Media and Technology Studies

Welcome to Media and Technology Studies!

Media and Technology Studies (MTS) is a unit in the Faculty of Arts, comprising undergraduate and graduate programs and an undergraduate certificate. MTS boasts unique strengths in digital humanities, media and communication studies, digital society and culture, science, technology, and society and game studies. Our students are leading media, communication, technology and digitalization experts of the future. They are champions of our fast expanding online world, and carry the skills, knowledge and critical insights needed to navigate and provide leadership in today's algorithmic society. Our programs uniquely equip learners to shape landscapes of information exchange and digital culture in the years to come.

Programs

Media Studies Undergraduate Degree Program

Media Studies (MST) is the study of how to navigate, analyze, critically evaluate and contribute ethically to today's global media landscape. This multidisciplinary major examines the content, history and effects of media on our social, political and cultural systems.

Science, Technology + Society Undergraduate Degree Program

The Science, Technology and Society (STS) program is the place where science and technology are examined with the tools of philosophy, history, sociology, anthropology and cultural studies. It equips students to understand where science and technology come from, how science and technology have changed over time, and how these areas are embedded in and affect society.

Computer Game Development Undergraduate Certificate

The certificate in Computer Game Development is a joint certificate between the Faculty of Arts and the Faculty of Science and is open to any undergraduate student at the University of Alberta. The certificate is intended to complement discipline-specific studies with courses that give opportunities to work in multidisciplinary teams, build complete small and medium-scale games and interact with industry.

Digital Humanities Master of Arts Program

The Digital Humanities program integrates computational methods and theories with research and teaching in the Arts and Humanities. It addresses the demand for Arts graduates to be able to work either in the realm of research and teaching or in the emerging job markets of information management and content delivery over the internet.

Communications + Technology Master of Arts Program

The MA in Communications and Technology (MACT) program offers a theoretical, historical and practical examination of communications in the era of the Internet, social media and the mobile device. The degree is designed for both emerging and established professionals involved with media and communications in their organizational roles.

Social Media Certificate - Continuing Education

Earn a Social Media Certificate in less than a year with a comprehensive online program through Continuing Education. Dive into the essentials of building a cohesive online presence, understanding current media trends, using analytics effectively, and mastering campaign strategies and community management to optimize conversion rates. Additionally, this certificate may qualify for an elective course exemption in the Master of Arts in Communications and Technology (MACT) program.

Media + Technology Studies at a Glance

We live in a media-saturated world and that complex relationship between politics, economics, culture and the media is an important part of our lives. Developing a background in media studies gives students an opportunity to enter a variety of fields where technology and media are involved in one way or another. Watch the video for a brief introduction to our programs and facilities!

fall Term 2026
TR 9:30-10:30 a.M.

 

 

MST 350 - Understanding Video Games

We'll embark on an exploration of contemporary games and gaming culture. As this is an intermediate-level course, we'll be diving into complex subjects, from narrative design to contemporary issues in gaming.

Some things to know:

  • This course will involve a mix of reading about, playing, and making games.
  • Over the course of the term, you’ll develop six small game "experiments" using a variety of tools and formats.
  • This course is structured as a quest-based adventure game: you will have lots of flexibility in choosing which assignments to complete!
  • For more information or to request manual enrollment, contact Dr. PB Berge (pb.berge@ualberta.ca).

Instructor: Dr. PB Berge

winter Term 2027
M 1:00-3:50 p.M.

MST 299 - Introduction to digital media practice

Interested in digital media production, creative practice, and hands-on media work? MST 299 introduces students to foundational tools, concepts, and workflows in digital media production, including audio, video, image editing, platforms, accessibility, copyright, and project development.

This course is also expected to provide a foundation for advanced digital media practice courses anticipated to roll out over the next three years. Students interested in those future courses are encouraged to consider taking MST 299 in Winter 2027.

Instructor: TBA

News + Events

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. 

Read More

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