Online Media Studies Certificate and Diploma Programs

While media studies certificate and diploma programs are rarely if ever offered online, individuals who are interested in media studies may consider enrolling in a certificate program for journalism, which offers coursework in media-related topics. Journalism certificate programs are available from a number of schools and can be completed entirely over the Internet.

Overview of an Online Certificate in Journalism

Media studies is a field that examines the realm of mass media, including styles and production processes, along with the influences of media on society. While Web-based programs specifically geared toward media studies are not widely available, prospective students may consider enrolling in an online certificate program for journalism, which covers legal and ethical issues in multimedia publishing, writing styles for various media, mass media issues and digital media platforms.

Information About the Program and Requirements

Most online certificate programs for journalism require 15 credits to fulfill graduation requirements. Students completing these distance-education programs will need to meet certain technical requirements, such as having reliable access to a computer that meets operating system and browser requirements, in addition to having consistent access to the Internet. Students may also need additional software, such as Microsoft Office, to complete coursework.

Common Certificate-Level Courses

Coursework is typically geared toward those who have experience in the field as well as those who are just starting out. Classes cover the writing styles found in journalism, such as feature writing, sports writing and news reporting. They also cover photojournalism, interviewing and the online writing marketplace.
Students completing the journalism certificate program online can access assignments and other resources through the school's website, in addition to having the opportunity to engage in discussions with other students and interact with instructors using message boards and e-mail.

Journalism and the Internet Course

A course exploring the relationship between journalism and the Internet examines how changes in technology and society have changed the field. Topics examine technological shifts, citizen journalism, social media, journalism's role in society and strategies for working in a digital environment.

Global Media Issues Course

A class in global media introduces students to international journalism and mass media. Coursework covers international mass media systems and issues, media ownership, regulations, international communications and the relationship between politics and the media in global communications.

Media Ethics Course

Lessons examine the legal and ethical aspects of communications, including the First Amendment, copyright issues and privacy. They also cover various interpretations of the law and how it relates to changes in technology.

Public Relations Course

This course looks at strategies used in both the public and private sector. Topics include changes in marketing and methods for effective communications in the digital age.

Continuing Education Information

Most individuals who pursue careers in writing find opportunities for advancement with experience and a portfolio of published work. Certificate-holders may wish to either take additional courses in website design or multimedia publishing to advance their skills or pursue degree programs in journalism, media studies, communications or a related field.

Career Information

As more industries turn to multimedia technologies and online media platforms, writers and editors with such backgrounds are expected to see an average rate of job growth at eight percent between 2008 and 2018, reports the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (www.bls.gov). As of 2010, median annual salaries for writers and authors ranged from $32,000 to $66,209, according to Payscale.com.