Communication Degree (B.A.), The Media Arts and Analysis Concentration

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Explore the Power of Media: Media Arts and Analysis Concentration

Explore the world of media with the Media Arts and Analysis concentration at Westfield State University. This program provides students with the skills to analyze, evaluate, and create media across various platforms, including video, digital media, audio, and film. Whether you’re passionate about one medium or interested in combining multiple areas, this concentration offers the flexibility to customize your studies to match your interests.

Courses within this concentration examine the structures, functions, and societal impact of media organizations. From writing and production to analyzing the social context of media, you’ll gain a comprehensive understanding of the field while developing hands-on skills in areas like video production, web design, and multimedia journalism.

With a mix of core courses, specialized electives, and expert guidance, the Media Arts and Analysis concentration prepares you for a dynamic career in the ever-evolving media landscape.

Program Highlights

  • Personal, one-on-one faculty advisors
  • On-site television studio, radio station, student newspaper
  • Internships locally and in Washington, D.C.
  • Alumni networking opportunities
  • Communication Club and Television Club

Where Creativity Meets Communication

Shape the future of media with the Media Arts and Analysis Concentration.

Create, Analyze, and Connect in the Media World

  • Career Exploration Day with staff member and student in TV studio.

    Hands-On Media Production

    Build valuable practical experience through courses in video production, audio editing, and web design. These skills will empower you to bring your creative ideas to life and prepare you for a successful career in the dynamic media industry.

     

     

  • Communication student presenting research and undergraduate research event.

    Develop Critical Media Skills

    Master the ability to analyze and evaluate various forms of media, understanding their influence on society, culture, and current events. Explore how media shapes perceptions and plays a crucial role in shaping public opinion.

  • Speaker at podium at career exploration day for communications.

    Internship and Networking Opportunities

    Gain valuable hands-on experience through internships with media organizations, while building a professional network that will support your career growth and open doors in the media industry.

     

Program Details

Learning Outcomes

The Communication Department prepares students to be well-informed, responsible citizens and creative and ethical communication practitioners. The department is unique in offering this balance of theory and practice, which is manifest through our courses, our widely respected internship program, and our students’ involvement in a wide and diverse variety of campus and community organizations.

From the local to the global level, our students and graduates apply their knowledge and skills to pursue further knowledge, establish professional careers, and improve their communities.

What Can You Do with a Media Arts and Analysis Concentration?

A Media Arts and Analysis concentration equips students with a blend of creative, technical, and analytical skills, preparing them for careers across various industries. Here are some potential career paths:

  • Social Media Specialist
  • Production Assistant
  • Brand Marketing Coordinator
  • Media Operations Director
  • Studio Operations Director
  • Executive Producer
  • Screenwriter
Communication student smiling wearing a WSU shirt.

Ready to learn more?

Course Requirements

Program Description

The Media Arts and Analysis concentration offers students the opportunity to develop the knowledge and skills necessary for the analysis, evaluation, and/or production of media texts. The concentration is designed to allow students the flexibility to focus on one medium-video, digital media, audio, or film-or to combine two or more areas. Courses in the concentration also encourage an examination of the structures and functions of media organizations.

Requirements for the Communication Major - 45 Credits

Required Major Core - 27 Credits

Note:

STUDENTS MUST ELECT ONE OF THE FOLLOWING CONCENTRATIONS: Communication and Culture, Journalism, Public Relations, Media Arts and Analysis, or the Student-Defined Concentration. In addition to the required courses for each concentration, students are required to take electives, one of which must bear a COMM designation. If the concentration requires three or more electives, one of the remaining electives may be chosen from the approved elective list from any of the other concentrations.

Media Arts and Analysis - 18 Credits

 

Required - 9 Credits

In each of the three required categories (Writing, Production, and Social Context), student must choose one class.

Electives - 9 Credits

Students must choose any three elective courses.

In addition to the courses appearing in the Electives list below, courses appearing in the Required section may be used as electives: no class in the Required section may count for both required and elective credit, but once students have fulfilled a Required category, additional courses listed for that category may be taken for elective credit.

Additional Graduation Requirements

All students must meet the University Graduation Requirements and complete a general education or common core of studies, distributed among the different academic areas as detailed in General Education: WISE or Common Core.

Get Big School Features with Small School Advantages

We offer high-quality academics, unique learning opportunities, and a gorgeous campus—and we have small classes, accessible faculty, and one-on-one support. 

You'll join fellow motivated students ready to make the most of the college experience through active participation. Become part of a caring and committed community that understands and embraces the bridge between academic study and civic responsibility.

  • 15:1

    student-faculty ratio

  • 87%

    Of students receive financial aid

  • 700+

    Internship Opportunities

Caring Educators with Real-World Experience

All of our talented faculty have graduate degrees in the subjects they teach. Additionally, most have relevant industry experience. That means you’ll not only benefit from a robust foundation in communication theory, but you’ll also have the benefit of learning from those who’ve actually done the work you’re preparing to do. This unbeatable combination will give you the edge in the field of communication.

Faculty Page

Communication students and faculty smiling at commencement.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to submit SAT/ACT scores or an essay when I apply?

Westfield State University does not require an application essay, SAT and/or ACT scores, or letters of recommendation (except for special program admissions).     

All first-year applicants are reviewed for admission based on their high school record. First-year applicants must meet the minimum eligibility requirements established by the Massachusetts Department of Higher Education (DHE) in order to qualify for admission to a state university.   

Learn more about the application process and admissions here.

How much does Westfield State University cost?

Westfield State University offers a comprehensive university experience at an affordable cost—with many options for financial aid. Visit our Cost and Aid page to learn more. 

Will I receive academic support?

We’re invested in your success. Whether you need a little help adjusting to college, study strategies, tutoring, or disability services, the team at the Academic Achievement Department is ready to help. Our mission is to provide you with the tools to explore academic opportunities as well as to plot strategies for continued growth. 

Learn more about our student support services here.

How can I find the Communication Department on social media?

You can follow us on several social media platforms below:

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Communication Degree (B.A.), The Media Arts and Analysis Concentration