BA Minor Degree in Media Studies

Vancouver Island University's Media Studies Department explores the convergence of communication, culture, and technology. Courses encourage students to develop their communication skills--written, oral, visual, multimedia--and increase their critical awareness of the ways various media shape culture. They learn specific technical skills for communicating and researching online, and explore online publishing using hypertext and hypermedia. Existing first- and second- year courses balance theory, discussion, and face-to-face interaction with a strong emphasis on applied skills developed in computer labs and through distance learning strategies. In many respects, students are introduced to what is being called the "new media."

In all our courses, we work to develop strong critical thinking, collaboration, and research skills. Students are supported to research contemporary media, both Canadian and international. Wherever possible, relationships with local media enterprises, broadcasters, and creators will be encouraged. Course participants are supported to respond creatively, and in alternate media, to assignments.

Media Studies courses have been on the cutting-edge of online and distance delivery at VIU, and received provincial Innovation, Enrichment, or New Era grants every year since 1996 . We plan to continue this commitment to alternate modes of delivery, providing options for students and practical demonstrations of information technology in the service of learning and research.

We also emphasize the multi-disciplinary nature of Media Studies, with a particular focus on the impact of media on culture and content production. Assignments seek to integrate insights from literature and popular culture, journalism, policy and regulation, political economy, media analysis, anthropology, sociology, history, gender studies, and art. The curriculum prepares students for a variety of careers: from writers and artists, to teachers, public service workers and entrepreneurs.

For more information regarding the BA Minor in Media Studies please contact the Media Studies Chair.

Curriculum for Minor in Media Studies

Requirements for a Minor in Media Studies:

• 3 credits 1st year
• 3 credits 2nd year
• 18 credits 3rd and 4th year
• 24 credits total

First Year (3 credits): One of:

• Media Studies 111 (History of Communication)
  Prerequisites: none
• Media Studies 112 (Popular Culture & Mass Media)
  Prerequisites: none
• Media Studies 113 (Emerging Digital Technologies)
  Prerequisites: none

Second Year (3 credits). One of:

• Media Studies 200 (Media, Audience and Society)
  Prerequisites: none
• Media Studies 205 (Promotion, Persuasion, Propaganda)
  Prerequisites: none

Third and Fourth Years (18 Credits). Six of:

• Media Studies 301 (Studies in Global Media)
  Prerequisites: 3rd year standing
• Media Studies 302 (History of Journalism)
  Prerequisites: 3rd year standing
• Media Studies 311 (Film about Media)
  Prerequisites: 3rd year standing
• Media Studies 312 (Canadian Media Theorists)
  Prerequisites: 3rd year standing
• Media Studies 401 (Public Relations, Advocacy & the Media)
  Prerequisites: Medi 301, 3rd. year standing
• Media Studies 402 (Technology and Identity)
  Prerequisites: Medi 301, 3rd. year standing
• Media Studies 411 (New Media Literacy)
  Prerequisites: Medi 301, 3rd. year standing
• Media Studies 490 (Independent Project)