University of Rochester

What you'll study

This programme is organised around a blend of core seminars, methodological training and elective modules that allow you to tailor study to academic or professional aims. Core topics typically include media theory and history, quantitative and qualitative research methods, digital media and culture, media policy and ethics, and communication technologies.

• Core seminar in Media and Communication Theory — foundational debates in media studies, key thinkers and contemporary frameworks for analysing media systems.
• Research methods — training in qualitative methods (e.g. interviews, ethnography, discourse analysis) and quantitative approaches (survey design, statistical analysis, computational methods for media data).
• Digital media production and practicum — practical modules covering digital storytelling, multimedia production, social media strategy and data visualisation.
• Media policy, regulation and ethics — examination of legal frameworks, regulatory issues, privacy, platform governance and the societal impacts of media technologies.
• Electives and interdisciplinary options — opportunities to take electives from related departments such as political science, data science, business or film studies to support specialised interests (for example, political communication, advertising, UX research, game studies).
• Capstone project or thesis — students complete either a supervised research thesis or a practice-based capstone that demonstrates mastery of theoretical knowledge and methodological or production skills.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a good undergraduate degree in a relevant discipline such as communication, media studies, sociology, political science, journalism, film studies, computer science or another closely related field. Where applicants come from different backgrounds, evidence of relevant coursework, professional experience or a portfolio may be required.

• Academic transcripts showing a completed bachelor’s degree or equivalent.
• Personal statement outlining academic interests, relevant experience and reasons for pursuing the programme.
• Letters of recommendation — typically two academic or professional references.
• Writing sample or portfolio — an academic essay or project sample; applicants for practice-focused pathways may submit a portfolio of media work.
• English language proficiency — applicants whose first language is not English must meet the university’s English language requirements (evidence of test scores or other demonstration of proficiency).
• Additional information — GRE scores are considered optional at the department’s discretion; relevant professional experience can strengthen an application.

Career prospects

Graduates leave equipped for a wide range of roles across media, public policy, research and industry. The programme’s mix of theory, methods and practical skills is designed to be applicable in both public-facing and analytical careers.

• Media analyst, communications strategist or public relations specialist in corporate, non-profit or cultural sectors.
• Digital content producer, social media manager, multimedia journalist or creative producer for broadcast and online platforms.
• Researcher or analyst in market research, audience measurement, think tanks or media research consultancies.
• User experience (UX) researcher, data visualisation specialist or roles combining data analytics with communication design.
• Policy advisor or advocacy communications roles focused on media regulation, privacy and platform governance.
• Progression to doctoral study in communication, media studies or related social sciences for academic and research careers.

Why study at University of Rochester

The University of Rochester offers an environment that emphasises interdisciplinary research and close faculty mentoring. Students benefit from small seminar sizes, access to faculty across humanities, social sciences and technical departments, and opportunities to collaborate on projects that combine theory, data analysis and media production.

• Interdisciplinary culture that allows students to draw on expertise in data science, political communication, film and digital humanities.
• Practical learning opportunities through media labs, production facilities and collaboration with regional media organisations and cultural institutions.
• Support for professional development, including workshops on research methods, digital skills and career preparation, and avenues for internships and applied projects in the local and Greater New York media ecosystem.