Marymount Manhattan College

What you'll study

The Communication and Media Studies major blends media theory, critical analysis and practical production. The curriculum typically includes core courses in media theory and history, research methods for communication, and ethics and law in media. Practical modules cover digital media production, audio and video production, multimedia storytelling, social media strategy, and web and mobile content creation.

Students also study related areas such as journalism fundamentals, public relations and advertising, film studies, and data analytics for communication. The programme emphasises experiential learning through production labs, collaborative projects, and a supervised internship in New York City media organisations. A senior capstone or practicum project integrates theory and practice and demonstrates a student’s professional portfolio.

• Core theory and methods: media theory, communication research methods, media ethics and law
• Production and practice: audio and video production, editing, multimedia storytelling, digital journalism
• Professional skills: public relations, social media strategy, media entrepreneurship
• Capstone and internship: senior project/practicum and an internship placement with media, cultural or communications organisations

Typical structure

The programme follows a liberal-arts structure with general education requirements alongside major courses. Early years introduce foundational theory and basic production skills; intermediate courses deepen technical competencies and analytical approaches; final-year work focuses on specialised electives and a capstone or practicum supported by an internship.

Entry requirements

Marymount Manhattan College seeks applicants who can demonstrate academic readiness and a clear interest in media and communication. Admissions decisions are based on secondary-school transcripts, a personal statement, and at least one academic recommendation. Applicants may be asked to submit a short portfolio or examples of creative work if they are emphasising production pathways, though a portfolio is not always mandatory.

For applicants from non-English-speaking backgrounds, proof of English proficiency is required through recognised tests or other demonstrated English-language ability. Transfer applicants should provide college transcripts and course descriptions for transfer-credit evaluation. The college evaluates each application holistically and may consider extracurricular experience in media, communications, or related fields.

Career prospects

Graduates build careers across the media, communications and creative industries. Common roles include content creator, social media manager, public relations or communications specialist, digital marketer, reporter or multimedia journalist, production assistant, video editor and podcast producer. The programme also prepares students for graduate study in communication, media studies, journalism, film or related fields.

Because Marymount Manhattan is located in New York City, students often gain internships and entry-level roles at media companies, production houses, cultural institutions and agencies, which can lead directly to permanent employment. The combination of analytical skills, production experience and a professional portfolio is attractive to employers in both corporate and creative sectors.

Why study at Marymount Manhattan College

Marymount Manhattan College offers small class sizes and close faculty mentoring within a liberal-arts environment, allowing personalised guidance on both academic and career development. The college’s Manhattan location provides exceptional access to media organisations, internships and networking opportunities across film, television, publishing, advertising and digital startups.

Faculty often bring professional industry experience to the classroom, and the programme emphasises hands-on learning in production labs and collaborative projects. Career services and an internship office support placements and employer connections, while the college’s alumni network in New York helps students explore career pathways and professional opportunities after graduation.