What You Will Learn As A Critical Media & Cultural Studies Major

In CMC, we define “citizenship” as an active commitment to the public good, a civically engaged way of life. Together we explore interconnections between identity, community, and advocacy. In terms of identity, each of us will become more deeply self-reflective and self-conscious, aware of unearned advantages and disadvantages, strengths and opportunities for growth. In collaboration with faculty, staff, and fellow students, you will engage challenging social and community problems, identify their systemic causes, and develop and advance solutions.

Our program reflects and advances a thoroughly global perspective. In our courses, you will read, talk, write, and make media about cross-cultural and cross-national inequities such as racism, classism, sexism, heterosexism, and colonialism.

Part of the college’s mission is to foster responsible leadership. In CMC, we support you in developing and mobilizing your own agency. At the same time, you will reach past individual responsibility and practice collective civic engagement. 

In CMC, we define “productive” in this context as “ethical careers of purpose and service.” Time spent with us will build your capacity for transformative engagement across sectors, including public, nonprofit, and corporate.

Key skills you will gain in CMC include: critical thinking; synthesis of research findings; written communication; media production, including proficiencies in photo, sound, and video editing; oral communication and discussion facilitation; collaborative learning; and multicultural understanding and competence.

CMC defines “meaningful” in this context as “ethical lives of purpose and service.” For us, a “meaningful life” pushes beyond what feels fulfilling to any individual. As a collaborative member of our community, you will explore and build intentional visions of purpose and service.