Program Overview
Credits: 60
Our Communication and Media Studies program examines how the tools of mass media (including writing, design, photography, videography, and technology) are used to influence the world around them. You will see how the media can shape cultural, social, and economic landscapes globally and within our own communities.
Students in our program will engage with the implications of today’s mass media consumption, as the program emphasizes the importance of language, the primacy of digital communication in the 21st century, and ethical career development. Our CMS curriculum nurtures core skill sets for students, including critical media literacy and professional training in media management and content creation.
Experiential Learning
With broadcast, production, and podcast studios, along with industry-capable Mac labs, you’ll have on-campus access to the tools you’ll need to thrive with hands-on experiences.
Internships and Placements
You’ll have opportunities to participate in internships focused on public relations, advertising, social media marketing, and more throughout western New York. We’ve placed students with organizations in professional sports, healthcare, and cultural institutions.
Personalized Instruction
Our faculty have industry and scholarship experience to teach, guide, and mentor you throughout your coursework with a 10:1 student-to-faculty ratio.
Every Communication and Media Studies professor cared about me, not only as a student, but as a person and an aspiring professional. Because of their support and guidance, I found my passion for the sports and entertainment industry. The mentors, experiences, and friends this program gave me are something I will always be grateful for.Ari Musialowski, ‘23 Buffalo Bisons
Discovery Awaits
What You’ll Study at Niagara University
- American media industries
- Media conglomeration
- Media theory
- Media law and ethics
- Film and television arts
- Audio production and podcasting
- Photography
- Journalism
- Advertising and public relations
- Social media marketing
At the conclusion of your coursework, you’ll be equipped to both critique and transform the global landscape in the communications and media industries to foster a more equitable, sustainable, and just world.
Find Your Best Self
Knowledge, Experience, and Skill Development
Critical literacy skills essential for interpreting the formative role media plays in the world
Media management and content creation
Practical experience with production, technology, and digital media platforms
Moral and ethical development to foster a more equitable, sustainable, and just world
Explore This Minor!
View Coursework
Pursuing a minor can enhance your academic experience and broaden your expertise beyond your major field of study. The minor coursework is designed to provide foundational knowledge and specialized skills to diversity your academic credentials and future opportunities. Explore coursework for a minor in this program!
Prepare to Soar
Academic, Experiential, and Career Pathways
Opportunities
- Buffalo Bisons
- Catholic Health
- Niagara Arts & Cultural Center
- Buffalo Waterfront
- Step Out Buffalo
- WNIA radio station
- Public Relations Student Society of Niagara
Careers
- Social media management
- Journalism
- Event planning
- Public relations
- Advertising
- Median salary for public relations specialists $66,750 per year according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Ready to Apply?
Filling out an application is easy!
NU offers rolling admissions, which means that you can apply at any time for the upcoming semester. Applications are reviewed as they come in, and students are typically notified of an admission decision in 3-4 weeks. What’s stopping you?
Apply Now