Media Arts
Master of Arts
Overview of our master's in media arts degree
Step into a media landscape that's constantly evolving. Our master's in media arts program equips you to work, teach and create in today’s fast-moving world of mass media. You’ll gain hands-on experience in one of four focused tracks: electronic media studies, media management, media production or film theory and criticism. Here, it's about more than just learning the tools—it's about mastering them to tell powerful stories, lead creative teams and shape the future of media.
AT A GLANCE
How our master's in media arts degree grows digital storytelling expertise
Take your understanding of mass media to the next level with CMU’s master's in media program. Whether you’re looking to create, manage or analyze media, you’ll learn how to shape content that resonates in today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape.
Choose one of four specialized tracks—electronic media studies, electronic media management, electronic media production or film theory and criticism—that blend theory and hands-on practice. Your coursework won’t just end in the classroom. You'll actively apply what you’ve learned through projects that directly enhance your expertise, such as contributing to campus media outlets like Moore Hall Television, WMHW radio, Moore Media Records or the CMU Film Society.
Faculty here aren’t just teachers—they’re active media professionals who bring real-world insights from fields like broadcasting, online media and film. Through close mentorship and small class sizes, you’ll gain both the technical skills and critical thinking needed to thrive in a media career.
Highlights of our master's in media arts program
With a master's in media arts degree, you will:
- Specialize in your field: Choose from four focused tracks: electronic media studies, electronic media management, electronic media production or film theory and criticism.
- Apply for a graduate assistantship: Gain teaching experience in media labs while receiving a stipend and full tuition waiver.
- Gain hands-on experience: Work at award-winning outlets like MHTV, WMHW radio, News Central 34, Sports Central or Moore Media Records.
- Build research expertise: Prepare for leading Ph.D. programs or professional roles in the media industry.
Careers and opportunities in media arts
A master’s in media arts can prepare you for graduate study at the doctorate level as well as for careers in media, business, broadcasting, teaching, film and more.
| Career | Projected Salary |
|---|---|
| Advertising Account Executive | $61,270 |
| Associate Professor of Communication and Journalism | $70,967 |
| Writer/Author | $73,690 |
| Video Editor | $65,070 |
| Communications Consultant | $63,000 |
Become an expert with student-led media
As a master's in media arts student, you have the opportunity to build real-world experience by volunteering at some of CMU's leading student media outlets. Whether you're passionate about radio, TV or music production, you'll get hands-on experience that directly enhances your technical and creative skills.
WMHW-FM: Get on the air or work behind the scenes at one of CMU’s two student-run radio stations. Whether you're shaping music playlists, producing shows or managing promotions, you'll develop broadcast expertise in a fast-paced environment.
News Central and Central View Live: Dive into live television production with student-led news programs. Cover local stories, forecast weather or report on campus trends—all while honing your on-camera presence and teamwork skills in a professional studio setting.
Moore Media Records: Collaborate with local artists to produce, mix and promote their music. From recording to event management, you’ll gain a wide range of industry-relevant skills that can set you apart in the music business.
Request Information about CMU
By submitting this form, I agree to receive calls, emails and/or text messages from Central Michigan University to discuss furthering my education.