Mass Communication

M.A.

Hone your ability to tell impactful stories on the world's biggest platforms. Develop individual professional skills that engage with and emphasize deep analysis of media's role in social change.

Why Get a Master's in Mass Communication?

In the rapidly-changing media landscape, we need skilled professionals who can break through the noise. The expertise a master's degree offers gives you an edge in today's job market. You will not only understand how media impacts society, but also how it can be used to help shape society.

Acquire the research skills and analytical tools to produce meaningful content with an M.A. in Mass Communication. Take advantage of the mentorship professors with real-world experience can offer. More importantly, this an opportunity to focus on in-depth reporting and investigations of issues that are close to your heart.

Why Study Mass Communication at CSUN?

Social Change Focus

At CSUN, we understand the transformative power of journalism and mass media. We aim to develop professionals who are engaged citizens and passionate critical thinkers. Throughout our theoretical and practical coursework, we put an emphasis on social change and inclusion.

Taught by Seasoned Professionals

Our graduate faculty come from around the world and have expertise in areas, such as immigration and news, citizen journalism, ethnic media, refugee media practices and visual communication.

Located in a Media Hub

News organizations, media companies and production powerhouses are only miles away from campus. Studying in Los Angeles means you have quick access to networking opportunities, internships and other professional resources.

Excellent Value

We’re affordable. Our mass communication program costs a fraction of what other comparable J-schools charge. At CSUN, you will get the best value for a world-class educational experience.

What You'll Learn

You'll learn the theoretical foundations and practical applications of mass communication to complete a project of your own. You'll do coursework in mass communication theory, law and ethics, research methods, media criticism and media analysis.

This will lay the groundwork for your culminating experience. In your final year, you will focus on a professional project like a documentary or an investigative report. By the time you graduate, you will have a polished piece of media content or a research project in your portfolio.

Curriculum

Careers & Outcomes

The master's in mass communication signals to employers that you are trained and capable to produce groundbreaking content. Graduates of the program find work in news agencies, broadcasting, publishing, health care and entertainment. Other choose to further their education in a Ph.D or Ed.D program.

Employers of recent alumni include:

  • Sage Publishing
  • NPR
  • Deutsche Welle
  • BBC

Common career paths include:

  • Reporter
  • Correspondent
  • Editor
  • Photojournalist
  • Engagement producer for civics and democracy
  • News director
  • Digital projects designer
  • Field marketing specialist
  • Communications coordinator
  • Content strategist
  • Events coordinator
  • Public relations executive
exterior of Manzanita Hall on the CSUN campus

Manzanita Hall

Manzanita Hall features industry-standard news labs for broadcast and multimedia production, a digital photo lab and specialized instructional areas for both skills and lecture courses.

Admission Information

To be considered for admission to CSUN as a master's student, you will need to:

Learn more about applying for a master's program at CSUN

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