Program Overview

Introduction to the Bachelor of Communication and Media Studies

The Bachelor of Communication and Media Studies degree program is designed to develop a broad critical understanding of the cultural role of communication while developing practical skills in areas such as public relations, journalism, corporate communications, and technical production.

Program Requirements

• The Bachelor of Communication and Media Studies degree requires the completion of 120 units.
• Normally, the program takes at least four years of full-time study between the University of Calgary and the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT).
• The SAIT portion of this program will be counted as 48 units of the 120 units required for completion.

Courses Required in the First Year

• Fall semester:
  • Communications and Media Studies 201 or Open Option
  • Science Option or Open Option
  • Open Option
  • Open Option
  • Open Option
• Winter semester:
  • Communications and Media Studies 201 or Open Option
  • Communications and Media Studies 203
  • Science Option or Open Option
  • Open Option
  • Open Option
  • Note: Film Studies 201 is a recommended option.

Faculty and Major

• The Bachelor of Communication and Media Studies degree means that you are a student in the Faculty of Arts.
• In this program, you will complete courses at the University of Calgary, as well as a two-year communications-related diploma at the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT), or other approved institution.
• The University of Calgary component of your program provides a broad understanding of intellectual history, cultural perspectives, rhetorical and media theory, and social aspects of media.
• The SAIT portion of the program complements this background with technical skills suited to students considering careers in journalism, broadcasting, new media, or in related areas such as corporate communications, public relations, or administration.

Credit for Prior Learning

• If you are coming to the University of Calgary with Advanced Placement credit or International Baccalaureate credit, you will follow the same registration process as any first-time university student.
• You may be eligible to use your transfer credit in your degree program depending on the program you have entered and whether or not the courses are applicable.
• Generally, students must complete 18 units at the junior (200-level) before they are allowed to register in 300-level courses.
• However, if you received IB or AP credit for a 200-level course, you may take the 300-level course that has your 200-level course listed as a prerequisite.

Enhancing Your Program

• Co-op and Internship: Get a head start on your career through co-operative education and internship opportunities.
• Study Abroad: Experience different cultures, gain a better understanding of world issues, and travel around the globe, all while earning credit towards your degree.
• Community Service-Learning: Combine your classroom learning with volunteer work that achieves community goals, and see first-hand how your academic learning relates to social issues.
• Co-Curricular Record: Have your out-of-classroom experiences such as volunteer work, leadership training, and club involvement documented on a Co-Curricular Record, an official document sanctioned by the University of Calgary.