Introduction to Media Studies

The first of two MCA introductory courses. This survey course aims to acquaint students with the various mass media and support industries. In the first half of the semester, students look at newspapers, magazines, radio, TV, film, advertising, and public relations from an historic, technological, economic, and social perspective. In the second half of the semester, they focus on more general issues, such as who owns the media, the media's effect on audience, and laws governing the media. Required of all MCA majors; open to other students as an elective.