BA Mass Communication and Media Studies

Offered through ASU’s Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication, the BA in Mass Communication and Media Studies gives students a deep and nuanced understanding of the growing importance, power and influence of media around the world.

The program explores global mass communication issues from all dimensions: societal, cultural, historical, political, economic, technological and legal. Students learn how to critically analyze media, from news to sports to pop culture and apply that understanding to the world around them.

Attendance type

Full-time

Credit hours

120

Study method

Online or campus immersion

STEM-OPT option

Not available

Campus

ASU Downtown Phoenix campus

Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication

The Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication is the #1 Journalism School in Top Overall Programs and recognized for Excellence in Media by the BEA School Rankings (2024) based on student achievements. We educate and empower communicators to foster an informed and inclusive society, promoting understanding and connection across creators, audiences, industry and academia.

The Cronkite School is a global leader in communicator education, offering scalable, accessible programs that drive societal impact through experiential learning, outreach, community engagement and research. Together, as part of the inclusive and global Cronkite Nation, we unite students, faculty, staff, alumni and partners around shared goals and values, shaping a brighter future through journalism and mass communication.

ASU degree pathways

Students enrolled at an ASU Cintana Alliance Network institution have the chance to start their courses at their home institution and transfer those credits* to finish their remaining years at ASU.

Model available: Undergraduate dual degree and pathway to ASU degree only.

Courses at home university

Up to 90 credit hrs. can be transferred

from ACI to ASU

Students must earn a ‚”C-” or

higher for courses to transfer to ASU

Graduation requirements at partner institution

Courses at ASU

Minimum of 30 credits must be completed at ASU

English Composition I & II

General Education and Graduation requirements must be

met through the combination of transfer courses from partner institution and the coursework completed at ASU.

*Transfer eligibility is subject to student performance in transfer courses and Arizona State University transfer requirements.
*A specific plan of study will be agreed upon between institutions, but here are general requirements to be completed at each institution.

Featured courses

MCO 427: Misinformation and Society

Examines the evolution of misinformation and the range of content types that fall under its umbrella. Explores tools, techniques and tactics that individuals can employ to identify misinformation and gives them a head start on making informed decisions on what and whom, they can trust.

MCO 375: Podcasting

Explores what it takes to start a podcast from the ground up. Students devise a proof of concept for a podcast while fortifying their knowledge of the industry. The podcast projects are based on a unique value proposition that fulfills a specific need for their audience.

MCO 465: Sports and Media

Designed for aspiring journalists and media users, explores why great sports journalism is essential to our society. Establishes the goals, dreams and expectations for sports journalism and introduces ethical philosophy and popular ethical models and decision-making tools.

Career opportunities and applicable roles

Graduates are prepared for a wide assortment of careers with the hands-on training they received in the program as well as in real, professional newsroom experiences.

Audience Engagement Specialist

Copy Editor

Director

Magazine Writer

News Anchor

News Reporter

Producer

Radio and Podcast Host

Video Grapher

2025-26 Important dates and deadlines

Program Start	Application Deadline	Classes Begin	Tuition Payment Deadline
Spring A start	November 1, 2024	January 13, 2025	January 25, 2025
Spring B start	November 1, 2024	March 17, 2025	March 25, 2025
Summer A start	February 1, 2025	May 19, 2025	May 25, 2025
Fall A start	May 1, 2025	August 22, 2025	August 25, 2025
Fall B start	May 1, 2025	October 16, 2025	October 25, 2025