Communication and Media Studies

Overview

Chair: Maureen Ebben; Professors: Ebben, Pierson, Shedletsky; Associate Professors: Panici; Lecturer: Gilbert; CMS Production Studio Manager and Lab Instructor: Ives; Administrative Specialist: Towns

The Department of Communication and Media Studies offers two distinct Bachelor of Arts degrees: one in Communication and the other in Media Studies.

The Communication degree takes a broad approach to the study of human interaction. It covers a wide range of contexts, including interpersonal and intercultural communication, social media, family and gender communication, small group dynamics, intrapersonal (self) communication, and public relations. Students also examine how communication shapes social meaning and belief systems. In their senior year, Communication majors complete a capstone course that explores current theories and practices in the field, along with a senior seminar.

The Media Studies degree focuses on media writing, media ecology, and media production. In their final year, students can choose from three options: complete a senior project, take a senior seminar, or pursue an internship paired with a portfolio showcasing their writing, research, or production work. Additionally, Media Studies seniors participate in a service learning practicum, applying their media skills to support a community organization.

While each program offers a unique focus, they share a common core of foundational courses. Both degrees are grounded in a liberal arts philosophy, emphasizing critical thinking and intellectual development over strictly vocational training.

The Department of Communication and Media Studies is pleased to accept transfer credit from other accredited institutions of higher learning. Students wishing to receive credit for courses taken outside of USM will need to meet with their Communication or Media Studies faculty advisor, or if they do not have one, the chair of the Department to discuss specific courses. Students may transfer a maximum of 12 credits into the major. This limit applies to credits transferred from other institutions, credits earned through USM Prior Learning Assessment Portfolio evaluation, and any combination of Transfer and PLA credit. Department Policy excludes the following major requirements - CMS 400 , CMS 485 , CMS 493 , and CMS 450 (Media Studies), CMS 495 and the Senior Seminar (Communication) - from Transfer or PLA credit eligibility. The transfer of credits is at the discretion of the Department. Students are encouraged to contact the Department chair with any questions about the Department or our programs.

For students interested in pursuing a double major in Communication and Media Studies, please check the double major requirements posted on the Department’s website. The Department also offers minors in Communication & Media Studies, Cinema Studies, Audio and Video Production, and Public Relations. The Department of Communication and Media Studies website is available through the directory on the University’s web homepage.

Students must receive a grade of C or higher in all required courses in their respective degree programs to graduate.

Graduating with Distinction

Graduating with Distinction in Communication. For a B.A. degree in Communication with distinction, a student must achieve a 3.7 GPA or higher in courses taken in the major.

Graduating with Distinction in Media Studies. For a B.A. degree in Media Studies with distinction, a student must achieve a 3.7 GPA or higher in courses taken in the major.

Programs

Bachelor of Arts

Minor