Stanford University

Overview

The M.A. in Communication (Media Studies Track) at Stanford University is a coterminal graduate program designed to explore the intricate relationship between media, technology, and society. This pathway equips students with advanced research and analytical skills, providing a solid foundation for those pursuing doctoral studies or careers in media and policy.

What you'll study

Programme Structure

• Core requirements focus on building a strong foundation in research and analysis.
• Media studies electives enable students to specialize in various topics, including digital culture, political communication, media psychology, and technology governance.
• Research training enhances independent work and prepares students for advanced academic or professional outputs.

Core coursework includes:

• Communication Research Methods
• Communication Theory
• Statistics

Electives in the Media Studies Track may include:

• Journalism Law
• Digital Culture
• Truth, Trust, and Tech
• Perspectives on American Journalism
• Deliberative Democracy and Its Critics
• The Dialogue of Democracy
• Media Economics
• Communication Policy and Regulation
• Personality and Digital Media
• First Amendment
• Governing Artificial Intelligence
• Politics of Algorithms
• Censorship and Propaganda
• Campaigns, Voting, Media and Elections
• Virtual People
• Media Psychology
• AI and Journalism
• Race and Media
• Media, Technology, and the Body
• Language and Technology
• Questionnaire Design

Capstone requirement:

As part of the coterminal M.A. experience, students complete a final research requirement, which may take the form of a thesis or an equivalent capstone project. The specific format should be confirmed with Stanford’s program guidelines.

Entry requirements

Applicants to the M.A. in Communication (Media Studies Track) should have a minimum GPA of 3.0. The application process typically requires submission of an application form, statement of purpose, transcripts, a resume, letters of recommendation, and English language test scores where applicable.

Career prospects

Graduates of the M.A. in Communication (Media Studies Track) are well-prepared for a variety of career paths in media and policy. They may pursue roles in journalism, media analysis, public relations, communication consulting, and policy development, among other fields. The program's strong emphasis on research and critical thinking equips students with the skills necessary to navigate and influence the rapidly evolving media landscape.