is encouraged.
What is Media Studies?
Students study the role and impact of the media on society in this theory-based, research-driven major. Students explore the relationships between media and the public, analyze media messages and technologies, and examine their effects on individuals and cultures. Course work covers a wide range of topics, including message analysis, media psychology, public opinion, global media, film studies, game studies and human-computer communication. Students can customize their studies by specializing in film and television studies, media effects, international communications, or society and culture.
You Might Like This Program If...
You have an ability to think critically and logically, along with an attention to detail and an interest in research. Strong observational skills are important, as are high level of curiosity and an inquisitive nature. Excellent verbal and written communications skills are important. In addition, an appreciation and understanding of popular culture combine to help students interested in the major bring valuable perspectives to their studies.
Entrance to Major
In order to be eligible for entrance to this major, a student must:
- attain at least a C (2.00) cumulative grade-point average for all courses taken at the University; and
- have at least third-semester classification.
READ SENATE POLICY 37-30: ENTRANCE TO AND CHANGES IN MAJOR PROGRAMS OF STUDY
Degree Requirements
For the Bachelor of Arts degree in Media Studies, a minimum of 120 credits is required:
| Requirement | Credits |
|---|---|
| General Education | 45 |
| Electives | 0-12 |
| Bachelor of Arts Degree Requirements | 24 |
| Requirements for the Major | 42-51 |
0-3 of the 45 credits for General Education are included in the Requirements for the Major. This includes: Film Option - 0-3 credits of GH courses or 0-3 credits of GA courses; Media Effects Option - 3 credits of GS courses.
3 of the 24 credits for Bachelor of Arts Degree Requirements are included in the Requirements for the Major, General Education, or Electives and 0-12 credits are included in Electives if foreign language proficiency is demonstrated by examination.
Requirements for the Major
A grade of C or better is required for all courses in the major. To graduate, a student enrolled in the major must earn at least a C grade in each course designated by the major as a C-required course, as specified by Senate Policy 82-44.
Common Requirements for the Major (All Options)
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Prescribed Courses | ||
| Prescribed Courses: Require a grade of C or better | ||
| COMM 100N | The Mass Media and Society  | 3 |
| COMM 205 | Gender, Diversity and the Media | 3 |
| COMM 270 | Introduction to Multimedia Production | 3 |
| COMM 304 | Mass Communication Research | 3 |
| COMM 305 | Introduction to Critical Studies of Media | 3 |
| COMM 405 | Political Economy of Communications | 3 |
| COMM 413W | The Mass Media and the Public | 3 |
| Requirements for the Option | ||
| Requirements for the Option: Require a grade of C or better | ||
| Select an option | 21-30 | |
Requirements for the Option
Film and Television Studies Option (21 credits)
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Prescribed Courses | ||
| Prescribed Courses: Require a grade of C or better | ||
| COMM 150N | The Art of the Cinema | 3 |
| COMM 242 | Basic Video/Filmmaking | 3 |
| COMM 250 | Film History and Theory | 3 |
| Additional Courses | ||
| Additional Courses: Require a grade of C or better | ||
| Select 9 credits from the following: | 9 | |
| Topics in American Film | ||
| Topics in International Cinema | ||
| Narrative Theory: Film and Literature | ||
| Documentary in Film and Television | ||
| Advanced Film Theory and Criticism | ||
| Internship | ||
| Independent Studies | ||
| Select 3 credits from the following: | 3 | |
| Rhetoric of Film and Television | ||
| Chinese Film and New Media | ||
| International Cultures: Film and Literature | ||
| Literature and Culture | ||
| French Culture Through Film | ||
| Topics in French Film History and Theory I: 1895-1945 | ||
| Topics in French Film History and Theory II: 1945-2002 | ||
| Modern Italian Literature and Cinema | ||
| Japanese Film | ||
| Film Music | ||
| Film and Philosophy | ||
International Communications Option (21-30 credits)
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Prescribed Courses | ||
| Prescribed Courses: Require a grade of C or better | ||
| COMM 110 | Media and Democracy | 3 |
| COMM 410 | International Mass Communications | 3 |
| COMM 419 | World Media Systems | 3 |
| Additional Courses | ||
| Additional Courses: Require a grade of C or better | ||
| Select 3 credits from the following: | 3 | |
| Introduction to Media Effects | ||
| The Art of the Cinema | ||
| Introduction to Advertising | ||
COMM 381 | ||
| Topics in International Cinema | ||
| Supporting Courses and Related Areas | ||
| Supporting Courses and Related Areas: Require a grade of C or better | ||
| Select at least one of the following for a minimum of 9 credits and a maximum of 18 credits (no more than 9 credits in COMM) 1 | 9-18 | |
University approved minor in foreign language, area studies or international studies | ||
University approved education abroad program | ||
Other international related courses or programs with prior departmental approval | ||
- 1
More than one is strongly recommended.
Media Effects Option (21 credits)
A minor in a complementary area of study is encouraged (e.g. Psychology or Sociology).
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Prescribed Courses | ||
| Prescribed Courses: Require a grade of C or better | ||
| COMM 118 | Introduction to Media Effects | 3 |
| COMM 418 | Media Effects: Theory and Research | 3 |
| PSYCH 100 | Introductory Psychology | 3 |
| Additional Courses | ||
| Additional Courses: Require a grade of C or better | ||
| Select 3 credits from the following: | 3 | |
| Media and Democracy | ||
| The Art of the Cinema | ||
| Survey of Electronic Media and Telecommunications | ||
| Introduction to Advertising | ||
| Law of Mass Communications | ||
| Sports, Media and Society | ||
| Select 3 credits from the following: | 3 | |
| Effects of digital games | ||
| Effects of social media | ||
| Effects of entertainment media | ||
| Effects of Science, Environmental and Health Media | ||
| Select 3 credits from the following: | 3 | |
| Introduction to Social Psychology | ||
| Introduction to Cognitive Psychology | ||
| Supporting Courses and Related Areas | ||
| Supporting Courses and Related Areas: Require a grade of C or better | ||
| Select 3 credits in research methods from an approved department list 1 | 3 | |
- 1
The approved department list can be found on the Donald P. Bellisario College of Communications website.
Society and Culture Option (21 credits)
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Prescribed Courses | ||
| Prescribed Courses: Require a grade of C or better | ||
| COMM 411 | Cultural Aspects of the Mass Media | 3 |
| Additional Courses | ||
| Additional Courses: Require a grade of C or better | ||
| Select 6 credits from the following: | 6 | |
| Media and Democracy | ||
| Introduction to Media Effects | ||
| The Art of the Cinema | ||
| Select 12 credits (a least 9 credits at the 400 level) in communication theory from the following: | 12 | |
| Media and Democracy | ||
| Introduction to Media Effects | ||
| The Art of the Cinema | ||
| Introduction to the Sports Industry | ||
| Survey of Electronic Media and Telecommunications | ||
| Cultural Foundations of Communications | ||
| News Media Ethics | ||
| International Mass Communications | ||
| Sports, Media and Society | ||
| Ethics and Regulation in Advertising and Public Relations | ||
| Media Effects: Theory and Research | ||
| World Media Systems | ||
| Topics in American Film | ||
| Topics in International Cinema | ||
| Narrative Theory: Film and Literature | ||
| Documentary in Film and Television | ||
| Advanced Film Theory and Criticism | ||
General Education
Connecting career and curiosity, the General Education curriculum provides the opportunity for students to acquire transferable skills necessary to be successful in the future and to thrive while living in interconnected contexts. General Education aids students in developing intellectual curiosity, a strengthened ability to think, and a deeper sense of aesthetic appreciation. These are requirements for all baccalaureate students and are often partially incorporated into the requirements of a program. For additional information, see the General Education Requirements section of the Bulletin and consult your academic adviser.
The keystone symbol appears next to the title of any course that is designated as a General Education course. Program requirements may also satisfy General Education requirements and vary for each program.
Foundations (grade of C or better is required and Inter-Domain courses do not meet this requirement.)
- Quantification (GQ): 6 credits
- Writing and Speaking (GWS): 9 credits
Breadth in the Knowledge Domains (Inter-Domain courses do not meet this requirement.)
- Arts (GA): 3 credits
- Health and Wellness (GHW): 3 credits
- Humanities (GH): 3 credits
- Social and Behavioral Sciences (GS): 3 credits
- Natural Sciences (GN): 3 credits
Integrative Studies
- Inter-Domain Courses (Inter-Domain): 6 credits
Exploration
- GN, may be completed with Inter-Domain courses: 3 credits
- GA, GH, GN, GS, Inter-Domain courses. This may include 3 credits of World Language course work beyond the 12th credit level or the requirements for the student’s degree program, whichever is higher: 6 credits
University Degree Requirements
First Year Engagement
All students enrolled in a college or the Division of Undergraduate Studies at University Park, and the World Campus are required to take 1 to 3 credits of the First-Year Seminar, as specified by their college First-Year Engagement Plan.
Other Penn State colleges and campuses may require the First-Year Seminar; colleges and campuses that do not require a First-Year Seminar provide students with a first-year engagement experience.
First-year baccalaureate students entering Penn State should consult their academic adviser for these requirements.
Cultures Requirement
6 credits are required and may satisfy other requirements
- United States Cultures: 3 credits
- International Cultures: 3 credits
Writing Across the Curriculum
3 credits required from the college of graduation and likely prescribed as part of major requirements.
Total Minimum Credits
A minimum of 120 degree credits must be earned for a baccalaureate degree. The requirements for some programs may exceed 120 credits. Students should consult with their college or department adviser for information on specific credit requirements.
Quality of Work
Candidates must complete the degree requirements for their major and earn at least a 2.00 grade-point average for all courses completed within their degree program.
Limitations on Source and Time for Credit Acquisition
The college dean or campus chancellor and program faculty may require up to 24 credits of course work in the major to be taken at the location or in the college or program where the degree is earned. Credit used toward degree programs may need to be earned from a particular source or within time constraints (see Senate Policy 83-80). For more information, check the Suggested Academic Plan for your intended program.
B.A. Degree Requirements
World Language (0-12 credits): Student must attain 12th credit level of proficiency in one world language in addition to English. This proficiency must be demonstrated by either examination or course work. See the Placement Policy for Penn State World Language Courses.
B.A. Fields (9 credits): Humanities, Social and Behavioral Sciences, Arts, World Languages, Natural Sciences, Quantification (may not be taken in the area of the student's primary major; world language credits in this category must be in a second world language in addition to English or beyond the 12th credit level of proficiency in the first language). Credits must be selected from the list of approved courses.
World Cultures (0-3 credits): Select 3 credits from approved list. Students may count courses in this category in order to meet other major, minor, elective, or General Education requirements, except for the University Cultural Diversity (US/IL) requirement.
Integrated B.A/M.A. in Media Studies
Requirements for the Integrated B.A/M.A. in Media Studies can be found in the Graduate Bulletin.
Learning Outcomes
Professional Values and Competencies
Individual professions in journalism and mass communication may require certain specialized values and competencies. Irrespective of their particular specialization, all graduates should be aware of certain core values and competencies and be able to:
- understand and apply the principles and laws of freedom of speech and press for the country in which the institution that invites ACEJMC is located, as well as receive instruction in and understand the range of systems of freedom of expression around the world, including the right to dissent, to monitor and criticize power, and assemble and to petition for redress of grievances;
- demonstrate an understanding of the history and role of professionals and institutions in shaping communications;
- demonstrate an understanding of gender, race ethnicity, sexual orientation and, as appropriate, other forms of diversity in domestic society in relation to mass communications;
- demonstrate an understanding of the diversity of peoples and cultures and of the significance and impact of mass communications in a global society;
- understand concepts and apply theories in the use and presentation of images and information;
- demonstrate an understanding of professional ethical principles and work ethically in pursuit of truth, accuracy, fairness and diversity;
- think critically, creatively and independently;
- conduct research and evaluate information by methods appropriate to the communications professions in which they work;
- write correctly and clearly in forms and styles appropriate for the communications professions, audiences and purposes they serve;
- critically evaluate their own work and that of others for accuracy and fairness, clarity, appropriate style and grammatical correctness;
- apply basic numerical and statistical concepts;
- apply basic tools and technologies appropriate for the communications professions in which they work.
Academic Advising
The objectives of the university's academic advising program are to help advisees identify and achieve their academic goals, to promote their intellectual discovery, and to encourage students to take advantage of both in-and out-of class educational opportunities in order that they become self-directed learners and decision makers.
Both advisers and advisees share responsibility for making the advising relationship succeed. By encouraging their advisees to become engaged in their education, to meet their educational goals, and to develop the habit of learning, advisers assume a significant educational role. The advisee's unit of enrollment will provide each advisee with a primary academic adviser, the information needed to plan the chosen program of study, and referrals to other specialized resources.
READ SENATE POLICY 32-00: ADVISING POLICY
University Park
Bellisario College Academic Advising
204 Carnegie Building
University Park, PA 16802
814-865-1503
commadvisor@psu.edu
Suggested Academic Plan
Media Effects Option: Media Studies, B.A. at University Park Campus and Commonwealth Campuses
The course series listed below provides only one of the many possible ways to move through this curriculum. The University may make changes in policies, procedures, educational offerings, and requirements at any time. This plan should be used in conjunction with your degree audit (accessible in LionPATH as either an Academic Requirements or What If report). Please consult with a Penn State academic adviser on a regular basis to develop and refine an academic plan that is appropriate for you.
| First Year | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| COMM 100N (US Cultures)* | 3 | COMM 118* | 3 |
| COMM 160 | 1 | IL Cultures | 3 |
| ENGL 15 (GWS)‡ | 3 | World Language Level 2 | 4 |
| PSU 9 | 1 | General Education Course (GQ)‡ | 3 |
| PSYCH 100 (GS)† | 3 | General Education Course (Inter-Domain) | 3 |
| World Language Level 1 | 4 | ||
| 15 | 16 | ||
| Second Year | |||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| COMM 205* | 3 | COMM 305* | 3 |
| COMM 270* | 3 | BA World Cultures | 3 |
| World Language Level 3 | 4 | General Education Course (GA) | 3 |
| General Education Course (GQ)‡ | 3 | General Education Course (Inter-Domain) | 3 |
| General Education Course (GN) | 3 | General Education Course (Exploration) | 3 |
| 16 | 15 | ||
| Third Year | |||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| CAS 100A, 100B, or 100C (GWS)‡ | 3 | COMM 325, 326, 327, or 328* | 3 |
| COMM 304* | 3 | COMM 405* | 3 |
| COMM 325, 326, 327, or 328* | 3 | General Education Course (GH) | 3 |
| BA Fields | 3 | General Education Course (Exploration) | 3 |
| General Education Course (GN) | 3 | Elective | 3 |
| 15 | 15 | ||
| Fourth Year | |||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| COMM 413W* | 3 | COMM 418* | 3 |
| ENGL 202A, 202B, 202C, or 202D (GWS)‡ | 3 | BA Fields | 3 |
| Cinema or Media Course*1 | 3 | General Education Course (GHW) | 3 |
| BA Fields | 3 | Elective | 3 |
| Elective | 3 | Elective | 1 |
| 15 | 13 | ||
| Total Credits 120 | |||
- *
Course requires a grade of C or better for the major
- ‡
Course requires a grade of C or better for General Education
- #
Course is an Entrance to Major requirement
- †
Course satisfies General Education and degree requirement
- 1
Cinema or Media Courses: COMM 110, COMM 150N, COMM 180, COMM 205, COMM 320, COMM 403, or COMM 412.
University Requirements and General Education Notes:
US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy Cultural Diversity Requirements (United States and International Cultures).
W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.
General Education includes Foundations (GWS and GQ), Knowledge Domains (GHW, GN, GA, GH, GS) and Integrative Studies (Inter-domain) requirements. N or Q (Honors) is the suffix at the end of a course number used to help identify an Inter-domain course, but the inter-domain attribute is used to fill audit requirements. Foundations courses (GWS and GQ) require a grade of 'C' or better.
All incoming Schreyer Honors College first-year students at University Park will take ENGL 137H/CAS 137H in the fall semester and ENGL 138T/CAS 138T in the spring semester. These courses carry the GWS designation and satisfy a portion of that General Education requirement. If the student’s program prescribes GWS these courses will replace both ENGL 15/ENGL 30H and CAS 100A/CAS 100B/CAS 100C. Each course is 3 credits.
Bachelor of Arts Requirements:
Bachelor of Arts students must take 9 credits in Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) Fields (Humanities; Social and Behavioral Sciences; Arts; World Languages [2nd language or beyond the 12th credit level of proficiency in the 1st]; Natural Sciences; Quantification). The B.A. Fields courses may not be taken in the area of the student’s primary major. See your adviser and the Degree Requirements section of this Bulletin.
Bachelor of Arts students must take 3 credits in World Cultures.
See your adviser and the full list of courses approved as World Cultures courses.
Film and Television Studies Option: Media Studies, B.A. at University Park Campus and Commonwealth Campuses
The course series listed below provides only one of the many possible ways to move through this curriculum. The University may make changes in policies, procedures, educational offerings, and requirements at any time. This plan should be used in conjunction with your degree audit (accessible in LionPATH as either an Academic Requirements or What If report). Please consult with a Penn State academic adviser on a regular basis to develop and refine an academic plan that is appropriate for you.
| First Year | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| COMM 150N* | 3 | COMM 100N (US Cultures)* | 3 |
| COMM 160 | 1 | IL Cultures | 3 |
| ENGL 15 (GWS)‡ | 3 | World Language Level 2 | 4 |
| PSU 9 | 1 | General Education Course (GQ)‡ | 3 |
| World Language Level 1 | 4 | General Education Course (Inter-Domain) | 3 |
| General Education Course (GS) | 3 | ||
| 15 | 16 | ||
| Second Year | |||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| COMM 205* | 3 | COMM 250* | 3 |
| COMM 270* | 3 | BA World Cultures | 3 |
| General Education Course (GQ)‡ | 3 | General Education Course (GA) | 3 |
| General Education Course (GN) | 3 | General Education Course (Inter-Domain) | 3 |
| World Language Level 3 | 4 | General Education Course (Exploration) | 3 |
| 16 | 15 | ||
| Third Year | |||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| CAS 100A, 100B, or 100C (GWS)‡ | 3 | COMM 405* | 3 |
| COMM 304* | 3 | COMM 400-level Film or TV*1 | 3 |
| COMM 400-level Film or TV*1 | 3 | General Education Course (GH) | 3 |
| BA Fields | 3 | General Education Course (Exploration) | 3 |
| General Education Course (GN) | 3 | Elective | 3 |
| 15 | 15 | ||
| Fourth Year | |||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| COMM 242* | 3 | COMM 413W* | 3 |
| COMM 305* | 3 | COMM 400-level Film or TV*1 | 3 |
| ENGL 202A, 202B, 202C, or 202D (GWS)‡ | 3 | BA Fields | 3 |
| BA Fields | 3 | General Education Course (GHW) | 3 |
| Elective | 3 | Elective | 1 |
| 15 | 13 | ||
| Total Credits 120 | |||
- *
Course requires a grade of C or better for the major
- ‡
Course requires a grade of C or better for General Education
- #
Course is an Entrance to Major requirement
- †
Course satisfies General Education and degree requirement
- 1
COMM 400-level Film or TV: COMM 451, COMM 452, COMM 453, COMM 454, COMM 455, COMM 495, or COMM 496.
University Requirements and General Education Notes:
US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy Cultural Diversity Requirements (United States and International Cultures).
W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.
General Education includes Foundations (GWS and GQ), Knowledge Domains (GHW, GN, GA, GH, GS) and Integrative Studies (Inter-domain) requirements. N or Q (Honors) is the suffix at the end of a course number used to help identify an Inter-domain course, but the inter-domain attribute is used to fill audit requirements. Foundations courses (GWS and GQ) require a grade of 'C' or better.
All incoming Schreyer Honors College first-year students at University Park will take ENGL 137H/CAS 137H in the fall semester and ENGL 138T/CAS 138T in the spring semester. These courses carry the GWS designation and satisfy a portion of that General Education requirement. If the student’s program prescribes GWS these courses will replace both ENGL 15/ENGL 30H and CAS 100A/CAS 100B/CAS 100C. Each course is 3 credits.
Bachelor of Arts Requirements:
Bachelor of Arts students must take 9 credits in Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) Fields (Humanities; Social and Behavioral Sciences; Arts; World Languages [2nd language or beyond the 12th credit level of proficiency in the 1st]; Natural Sciences; Quantification). The B.A. Fields courses may not be taken in the area of the student’s primary major. See your adviser and the Degree Requirements section of this Bulletin.
Bachelor of Arts students must take 3 credits in World Cultures.
See your adviser and the full list of courses approved as World Cultures courses.
International Communications Option (No Study Abroad): Media Studies, B.A. at University Park Campus and Commonwealth Campuses
The course series listed below provides only one of the many possible ways to move through this curriculum. The University may make changes in policies, procedures, educational offerings, and requirements at any time. This plan should be used in conjunction with your degree audit (accessible in LionPATH as either an Academic Requirements or What If report). Please consult with a Penn State academic adviser on a regular basis to develop and refine an academic plan that is appropriate for you.
| First Year | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| World Language Level 1 | 4 | World Language Level 2 | 4 |
| ENGL 15 or 30H (GWS)‡ | 3 | COMM 100N*1 | 3 |
| ECON 102 (GS) | 3 | General Education Course (GS) (Inter-Domain) | 3 |
| General Education Course (GH) (Inter-Domain) | 3 | General Education Course (GH) | 3 |
| COMM 160 | 1 | General Education Course (GN) | 3 |
| PSU 9 | 1 | ||
| 15 | 16 | ||
| Second Year | |||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| World Language Level 3 | 4 | STAT 200 (GQ)‡ | 4 |
| COMM 1101* | 3 | COMM 118, 150N, 205, 320, or 452*1 | 3 |
| COMM 270* | 3 | General Education Course (GN) | 3 |
| General Education Course (GQ)‡ | 3 | BA World Cultures | 3 |
| Bachelor of Arts Knowledge Domain | 3 | Bachelor of Arts Knowledge Domain/Minor | 3 |
| 16 | 16 | ||
| Third Year | |||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| COMM 304* | 3 | COMM 410 (International Cultures, IL)* | 3 |
| COMM 405* | 3 | Bachelor of Arts Knowledge Domain/Minor | 3 |
| CAS 100A, 100B, or 100C (GWS)‡ | 3 | Supporting Courses and Related Areas | 3 |
| General Education Course (GN) | 3 | Non-COMM Elective | 3 |
| Supporting Courses and Related Areas | 3 | Elective/Minor | 3 |
| 15 | 15 | ||
| Fourth Year | |||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| COMM 305* | 3 | COMM 413W* | 3 |
| COMM 419 (US Cultures, US)* | 3 | Supporting Courses and Related Areas | 3 |
| ENGL 202A, 202B, 202C, or 202D (GWS)‡ | 3 | Elective/Minor | 3 |
| Non-COMM Elective | 3 | Elective/Minor | 3 |
| General Education Course (GHW) | 1.5 | General Education Course (GHW) | 1.5 |
| 13.5 | 13.5 | ||
| Total Credits 120 | |||
- *
Course requires a grade of C or better for the major
- ‡
Course requires a grade of C or better for General Education
- #
Course is an Entrance to Major requirement
- †
Course satisfies General Education and degree requirement
- 1
Students studying at any of the commonwealth campuses that do not offer COMM 100N, COMM 110 and 3 credits of COMM 118, COMM 150N, COMM 205, COMM 320 or COMM 452 will take these courses at University Park. COMM 100N will be taken 5th semester in place of the B.A. Knowledge domain which will be taken 2nd semester at the commonwealth campus. 3 Credits of COMM 118, COMM 150N, COMM 205, COMM 320 or COMM 452 will be taken 5th semester in place of ENGL 202A/ENGL 202B/ENGL 202C/ENGL 202D which will be taken 4th semester at the commonwealth campus. COMM 110 will be taken 6th semester in place of the B.A. Knowledge Domain which will be taken 3rd semester at the commonwealth campus.
University Requirements and General Education Notes:
US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy Cultural Diversity Requirements (United States and International Cultures).
W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.
General Education includes Foundations (GWS and GQ), Knowledge Domains (GHW, GN, GA, GH, GS) and Integrative Studies (Inter-domain) requirements. N or Q (Honors) is the suffix at the end of a course number used to help identify an Inter-domain course, but the inter-domain attribute is used to fill audit requirements. Foundations courses (GWS and GQ) require a grade of 'C' or better.
All incoming Schreyer Honors College first-year students at University Park will take ENGL 137H/CAS 137H in the fall semester and ENGL 138T/CAS 138T in the spring semester. These courses carry the GWS designation and satisfy a portion of that General Education requirement. If the student’s program prescribes GWS these courses will replace both ENGL 15/ENGL 30H and CAS 100A/CAS 100B/CAS 100C. Each course is 3 credits.
Bachelor of Arts Requirements:
Bachelor of Arts students must take 9 credits in Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) Fields (Humanities; Social and Behavioral Sciences; Arts; World Languages [2nd language or beyond the 12th credit level of proficiency in the 1st]; Natural Sciences; Quantification). The B.A. Fields courses may not be taken in the area of the student’s primary major. See your adviser and the Degree Requirements section of this Bulletin.
Bachelor of Arts students must take 3 credits in World Cultures.
See your adviser and the full list of courses approved as World Cultures courses.
International Communications Option (Semester Abroad): Media Studies, B.A. at University Park Campus and Commonwealth Campuses
The course series listed below provides only one of the many possible ways to move through this curriculum. The University may make changes in policies, procedures, educational offerings, and requirements at any time. This plan should be used in conjunction with your degree audit (accessible in LionPATH as either an Academic Requirements or What If report). Please consult with a Penn State academic adviser on a regular basis to develop and refine an academic plan that is appropriate for you.
| First Year | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| World Language Level 1 | 4 | World Language Level 2 | 4 |
| ENGL 15 or 30H (GWS)‡ | 3 | COMM 100N*1 | 3 |
| ECON 102 (GS) | 3 | General Education Course (GS) (Inter-Domain) | 3 |
| General Education Course (GH) (Inter-Domain) | 3 | General Education Course (GH) | 3 |
| COMM 160 | 1 | General Education Course (GN) | 3 |
| PSU 9 | 1 | ||
| 15 | 16 | ||
| Second Year | |||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| World Language Level 3 | 4 | STAT 200 (GQ)‡ | 4 |
| COMM 1101* | 3 | COMM 118, 150N, 205, 320, COMM 381, or COMM 452*1 | 3 |
| COMM 270* | 3 | General Education Course (GN) | 3 |
| General Education Course (GQ)‡ | 3 | BA World Cultures | 3 |
| Bachelor of Arts Knowledge Domain | 3 | Bachelor of Arts Knowledge Domain | 3 |
| 16 | 16 | ||
| Third Year | |||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| COMM 304* | 3 | Semester Abroad (No COMM Courses, All Electives)* | 15 |
| COMM 405* | 3 | ||
| CAS 100A, 100B, or 100C (GWS)‡ | 3 | ||
| General Education Course (GA) | 3 | ||
| General Education Course (GN) | 3 | ||
| 15 | 15 | ||
| Fourth Year | |||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| COMM 410 (International Cultures, IL)* | 3 | COMM 419 (US Cultures, US)* | 3 |
| COMM 305* | 3 | COMM 413W* | 3 |
| ENGL 202A, 202B, 202C, or 202D (GWS)‡ | 3 | Bachelor of Arts Knowledge Domain | 3 |
| General Education Course (GA) | 3 | Elective | 3 |
| General Education Course (GHW) | 1.5 | General Education Course (GHW) | 1.5 |
| 13.5 | 13.5 | ||
| Total Credits 120 | |||
- *
Course requires a grade of C or better for the major
- ‡
Course requires a grade of C or better for General Education
- #
Course is an Entrance to Major requirement
- †
Course satisfies General Education and degree requirement
- 1
Students studying at any of the commonwealth campuses that do not offer COMM 100N, COMM 110 and 3 credits of COMM 118, COMM 150N, COMM 205 COMM 320 or COMM 452 will take these courses at University Park. COMM 100N will be taken 5th semester in place of the B.A. Knowledge domain which will be taken 2nd semester at the commonwealth campus. 3 Credits of COMM 118, COMM 150N, COMM 205, COMM 320 or COMM 452 will be taken 5th semester in place of ENGL 202A/ENGL 202B/ENGL 202C/ENGL 202D which will be taken 4th semester at the commonwealth campus. COMM 110 will be taken 5th semester in place of the B.A. Knowledge Domain which will be taken 3rd semester at the commonwealth campus.
University Requirements and General Education Notes:
US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy Cultural Diversity Requirements (United States and International Cultures).
W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.
General Education includes Foundations (GWS and GQ), Knowledge Domains (GHW, GN, GA, GH, GS) and Integrative Studies (Inter-domain) requirements. N or Q (Honors) is the suffix at the end of a course number used to help identify an Inter-domain course, but the inter-domain attribute is used to fill audit requirements. Foundations courses (GWS and GQ) require a grade of 'C' or better.
All incoming Schreyer Honors College first-year students at University Park will take ENGL 137H/CAS 137H in the fall semester and ENGL 138T/CAS 138T in the spring semester. These courses carry the GWS designation and satisfy a portion of that General Education requirement. If the student’s program prescribes GWS these courses will replace both ENGL 15/ENGL 30H and CAS 100A/CAS 100B/CAS 100C. Each course is 3 credits.
Bachelor of Arts Requirements:
Bachelor of Arts students must take 9 credits in Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) Fields (Humanities; Social and Behavioral Sciences; Arts; World Languages [2nd language or beyond the 12th credit level of proficiency in the 1st]; Natural Sciences; Quantification). The B.A. Fields courses may not be taken in the area of the student’s primary major. See your adviser and the Degree Requirements section of this Bulletin.
Bachelor of Arts students must take 3 credits in World Cultures.
See your adviser and the full list of courses approved as World Cultures courses.
Society and Culture Option: Media Studies, B.A. at University Park Campus and Commonwealth Campuses
The course series listed below provides only one of the many possible ways to move through this curriculum. The University may make changes in policies, procedures, educational offerings, and requirements at any time. This plan should be used in conjunction with your degree audit (accessible in LionPATH as either an Academic Requirements or What If report). Please consult with a Penn State academic adviser on a regular basis to develop and refine an academic plan that is appropriate for you.
| First Year | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| COMM 100N (US Cultures)* | 3 | Cinema or Media Course*1 | 3 |
| COMM 160 | 1 | IL Cultures | 3 |
| ENGL 15 (GWS)‡ | 3 | World Language Level 2 | 4 |
| PSU 9 | 1 | General Education Course (GQ)‡ | 3 |
| World Language Level 1 | 4 | General Education Course (Inter-Domain) | 3 |
| General Education Course (GS) | 3 | ||
| 15 | 16 | ||
| Second Year | |||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| COMM 205* | 3 | COMM 305* | 3 |
| COMM 270* | 3 | BA World Cultures | 3 |
| World Language Level 3 | 4 | General Education Course (GA) | 3 |
| General Education Course (GN) | 3 | General Education Course (Inter-Domain) | 3 |
| General Education Course (GQ)‡ | 3 | General Education Course (Exploration) | 3 |
| 16 | 15 | ||
| Third Year | |||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| CAS 100A, 100B, or 100C (GWS)‡ | 3 | COMM 405* | 3 |
| COMM 304* | 3 | COMM 400-level Communication Theory* | 3 |
| COMM 400-level Communication Theory* | 3 | General Education Course (GH) | 3 |
| BA Fields | 3 | General Education Course (Exploration) | 3 |
| General Education Course (GN) | 3 | Elective | 3 |
| 15 | 15 | ||
| Fourth Year | |||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| COMM 413W* | 3 | COMM 411* | 3 |
| ENGL 202A, 202B, 202C, or 202D (GWS)‡ | 3 | BA Fields | 3 |
| COMM 400-level Communication Theory* | 3 | General Education Course (GHW) | 3 |
| BA Fields | 3 | Elective | 3 |
| Elective | 3 | Elective | 1 |
| 15 | 13 | ||
| Total Credits 120 | |||
- *
Course requires a grade of C or better for the major
- ‡
Course requires a grade of C or better for General Education
- #
Course is an Entrance to Major requirement
- †
Course satisfies General Education and degree requirement
- 1
Cinema or Media Courses: COMM 110, COMM 150N, COMM 180, COMM 205, COMM 320, COMM 403, or COMM 412.
University Requirements and General Education Notes:
US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy Cultural Diversity Requirements (United States and International Cultures).
W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.
General Education includes Foundations (GWS and GQ), Knowledge Domains (GHW, GN, GA, GH, GS) and Integrative Studies (Inter-domain) requirements. N or Q (Honors) is the suffix at the end of a course number used to help identify an Inter-domain course, but the inter-domain attribute is used to fill audit requirements. Foundations courses (GWS and GQ) require a grade of 'C' or better.
All incoming Schreyer Honors College first-year students at University Park will take ENGL 137H/CAS 137H in the fall semester and ENGL 138T/CAS 138T in the spring semester. These courses carry the GWS designation and satisfy a portion of that General Education requirement. If the student’s program prescribes GWS these courses will replace both ENGL 15/ENGL 30H and CAS 100A/CAS 100B/CAS 100C. Each course is 3 credits.
Bachelor of Arts Requirements:
Bachelor of Arts students must take 9 credits in Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) Fields (Humanities; Social and Behavioral Sciences; Arts; World Languages [2nd language or beyond the 12th credit level of proficiency in the 1st]; Natural Sciences; Quantification). The B.A. Fields courses may not be taken in the area of the student’s primary major. See your adviser and the Degree Requirements section of this Bulletin.
Bachelor of Arts students must take 3 credits in World Cultures.
See your adviser and the full list of courses approved as World Cultures courses.
Career Paths
The major provides a broad education in mediated communications. Graduates often go on to work in the media industry, with government, non-governmental or international agencies, or continue their education in graduate or law schools. In addition, because students can customize their studies by specializing in specific areas, they obtain experience or skills that are valuable in a variety of communications-related positions.
MORE INFORMATION ABOUT POTENTIAL CAREER OPTIONS FOR GRADUATES OF THE MEDIA STUDIES PROGRAM
Opportunities for Graduate Studies
The media studies major provides an easy transition and logical progression into graduate studies for many students. Students who complete the major may move into a variety of areas of graduate study, including graduate-level degrees that lead to careers in higher education, research-driven careers or law school, among others.
Accreditation
The Donald P. Bellisario College of Communications is evaluated regularly by the Accrediting Council on Education in Journalism and Mass Communications (ACEJMC). The Bellisario College has consistently met the high standards of the Accrediting Council that is dedicated to excellence in professional education in journalism and mass communications. For undergraduate students, accreditation most practically means that upper-level professional classes in each major are conducted in rooms with 20 or fewer students.
MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE ACCREDITING COUNCIL ON EDUCATION IN JOURNALISM AND MASS COMMUNICATIONS
Contact
University Park
DEPARTMENT OF FILM PRODUCTION AND MEDIA STUDIES
103 Carnegie Building
University Park, PA 16802
814-863-1243
mfj3@psu.edu
https://www.bellisario.psu.edu/departments/film-production-media-studies