Critical Media Studies
Undergraduates begin their coursework at the Bass School based in the foundations of computer animation, game studies, UX/UI design, motion graphics, digital fabrication, and media histories. Beginning their third year of study, students have the option to select a concentration in Animation and Games, Critical Media Studies, or Emerging Media Arts.
Students who wish to specialize in Critical Media Studies (CMS) within the Arts, Technology, and Emerging Communication major may apply to be admitted into the CMS concentration after consultation with their Academic Advisor. Critical Media Studies investigates how media and communication technologies intersect with public thought and social relations. CMS explores how we can engage technologies to transform the world into a more just and equitable one. CMS students combine theoretical explorations and research with media production and critical making.
Faculty in CMS have expertise in disability studies, media theory, queer media, maker culture, critical play, education, global media, race and ethnicity, eco media, and popular culture. The coursework for the Bass School’s BA concentration in Critical Media Studies and the MA with Emerging Media Studies can be combined with a broad range of electives to prepare students for careers in fields such as media law and policy; social justice and advocacy work; investigative research and journalism; broadcasting; social media and public relations; teaching, cultural administration, content creation, and graduate school, among others.
Our graduates make a difference working with corporations like Amazon, Children’s Health, Google, IBM, The Home Depot, Tik Tok, Women Who Code, and Yahoo in the fields of digital communications, human resources, nonprofit management, radio technical direction, product design, social media management, and UX design. Others choose to continue their education and find placement at prestigious graduate programs, including the University of Illinois, the Pratt Institute, and others.
View the UT Dallas undergraduate catalogue for the BA in ATEC with Critical Media Studies courses.
Featured Projects
Students and faculty explore the evolution of media and technology to create innovations that shape how we live, work, and play. We are makers who learn through doing. We believe that making is a method, a process, and a way of thinking. The Bass School’s maker-culture blends art, technology, the humanities, science, robotics, and programming to design technological experiences that shape the future.
Learn about these projects and future-making at the Bass School.
Research Labs & Creative Practice Studios
We believe if you can imagine it, we can make it. At the Bass School students use critical analysis, creative thinking, and ethical reasoning to explore the how and why of media. Students and faculty conduct art-based research in one of 19 research labs and creative practice studios. At the Bass School students are encouraged to explore new interests, sharpen skills, and build their portfolios.
Learn about the Bass School’s Research Labs and creative practice studios.
Alumni Spotlight
Alum Katie Risor reflects on her experience winning Spring 2018 Best Capstone award for her Critical Media Studies project Langford’s Pocket Guide to Creatures, Critters, and Cryptids: La Lechuza. The project examines folklore (tales and craft) using narrative and form to remix and adapt the legend of La Lechuza through a feminist and creative lens. Risor uses online communities and connectivity to inform a creative expression that is handmade.