University of Massachusetts Amherst

What you'll study

The programme balances core theory, research methods and hands‑on practice. You will study media history and media theory, mass communication, media law and ethics, and the social and political effects of media. Coursework typically covers topics such as:

• Media and society: theories of media influence, audience studies and cultural approaches.
• Media production: writing for media, audio and video production, multimedia storytelling and digital content creation.
• Research methods: qualitative and quantitative methods for communication research, content analysis and audience measurement.
• Media industries and management: advertising, public relations, media economics and organisational communication.
• Legal and ethical frameworks: free speech, media regulation, privacy and professional ethics.
• Electives and special topics: social media strategy, visual communication, gaming and interactive media, global media flows.

Programme structure follows a broad liberal‑arts curriculum with departmental core courses, upper‑level electives, and opportunities for a capstone project or honours thesis. Students can often choose practical pathways with production labs and studio courses, or a research pathway focused on empirical study. Internship placements and student media participation are encouraged and frequently integrated into degree plans.

Entry requirements

Admission to the University of Massachusetts Amherst typically requires a completed secondary education credential (for first‑year applicants) or an accredited post‑secondary transcript (for transfer applicants). Typical departmental expectations include:

• Strong performance in secondary school coursework, with particular emphasis on English and humanities subjects.
• Submission of official academic transcripts. Standardised tests (SAT/ACT) may be considered according to the university's current admissions policy.
• A personal statement or application essay outlining interests in communication and media studies; relevant experience in writing, media production or community activities is an advantage.
• For applicants with practical interests, a portfolio of media work (writing samples, audio/video projects, multimedia links) may strengthen an application but is not always compulsory.
• International applicants must meet English language proficiency requirements as specified by the university (for example via recognised tests or prior study in English).

Transfer students should provide college transcripts and may receive credit for previous coursework. Specific course prerequisites and minimum grade expectations are set by the department and may vary; prospective students should consult the departmental admissions pages or advisors for precise guidance.

Career prospects

Graduates of Communication and Media Studies pursue a wide range of careers that draw on both analytical and practical skills. Common destinations include:

• Journalism and reporting, including digital and broadcast roles.
• Public relations, corporate communications and media relations.
• Digital content production, social media management and content strategy.
• Advertising, media planning and account management.
• Broadcast and film production, including roles in editing, producing and technical operations.
• Research and analysis roles in think tanks, NGOs and market research firms.
• Further study in graduate programmes such as media studies, communication, law, public policy or business.

Internships, student media experience and production portfolios are often decisive in securing entry‑level employment. The degree equips graduates with transferable skills in critical thinking, writing, multimedia production and data‑informed communication.

Why study at University of Massachusetts Amherst

UMass Amherst offers a comprehensive Communication and Media Studies experience within a large public research university. Students benefit from a faculty engaged in both scholarly research and applied media work, small‑group seminars and practical production courses. Campus media organisations such as The Daily Collegian and WMUA provide real‑world opportunities to build skills and portfolios.

The university's facilities include multimedia labs and production studios that support coursework and independent projects. Its regional location offers proximity to major media markets and internship opportunities in Boston and New York, while the campus environment supports cross‑disciplinary collaboration with departments in information science, political science, business and the arts.

Overall, the programme is well suited to students who want rigorous academic training alongside practical preparation for the changing media landscape.