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.
Prerequisites
There are no formal prerequisites for Media and Communication Studies. 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.
Media and Communication Option 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.
- Classes in this option are offered primarily during daytime hours.
- The 70 major credits must be completed in MATRICULATED STATUS.
Areas of Knowledge
Within the above-listed 90 credits, students must complete 10 credits of each Area of Knowledge 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.
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.
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.
Media and Communication Studies Core & Affiliate Faculty and Staff
Susan Harewood (faculty coordinator), Constantin Behler, Rebecca Bliquez, Andreas Brockhaus, Michael Goldberg, Wanda Gregory, Kristin Gustafson, Susan Harewood, Ted Hiebert, Ron Krabill, Alka Kurian, Kari Lerum, Angelica Macklin, Joe Milutis, Robin Oppenheimer, Dani Rowland, Crispin Thurlow, Amoshaun Toft, and Jane Van Galen.