Master's in Media Studies

The Master’s in Media Studies is an integrated, interdisciplinary program intended for students with a traditional undergraduate education and some experience in communications and digital media.

Students graduating with this degree, unique in West Virginia, are ideally suited to take advantage of the expanding job possibilities in graphic design, digital video production, interactive media and multimedia production, electronic publishing, and on-line information services. Media Studies graduates are prepared for careers as communication experts in such venues as commerce and industry, education and entertainment, and government and the not-for-profit sector. Graduates are also prepared to continue their graduate work toward a doctoral degree. Students will graduate with design, technical, and critical skills and will be well-equipped to address the many challenges faced by corporations, small businesses, government agencies, non-profit organizations and educational institutions as they venture into the digital millennium.

Program Impact

Information technology has already begun to create demand for highly skilled workers. As electronic commerce becomes more widespread, it will drive further changes in the labor market. States and countries that have an insufficient supply of skilled workers will see high-skilled, high-paying jobs migrate to states and countries that can supply the needed talent. As the information technology and media infrastructure continue to expand, there will be a need for managers, entrepreneurs, and leaders to direct this developing sector of our economy.

The Media Studies M.A. program is intended to have a significant impact on the future economic growth of West Virginia. In order for the state to meet the challenges of the emerging digital economy, we must work hard to create new human resources that can prepare us for these challenges. Programs such as this one which are directly related to new technologies and economic growth – will help West Virginia move from an economy based upon heavy industry (coal, chemicals and manufacturing) to one that focuses on media and information technology.

Admission Requirements – Graduate Program in Media Studies

Students admitted to the Media Studies M.A. program must have:

• A bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university

• Three letters of recommendation addressing applicant’s academic competencies

• TOEFL score of at least 550 for students whose native language is not English. The Test for Spoken English will also be required.

Admissions evaluations employ criteria with emphasis on the applicant’s, academic records, professional skills or potential, and personal characteristics. Admission is offered to those candidates who demonstrate the combination of experiences and interests, intellectual capabilities, and personal qualities that are important for success in graduate school. Diversity is viewed as an essential goal for the college community, and differences in age, life experiences, education, extracurricular activities, and racial, ethnic, and/or cultural background are valued in the admissions decision. Meeting stated academic requirements are necessary for consideration, but do not automatically assure admission. Admission is granted on a case-by-case basis by the Media Studies Program Admissions Committee.