Media Studies, B.A.

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon January 2027

Course Overview

The Bachelor of Arts in Media Studies at California State University San Marcos (CSUSM) is designed for students eager to critically analyse the complex landscape of media, technology, and their profound influence on global culture and society. You will delve into theoretically grounded frameworks, exploring how power dynamics shape media creation, distribution, representation, and consumption. This undergraduate degree offers a broad-based education, focusing on traditional, alternative, historical, contemporary, and emerging media within their wider cultural, social, economic, and political contexts, preparing you to be an informed navigator of our increasingly mediated world.

You will engage in a stimulating intellectual environment, studying core courses in Media Theory, Histories of Media Technologies, and Global Media, alongside electives that allow you to tailor your interests. This full-time, on-campus program, typically completed over four years, incorporates research methods and design, preparing you for a significant independent study or internship in your final year. You will graduate with the analytical skills to critically assess media texts and contexts, opening pathways to careers in media analysis, policy, production, and digital communications.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

The Media Studies, B.A. program provides a comprehensive understanding of media's role in society. It begins with foundational courses in communication, argumentation, and statistics, preparing students for advanced study. The curriculum then delves into core media studies topics, including research methods, rhetorical criticism, media theory, and the historical and global contexts of media. Students further explore specialized areas through a wide range of upper-division electives, covering subjects like media power, new media, digital policy, and media ethics, allowing for tailored academic exploration.

1 Preparation for Major (9 Units)

Introduction to communication Compulsory
Argumentation and dialogue Compulsory
Introductory statistics in psychology Compulsory
Introductory statistics for the social sciences Compulsory

2 Major Requirements (39 Units)

Research methods and design Compulsory
Rhetorical criticism Compulsory
Media theory Compulsory
Histories of media technologies Compulsory
Global media Compulsory
Media and society Compulsory

3 Upper-Division Electives (24 Units)

Media power Compulsory
New media and everyday life Compulsory
Mobile media cultures Compulsory
The internet and digital media Compulsory
Critical approaches to children’s media Compulsory
Asian Americans and the media Compulsory
Media, religion, and commodification Compulsory
Media ethics Compulsory
Television and culture Compulsory
Media and pop culture Compulsory
Political economy of the media Compulsory
Media and politics Compulsory
Media policy and the struggle for U.S. democracy, 1776-1996 Compulsory
Digital policy Compulsory
Topics in media studies Compulsory
Media studies internship Compulsory
Independent study Compulsory
Independent study Compulsory
Independent study Compulsory

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 17,106.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 17,106.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 17,106.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 17,106.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 68,424.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Food & Groceries USD 3,600.00 - USD 5,400.00
Transport USD 840.00 - USD 1,440.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,200.00 - USD 2,040.00
Estimated Total USD 5,640.00 - USD 8,880.00

Living cost estimates are based on San Marcos Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

78%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Adult & Continuing EducationCurriculum & Instructional DesignEarly Childhood & Primary EducationEducation Policy & AdministrationHealth Technology & Digital HealthHealthcare ConsultingHigher Education & UniversitiesMedical Research & Clinical TrialsSpecial & Inclusive EducationVocational & Technical Training

Top Employers Hiring for this course

California State University San Marcos

Scripps Health

Why Study Media Studies, B.A. at California State University San Marcos (CSUSM)

What makes this program stand out

January 2027 Closing soon

Next intake is in January 2027

Fast Application response time

California State University San Marcos (CSUSM) typically responds to applications within a week, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Life at California State University San Marcos (CSUSM) in United States

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Media Studies, B.A. at California State University San Marcos (CSUSM)

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks. On-campus work does not require separate permits.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To enroll, you must meet the English proficiency requirements, such as a Duolingo score of 95 or a TOEFL overall score of 61. Other acceptable tests include IELTS and PTE, with specific score minima in various sections.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as Media Analysts, Communications Coordinators, Content Creators, Social Media Managers, or Media Researchers.

What will I actually study in this course?

The Media Studies, B.A. provides a comprehensive understanding of media technology and its impact on culture and society. Students engage with power dynamics, media representation, and the historical context of various media forms.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

Students can begin the Media Studies, B.A. program in January or August. Make sure to apply ahead of these months to secure your spot.
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