PENNSYLVANIA STATE UNIVERSITY · UNITED STATES
Master of Arts in Media Studies
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
24 mo
Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- 36 credits minimumCredit Requirement
- 18 credits at 500-600 levelAdvanced Coursework
- 6 credits of Thesis ResearchThesis Focus
- 2 years typical completionProgram Duration
The Master of Arts in Media Studies program offers a systematic exploration of mass media. It aims to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the systems, processes, networks, cultures, and information associated with mass media. The program is designed to be flexible, with study plans tailored to individual student objectives. Capstone research and thesis projects connect theoretical knowledge with practical application, preparing graduates for advanced academic pursuits or professional roles.
Curriculum
The MA in Media Studies requires a minimum of 36 credits, with specific requirements for advanced coursework and research methodology. Students will engage in a proseminar, research methods courses (quantitative and/or qualitative), supporting communications courses, and potentially courses outside the College of Communications. The program culminates in thesis research and defense.
- Year 1
- MA Proseminar in Mass CommunicationsCOMM 515
- Quantitative Research MethodsCOMM 506
- Qualitative Research MethodsCOMM 511
- Year 2
- Thesis ResearchCOMM 600
Careers
This program prepares students for doctoral studies in mass communications or for professional positions in business and government that require a deep understanding of media's historical, social, and political implications. Graduates will possess advanced research skills to critically evaluate media processes and effects, enabling them to influence media practices.
- Researcher
- Media Analyst
- Communications Specialist
Frequently asked questions
- What are the general entry requirements for the MA in Media Studies program?
- Applicants must hold an undergraduate degree and demonstrate a broad understanding of theories and issues related to media studies. Additional credits may be required to address undergraduate coursework deficiencies.
- How long does the MA in Media Studies program typically take to complete?
- The MA in Media Studies program typically takes 2 years to complete, requiring a minimum of 36 credits, including 6 credits for thesis research.
- What is the application deadline for the MA in Media Studies?
- The application deadline for the MA in Media Studies program is March 1st. Applications become available on June 15th.
- What are the career prospects after completing the MA in Media Studies?
- This program prepares students for doctoral studies or professional roles such as Researcher, Media Analyst, or Communications Specialist, focusing on the historical, social, and political implications of media.
- What are the tuition fees for international students?
- Specific tuition figures for the MA in Media Studies are not provided. General tuition schedules are available for Fall/Spring and Summer semesters for non-residents, including international students.
Entry requirements
Undergraduate DegreeA broad range of theories and issues connected to the study of media must be demonstrated.
Students may be required to take additional credits to address undergraduate coursework deficiencies.
Fees
Tuition (international)Tuition rates vary by campus and are subject to change. Specific figures for the MA in Media Studies are not provided, but general tuition schedules are available for Fall/Spring and Summer semesters for both Pennsylvania residents and non-residents (including international students).
Tuition (home)Tuition rates vary by campus and are subject to change. Specific figures for the MA in Media Studies are not provided, but general tuition schedules are available for Fall/Spring and Summer semesters for both Pennsylvania residents and non-residents (including international students).
LivingEstimated living costs are not specified.
Tuition and fees apply regardless of instructional mode and will not be refunded if the mode changes. Rates are provided for multiple academic years (e.g., 2025-26, 2026-27).
How to apply
1. Review Graduate Admission InformationFamiliarize yourself with the general graduate admissions process at Penn State and the specific requirements for the MA in Media Studies program. Consult the Graduate Degree Bulletin.
2. Complete ApplicationSubmit the online graduate application.
3. Submit Supporting DocumentsEnsure all required documents, including test scores, recommendation letters, and any supplemental materials, are submitted by the deadline.
Frequently asked questions
What are the general entry requirements for the MA in Media Studies program?
+
Applicants must hold an undergraduate degree and demonstrate a broad understanding of theories and issues related to media studies. Additional credits may be required to address undergraduate coursework deficiencies.
How long does the MA in Media Studies program typically take to complete?
+
The MA in Media Studies program typically takes 2 years to complete, requiring a minimum of 36 credits, including 6 credits for thesis research.
What is the application deadline for the MA in Media Studies?
+
The application deadline for the MA in Media Studies program is March 1st. Applications become available on June 15th.
What are the career prospects after completing the MA in Media Studies?
+
This program prepares students for doctoral studies or professional roles such as Researcher, Media Analyst, or Communications Specialist, focusing on the historical, social, and political implications of media.
What are the tuition fees for international students?
+
Specific tuition figures for the MA in Media Studies are not provided. General tuition schedules are available for Fall/Spring and Summer semesters for non-residents, including international students.