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Media and Communication Studies
Why study Media and Communication Studies at UofGH?
Find out why students just like you chose the University of Guelph-Humber.
Note: "Media Studies" was the former name of the Media and Communication Studies program thus you will see the program referred to by this name in any past videos, articles, etc. about the program.
Focused Academic Program
Overall
Prepare to plunge into a rapidly changing industry and develop essential media skills.
- Learn the historical, social, cultural and ethical contexts of media and explore emerging trends
- Get introduced to key media disciplines and study the communication theories and perspectives that form the foundation of effective media practice
- Study governance, policy and legal issues
- Build a range of hands-on skills and learn to think critically and to work in a team environment
As you hone your skills, you will apply them to collaborative projects such as producing a digital news site, creating a comprehensive marketing communications plan or promoting and managing a large event. You may choose to complete and present an undergraduate thesis (after year three) to apply research principles, build your presentation skills and prepare for graduate studies.
Specializations
Following your second year, you will choose one of five specializations to direct your studies.
Digital Marketing & Social Media: Learn the fundamental principles of marketing combined with social media, and how these are used to influence behaviour and attitudes.
Media Management & Analytics: Learn how media departments and organizations operate, and the principles of strategic communication and the use of data analytics in crafting promotion, advertising and content.
Multimedia Journalism: Learn the skills demanded by traditional and emerging news and information platforms—print, broadcast, online and multimedia—with a strong focus on writing, editing and packaging content.
Public Relations: Learn the skills and techniques central to public persuasion and corporate representation, including media relations, public affairs, social media and event management.
Visual Communication: Learn the fundamentals of photography, videography, design and production as they are deployed throughout the media industry to communicate key messages and concepts.
First-year Courses
- Ethical Issues in Media
- Freedom, Rights & Media
- General electives
- Introduction to Communication Theory & Mass Media
- Introduction to Journalism & Digital Storytelling
- Introduction to Marketing & Public Relations
- Introduction to Photography OR Introduction to Media Management OR Subcultures in Mainstream Media
- Organizational Behaviour & Teamwork
- Writing & Research for Media & Communications Studies I
240 Hours of Experiential Learning
After third year, you will complete an internship of 240 hours. International internships are another exciting course opportunity.
Past internships include:
- Bell Media: TSN, The Social (CTV)
- Corus Entertainment
- Faulhaber Communications
- Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada
- Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment
- NKPR
- Pride Toronto
- Rogers Media: 680 News
- SickKids Hospital
- Sony Music Canada
- The Walrus
- Toronto International Film Festival
- Universal Music Canada
- Toronto International Film Festival
- Walt Disney Studios Canada
Sample Careers & Further Education
- Campaign Strategist
- Brand Manager
- Communications Coordinator
- Content Creator
- Editor
- Experiential Marketer
- Fundraising Coordinator
- Photographer/Videographer
- Podcaster
- Public Affairs Specialist
- Event Producer
- Publicist
- Art Director
- Radio/TV Broadcaster
- Social Media Strategist
- Media Buyer/Analyst
- Web Developer
- Master of Arts in Communications
- Master of Journalism
- Master of Arts in Media Production
- Bachelor of Education
- Law School
Note: Some careers and entry into further education may require additional study.
Opportunities
Tools of the Trade
On campus, access the latest media technology, including a virtual reality studio, a multimedia production facility with a soundstage, HD multi-camera setup, switchers and editing and podcast suites. Use industry-standard software for composing, editing and publishing. Sign out Full-frame photo cameras, 4K digital cinema cameras and professional studio lighting.
Teamwork
Create and execute exciting projects as part of Emerge, our capstone project that brings together all fourth-year media students. Projects typically include print, online and social media magazines; multimedia productions; and newsworthy public events that explore industry trends.
A future in law
After graduation, take advantage of our partnerships to study law in England. Earn a senior status law degree (LLB) with The City Law School, City, University of London in just two years, or a Master of Law (LLM) through distance learning with the University of London in one to five years (full- or part-time). No LSAT. Reduced tuition.
Study in London, England, where the largest law firms in the world are located. The Graduate Entry LLB (Hons) program attracts students from all over the world—many from Canada. Follow in the footsteps of renowned alumni such as Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, Margaret Thatcher and Tony Blair.
Research as an undergraduate
If research interests you, get to know the many research opportunities inside and outside of class. Get paid and conduct research as a Research Assistant with instructors funded by the University’s Research Grant Fund.
- Apply classroom knowledge
- Develop skills in conducting experiments, research and data collection
- Contribute to research publications
Global Learning Opportunities
Through instructor-guided study tours, you experience concepts discussed in class. Because all study abroad courses are partially subsidized by the University, the opportunities are within reach. You may also be eligible for a study abroad travel grant.
Past highlights include:
Denmark
Going to outdoor classrooms in Odense where children interact with nature: an example of Denmark’s unique contribution to child development
Japan
Learning about Soka education — a philosophy of well-being and global citizenship in Japan
New Zealand
Exploring the interplay between sport, health and culture in New Zealand’s Australasian society
Italy
Immersing in the Italian food experience from production to consumption in Italy, including a visit to the world's first food theme park
Ecuador
Heading to the Galápagos Islands and inland Ecuador to study "eco-psychology" — the attitudes, perceptions and behaviour of people toward the environment
Get Involved
Societies
Societies are related to our seven academic programs and offer activities outside of class. They can help you develop leadership skills and gain professional experience. Check out our Clubs and Societies page.
Your media interests could get you involved with:
- Advertising & Marketing Association
- Business Council
- Consulting Association
- Entrepreneurs Society
- GuHu Media
- Pre-Law Society
- Women in Business
Agora Fellowship
Be a part of the Agora Fellowship: a select group of students who discuss ideas and themes from renowned books in a regular forum led by Dr. George Bragues. Build your extracurricular experience. Every year, the Fellowship takes a trip related to their current topics; destinations have included Boston, Montreal, New York and Washington.
Soka Education Research Centre on Global Citizenship
Join the Soka Education Research Centre on Global Citizenship: a global undergraduate research project—the first of its kind in the world—led by Community Social Services Program Head Dr. Paul Sherman. Explore how to nurture human potential and happiness for the greater benefit of humankind through the study of Soka (value-creating) education and global citizenship. Travel as a Research Assistant to present study results at professional symposiums.
