Minor in Media Studies
The Minor in Media Studies offers undergraduate students the opportunity to study media, technology, and digital culture alongside their primary degree program. While the University of Alberta already offers a Media Studies major for students seeking an in-depth focus, the minor is designed specifically for students who want to integrate Media Studies into another field of study.
Through a combination of core courses and upper-level electives, students develop critical skills for analyzing how media shapes culture, politics, technology, and everyday life. Across the minor, students engage with key questions about media industries, digital platforms, communication systems, and emerging technologies, while building strong analytical and research skills.
Program Requirements
The Minor in Media Studies requires a minimum of 18 units, with a mix of required core courses and upper-level electives.
Required core courses (9 units):
- MST 100 – Introduction to Media Studies
- MST 200 – Media Theory
- MST 210 – Contemporary Media Culture
These courses provide a shared foundation in media studies concepts, theories, and approaches.
Upper-level electives (9 units):
Students select additional courses from a broad range of approved Media Studies electives, including special topics and research-focused courses. Electives allow students to tailor the minor to their interests, whether they are drawn to digital and social media, media industries, political economy, cultural analysis, or emerging media issues.
Many elective options connect Media Studies with other areas in the Faculty of Arts, supporting interdisciplinary exploration and flexibility in course planning.
The Minor in Media Studies is well-suited for students interested in communication, culture, technology, policy, creative practice, and research. It provides strong preparation for a wide range of career paths where media literacy, critical thinking, and analytical skills are increasingly important.