Michigan State University Media and Information Campuses

The Department of Media and Information at Michigan State University's East Lansing Main Campus offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate and graduate programs focused on the intersection of media, technology, and society. Students explore how media shapes communication, culture, and information dissemination in the digital age.

• MI 101: Introduction to Media and Information – This foundational course introduces students to the history, theories, and practices of media and information technologies, covering topics from print to digital platforms.
• MI 201: Media and Information Literacy – Emphasizes critical thinking skills for evaluating media content, understanding misinformation, and navigating online information ecosystems.
• MI 301: Digital Media Production – Hands-on training in creating multimedia content, including video editing, graphic design, and web development using industry-standard tools like Adobe Creative Suite.
• MI 320: Journalism Fundamentals – Covers reporting, writing, and ethical considerations in news production, with opportunities for real-world practice through campus media outlets.
• MI 350: Advertising and Public Relations – Explores strategic communication campaigns, audience analysis, and message crafting for persuasive media.
• MI 410: Data Journalism – Teaches data visualization, statistical analysis, and storytelling with data using tools like R and Tableau.
• MI 450: User Experience Design – Focuses on designing intuitive interfaces for digital products, incorporating human-centered design principles and usability testing.
• MI 490: Media Law and Policy – Examines legal frameworks governing media, including freedom of speech, intellectual property, and privacy issues in the information age.
• MI 510: Advanced Topics in Media Effects – Graduate-level seminar analyzing psychological and social impacts of media consumption on individuals and communities.
• MI 550: Information Policy and Management – Discusses governance of information resources, cybersecurity, and ethical data practices in organizational settings.

These courses integrate theoretical knowledge with practical skills, preparing students for careers in journalism, digital media, advertising, user experience design, and information policy. The curriculum emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches, drawing from communication, computer science, and social sciences. Students engage in capstone projects, internships, and research opportunities, often collaborating with faculty on cutting-edge studies in media innovation and societal impact. With access to state-of-the-art facilities like the Media Sandbox and Digital Humanities Lab, learners develop portfolios that showcase their expertise in emerging technologies such as AI-driven content creation and immersive storytelling. The department fosters a diverse, inclusive environment, encouraging exploration of global media perspectives and ethical responsibilities in information stewardship. Overall, the program equips graduates to address contemporary challenges like fake news, digital divides, and sustainable media practices, contributing to a more informed society.