Minor in Media and Culture
Program Description
The Undergraduate Minor in Media and Culture (MDC) is an 18-credit (6-course) program for undergraduate students who want to develop specialized expertise and skills in media-related fields, think critically about the intersections of media and diverse cultural contexts, and understand the value of intercultural perspectives in communication. As such, the core of this program introduces students to an extensive range of media technologies, hands-on learning, and principles of intercultural communication.
Beyond the core, the program offers three concentrations:
- Media Production - focuses on production and performance in various media environments, such as TV, radio, film, and online content.
- Strategic Communication - integrates advertising, marketing, and public relations in digital contexts.
- Media and Culture - focuses on diverse perspectives about changing industries, technologies, and cultures
Requirements and Courses
Lower level core (6 credits)
All MDC students complete two required core courses:
COM/MDC 250: Intercultural Communication
This course introduces the students to key technologies used in producing digital messages, as well as professional standards applied in using these technologies. As part of the course, students will also develop basic, practical skills in using current media technology applications.
Lower level elective (3 credits)
Students select one of the following lower level electives:
COM 252/MDC 252: Writing for Broadcast and Public Relations
This course explores connections between media technologies and culture by examining basic theoretical arguments in media studies today. Students will examine key theoretical approaches to understanding the influence of media in contemporary culture. By semester’s end, students will be able to understand, apply, and contribute to research in the field of media studies. This knowledge will aid in the process of becoming responsible media producers and critical media consumers in today’s digital world.
Upper level electives (9 credits)
Students choose three courses from the ones listed below. At least two courses must be from the same Concentration.
Production Concentration
CSW 131: Introduction to Web Design
COM/MDC 203: The Philadelphia Media Experience
COM 217: Introduction to Video Production
COM/MDC 317: Advanced Video Production
COM/MDC 320: Communicating on Television and Radio
HON 320: Global Issues Seminar (Media in Ireland/England)
Strategic Communication Concentration
COM/MDC 311: Communication Professions in Sports
COM/MDC 321: Search Engine Optimization & Management
COM/MDC 323: Media Audiences
COM/MDC 325: Strategic Social Media
COM/MDC 355: Introduction to Public Relations
COM/MDC 370: Event Production Using Media
COM/MDC 421: Content Strategy
COM/MDC 423: Media Campaigns
COM/MDC 460: Communication and Advertising
Culture Concentration
COM/MDC 360: African American Culture and Communication
COM/MDC 470: Intercultural Communication Training
Admission
To declare an MDC minor, visit MyWCU and submit an Academic Plan Change Request.
Program Contacts
Program coordinator: Michael Boyle, Main Hall 502, mboyle@wcupa.edu 610-436-2114
Program Faculty
How to Declare an MDC minor
To declare a MDC minor, download the Add Minor form from the Registrar’s webpage. Complete the form, print and sign, obtain the required signatures, and submit to the Registrar at 25 University Ave.