Activist Media and Performance

Master of Arts in Media Studies:
Activist Media and Performance

In an effort to serve media activists and performers, we offer this special course of study in collaboration with the Drama, Theatre and Dance department. It is an opportunity for actors, dancers, writers, directors, technicians, set and costume designers, media makers, and performance studies scholars to study and practice performance and/or media as a form of social practice, activism, or community building.

It is appropriate for those pursuing careers in the performing arts, arts education, media arts, arts activism, or performing arts scholarship. The program specializes in the integration of media arts and performance with the department's mission of media studies and social justice, cultural change, climate justice, economic equality, and media activism. Artist-activists who have worked with us include Reverend Billy, The Yes Men, and the Center for Artistic Activism. 

Students can also receive credit for projects such as playwriting, theater productions, dance, choreography, public theater, media activism, augmented theater, community engagement, primary school workshops, internships with media or performing arts organizations, and teaching.

Students in this track apply for and earn the same MA in Media Studies as anyone else in the program, but can choose to take more electives in arts and performance, and do creative thesis productions. You may decide to mention your interest in your application, or choose to participate in these courses after you begin your studies.