Communication Research Track

Communication Research Track

The Research Track provides you with an overview of foundational theoretical frameworks from various political, economic, historical, social and cultural contexts when studying mass media. Through a wide range of courses, you can gain:

• Understand the relationships between media, culture, and power
• Learn about US and global media theory and practices
• Develop critical thinking skills about the connections between media production and consumption
• Engage in dialogue and critical analysis of media texts from diverse social and cultural contexts and experiences
• Preparation for graduate studies or careers in media research

Research Track Requirements

You need to complete 55 credits, which must include a minimum of 20 credits of upper-division courses. You must earn a total of 180 quarter credits, or 225 quarter credits for a double degree, to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree in your chosen major.

Communication Foundation: 10 credits

The following writing course:

• TWRT 211 Argument and Research in Writing

One of the following theory and methods courses:

• TCOM 444 Gender, Ethnicity, Class and Media
• TCOM 453 Critical Approaches to Mass Communication

Optional Communication Capstone: 5 credits

Communication - Research Track students may choose to complete a 5-credit, 25-35 page senior thesis (as part of the List A credits). Ideally, you would have completed all core and foundation courses before undertaking the thesis. The thesis may be supervised only by core Communication faculty. This means early planning is crucial, and you should develop a rapport with your supervisor by the time you reach the thesis stage