Major in Global Media (Bachelor of Science in Global Media)

Students on Fall 2026, Spring 2027, or Summer 2027 requirements GLBMEDIABS

Requirements

The major requires at least 69 credit hours, including the requirements listed below.

Global Media. 18 credit hours:
1. Introduction to Global Media.
  1. Media. One (1) course:
    - MSCH-C 101 Media
    MSCH-C 101 Media
    Credits
    3
    Prerequisites
    None
    Description
    Examines the role media play in our lives-at work, at school, among family members, friends, and lovers-and analyzes pressing issues in media and society today, such as privacy, globalization, and convergence.
    
    Fall 2026CASE SHcourse
  2. Introduction to International Studies. One (1) course:
    - INTL-I 100 Introduction to International Studies
    INTL-I 100 Introduction to International Studies
    Credits
    3
    Prerequisites
    None
    Description
    This introductory, interdisciplinary course exposes students to the various academic approaches essential to international studies and to the various concentrations that comprise the major.
    
    Fall 2026CASE SHcourse
2. Strategic Communication Foundations. One (1) course:
  - MSCH-C 203 Foundations of Journalism
  - MSCH-C 208 Principles of Public Relations
  MSCH-C 203 Foundations of Journalism
  
  Credits
  3
  Prerequisites
  None
  Description
  A robust introduction to the field of journalism and the underlying principles of journalism. Explores the role of journalists and media in American society, the influences of news and entertainment media on audiences, and the role of journalism in modern media environments.
  
  MSCH-C 208 Principles of Public Relations
  
  Credits
  3
  Prerequisites
  None
  Description
  Introduction to public relations. Examines theory and practice of public relations, how public relations operates in organizations, and its impact on stakeholders and society. Topics include approaches to persuasion, media relations, crisis communication, reputation management, and ethics.
  Repeatability
  Credit given for only one of JOUR-J 321, MSCH-C 208, or MSCH-R 321.
3. Media Reporting in a Global World. One (1) course:
  - MSCH-C 206 Media Reporting in a Global World
  MSCH-C 206 Media Reporting in a Global World
  
  Credits
  3
  Prerequisites
  None
  Description
  The goal of the course is for students to understand and articulate the issues in global journalism and the role of the media as a participant in shaping societies.
  Repeatability
  Credit given for only one of JOUR-J 206 or MSCH-C 206.
4. Media Skills and Content.
  1. Story Lab I. One (1) course:
    - MSCH-C 250 Story Lab I
    MSCH-C 250 Story Lab I
    
    Credits
    3
    Prerequisites
    None
    Description
    Intensive, hands-on course introduces storytelling skills, techniques and tools for effective media creation in a digital, multi-platform environment and provides the knowledge and skills needed for success in higher-level, more specialized courses of study across the Media School curriculum, including advertising, digital media, journalism, and public relations.
    Grading
    Students are able to earn credit for only one of the following: MSCH-C 250; JOUR-J 210; MSCH-C 226; MSCH-C 21001
  2. Story Lab II. One (1) course:
    - MSCH-C 251 Story Lab II
    MSCH-C 251 Story Lab II
    
    Credits
    3
    Prerequisites
    MSCH-C 250
    Description
    Intensive, hands-on course focuses on journalistic techniques for storytelling in a digital environment. Topics include audio and visual collection and editing, broadcast-style writing and voicing, interviewing, newswriting, reporting and verification techniques, social media and story development, principles of data, ethics and law in newsgathering and strategic communications contexts.
    Repeatability
    Credit given for only one of MSCH-C 251, MSCH-C 225, or MSCH-H 225.
Career Development. Three (3) credit hours:
1. Media School Career Planning. One (1) course:
  - MSCH-C 150 Media School College and Career Preparation
  MSCH-C 150 Media School College and Career Preparation
  Credits
  1
  Prerequisites
  None
  Description
  Provides information on how to succeed in the Media School and prepare for careers in the media industry. Explores ways to connect academic experiences with internship and job opportunities. Highlights the array of media careers and presents insights on industry expectations for interviewing, portfolios, and resumes.
  Fall 2026CASE CR1course
2. Global Media Career Development. One (1) course:
  - MSCH-I 325 Global Media Career Development
  MSCH-I 325 Global Media Career Development
  Credits
  2
  Prerequisites
  Must be a Global Media or News Reporting and Editing Major
  Description
  Provides students majoring in global media with key insights into career pathways and preparation. Students learn about internship and job structures within global media, develop networking connections with alumni and professionals in that area, and craft portfolios and resumes appropriate for their chosen pathways into the industry.
  Grading
  S/F grading.
  Fall 2026CASE CR2course
Law, Research, and Ethics. 15 credit hours:
1. Communications and International Law. Two (2) courses:
  - INTL-L 250 Introduction to International Law and Legal Institutions
  - MSCH-J 300 Communications Law
  INTL-L 250 Introduction to International Law and Legal Institutions
  
  Credits
  3
  Prerequisites
  None
  Description
  Introduces the central instruments and methodological tools of international law through study of international law cases, major treaties, and key institutions such as the United Nations and the International Criminal Court.
  MSCH-J 300 Communications Law
  Credits
  3
  Prerequisites
  A grade of C- or higher in MSCH-C 101 or consent of instructor
  Description
  Explores history and philosophy of laws pertaining to free press and free speech. Covers censorship, libel, contempt, obscenity, right of privacy, copyright, government regulations, and laws affecting the Internet and social media. Stresses responsibilities and freedoms in a democratic communications systems.
  Repeatability
  Credit given for only one of MSCH-H 300 or MSCH-J 300.
  Fall 2026CASE SHcourse
2. Media as Ethical and Social Institutions. One (1) course:
  - MSCH-J 410 The Media as Ethical and Social Institutions
  MSCH-J 410 The Media as Ethical and Social Institutions
  Credits
  3
  Prerequisites
  C- or higher in MSCH-C 251 and MSCH-J 300 and junior or senior standing; or consent of instructor
  Description
  Examines functions and influences of news and public relations professionals in a networked society with primary focus on the United States. Analyzes professional and ethical values of journalists and public relations practicioners working in a digital, participatory media environment. Critical analysis of the relationship of media institutions and society, and the effects of political, economic, and cultural factors on media professionalism.
  Repeatability
  Credit given for only one of JOUR-J 410 or MSCH-J 410.
  Fall 2026CASE AHcourse
3. Global Journalism Research. One (1) course:
  - MSCH-J 448 Global Journalism: Issues and Research
  MSCH-J 448 Global Journalism: Issues and Research
  Credits
  3
  Prerequisites
  At least junior standing; or consent of instructor
  Description
  Structure and function of international communication systems and barrier to flow of information among nations. Emphasis on gathering and disseminating information around the world. Study of the major newspapers of the world, international news agencies, and international broadcasting and satellite networks.
  Repeatability
  Credit given for only one of JOUR-J 448 or MSCH-J 448.
  Fall 2026CASE SHcourse
4. Statistics for Journalists. One (1) course:
  - STAT-S 211 Statistics for Journalists
  STAT-S 211 Statistics for Journalists
  Credits
  3
  Prerequisites
  None
  Notes
  R: Mastery of high school algebra; or MATH-M 014
  Description
  Essential statistical concepts and tools for journalists in the age of data, including probability, graphics, descriptive statistics, prediction, study design, comparison, testing, and estimation. The course has a heavier emphasis on writing and reading media reports than other introductory statistics courses.
  Fall 2026CASE NMcourse
Advanced Media Skills. Nine (9) credit hours:
1. Story Lab III. One (1) course:
  - MSCH-J 301 Story Lab III
  MSCH-J 301 Story Lab III
  
  Credits
  3
  Prerequisites
  A grade of C- or better in MSCH-C 203 and MSCH-C 251, or consent of instructor
  Description
  Intended for journalists, content creators, and content managers as they further develop their skills in story conception and design, fluency in verbal and written flair, and information gathering. Provides a bridge from Story Lab II to mastery-level courses in journalism and media.
2. Journalism Skills/Mastery Courses. Two (2) courses:
  - MSCH-J 385 On-Demand Video News Reporting and Producing
  - MSCH-J 401 Depth Reporting and Editing
  - MSCH-J 402 Depth Photojournalism
  - MSCH-J 404 Depth Multimedia
  - MSCH-J 408 Investigative Reporting
  - MSCH-J 414 Narrative Journalism
  - MSCH-J 415 Literary Journalism
  - MSCH-J 416 Story Mechanics
  - MSCH-J 426 Reporting on Fashion, Beauty, and Lifestyle
  - MSCH-J 431 Advanced Podcasting and Audio Storytelling
  - MSCH-J 444 Advanced Photojournalism
  - MSCH-J 464 Infographics
  - MSCH-J 465 Graphic Design II
  MSCH-J 385 On-Demand Video News Reporting and Producing
  
  Credits
  3
  Prerequisites
  A grade of C- or higher in MSCH-J 353
  Description
  Advanced video journalism storytelling for dissemination on a variety of platforms, including traditional studio broadcasting. Emphasis on writing, reporting, editing and performance techniques. Producing television news stories and curriculum-based news programs in field and studio environments for conventional and innovative on-demand broadcast story forms.
  Repeatability
  May be repeated for a maximum of 9 credit hours.
  
  MSCH-J 401 Depth Reporting and Editing
  
  Credits
  3
  Prerequisites
  C- or better in MSCH-C 251, or consent from instructor
  Description
  Study and practice in using depth reporting techniques including immersion and investigative reporting in collaboration with photographers and multimedia specialists. Students learn to pitch, shape and focus story ideas that forge words and pictures into multimedia presentations. Class will plan, report and edit news stories in depth.
  Repeatability
  May be repeated for a maximum of 6 credit hours in JOUR-J 401 and MSCH-J 401.
  
  MSCH-J 402 Depth Photojournalism
  
  Credits
  3
  Prerequisites
  C- or higher in MSCH-C 251, or consent from instructor
  Description
  Study and practice in using techniques of photojournalism reporting and editing in collaboration with writers and multimedia specialists. Students learn to pitch, shape and focus story ideas that forge words and pictures into multimedia presentations. Class will plan, report, and edit news stories in depth.
  Repeatability
  May be repeated with a different topic for a maximum of 6 credit hours.
  
  MSCH-J 404 Depth Multimedia
  
  Credits
  3
  Prerequisites
  C- or higher in MSCH-C 250, or consent from instructor
  Description
  Study and practice in using techniques of multimedia reporting in collaboration with writers and photographers. Students learn to pitch, shape and focus story ideas that forge words and pictures into multimedia presentations. Class will plan, report and edit news stories in depth.
  Repeatability
  May be repeated with a different topic for a maximum of 6 credit hours.
  
  MSCH-J 408 Investigative Reporting
  
  Credits
  3
  Prerequisites
  C- or higher in MSCH-C 251, or consent of instructor
  Description
  Examines the heritage, tools and techniques of investigative reporting. Part seminar and part practicum, includes critical contemplation of philosophical, ethical, and legal issues; intensive work with public records; an introduction to data journalism; and practical experience producing a collaborative investigative project.
  
  MSCH-J 414 Narrative Journalism
  
  Credits
  3
  Prerequisites
  C- or higher in MSCH-C 251, or consent of instructor.
  Description
  Advanced journalism course focused on the conceptualization, creation, and execution of multiple major stories. Fosters development of professional reporting approaches to enterprise stories and profiles and requires adherence to strict deadlines while effectively developing story ideas, avoiding errors, and creating work ready for professional publication.
  
  MSCH-J 415 Literary Journalism
  
  Credits
  3
  Prerequisites
  C- or higher in MSCH-C 251, or consent from instructor
  Description
  A study of literary forms and techniques used in journalism. Topics to be considered include formal considerations such as voice and structure, reporting methods and ethical issues. Students will supplement reading with writing experimental pieces of their own.
  Repeatability
  Credit given for only one of JOUR-J 415 or MSCH-J 415.
  
  MSCH-J 416 Story Mechanics
  
  Credits
  3
  Prerequisites
  C- or higher in MSCH-C 251, or consent from instructor
  Description
  Newsroom-style journalism course that focuses on the production of a unique, large-scale enterprise story intended for publication, while also honing the habits, instincts, and confidence journalists need for developing story ideas. Emphasizes the cooperative revision process involved in producing work for professional publications.
  
  MSCH-J 426 Reporting on Fashion, Beauty, and Lifestyle
  
  Credits
  3
  Prerequisites
  C- or higher in MSCH-J 326 or MSCH-J 353, or consent from instructor
  Description
  Focuses on covering fashion trends, fashion designers, and key issues related to fashion. Covers theoretical concepts related to multimedia storytelling, visual communication, business reporting, audience effects, social media analysis, and public relations and applies these concepts through hands-on experiences in multimedia reporting.
  
  MSCH-J 431 Advanced Podcasting and Audio Storytelling
  
  Credits
  3
  Prerequisites
  MSCH-J 331 or consent of instructor
  Description
  Imparts an understanding of how audio production and editing work in a professional setting. Hones the technical skills required for production. Focuses on improving work quality, developing the speed and efficiency required in professional settings, and learning the critical listening skills needed to edit individually and in collaboration.
  
  MSCH-J 444 Advanced Photojournalism
  
  Credits
  3
  Prerequisites
  A grade of C- or higher in MSCH-J 344
  Description
  Advanced techniques of reporting and interpreting news with photography practice in news, sports, features, photographic essays, color photography, electronic imaging, and studio illustration.
  Repeatability
  Credit given for only one of JOUR-J 444 or MSCH-J 444.
  
  MSCH-J 464 Infographics
  
  Credits
  3
  Prerequisites
  C- or higher in MSCH-J 365, or consent of instructor
  Description
  Analysis of quantitative data and creation of visual informational graphics for media audiences. Introduction to interactive data visualization through scripting and online tools. Creation of chart packages, data maps and explanatory diagrams for publication to mass and targeted audiences.
  Repeatability
  Credit given for only one of JOUR-J 464 or MSCH-J 464.
  
  MSCH-J 465 Graphic Design II
  
  Credits
  3
  Prerequisites
  C- or higher in MSCH-J 365, or consent of instructor
  Description
  Continues from Graphic Design I, incorporating advanced digital graphic design skills and creative problem solving for a series of media projects using illustration, logo design, creative typography and layout in a variety of media formats including print and interactive design for mobile devices.
  Repeatability
  Credit given for only one of JOUR-J 465 or MSCH-J 465.
International Studies. 18 credit hours:
1. International Studies Skills. Six (6) credit hours:
  - INTL-I 202 Global Health and Environment
  - INTL-I 203 Global Development
  - INTL-I 204 Human Rights and International Law
  - INTL-I 205 Culture and Politics
  - INTL-I 206 Peace and Conflict
  - INTL-I 210 Diplomacy, Security, Governance
  INTL-I 202 Global Health and Environment
  Credits
  3
  Prerequisites
  None
  Description
  Examination of pressing health and environmental challenges around the world, such as deforestation, climate change and the spread of infectious diseases. Focuses on the interaction of health and environmental problems that cross national borders and require a multinational or global effort to solve.
  Fall 2026CASE GCCcourse
  
  Fall 2026CASE SHcourse
  INTL-I 203 Global Development
  Credits
  3
  Prerequisites
  None
  Description
  Focuses on the interaction between social, political, and economic forces and human development at global, national, and subnational scales; introduces theoretical perspectives on economic development and the function of markets.
  Fall 2026CASE SHcourse
  INTL-I 204 Human Rights and International Law
  Credits
  3
  Prerequisites
  None
  Description
  Focuses on human rights discourse and the role international law, treaties and conventions play in addressing these rights globally. Course is interdisciplinary in theory and method.
  Fall 2026CASE GCCcourse
  
  Fall 2026CASE SHcourse
  INTL-I 205 Culture and Politics
  Credits
  3
  Prerequisites
  None
  Description
  Examines culture and governance on an international scale, considering how governments, markets, and international organizations deploy or use culture, and how people turn to cultural resources to resist attempts to govern them and/or to assert their own political aims.
  Fall 2026CASE GCCcourse
  
  Fall 2026CASE SHcourse
  INTL-I 206 Peace and Conflict
  Credits
  3
  Prerequisites
  None
  Description
  Examines concepts of nationalism and state ideology that shape the world's collective identities and contribute to conflicts nationally and internationally.
  Fall 2026CASE GCCcourse
  
  Fall 2026CASE SHcourse
  INTL-I 210 Diplomacy, Security, Governance
  Credits
  3
  Prerequisites
  None
  Description
  Examines the development of the modern state and the role of international organizations in maintaining global security and promoting global governance. Addresses issues of political and cultural diplomacy and their effect in international disputes.
  Fall 2026CASE SHcourse
2. Advanced International Studies Course Work. 12 credit hours:
  - Any INTL-I 300–399
  - Any INTL-I 400–499
  - Any INTL-L 300–399
  - Any INTL-L 400–499
  - Any INTL-X 300–399
  - Any INTL-X 400–499
International Area Studies. Six (6) credit hours:
1. Two non-language area studies courses, focused on the same region, at the 100–400 level from one of the following departments or subjects:
  - Any AFRI-A 100–499
  - Any AFRI-B 100–499
  - Any AFRI-K 100–499
  - Any AFRI-L 100–499
  - Any AFRI-S 100–499
  - Any AFRI-W 100–499
  - Any AFRI-X 100–499
  - Any AFRI-Y 100–499
  - Any CEUS-C 100–499
  - Any CEUS-R 100–499
  - Any CEUS-T 100–499
  - Any CEUS-X 100–499
  - Any EALC-C 100–499
  - Any EALC-E 100–499
  - Any EALC-H 100–499
  - Any EALC-J 100–499
  - Any EALC-K 100–499
  - Any EALC-X 100–499
  - Any INST-B 100–499
  - Any INST-H 100–499
  - Any INST-I 100–499
  - Any INST-L 100–499
  - Any INST-M 100–499
  - Any INST-S 100–499
  - Any INST-T 100–499
  - Any INST-U 100–499
  - Any INST-X 100–499
  - Any LTAM-C 100–499
  - Any LTAM-L 100–499
  - Any LTAM-M 100–499
  - Any LTAM-Q 100–499
  - Any LTAM-X 100–499
  - Any MELC-A 100–499
  - Any MELC-E 100–499
  - Any MELC-M 100–499
  - Any MELC-X 100–499
  - Any REEI-R 100–499
  - Any REEI-X 100–499
  - Any SEAS-B 100–499
  - Any SEAS-F 100–499
  - Any SEAS-I 100–499
  - Any SEAS-S 100–499
  - Any SEAS-T 100–499
  - Any SEAS-V 100–499
  - Any SEAS-X 100–499
Additional Requirements*.
1. Foreign Language Requirement**. One of the following:
  - Proficiency in a single foreign language through the second semester of the third year of college-level coursework (6 semesters)
  - Proficiency in a single foreign language through the second semester of the second year of college-level coursework and another foreign language through the second semester of the first year (4 + 2 semesters)
  - Must take a language connected to the selected area studies region, approved in advance by the Director of Undergraduate Studies
2. Overseas Experience.
  - Overseas experience of at least 6 weeks duration, approved in advance by the unit’s Director of Undergraduate Studies OR Participation in at least 3 credit hours of an international travel course or study abroad work.
Major Hours and Minimum Grade Requirements.
1. Major Residency. At least 18 credit hours in the major must be completed in courses taken through the Indiana University Bloomington campus or an IU-administered or IU co-sponsored Overseas Study program.
2. Major Upper Division Courses. At least 18 credit hours in the major must be completed at the 300-499 level.
3. Minimum Grade. A grade of C- or higher is required for a course to count toward a requirement in the major.

Notes

* Courses used to fulfill additional requirements do not count toward the Major GPA or Major Hours
** Non-native speakers of English may petition the Director of Undergraduate Studies for exemption from third-year language study.

Major Area Courses

Unless otherwise noted below, the following courses are considered in the academic program and will count toward academic program requirements as appropriate:
- Any course at the 100–499 level with the MSCH subject area prefix—as well as any other subject areas that are deemed functionally equivalent
- Any course contained on the course lists for the academic program requirements at the time the course is taken—as well as any other courses that are deemed functionally equivalent—except for those listed only under Addenda Requirements
- Any course directed to a non-Addenda requirement through an approved exception

This program of study cannot be combined with the following:

Area Certificate in New Media and Interactive Storytelling [NMISTACRT1]
Major in Cinematic Arts (Bachelor of Fine Arts) [CINEARTBFA]
Major in Game Design (Bachelor of Science) [GAMEDSGNBS]
Major in International Law and Institutions (Bachelor of Arts) [INTLWINBA]
Major in International Studies (Bachelor of Arts) [INTLBA1]
Major in International Studies (Bachelor of Arts)/Master of Arts in International Studies [INTSBAMABA]
Major in International Studies (Bachelor of Science) [INTLBS1]
Major in Journalism (Bachelor of Arts in Journalism) [JOURBAJ]
Major in Media (Bachelor of Arts) [MEDIABA]
Major in Media Advertising (Bachelor of Science) [MEDIAADVBS]
Major in Public Relations (Bachelor of Science) [PBLCRELNBS]
Major in Sports Media (Bachelor of Science) [SPTMEDIABS]
Minor in Black Cinema and Media Studies [BLKCNMDMIN]
Minor in Cinema and Media Studies [CNMDASTMIN]
Minor in Fashion Media [FAMEDIAMIN]
Minor in Film Production [FILMPRDMIN]
Minor in Game Design [GAMEDSNMIN]
Minor in Global Media [GLVMDIAMIN]
Minor in International Studies [INTLMIN]
Minor in Media and Diversity [MDIADIVMIN]
Minor in Media Persuasion [MDIAPRSMIN]
Minor in Media, Sex and Gender [MDGNDRMIN]
Minor in Public Relations [PBLCRELMIN]
Minor in Sports Media [SPORTMDMIN]
[Name unavailable] [MDCRADMIN]
[Name unavailable] [MDLWETMIN]

Exceptions to and substitutions for major requirements may be made with the approval of the unit's Director of Undergraduate Studies, subject to final approval by the College of Arts and Sciences.

The Bachelor of Science degree requires at least 120 credit hours, to include the following:

College of Arts and Sciences Credit Hours. At least 100 credit hours must come from College of Arts and Sciences disciplines.
Upper Division Courses. At least 36 credit hours (of the 120) must be at the 300–499 level.
College Residency. Following completion of the 60th credit hour toward degree, at least 36 credit hours of College of Arts and Sciences coursework must be completed through the Indiana University Bloomington campus or an IU-administered or IU co-sponsored Overseas Study program.
College GPA. A College grade point average (GPA) of at least 2.000 is required.
CASE Requirements. The following College of Arts and Sciences Education (CASE) requirements must be completed:
1. CASE Foundations
  1. English Composition: 1 course
  2. Mathematical Modeling: 1 course
2. CASE Breadth of Inquiry
  1. Arts and Humanities: 3 courses
  2. Natural and Mathematical Sciences: 3 courses
  3. Social and Historical Studies: 3 courses
3. CASE Culture Studies
  1. Diversity in the United States: 1 course
  2. Global Civilizations and Cultures: 1 course
4. CASE Foreign Language: Proficiency in a single foreign language through the second semester of the second year of college-level coursework
5. CASE Intensive Writing: 1 course
6. CASE Career Readiness
  1. Career Readiness 1: 1 course
  2. Career Readiness 2: 1 course
Major. Completion of the major as outlined in the Major Requirements section above.

Most students must also successfully complete the Indiana University Bloomington General Education program.

Major in Global Media (Bachelor of Science in Global Media)

Requirements

Major hours

Major Area Courses

Restrictions on combining this major with other academic programs

Major requirement exceptions and substitutions