About the Undergraduate Media Psychology Major
We live in a tuned-in, plugged-in world of constantly evolving media technologies. From Snapchat and Instagram to Netflix and YouTube, we can’t escape it—and really don’t want to. It excites us, consumes our lives, and connects us to all that we do. And its far-reaching psychological impact still feels easily accessible.
The world needs experts who can decipher and guide the media’s impact on our lives, our society, and our world. Emerson College’s undergraduate Media Psychology BS program teaches students how to apply psychological science—the study of behavior and the mind—to understand media design, production, and consumption, as well as the relationship between people and the media they create and devour.
As a Media Psychology major in the School of Communication’s Department of Marketing Communication, you will:
- Observe how the major combines psychological theory and diverse modes of inquiry with an emphasis on a curious and creative mindset.
- Grow to become an educated media consumer and creator who understands media’s social and civic implications and use that knowledge to create a more inclusive society.
- Learn to question media design, distribution impact, and intent from many perspectives: storytelling, marketing, cultural and social criticism, and visual and media arts.
- Build a foundation in critical, creative, and collaborative thinking around media’s impact on issues of ethical practice, accessibility, equity, and inclusion.
Real-World Experience as a Media Psychologist
Media Psychology majors have ample opportunity to gain real-world learning experience. Here are a few examples:
- Many classes feature visits from industry professionals who offer firsthand perspectives on building a career in media psychology.
- Students can choose to participate in any of our 100+ extracurriculars and co-curriculars, including the American Marketing Association collegiate chapter and EmComm, a student-run agency.
- Boston is home to a variety of corporations, educational institutions, and nonprofit organizations, where students complete internships in advertising, user experience design, and policy making.
- Students work with real-life clients for a capstone project in their senior year.
Careers for Media Psychology Majors
Our Media Psychology graduates seek careers in a variety of fields, including education, media design and production, marketing, public policy, and healthcare. Examples of careers include:
- Advertising and Media Consultant
- Curriculum Designer
- Media Psychologist
- Public Relations Specialist
