Loyola University Chicago

What you'll study

The programme blends theoretical, historical and practical approaches to media. Core topics include media theory and criticism, media history, media law and ethics, and research methods. Practical coursework emphasises digital and multimedia production: audio and video production, digital storytelling, social media strategy, and basic web and interactive design.

• Foundations: introduction to communication theory, media institutions, and the social impact of media.
• Theory and research: media studies theory, qualitative and quantitative research methods, audience analysis and media effects.
• Productions and practicum: courses in audio production, video production, multimedia storytelling, editing and production workflows; opportunities to work in campus studios and labs.
• Professional skills: public relations, advertising fundamentals, social media management, strategic communication and campaign planning.
• Capstone and internship: a senior capstone or practicum project demonstrating research and/or creative production, and an internship with a media organisation, cultural institution or communications team.

Students can typically choose electives or concentrations to focus on journalism, digital production, strategic communication, or media and culture. Coursework emphasises ethical practice, media literacy and the application of skills to real-world contexts.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to have completed secondary education equivalent to a high school diploma. Admission is based on academic records and a holistic review of applications; standardised tests may be optional depending on institutional policy. For practical streams, applicants may be asked to submit a short portfolio or examples of creative work, though many production skills are also taught from introductory level.

• Academic record: satisfactory high school coursework with evidence of strong written communication.
• Personal statement: an essay outlining interest in media studies and goals for the degree.
• Recommendations: one or more letters of recommendation are typically recommended.
• English proficiency: for non-native speakers, an approved English language qualification is required.

Transfer students can apply credits from prior college coursework; consult Loyola University Chicago admissions for details on credit transfer and advanced standing.

Career prospects

Graduates leave with a combination of analytical, writing and production skills that suit a range of media and communications roles. Career destinations commonly include:

• Journalism and reporting for print, online and broadcast outlets
• Content production and multimedia storytelling (video, podcasting, digital content)
• Public relations, corporate communications and media relations
• Social media management, community engagement and digital marketing
• Advertising account management and creative support roles
• Research and policy roles related to media, culture and communication

Many graduates also pursue postgraduate study in media studies, communication, law, public policy or related fields. The programme’s internship and practicum components help build a professional portfolio and industry contacts in Chicago and beyond.

Why study at Loyola University Chicago

Loyola University Chicago offers a Jesuit education that emphasises ethics, social justice and the responsible use of communication—an advantage for students who want to explore media’s civic and cultural roles. Located in a major media market, Loyola provides access to internships and partnerships with newsrooms, production companies and cultural organisations across the city.

• Hands-on facilities: access to campus studios, editing suites and multimedia labs for practical learning.
• Industry links: strong internship networks and connections to Chicago’s media and communications industry.
• Faculty expertise: instructors with backgrounds in scholarship and professional media practice who supervise research and production projects.
• Holistic development: focus on ethical practice, critical thinking and community engagement consistent with Jesuit values.

Together, these features make Loyola a suitable choice for students seeking a balanced programme that prepares them for immediate employment in media fields or for further academic study.