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Mass Communication

Bachelor of Science

Students smile in a mass communication class in the School's NewsroomMass communication is everything that is written, broadcast, discussed or shown to broad audiences.

The study of mass communication is an investigation into how messages are created, shared, and incorporated into everyday life and society. 


Students discuss branding in a class discussion

About the Program

As a Mass Communication major, you’ll learn to tell stories that engage and inspire others, and explore why messages work - and what to do when they don’t. In classes and internships, you’ll: 

  • Investigate how messages are created, shared and incorporated into everyday life and society 
  • Take classes with mass communication experts, and faculty with extensive experience as journalists and media professionals
  • Study real-world examples of mass communication and dissect how and why they were created 
  • Conduct research to better understand which messages work, why and how 
  • Test your knowledge by creating your own messages using the School’s state-of-the art production spaces

 

Required Courses

Introduction to Mass Media

Media Writing

History of Mass Communication

Mass Communication Law & Ethics

One of the following:

Methods of Media Criticism and Critical Media Theory
OR
Mass Communication Research Methods and Mass Communication Theory

Sample Electives

Race, Class and Gender in Media

Talking Science

The Image of the Journalist in Popular Culture

Academic Internship

Special Topics in Mass Communication

Explore the Undergraduate Bulletin

 

 

Your future is bright in a growing field

Communication professionals are increasingly in demand, and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasts that tens of thousands of new communication jobs will be added to the economy in the next decade.

With a mass communication degree from Stony Brook, you will graduate with the analytical skills employers are looking for, a portfolio to grab their attention, and the professional contacts to help you launch your career. By the time you graduate, you will be prepared to succeed in a range of professional opportunities in media.

Your knowledge and research skills will also set you up for success if you choose to continue your education in graduate or professional school.

Not Sure Yet?

Compare Undergraduate Programs

Quiz: Which Major is Right for Me?

Seamless transfer pathways

Students from Dutchess and Suffolk community colleges can transfer seamlessly into the Bachelor of Science in Mass Communication program at Stony Brook.

To learn more, contact your community college advisor or Stony Brook Academic & Transfer Advising Services

To have your communication or communication-related courses evaluated, contact Undergraduate Program Director and Associate Dean Irene Virag