College: Institute of Graduate Programs

This major provides a comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices of media and cultural studies, focusing on media content analysis, cultural production, and their impact on society. Students will explore key topics such as media theory, cultural representation, digital media, and global communication. The major emphasizes integrating theoretical knowledge and analytical skills to prepare students for careers in media analysis, cultural criticism, and related fields.

Learning Objectives:

• Understand the fundamental principles of media and cultural studies and their role in shaping societal values and identities.
• Develop skills in analyzing and interpreting media content and cultural artifacts.
• Learn techniques for conducting research and critical analysis in media and cultural studies.
• Explore principles of cultural representation and apply them in understanding media.
• Understand the impact of historical and social contexts on media and culture.
• Analyze challenges and work opportunities in media and cultural studies.
• Develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills to address challenges in media and cultural analysis.

Main Curriculum:

1. Introduction to Media and Cultural Studies - An overview of media and cultural studies, their history, and their importance in understanding societal values and identities.
2. Media Theory and Analysis - Fundamentals of media theory, including semiotics, narrative analysis, and audience studies. Techniques for analyzing and interpreting media content.
3. Cultural Representation and Identity - Principles of cultural representation, including race, gender, and class in the media. Techniques for understanding and critiquing cultural representation in media.
4. Digital Media and Technology - Overview of digital media, including social media, online communities, and digital storytelling. Techniques for analyzing the impact of digital media on culture and society.
5. Global Communications and Media - Fundamentals of global communication, including media globalization and intercultural communication. Techniques for understanding the role of media in global contexts.
6. Ethics and Professional Practice in Media Studies - Overview of ethical and professional considerations in media and cultural studies. Techniques to ensure ethical and professional behavior in media analysis and criticism.
7. Specialized Topics in Media and Cultural Studies - Principles of specialized topics, including film studies, television studies, and new media. Techniques for conducting in-depth research on specialized topics.
8. Emerging Trends in Media and Cultural Studies - Impact of emerging trends, such as artificial intelligence, virtual reality, and media convergence, on media and culture. Techniques for integrating new trends into media and cultural analysis.

Assessment Methods:

• Media analysis and research projects to evaluate analytical skills.
• Written assignments and research papers to evaluate knowledge of media theory and cultural representation.
• Presentations and reports on digital media and global communications.
• Participation in group projects and media analysis simulations.

Recommended Textbooks:

• "Media and Cultural Studies: KeyWorks" by Meenakshi Gigi Durham and Douglas M. Kellner.
• "Understanding Media: The Extensions of Man" by Marshall McLuhan.
• "Cultural Studies: Theory and Practice" by Chris Barker.

Prerequisites:

A basic knowledge of the principles of media and cultural studies is recommended. This major is suitable for students in media studies, cultural studies, and related fields.

Duration:

The major typically lasts four academic years, combining lectures, seminars, and research projects.

Certificate:

Upon successful completion, students may earn a degree in media and cultural studies, depending on the program and institution.

Target Audience:

This major is designed for undergraduate and graduate students in media and cultural studies and related fields, as well as professionals seeking to enhance their media and cultural analytical skills. The major prepares students and professionals to excel in the field of media and cultural studies by leveraging theoretical knowledge, analytical skills, and understanding of emerging trends to explore and interpret the dynamic interaction between media, culture, and society.