The Media and Communication Studies (MCS) option in the Interdisciplinary Studies major combines a rich grounding in media and communication theory and history with hands-on opportunities to engage in media practice and production. The option challenges students to become critical practitioners by developing the intellectual capacities and practical skills needed to communicate through new media formats.
MCS coursework integrates theory and practice through media production workshops, classroom seminars, and community-based projects. The curriculum enables students to hone their skills as media critics and practitioners by drawing connections across diverse social, cultural, and scientific areas of inquiry and professional sectors.
MCS prepares students for graduate study in Communication, Media Studies, and Cultural Studies, among many others fields, and lays the groundwork for future careers in electronic media broadcasting, non-broadcasting audio and video production, advertisement, public relations, or communication education. For more information about career possibilities or pursuing graduate school please click here.
MCS Major Requirements
Prerequisites
There are no formal prerequisites for Media and Communication Studies beyond the requirements for admission into the School of Interdisciplinary Arts and Sciences. Useful preparation for this option includes formal and informal training in new media production. Students will need strong skills in critical and creative thinking, communications, and collaboration.
Degree Requirements
- BIS 300 Interdisciplinary Inquiry* (5 credits)
- MCS Core Course (5 credits)
- MCS Communication Practice & Media Production Courses (10 credits)
- MCS Tier One Courses (15 credits)
- MCS Tier One, Tier Two OR Communication Practice & Media Production Courses (10 credits)
- Additional IAS Coursework: BIS or BES prefix (20 credits)
- BIS 499 Portfolio Capstone (3 credits)
- General Electives (22 credits)
TOTAL = 90 Credits
*Should be taken in the first quarter of IAS enrollment.
Note: Classes in this option are offered primarily during daytime hours.
School of Interdisciplinary Arts and Sciences (IAS) Requirements & Policies
Interdisciplinary Practice & Reflection (IPR)
Within the above-listed 90 credits, students must complete the IPR requirement.
Areas of Knowledge
25 credits must be completed in each Area of Knowledge. At least 10 credits in each Area must be completed in courses offered by UW Bothell. The Areas of Knowledge are: Visual, Literary and Performing Arts (VLPA), Individuals and Societies (I&S), and Natural World (NW).
Multiply-designated courses may not be double-counted as fulfilling two Areas of Knowledge. Courses may apply to both an Area of Knowledge requirement and an MCS major requirement.
Lower Division Credit Policy
Up to 35 credits of lower division (100-200 level) coursework taken at UW Bothell may be applied toward designated requirements within the 90 program credits. Please contact an IAS adviser for details.
Matriculated status
With the exception of the General Electives, courses taken to satisfy MCS major requirements must be completed in matriculated status.
Admitted prior to Autumn Quarter, 2012?
Students admitted to the MCS major prior to Autumn 2012 may be eligible to complete an older set of major requirements. Students with questions about their major requirements should contact an IAS adviser.
Media and Communication Learning Objectives
The Media and Communication Studies curriculum advances the four core IAS learning objectives. Students taking courses and/or majoring in Interdisciplinary Studies: Media and Communication Studies:
1) Understand the importance of media in contemporary society.
2) Analyze media representations and audience responses.
3) Gain media literacy by exploring diverse forms of communication.
4) Communicate effectively and create meaningful media content.
5) Actively engage with various forms of media and media environments.
6) Use contemporary media and communication technologies ethically and creatively.