Accelerated Combined Degrees
This accelerated combined degree program allows students to complete two degrees in just five academic years.
- BA or BS in Mass Communications
- MS in Media Studies
Students receive the same benefits of both curriculums and move seamlessly from the undergraduate program to graduate studies. You will save time and money, as well as jump-start your career.
Admission Requirements
SIUE undergraduate students who meet the following criteria are encouraged to apply:
- Major in mass communications (other majors considered on an individual basis)
- Maintain a minimum 3.25 cumulative undergraduate GPA
- Be within 32 credit hours of bachelor's degree completion at intended entry term
How to Apply
- Submit a graduate admission application and pay the $40 application fee. Apply to the term in which you plan to begin the combined bachelor's and graduate courses.
- After submitting your application, complete the "plan of study" form with approval from your undergraduate advisor and graduate program director.
- Submit all other required graduate admission application materials, including:
- Three letters of recommendation by faculty from Department of Mass Communications
- Statement of purpose: No more than two pages addressing the applicant's qualifications for the accelerated program and the role the program plays in their personal and professional goals.
Please contact the Office of Graduate Admissions at graduateadmissions@siue.edu with questions regarding the application process.
Sample Curriculum
The accelerated master's in media studies requires that students complete 6-12 credit hours of approved graduate courses during the undergraduate senior year. These credit hours are shared and apply to both the BS/BA in mass communications and the MS in media studies.
Senior Year (Fall Semester)
(3) MC 401 Media Law & Policy - shared credit
(3) MC 455 Media Ethics - shared credit
(3) Life, Physical or Social Science
(3) Life, Physical or Social Science
(3) Health Experience
15 Total Credits
Senior Year (Spring Semester)
(3) MC 403/503 Cultural Studies in Media - shared credit
(3) MC 481 Internship/Senior Portfolio
(3) MC 400-level Elective - shared credit
(3) Minor/Elective
(3) Elective
15 Total Credits
Graduate Year (Fall Semester)
(3) MC 500 Mass Communication Theory
(3) MC 501 Research Methods for Mass Communications
(3) MC Graduate Elective
9 Total Credits
Graduate Year (Spring Semester)
(3) MC 502 Media Campaigns
(3) MC Graduate Elective
(3) MC Graduate Elective
Comprehensive Exam
9 Total Credits
See the graduate catalog for media studies and mass communications (MC) course descriptions.
Retention Requirements
Students must maintain a cumulative overall GPA of 3.0.
Please review the academic policy for program requirements and restrictions.
