Online Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communication and Media Studies
Discover how the media impacts society with Arizona State University’s Bachelor of Arts in mass communication and media studies. Throughout this program, you’ll explore global mass communication issues from all dimensions, including societal, cultural, historical, political, economic, ethical, technological and legal.
Quick facts
Next start date: 01/13/2025
Total classes: 41
Weeks per class: 7.5
Total credit hours: 120
What is mass communication?
Mass communication is the sharing of information with large groups of people through various channels, such as print, television, digital or broadcast media. As a mass communication major, you’ll learn how information influences the behavior, attitudes and opinions of individuals within society. You’ll gain a deeper understanding of how people experience mass media, as well as the role the media can play in shaping different cultures.
Is becoming a mass communication major right for you?
We all consume media of some kind and every business has an interest in telling its own story. If you’re interested in how various forms of media influence our daily lives and how advertising, marketing, politics and public relations industries communicate with the masses, this program may be a great fit for you.
It’s important to note that if you plan on pursuing a career in broadcast journalism, you’ll need additional coursework in reporting, writing and journalism. While this program explores the theoretical aspect of mass communication, you won’t receive production-based learning within your courses.
What you’ll learn in a mass communication and media studies program
This program provides you with a sophisticated understanding of mass communication and its impact on society. You’ll examine a variety of media and communication subjects including the history of mass communication, social media, pop culture, political communication and more. Upon completion, you’ll have a deep and nuanced understanding of the growing importance, power, influence and changing nature of media in the world.
Will my diploma say ‘online’?
No, Arizona State University’s diplomas don’t specify whether you earn your degree online or in person. All diplomas and transcripts simply say “Arizona State University.”
Mass communication and media classes
As a mass communication major, you’ll explore a variety of topics based on your interests, including media issues in American pop culture, social media, race and gender, digital media literacy and more. These media and society courses work to develop your literacy and critical inquiry skills and prepare you for a variety of careers in the mass communication and media industry.
What can you do with a mass communication and media studies degree?
Upon graduation, you can expect to find exciting and fast-paced careers across a variety of fields, including advertising, marketing, writing, editing, public relations and media production. Career examples include, but aren’t limited to:
Communications Specialist
Freelance Writer
Market Research Analyst
Product Marketing and Promotions Manager
Production Assistant
Media studies and communication skills from professionals in the field
The Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication attracts award-winning communication professionals and world-class media scholars from across the country.
- Award-winning podcast hosts Roddy Nikpour and Abby Zufelt.
- Entrepreneur Eli Chmouni.
- Media literacy expert Dr. Kristy Roschke.
- Pulitzer Prize winner Julia Thompson.
Media studies and communication skills from professionals in the field
The Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication attracts award-winning communication professionals and world-class media scholars from across the country.
- Award-winning podcast hosts Roddy Nikpour and Abby Zufelt.
- Entrepreneur Eli Chmouni.
- Media literacy expert Dr. Kristy Roschke.
- Pulitzer Prize winner Julia Thompson.
How to apply
first-year student
You’re considered a first-year student for application purposes if you’ve never attended college or have fewer than 12 transferable credit hours.
Don't meet admission requirements?
You can still gain general admission to most online programs at ASU through Earned Admission. Through this pathway, you can demonstrate your ability to succeed at ASU by completing online courses with a 2.75 GPA or higher.
To begin, submit an application to ASU. An enrollment coach will reach out with more information if Earned Admission is right for you.
*Some programs may have higher admission requirements. You must meet all program requirements to be admitted.
Don't meet admission requirements?
You can still gain general admission to most online programs at ASU through Earned Admission. Through this pathway, you can demonstrate your ability to succeed at ASU by completing online courses with a 2.75 GPA or higher.
To begin, submit an application to ASU. An enrollment coach will reach out with more information if Earned Admission is right for you.
*Some programs may have higher admission requirements. You must meet all program requirements to be admitted.
Study at our award-winning journalism school
The Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication is the leading mass communication school in the U.S. The school, its faculty and its students are regularly recognized for their work.
#1
journalism school.
6
Pulitzer Prize-winning faculty.
20+
prestigious student media awards.
1,255
online students.
Tuition calculator
Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs. Learn more.
Tuition calculator
Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs. Learn more.
