Technology and Communication

The Bachelor of Arts in Technology and Communication at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill offers students a comprehensive exploration of the ways technology shapes human communication and society. This interdisciplinary program combines coursework in communication, information technology, media studies, and social sciences to prepare students for a rapidly evolving digital landscape. Students will develop critical skills in analyzing media content, understanding technological systems, and engaging with digital environments ethically and effectively. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on learning, including multimedia production, digital storytelling, and data analysis, alongside theoretical studies of communication theories and technological innovation. Throughout the program, students are encouraged to examine the impact of new media and digital technology on culture, politics, and social relationships. With access to state-of-the-art facilities and collaborations with industry partners, students gain practical experience in designing, implementing, and evaluating communication strategies in various contexts. The program also fosters critical thinking about the societal implications of advancing technologies, preparing graduates for careers in media production, digital marketing, public relations, technological development, and communication consultancy. Emphasizing both technical proficiency and social awareness, the Bachelor of Arts in Technology and Communication aims to produce versatile graduates equipped to thrive in diverse professional settings. Students are supported by dedicated faculty members who are experts in their fields, providing mentorship and guidance throughout their academic journey. Graduates of this program will be well-positioned to contribute thoughtfully and innovatively to the digital communication industries and to participate meaningfully in shaping the future of technology-mediated communication in a global context.

The MATC is a 30-credit program consisting of nine three-credit courses and a three-credit final project (non-traditional thesis). There is a set curriculum, meaning there is a prescribed list of courses that are designed to be taken in order. The MATC has no electives. Completion of the program should take 2 ½ years. 

Upon completion of coursework, students must take a written comprehensive examination to demonstrate mastery of the curriculum. The exam is given at the end of the spring semester of the second year of the program and may be taken at UNC or remotely.

• UNC Graduate School online application.
• Application fee (non-refundable $85). The Graduate School accepts credit card payments for online admission applications. Applications and fees must be received by the admissions deadline.
• Transcripts. Unofficial transcripts from all colleges and universities attended must be scanned and uploaded by the application deadline. Only applicants offered admission into the program submit official, sealed transcripts. Transcripts are required from every institution the applicant lists.  If transfer or study abroad courses appear on a main transcript and have no accompanying grades, a transcript will be required from the host institution. If grades are shown, then another transcript is not necessary.
• Graduate Record Examination scores. The Graduate School requires an official copy of test scores be sent directly from the testing service, but applicants can submit unofficial scores with their application. Test scores must be dated within five years of application or applicants must retake the exam. When taking the GRE, please note that UNC’s Institutional Code is R5816. Check the Graduate School website for more information on standardized test score requirements and average scores of admitted applicants.
• Resume. Applicants should include all communication-related work experience.
• Three letters of recommendation. Applicants provide email addresses for recommenders in the online application, triggering overnight an email from the application system to the recommender with instructions for electronically submitting a recommendation.  Recommendations should come from academic and/or professional sources best qualified to evaluate the applicant’s potential as a graduate student. Please note that recommendations must be submitted by your recommenders before the application deadline.
• A statement of reasons for pursuing the degree. Describe your career goals and research interests. Focus on how you think the MATC program will benefit you professionally and personally. Also address how you plan to incorporate a part-time master’s program into your schedule. Focus on time management strategies and your ability to meet the course demands and residency requirements. The statement should be double-spaced and no longer than three pages.

The application process is administered centrally by the UNC Graduate School at http://gradschool.unc.edu/admissions/instructions.html. Only complete applications can be considered for admission. Complete applications are defined as those accompanied by the $85 fee and containing unofficial transcripts, official GRE scores submitted by ETS, a resume, a statement of purpose, and, if necessary, TOEFL scores.

Admissions Interview

All applicants being considered for admission undergo an interview with the MATC Admissions Committee. These interviews will be conducted remotely via web-conferencing.

During the interview, special attention is given to the student’s academic and professional background as well as to his or her strategies for managing the program course load while meeting work and family responsibilities.

Scholarships

Federal financial aid is available for MATC students who are enrolled a minimum of 4.5 hours per semester and who show financial need. The aid is typically limited to federal loans.  No scholarships, grants, assistantships or fellowships are currently available through the UNC School of Media and Journalism.

The Bachelor of Science in Technology and Communication at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is a comprehensive program designed to equip students with the essential skills and knowledge required to excel in the rapidly evolving fields of technology and communication. This interdisciplinary degree combines foundational principles of information technology, media studies, and communication theory, enabling students to understand and navigate the complex digital landscape that underpins modern society and business.

The curriculum typically covers a broad range of topics including digital media production, information systems, cyber communication, data analysis, network security, and the social impact of technology. Students have opportunities to engage in hands-on projects, internships, and collaborative research that enhance their practical skills and prepare them for careers in media organizations, tech companies, public relations firms, and governmental agencies. The program emphasizes critical thinking, ethical considerations in technology use, and effective communication strategies across diverse platforms and audiences.

Graduates of this program are well-positioned to pursue careers in digital content creation, technology management, marketing, and communication consultancy. They may also choose to continue their education at the graduate level in fields such as information science, media studies, or business administration. The university provides state-of-the-art laboratories, multimedia facilities, and access to industry partnerships to enrich the educational experience. Overall, the Technology and Communication program at UNC Chapel Hill aims to cultivate innovative, aware, and adaptable professionals ready to contribute to a digitally interconnected world.