The Media Studies Program includes a set of core courses that provides students with a strong base in media theory and analysis, beginning with a thoroughly multidisciplinary introductory-level class, Approaches to Media Studies (Media Studies 160), and culminating in a senior seminar and an individual senior project for all majors. The specific focus of each student’s program is tailored to individual student interests. Media Studies majors work with a faculty advisor and the program director to design a plan of study from a set of approved courses from departments such as Africana Studies, American Studies, Anthropology, Art, Asian Studies, Chinese and Japanese, Computer Science, English, Film, French and Francophone Studies, German Studies, Hispanic Studies, Italian, Music, Philosophy, Psychological Science, Religion, Sociology, and Women, Feminist, and Queer Studies, among others. Students are also encouraged to link their theoretical and critical study of media with hands-on, practice-based courses and/or internships in media-related workplaces. Because the Media Studies concentration incorporates courses originating within the program as well as a wide range of courses from other programs and departments, students wishing to major in media studies should consult with the program director as early as possible to design their course of study.

Academic Requirements

Academic requirements and courses are available in the Vassar College Catalogue.

Major

• Media Studies Major (Catalog)
• MEDS overview for students, PDF (235K)
• MEDS Prospective Majors
  • Focus Statement, Microsoft Word (21K)
  • Sample Focus Statements, PDF (60K)
  • Planning Form, Microsoft Word (9K)
  • Examples of Courses taken for the following MEDS Major Requirements, Excel (29KB)
  • Form for Major Declaration