About the Master’s Program
How long is the master’s program?
The Master’s Program in Emerging Media Studies is designed to be completed in one calendar year (full-time). Students may also enroll on a part-time basis. The program begins in the fall semester. While students participate in May commencement ceremonies, classes continue in the first Summer session. Degrees are then formally awarded in September. In some cases, the internship and thesis options lengthen the program by one semester.
What types of people should write my letters of recommendation?
Three letters of recommendation are required during the application process. It is strongly recommended that at least two recommendations come from individuals that can speak to your academic preparedness. This would include former/current professors and research project supervisors.
How many students enroll in the master’s program each year?
While the exact number varies, each year approximately 30-35 students enroll in the Master’s Program in Emerging Media Studies. This size helps the program to strike a balance between faculty’s individualized focus on each student and group-based project work.
Is financial aid available?
Yes. All admitted students are automatically considered for merit-based scholarships, which help defray the cost of attendance. In addition, students are considered for merit-based teaching and/or research assistantships.
What is the annual tuition?
Tuition is set by Boston University and the College of Communication. For the most updated information, please visit the Graduate Affairs website.
Should I have work experience before entering the master’s program?
Formal, full-time work experience is not necessary to enter the program. We expect that each class will have a mix of students coming directly from their bachelor’s program and students who have been in the professional world for a few years.
If I am admitted to the master’s program in emerging media studies, do I receive automatic admission to the doctoral program in the following year?
Admission to the doctoral program is highly competitive; on average, three students per year enroll in the research intensive Ph.D. program. Preference for admission to the doctoral program may be given to current students in the master’s program, but admission is not guaranteed. Applicants to the doctoral program are required to submit a separate and completed application to the College of Communication to be considered for admission.
Are students assigned an advisor?
Yes. Each student is assigned an advisor upon matriculation. Students are permitted to change advisors if there is a better fit with another faculty member.
Is a thesis required?
No. In fact, most students do not pursue this option. However, it is always available.
Is an undergraduate degree in communication required for entry into the master’s program in emerging media studies?
No. Though a communication major is a plus in terms of being prepared for the coursework, the program is primarily interested in energetic people who wish to learn about emerging media. There is much to be said about bringing people together who have diverse perspectives and novel viewpoints. Though we can accept students with any undergraduate degree, we may recommend that those with an entirely unrelated undergraduate degree do background reading prior to formal matriculation.
Are there internship opportunities for master’s students in emerging media studies?