Academic Program

Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communication is the only program offered in the College of Communication in which the language of instruction is English. Other programs are taught mainly in Arabic. The Mass Communication program is presented in this English version of the Bulletin. Arabic-based programs are described in the Arabic version of the university bulletin. The Master of Arts in Communication program is described in the University Graduate Bulletin.

Career Opportunities

Because of the generalist nature of the Program, graduates have many career opportunities in public and private media companies in the UAE or abroad. Program graduates may work in TV and radio stations in careers such as media writing, translation, video shooting and editing, directing, program hosting. They may also work in newspapers, magazines, and advertising agencies in careers such as graphic and layout design or web design. Program graduates may work in public relations sections in any public or private company as well.

Program Overview

The B.A. in Mass Communication (MCE) is taught exclusively in English and involves a broad range of knowledge in Mass Communication. The program allows students to develop interest in certain areas of specializations through their graduation project. The MCE program includes both theoretical and practical/hands-on learning approaches. The program utilizes up-to-date facilities as broadcast studios, desktop publishing labs, iNews and multimedia labs and other instructional facilities that meet international standards in the field.  The program empowers students with media knowledge, critical thinking, and most importantly, understanding media issues in their socio-economic and global contexts, in addition to skills necessary to work and compete in an advanced technological and global environment.

Admission Requirements

Admission to the College of Communication is subject to satisfying the English proficiency requirement and the necessary academic preparation as described in the university admission section in this Bulletin. Applicants should refer to that section for details on the admission requirements. In addition to satisfying the university requirements, applicants aspired to join the College of Communication must submit to a personal interview.

Program Outcomes

By the end of the program the students will be able to:

1. Explain how digital and legacy media --as industries, makers of meaning, and shapers of society—operate.

2. Appraise key media policy and regulation debates that organize media and communication practices, with a focus on the principles of freedom of speech and press, diversity, and pluralism.

3. Apply research methods and techniques and be able to address a range of media texts, technological practices, audiences and relevant social issues.

4. Use and operate audio and video equipment and studios and demonstrate aptitude for videography, editing, and directing for radio and television.

5. Demonstrate skills of critical thinking to examine the roles and functions of media and communication technologies in contemporary society.

6. Prepare, design and produce content for print and digital newspapers and magazines using latest desktop publishing software, and employ photojournalism skills to tell stories with pictures and graphics using the latest graphics design and multimedia software.

7. Apply knowledge and skills in the media and communication professional environment through internship and other training settings, and appreciate the importance of leadership, team work and decision- making processes.

8. Understand the principles, processes and complexities associated with global communication, and critically scrutinize issues of globalization, ownership, and cultural identity.

9. Discuss media social responsibility and the ethical issues and standards within current and emerging media and communication practices.