The Bachelor of Media Studies at Massey University offers students a comprehensive education in the dynamic and evolving field of media and communication. Designed to prepare graduates for a wide range of careers in journalism, digital media, public relations, advertising, broadcasting, and social media management, this programme combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills to ensure students are well-equipped for the industry. Throughout the course, students will explore the history, theories, and socio-cultural impacts of media, gaining a critical understanding of how media influences society and individuals. They will develop strong technical competencies, including writing, editing, filming, editing, and digital content creation, utilizing current industry-standard tools and platforms. The curriculum emphasizes media ethics, regulation, and the role of media in democracy and social change, fostering ethical and responsible media practitioners. Students have opportunities for hands-on learning through internships, projects, and collaborations with media organizations, allowing them to build professional networks and gain real-world experience. The programme also focuses on innovative media practices, such as multimedia storytelling, data journalism, and emerging digital technologies, preparing graduates for the rapidly changing media landscape. With expert faculty, modern facilities, and a supportive learning environment, the Bachelor of Media Studies at Massey University aims to produce flexible, critical thinkers and skilled communicators ready to make an impact in the media industry locally and globally. Whether pursuing further study or entering the workforce, graduates will be equipped with the knowledge, skills, and ethical foundation necessary for successful careers in media and communication industries.

The Media Studies major contains courses that explore the histories and theories of media and communication via the industries of television, cinema and print media, as well as new media such as the Internet. It is designed to be a stimulating discipline that prepares you for future challenges in an information rich society. You commence your studies by gaining an understanding of the broad concepts of media through the 100-level courses. As you go through to the more advanced courses these concepts are developed more fully and you can start to concentrate on specific areas in which you are interested.

A major in Media Studies consists of 135 credits (nine courses). At least 120 credits (8 courses) must come from 154 and 139 prefix courses.

Subject Courses

154.101 Introduction to Media Studies 
154.115 Stardom and Celebrity in the Media 
154.120 Transmedia Narrative and Storytelling 
172.131 Language and Communication 
139.275 Gothic 
146.206 Visual Ethnography 
154.201 Television Studies 
154.202 Advertising and Consumer Society 
154.203 Popular Culture and the Media 
154.204 Digital Media Production I 
154.205 Popular Music Studies 
154.206 Topics in Film History 
154.212 New Zealand Cinema 
154.215 Cult Media and Fandom 
154.222 The Art of the Film 
154.224 Documentary (Non-Fiction) Film 
154.228 Media History 
219.204 News Media Processes 
139.323 Media Script Writing 
139.376 Sexual/Textual Politics 
146.316 Visual Anthropology: Southasia and Global Issues 
154.301 Cultural Studies and the Media 
154.302 Gender and Race in the Media 
154.303 Hollywood Cinema 
154.304 Digital Media Production II 
154.308 Screen Fictions 
154.309 Communications and Culture 
154.311 Social Media and Digital Cultures 
154.312 Trauma and the Media 
154.313 Global Media Cultures 
154.314 Independent Media in the Information Age

A minor consists of 75 credits in Media Studies, including 15 credits at 300-level; 30 credits at 200- and/or 300-level; and 30 credits at any level from the Media Studies schedule.

Program requirements for the Bachelor of Media Studies at Massey University include a combination of core courses, elective options, and practical components designed to equip students with comprehensive knowledge and skills in media analysis, production, and communication. Students must complete a set number of credits, typically around 360, with core courses covering fundamental topics such as media theory, media history, digital media, and communication skills. Elective courses allow for specialization in areas such as journalism, advertising, film, and new media, enabling students to tailor their learning to their interests and career aspirations. Practical components often include media production projects, internships, and collaborative assignments that provide real-world experience. A key aspect of the program is developing critical thinking and analytical skills to examine the role of media in society, as well as the technical skills necessary for media creation and dissemination. Students are expected to attend lectures, tutorials, and workshops, participate actively in discussions, and complete assignments that demonstrate their understanding and competencies. The program also emphasizes ethical considerations in media practice and encourages students to explore the social and cultural impacts of media technologies. Assessment methods typically comprise essays, presentations, media productions, and examinations, with a strong emphasis on project-based work. Entry requirements may include a completed secondary school qualification with specific prerequisites, and students might be required to submit a personal statement or portfolio for admission considerations. Overall, the programme aims to produce graduates who are well-versed in media literacy, capable of critical analysis, and skilled in producing diverse media content suitable for the dynamic media industry.

The Massey University High Achiever scholarships were established to support new students enrolling at Massey University with a previous record of high achievement in the areas of: Academic, Arts, Sport. Thre are also other undergraduate scholarships available.

High achiever scholarships

Massey University Vice Chancellor's High Achiever Scholarship (Academic)

The Massey University Vice Chancellor's High Achiever Scholarship (Academic) was established to support new students enrolling at Massey University with a previous record of excellence in one or more subject areas and/or a record of merit in several subject areas.

Massey University Academy of Sport Scholarship

The Massey University Academy of Sport Scholarship was established to support new student athletes enrolling at Massey University with a previous record of high achievement in sport and who show future potential in their chosen sport.

Massey University Vice Chancellor's High Achiever Scholarship (Academic)

The Massey University Vice Chancellor's High Achiever Scholarship (Academic) was established to support new students enrolling at Massey University with a previous record of excellence in one or more subject areas and/or a record of merit in several subject areas.

Massey University Vice Chancellor's High Achiever Scholarship (Art)

The Massey University Vice Chancellor's High Achiever Scholarship (Arts) was established to support new students enrolling at Massey University with a previous record of excellence in one or more of the arts fields both inside and outside of the school context.

Massey University Academy of Sport Scholarship

The Massey University Academy of Sport Scholarship was established to support new student athletes enrolling at Massey University with a previous record of high achievement in sport and who show future potential in their chosen sport.

Massey University Albany Vice Chancellor's Natural Sciences Excellence Award

The Massey University Albany Vice Chancellor's Natural Sciences Excellence Award was established to support new students enrolling at the Albany campus, Massey University with a previous record of  academic excellence in the natural sciences. Recipients are expected to be committed to studying and completing the Bachelor of Natural Sciences degree.

Massey University Albany Vice-Chancellor’s Innovation and Academic Excellence Scholarship

The Massey University Albany Vice Chancellor's Innovation and Academic Excellence Scholarship was established to support new students enrolling fulltime at the Albany campus, Massey University who  are currently attending a North Shore or West Auckland secondary school who have a minimum of 20 NCEA L2 credits (or equivalent in CIE or IB) with a record of excellence or merit.

Massey Business School Future Leaders Scholarship

The Massey Business School Future Leaders Scholarship was established to recognise and support future leaders enrolling in full-time business programmes at Massey University who have a previous record of leadership and high academic achievement. 

Encouraging Kiwis into Engineering Massey University Full-Fees Scholarship

The Encouraging Kiwis into Engineering Massey University Full-Fees Scholarship was established to encourage more students into engineering, particularly those currently studying maths, physics, and/or chemistry. Applicants are expected to be studying NCEA Level 3 or equivalent in Mathematics with Calculus, Physics and perhaps also Chemistry; have involvement in extracurricular Science, Engineering or Technology and show leadership and creative skills.

The Bachelor of Media and Journalism at Massey University offers students a comprehensive education in the fields of media, journalism, and communication. This programme is designed to equip students with the practical skills and theoretical knowledge necessary to succeed in various media industries. The curriculum covers a broad range of topics including news reporting, media production, digital communication, media ethics, and the role of media in society. Students have the opportunity to develop competencies in writing, editing, video production, and critical analysis, preparing them for careers in journalism, broadcasting, media management, and digital content creation.

The programme emphasizes hands-on learning through workshops, media projects, and industry placements, providing real-world experience. Students learn to analyze media content critically, understand media law and ethics, and develop their own media projects. The Bachelor of Media and Journalism at Massey University also explores emerging trends in digital media, social media platforms, and new communication technologies, ensuring graduates are ready to adapt to a rapidly changing media environment. The programme encourages creativity, innovation, and ethical practice, fostering responsible media professionals who can operate in diverse media contexts.

Students have access to modern facilities and technical resources, including media labs and editing suites. The faculty members are experienced professionals and academics who bring industry insights into their teaching. The programme also offers opportunities for specialization in areas such as investigative journalism, multimedia storytelling, or media management. Upon graduation, students are well-prepared to enter various sectors within the media industry or to continue their studies at postgraduate level. The Bachelor of Media and Journalism promotes critical thinking, effective communication, and ethical responsibility, making it an attractive choice for individuals eager to pursue careers in a fast-paced and influential industry.