Media Studies

Program Overview

Whether you want to study journalism or graphic design, radio and TV or multimedia, a degree in media studies from USF is for you. Careers in media require accuracy, flexibility, creativity and technology. At USF, you’ll learn all that plus the best ways to present yourself and your ideas – all with the values of a Christian university behind you.


Reasons to Major in Media Studies

Media dominates the modern world. You can bring your talent and faith into a media landscape that feels a bit like the Wild West sometimes. Are you and your media studies friends the ones to bring order, ethics and information to the world?

At USF, you’ll study with media studies faculty who are thought leaders in all areas of journalism, graphic design, multi-media, TV, radio and print media. Choose USF for the benefits of an accredited Christian university while gaining knowledge and skills valued in a variety of media studies careers.

  • Be clear and convincing through written and verbal communication.
  • Communicate and collaborate in any scenario at work.
  • Connect with others in both professional and personal relationships.
  • Grasp and use technical skills necessary for modern media.
  • Bring your faith, ethics and a spiritual worldview into your media career.

Media Studies Scholarships

  • High school seniors and those looking to enroll in the coming year as media studies majors and minors are eligible to submit a media portfolio for a media studies scholarship.
  • Successful portfolios can be housed on a website and include videos, graphics, PowerPoint presentations, Google Slides or PDFs. All submissions must be accessible digitally, either on a website or in a Google Drive or Dropbox folder.
  • Please send your portfolio link to FineArtsRecruiter@usiouxfalls.edu

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Outcomes


A degree in media studies offers graduates various career opportunities. They can work in journalism, reporting news stories for newspapers, magazines or online publications. Others pursue roles in broadcasting as radio or television hosts, producers or reporters. Some graduates enter the field of public relations, crafting communication strategies for businesses, nonprofits or government agencies to shape public perception. 

Opportunities also exist in advertising, where graduates can work as account executives, creative directors or media planners, developing campaigns to promote products or services. Additionally, graduates may pursue careers in digital media, content creation, social media management or media research. With their skills in communication, critical thinking, and creativity, graduates are well-prepared for diverse professions in the ever-evolving field of media.

Career Outlook

  • Average Salary: $60,925
  • Job Postings: 488

Average salary is based on a 2024 NACE Salary Survey. Job posting data is for social media specialists positions and is provided by Lightcast. This number represents unique job postings from companies looking to hire in the last 30 days as of May 2024.

Media Studies Degree Options

Major in media studies at USF, and you’ll build a foundation for your future. It all starts when you customize your bachelor’s degree program to your talents and career goals. Your media studies degree options include:

A.A.

Media Studies

An Associate of Arts in Media Studies is designed to provide students with a foundational understanding of media, including its history, theory and production techniques.

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B.A.

Media Studies

A Bachelor of Arts in Media Studies offers a comprehensive exploration of media forms, their histories and their cultural impacts.

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Minor

Media Studies

A media studies minor provides students with a focused yet comprehensive understanding of media, its history, production and cultural impact.

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B.A.

Sports Marketing and Media

A Bachelor of Arts in Sports Marketing and Media is an interdisciplinary program that combines principles of marketing, communication and media with a focus on the sports industry.

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Internships

Internship opportunities abound for USF Media Studies students at numerous Sioux Falls business and media outlets:

  • Sanford Marketing
  • Sanford Pentagon Video Production
  • Dakota Video and Post
  • Fresh Produce
  • Key Media Solutions
  • Insight Marketing Design
  • 605 Magazine
  • Sioux Falls television stations (KELO, KDLT and KSFY)
  • Results Radio
  • Lawrence & Schiller
  • Sioux Falls Design Center
  • Vision Video LLC
  • South Dakota Public Radio
  • DTSF – Downtown Sioux Falls

*In addition to industry, USF Media Studies students have found rewarding careers in law and academics.

Learning Outcomes

Careful study of the theory and practice of various media, including both text-based and electronic formats are incorporated into the major for the purposes of generation awareness about the power and limitations of those media, so that the next generation can better develop as a community of citizens rather than an amorphous mass of consumers.

Students will be able to think critically about issues, work and ideas in media studies. Students will be able to write for the media studies discipline, understand the major theoretical perspectives in their discipline and produce appropriate media material for their concentrations. Media studies graduates will have developed a philosophical position on the place for communication in culture.

Additional Resources

USF gives you opportunities beyond earning your degree. Explore what life is like for a USF student and learn more about paying for college.

Life At USF

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Campus Ministries

In Campus Ministries, we focus on loving Christ and serving Him. No matter what denomination you are, you'll feel welcome.

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Tuition & Costs

Explore our tuition and cost details to see how USF can be a feasible and rewarding choice for your academic journey.

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Financial Aid

USF is among the most affordable institutions in the region. We’re here to explain USF’s financial aid details, processes and options for all students.

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