University of Texas

What you'll study

This programme balances critical study of media with applied production and professional communication skills. Core topics include media and cultural theory, media history, rhetoric and persuasion, research methods, media ethics and media law. Students also study digital media technologies, social media strategy, multimedia storytelling, audio and video production, visual communication, and data and audience analytics.

• Foundations: introduction to communication theory, media history and critical approaches to media.
• Production and practice: courses in audio production, video production, editing, podcasting and multimedia storytelling, often taught in campus studios and labs.
• Digital and social media: social media strategy, digital content creation, web publishing and analytics.
• Research and methods: qualitative and quantitative research methods, audience studies and data interpretation for communicators.
• Law and ethics: media law, ethics in reporting and communication, and regulation of digital platforms.
• Capstone and electives: practicum, internship placements and a capstone project or research paper that integrates theoretical and practical learning.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a recognised secondary school qualification. Typical admission considers academic achievement across the applicant’s high-school record and performance in required subjects, with strong performance in English or language arts commonly preferred. Competitive applicants also present evidence of relevant extracurricular activity, writing samples or media work where requested. International students should demonstrate English proficiency through recognised qualifications if their prior instruction was not in English. Specific requirements and any supplementary materials are published by the university admissions office.

Career prospects

Graduates move into roles across media, communications and related sectors. Common career pathways include journalism, public relations, corporate communications, social media management, content production, digital marketing, broadcast production and media research. The degree also prepares students for roles in government communications, non‑profit advocacy, audience analytics and for further study at postgraduate level in media studies, journalism or related disciplines.

Why study at University of Texas

The University of Texas offers a programme grounded in both scholarship and professional practice, with access to media production facilities, editing suites and industry‑standard software. Students benefit from internship opportunities in Austin’s vibrant media, technology and creative industries, a network of faculty active in research and practice, and career services that support placements and employer connections. Small practical classes and a variety of elective pathways allow students to tailor the degree to interests in production, research or strategic communication.