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Media Studies and Production Major

Bachelor of Arts in Media Studies and Production

The Bachelor of Arts in Media Studies and Production in the Lew Klein College of Media and Communication at Temple University is at the intersection of study and production. This major blends theory and practice so that students consider the meaning and purpose of media in society, thinking critically as they obtain and grow skills to create media themselves.

Working with top scholars and practitioners inside and outside of the classroom and using the latest equipment and tools, students learn how to produce, evaluate and manage media content for traditional, contemporary and emerging media in various genres, including information (news and documentary), music, comedy, sports, drama, children’s media, and other forms of commercial and noncommercial media. You’ll explore institutions that create, distribute and investigate media products (e.g., production studios, television, radio and podcast networks, and audience research companies) and learn how to develop, operate and lead successful media businesses.

Career development, internships and other networking opportunities abound in Philadelphia, enabling you to begin your career well before you graduate. Learn more about how this program prepares you for careers in media studies and media production.

     What makes the Media Studies and Production Major different from other communication or film programs?

    MSP combines the creative, commercial, and analytical sides of media in one program. You’ll gain both hands-on production skills and a strong foundation in business and entrepreneurship, media theory, and media literacy, making you adaptable in an ever-changing industry, alongside these additional benefits:

    • Opportunities to work alongside talented peers: Our students work collaboratively in practicums, clubs, organizations and countless extracurricular activities. From podcasts to live TV, online magazines, radio, print and a record label, our media production degree helps students find their passion, whether it be behind the scenes, on camera or in the newsroom - including through TUTV, Temple’s Emmy Award-winning cable station.
    • Philadelphia is the nation’s fourth-largest media market: You’ll study in a city filled with production houses, news outlets, arts organizations, and tech startups; a cultural hub with countless opportunities for internships, creative collaborations, and real-world experience. 
    • A flexible, student-oriented program: Not only does our media studies and production degree allow students to learn and gain professional experience from multiple areas in Klein, it also provides access to various field experiences, internships and Study Away programs. Among the many study and intern away opportunities are programs in Los Angeles, where students learn about children’s media; Nashville, where students learn about the music business; Puerto Rico, where students are immersed in visual culture; and more.
    • Our renowned faculty: You will work with and learn from award-winning faculty who are experts with decades of experience in broadcasting/podcasting, reporting, production, management; and nationally and internationally recognized scholars, researchers, authors and thought leaders.

     

    What are the learning outcomes of Temple's MSP program?

    Students immerse themselves in the pillars of media analysis, business, and production, developing creative and technical skills in oral and written communication, people and project management, media performance, and video/sound production and design for television, streaming, podcasts and other outlets.

    Upon graduation, you’ll be able to:

    • develop and produce content for a variety of formats, technologies and platforms;
    • create effective media messages for a variety of audiences and purposes;
    • comprehend and apply theories regarding the cultural, social and personal uses and effects of media and technologies;
    • understand the legal and regulatory structures of media industries;
    • lead, manage, collaborate, team-build and innovate;
    • convey information using effective, professional written and spoken communication;
    • act ethically as media-consuming and media-producing citizens in the diverse global society; 
    • conduct research and evaluate information by methods appropriate to academic and professional media contexts; 
    • think critically utilizing comprehensive media literacy skills; and
    • live with grit, determination and direction to achieve bold goals.
    What kind of portfolio or demo reel should I have after graduating?

    While at Temple you'll develop a professional portfolio that showcases your writing samples, and production work; and on TUTV you’ll earn professional credits that will help after graduation with professional organization and union memberships. Faculty and advisors help students polish their reels and resumes for internships and jobs.

    What type of jobs do graduates of the media studies and production program pursue?

    Graduates of the media studies and production program go on to careers in media production and post-production, content strategy, audience research, digital media management, public media, and communications roles across nonprofit, corporate, and creative sectors. Some also continue on to pursue doctoral study, and many have launched successful careers at companies like NBC, SiriusXM, and Meta — or started their own creative ventures.

    Find Your Focus

    As a student in the media production major, you can choose from the media analysis, media business and media production concentrations that focus your studies on the subject matter that best aligns with your passions and goals. Regardless of your selection, you are not limited to one track and may take classes across all areas.

    What are the concentrations available for the media studies and production program?

    This degree program can be completed with or without a concentration. Your concentration options include Media Business, Media Production, and Media Analysis. Learn more about the Media Studies and Production Major concentrations.

    Concentrations

    This degree program can be completed with or without a concentration. Your concentration options include

    • Media Analysis

      Students in the Media Analysis professional concentration form a critical understanding of the roles of media in contemporary life, including media technology as a cultural force; the nature of media institutions, audiences and texts; and the media as a source of shared social identities. This concentration prepares students for careers such as media educators; media consultants, editorial or technical writers; community activists/organizers; corporate communication producers; media scholars, market research analysts, and more.

      View Concentration Details
    • Media Business

      The Media Business professional concentration introduces students to the business decisions, challenges, creative approaches and ethical responsibilities involved in management, marketing and entrepreneurship in the contemporary media landscape. In this comprehensive course of study, you’ll learn to navigate business decisions, understand market dynamics, embrace creative approaches and resolve ethical challenges. You will prepare for positions such as network executives, founders/owners of production companies, recording studio managers, talent agents, program content developers, executive producers, media marketing reps, social media managers/influencers, and various positions with global media networks and platforms.

      View Concentration Details
    • Media Production

      The Media Production professional concentration immerses students in real-world, hands-on media production environments providing the conceptual and technical tools necessary to create and/or present media content for local, national and global audiences. You’ll develop extensive professional skills and incorporate well-tested industry best practices along with the critical and analytical abilities that enable them to produce and evaluate content for various media. You will be prepared for careers as directors, writers, videographers, broadcasters, editors, recording engineers, social media content creators/managers/influencers, website designers, reporters, and on-camera/on-mic talent in TV, radio, podcasting, gaming, social media and more.

      View Concentration Details
    Are there student organizations or media clubs I can join at Temple?

    Students can join Temple Update, WHIP Radio, The Temple News, Temple TV and any of its student-produced programs (including La Charla, Queer Temple, Temple Tonight, and more), or other student-run organizations to gain experience in writing, broadcasting, and production.

    Are there opportunities for students to work on real media projects or collaborate with local companies?

    Yes. Students often work on media projects for community organizations (e.g., Philly Youth Media Collaborative, the Ryan Seacrest Studio at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia), local businesses (e.g., WHYY-TV and radio, WXPN / World Café), and campus partners. Many classes offer real-world production environments and client-based work.

    Minor in Digital Media Technologies

    Expand your knowledge of the information age and learn to communicate using fast-evolving, emerging technologies. An interdisciplinary program, this minor is offered through the Department of Media Studies and Production within the Klein College of Media and Communication and the Department of Computer and Information Sciences within the College of Science and Technology. Students who complete the program will be prepared to use technology to integrate internet content with computers and mobile devices, critically analyze decisions made regarding the use of technology, and understand the impact of current and emerging technologies on communications. Learn more about this minor.

    CONTACT

    Sally Kyvernitis is the Computer and Information Services Department program contact for this minor.
    Email:
    Phone: 215-204-2030

    Hector Postigo is the Media Studies and Production Department program contact for this minor.
    Email:
    Phone: 215-204-7398

    Classes & Curriculum

    The media studies degree can be completed over four years of continuous, full-time study with classes in media theory, production, writing, and digital culture. Core courses build a foundation in media literacy and analysis, while electives let you specialize in areas like podcasting, social media, video production, or media strategy. 

    What kind of courses will I take as an MSP student?

    Among the courses offered in this 124-credit degree program are the following.

    • Artificial Intelligence and the Creative Industries
    • Audio Mixing
    • The Business of Media
    • Creative Scriptwriting
    • Latin American Media
    • Law and Ethics of Digital Media
    • LGBTQ Representation in Media
    • Media Campaigns for Social Change
    • Media and Popular Culture
    • Podcast and Radio Production
    • Producing and Directing
    • Creating a Media Business
    • OwlSports Update Productions Practicum
    • Social Media
    • Technology and Culture
    • Travel Writing
    • The Video Game Industry and Game Culture
    • Voice Performance Techniques for Media

    Special topics courses are also offered every term, with recent classes including Developing Your Online Persona for YouTube, Podcasting, and BeyondHip Hop Media and Cultural Communication and Magical History Tour: The Story of the Beatles.

    Learn more about courses and requirements for the Media Studies and Production Major.

    What digital tools do students use for media studies and production?

    MSP students graduate with learned skills in Adobe Creative Cloud (Premiere, Photoshop, Audition, After Effects), social media analytics tools, Pro Tools, podcasting and web design platforms, and data visualization and storytelling software.

    Do MSP students get internship opportunities?

    Absolutely. MSP students intern at media companies, production studios, news outlets, and creative agencies in Philadelphia and beyond. The Klein College Career Center helps connect students with opportunities locally and nationally.

    Does Temple help connect students with industry professionals or alumni?

    Yes. MSP hosts guest speakers, alumni panels, and networking events every semester. Our alumni network includes professionals at NBCUniversal, Spotify, ESPN, and top production studios across the country.

    A student in the MSP program presents during a class shoot.

    +1: Graduate with a master’s in five years.

    Earn your bachelor’s and master’s degrees in a total of five years with our +1 program. In this accelerated program of study, undergraduate students begin taking graduate-level courses their junior year, satisfying requirements for the Media Studies and Production bachelor and master’s degrees at the same time. This program is creative and flexible, so students can choose courses that best align with their professional and academic goals. 

    Contact

    Contact the following faculty member with questions about this program.
    Matthew Lombard is the department chair.
    Email:

    Jack Klotz is the vice chair of the department.
    Email:

    Can I double major or minor in another field while studying MSP?

    Yes. Many students pair MSP with majors or minors in fields like Advertising, Journalism, Communication Studies, Business, or Computer Science. Your academic advisor can help you plan a course path that fits your interests.

    Tuition & Fees

    In keeping with Temple’s commitment to access and affordability, the Bachelor of Arts offers a competitive level of tuition with multiple opportunities for financial support.

    Tuition rates are set annually by the university and are affected by multiple factors, including program degree level (undergraduate or graduate), course load (full- or part-time), in-state or out-of-state residency, and more. You can view the full Cost of Attendance breakdown on the Student Financial Services website.

    These tuition costs apply to the 2025–2026 academic year.

    Pennsylvania resident: $21,360.00 per year
    Out-of-state: $37,032.00 per year

    Our Academic Advisors

    Our academic advisors will help you stay on track to graduate and ensure you remain on a clear professional path.

    Walk-in advising is available in the first two weeks of the semester for students who need assistance with any registration issues. 

    Express advising is available for students throughout the rest of the semester. Advisors answer routine questions in 15-minute sessions. 

    For more in-depth, personalized assistance, students may make appointments. To schedule an appointment or ask a question, contact our advising office.
    Phone: 215-204-5273
    Email:

    You can also contact the advising office through TUportal under the Klein College tab. 

    The Klein Advising Office, which serves all Klein majors, is located at the following address.

    Student Affairs/Advising
    Annenberg Hall, Room 9
    2020 N. 13th St.
    Philadelphia, PA 19122

    Important Dates

    Our academic calendar includes an overview of all relevant upcoming dates.

    Learn more about academic advising in the Media Studies and Production Major.

    Program Contact

    Contact the Department of Media Studies and Production with additional questions.

    Department of Media Studies and Production
    Annenberg Hall, Room 205
    Philadelphia, PA 19122
    Hours: 9 a.m.–5 p.m.

    Sandra Kennedy is the office manager.
    Phone: 215-204-5401
    Email:

    Matthew Lombard is the co-chair.
    Email:

    Jack Klotz is the vice chair.
    Email: 

    Explore the Media Studies and Production Major’s faculty and staff directory.

    Student Clubs & Organizations

    Joining a student organization can affect your career and college experience in meaningful ways. Not only will you learn how to work with a team, you’ll also gain access to exciting projects, peer support and valuable networking opportunities.

    Learn more about student clubs and organizations available to Media Studies and Production Major students.

    Study Away

    Take on new challenges, experiences and viewpoints in an array of academic settings in the U.S. or around the world, through the Media Studies and Production Major’s Global Opportunities programs. 

    Our Global Opportunities programs create leaders in media and communication by providing opportunities to study and work while experiencing life in influential urban centers throughout the world.

    You have the option of studying or interning in more than 20 destinations in the U.S. and around the world, including DublinLos Angeles, London and more.

    These study away programs are designed to not only enhance your marketability in the global workplace, but also to increase your cultural capital and support your personal growth. Learn more about study away programs for the Media Studies and Production Major.

    Questions?

    Representatives from our Global Opportunities office are available to answer any questions you may have. 
    Phone: 215-204-2354
    Email:

    Accreditation

    Temple University’s departments and programs are accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

    Additional Program Information