Certificate of Achievement (Transcripted): Media Theory

Below is a sample academic plan that shows you how you can complete your Certificate in a timely manner. Your path may look different depending on your circumstances?for example, if you attend part-time, choose to take Intersession or Summer courses, or have earned prior credit (Credit for Prior Learning, Dual Enrollment, Transfer Credit). You are required to meet with a counselor to set up a comprehensive education plan that is tailored to your individual circumstances and goals.

The Certificate in Media Theory is designed to provide students fundamental knowledge and strategies to communicate effectively in a 21st-century information environment. Students examine media’s influence on history, culture, and society and learn to apply theories in a variety of media channels.

Critically read, analyze, compare, and evaluate complex media texts.

Understand the cognitive processes by which media are experienced and remembered

Demonstrate an understanding of the historical and ethical underpinnings related to mass communications

Program Map

GE General Education Course
M Major Course
E Elective Course
SI Summer/Intersession Course *
* Course is appropriate for Summer and Intersession, which are accelerated terms.

Getting Started

Comprehensive Education Plan: You are required to meet with a counselor for a comprehensive educational plan that is tailored to your individual circumstances and goals. Please schedule an appointment with a counselor in your first semester.

First Semester

10 units
JAMS 103
Introduction to Visual Communications
This multimedia course explores the social, cultural and historical implications of visual communications from Gutenberg's printing press to present day digital media. Using works of philosophical, historical and cultural importance students will analyze and debate the changes in the way visual communications affect society, and shape cultural values.
    Plan 1: 3A. Arts
    Plan 2: 3A. Arts
    ENGL C1000
    Academic Reading and Writing
    In this course, students receive instruction in academic reading and writing, including writing processes, effective use of language, analytical thinking, and the foundations of academic research. Formerly: ENGL 101 - Freshman Composition.
    • Prerequisite: Placement as determined by college's multiple measures assessment process.
    Plan 1: 1A. English Composition
    Plan 2: 1A. English Composition
    JAMS 111
    Media, Race and Gender
    This multimedia course is an overview of the social and cultural implications of mass media on race and gender from the 1920s to the present. Using works of philosophical and cultural importance, students will analyze and debate the changes in the faces of media with a particular focus on social class, gender, and ethnicity.
      Plan 1: 3B. Humanities
      Plan 2: 4. Social and Behavioral Sciences

      Second Semester

      6 units
      DM 103
      History of Film to 1945
      A survey course exploring film as an art form and developing appreciation of historical, artistic, and technical advances from 1890s to 1945.
        Plan 1: 3A. Arts
        Plan 2: 3A. Arts
        JAMS 105
        Mass Media and Society
        Exploration of mass communication and the interrelationships of media with society including history, structure and trends in a digital age. Examines major media forms, theories and effects in our information-conscious culture.
          Plan 1: 3B. Humanities
          Plan 2: 4. Social and Behavioral Sciences