M.A. in Media Studies

Mission Statement

The MA in Art with a Concentration in Media Studies' mission corresponds with the mission of Rhode Island College, and the mission of Graduate Studies Program, through a commitment to interdisciplinary curriculum providing research opportunities that lead to an advanced degree. It prepares students to pursue their academic and professional goals by helping them to read, write, and think critically about contemporary culture and media and create media texts of their own. We present to our students a variety of theoretical approaches to understanding their media- saturated world in its many contexts. We show students examples of art and media that respond to or have shaped contemporary life. Students learn the skills to produce their own art or media using digital technologies. We offer a broad range of courses and individualized instruction. Our graduates earn the Master of Arts degree on the basis of their course-work and completion of either an original work of art or media or a substantial written thesis. Our graduates are well prepared to enter advanced degree programs or to pursue careers in media production, teaching, or writing. We encourage our students to be knowledgeable and responsible members of their communities.

Sample theses are also on view at the Adams Library Digital Commons.

Program Goals

Students earning a Master of Arts with a Concentration in Media Studies and choosing the Digital Design and Production option shall have acquired:

1. advanced knowledge of digital media input and output techniques using hardware, software and peripheral devices,
2. experience in advanced design theory and practice with both still and time-based media,
3. experience in researching contemporary digital artists/designers and
4. advanced exposure to media theory, history, culture, and aesthetics.
5. Degree candidates must conduct in-depth research, prepare a thesis proposal then design, produce and exhibit a significant project.

Students earning a Master of Arts with a Concentration in Media Studies and choosing the Critical Studies option shall have completed:

1. advanced study in media theory, history, culture, and aesthetics,
2. extensive research and writing of a master's thesis and
3. acquired advanced exposure to digital media production.

Adapted from the National Association of Schools of Art & Design (NASAD) Accrediting Agency Handbook

Admission Requirements

• A completed application form accompanied by a fifty-dollar nonrefundable application fee.
• Official transcripts of all undergraduate and graduate records.
• An official report of scores on the Graduate Record Examination (GRE).
• Three letters of recommendation.
• A written statement of purpose.
• A representative portfolio of creative work in one of the following formats: twenty slides in a carousel tray, a CD-ROM, URL(s) for Web site(s), a VHS video tape, or a significant paper.
• The Media Studies Admissions Committee may require an interview.

Course Requirements