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
- Consult with your academic advisor and/or the Graduate Program Director of your program of interest to discuss which graduate-level courses are appropriate for you to enroll in if you are accepted to the program.
- Submit a graduate admission application to the program following the student instructions.
- Select the "SIUE Undergraduate to Graduate Student" option from the student type list within the application.
- Complete the Plan of Study information detailing which graduate courses you plan to take and the semesters you plan to take them.
- Enter your undergraduate academic advisor's name and email address within the recommendation requirement so they can review your Plan of Study.
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.
