The master of arts (MA) in media literacy provides students with a critical perspective that will enable them to decipher the information they receive through the channels of mass communications and to develop independent judgments about media content. This degree examines the cultural, political, and economic context of media, which affects media programming. Students who earn an MA in media literacy may pursue careers in education, media literacy research, the press, public policy, community-based media, and media arts production.

Successful graduates of this program will be able to: * Identify media literacy concepts; * Understand the impact of the media on the individual and society; * Apply media literacy concepts to media and media programming; * Recognize media content as a cultural "text" that provides insight into contemporary society; * Assess qualitative and quantitative approaches to media literacy; * Cultivate an enhanced enjoyment, understanding, and appreciation of media content; * In the case of media communicators, produce effective and responsible media messages