University of Rochester

What you'll study

This programme blends core studies in communication theory and media studies with practical training in production and research. You will study how media shape public discourse, culture and politics, while developing skills in writing, digital content creation, audio/video production and quantitative and qualitative research methods.

• Core theory and history: courses on media theory, media history, journalism and the political economy of communication.
• Research methods: qualitative methods (interviewing, ethnography, discourse analysis) and quantitative approaches (survey design, basic statistics and data visualisation).
• Production and practice: multimedia storytelling, audio production, video production, social media strategy, podcasting and transmedia projects.
• Electives and interdisciplinarity: options drawing on film studies, visual culture, digital humanities, computer science (for media informatics or interactive media), and collaboration with Eastman School and other departments.
• Capstone or senior project: a substantial research paper or a portfolio project that demonstrates theoretical knowledge and practical skills, often supported by faculty mentorship.

Students typically complete a mix of seminars, lab‑based production classes and fieldwork or internships. The department emphasises small seminars, original research and opportunities to publish or broadcast through student media outlets.

Entry requirements

Admission to the University of Rochester is selective and the Communication and Media Studies programme expects strong academic preparation. Typical applicants present a rigorous secondary‑school curriculum with strength in English, social sciences and coursework that demonstrates analytical and communication skills. International applicants should hold an approved secondary qualification such as A‑levels, the IB Diploma, or an equivalent national diploma.

• For US applicants: a high school diploma with a record of challenging courses (AP/IB where available); coursework in English and social studies is recommended. Standardised tests may be optional; consult the university for current testing policy.
• For UK applicants: A‑levels with strong grades, ideally including subjects that develop reading, writing and analytical skills (for example English, History, Politics, or a language). Portfolios are not usually required for the academic track but may be helpful for production‑focused applicants.
• For IB applicants: a full Diploma is preferred, with higher‑level coursework that demonstrates strong communication and analytical skills.
• Other materials: a personal statement describing your interest in media and communication, and letters of recommendation. Applicants with substantial media practice (student media, internships, creative work) should describe these experiences in their application.

Career prospects

Graduates leave with a combination of critical thinking, research literacy and practical media skills that apply across sectors. Career paths commonly followed by alumni include:

• Journalism and reporting for print, broadcast and digital outlets
• Public relations, corporate communications and media strategy
• Social media management, content strategy and digital marketing
• Broadcast and video production, podcasting and multimedia storytelling
• Advertising, creative agencies and brand management
• UX research, data communication and roles that combine analytics with narrative
• Nonprofit communications, policy research and public affairs
• Graduate study in media studies, communication, law, business or related fields

Internships, campus media experience and the department’s links with local media organisations and industry partners help students build portfolios and professional networks for these careers.

Why study at University of Rochester

The University of Rochester offers a liberal‑arts environment with strong interdisciplinary ties across the humanities, social sciences and professional schools. Students benefit from small class sizes, intensive faculty mentorship and research opportunities as undergraduates.

• Hands‑on student media: access to campus radio, student newspaper and multimedia labs provides real production experience.
• Interdisciplinary collaboration: easy collaboration with units such as the Eastman School, Computer Science and Visual and Cultural Studies expands creative and technical options.
• Research and internships: faculty‑led research projects and career services connect students to internships in Rochester and major media markets.
• Facilities and resources: digital labs, audio/video studios and libraries that support both theoretical and practical learning.

Overall, the programme is well suited to students who want a research‑informed, practice‑oriented education in media and communication within a broad liberal‑arts context.