Master of Arts in Media Studies and Practice (MAMSP)

30 Hours On Campus Masters Program

American University of Sharjah

Program Overview

The Master of Arts in Media Studies and Practice (MAMSP) at the American University of Sharjah is an interdisciplinary graduate degree blending media theory with hands‑on practice to prepare students for leadership roles across media, communication, journalism, and digital content fields. It suits aspiring media professionals and researchers who want advanced skills in media analysis, storytelling, strategic communication, and multimedia production in a global media environment.

Curriculum structure (30 Credit Hours):

Core Courses (12 Credit Hours):
Students complete foundational courses that develop their understanding of media theory and research. Courses such as MSP 501 Media Studies and MSP 510 Media Research Methods build critical analysis skills, media literacy, and proficiency in research methodologies. This stage ensures students have the theoretical grounding necessary to approach media from multiple perspectives and prepares them for applied practice.

Electives and Specializations (12 Credit Hours):
Students choose electives aligned with their professional and academic interests, including options like Advanced Digital and Social Media Skills, Advanced Documentary Filmmaking, and Advanced Multimedia Journalism. These courses allow students to explore specialized areas, develop technical expertise, and apply creative strategies in media production across digital, broadcast, and print platforms.

Thesis or Professional Project (6 Credit Hours):
The final segment consists of either a thesis (MSP 599 Master’s Thesis) or a professional project (MSP 598 Professional Project), where students integrate theory and practice to deliver a substantial research project or real-world media production. This capstone experience demonstrates mastery of advanced media studies concepts, critical thinking, and professional execution.

Focus areas:
Interdisciplinary media theory and practice, media research, digital media production, strategic communication, media law and ethics, documentary and multimedia storytelling.

Learning outcomes:
Graduates will be able to apply critical media theory, conduct robust media research, produce professional media content across platforms, communicate strategically and ethically in diverse media environments, and lead projects that address contemporary communication challenges.

Professional alignment (accreditation):
The MAMSP is offered by an institution licensed by the UAE Ministry of Education’s Commission for Academic Accreditation and part of a university that holds international accreditation and recognition, ensuring the degree is globally credible and meets rigorous quality standards.

Reputation (employability rankings):
The American University of Sharjah is ranked #272 in the QS World University Rankings 2026 and is recognized for strong employer reputation and international diversity, placing among the top institutions in the UAE and Arab region, which enhances graduates’ visibility to employers worldwide.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

In the Master of Arts in Media Studies and Practice at the American University of Sharjah, students develop practical, job-ready skills by working with the same tools, spaces, and workflows used in professional media environments. The program emphasizes learning by doing, combining media production, research, and collaboration so students graduate with real experience, confidence, and a strong portfolio. This hands-on approach is supported by dedicated media facilities, industry-standard software, and project-based coursework that connects theory directly to practice:

Use of the Media and Communication (MCM) Studio, a fully equipped production space with professional cameras, audio and vision mixers, and soundproof facilities for studio broadcasting and multimedia production
Access to Mac computer labs with industry-standard software such as Adobe Creative Cloud, supporting video editing, digital storytelling, graphic design, and multimedia projects
Collaborative group projects embedded in coursework, allowing students to work in teams on media research, content creation, and strategic communication projects
Opportunities for internships and professional engagement with media and communication organizations, helping students gain workplace experience and industry exposure
Completion of a Professional Project or Master’s Thesis, enabling students to apply their skills to an original research study or a substantial media production
Access to the AUS Library, which supports advanced media research through academic journals, digital databases, and specialized media studies resources

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the Master of Arts in Media Studies and Practice at the American University of Sharjah move into the media industry with a strong mix of analytical insight and practical experience. The program prepares students for roles such as media strategist, communications specialist, digital content producer, and media researcher, allowing them to work confidently across journalism, corporate communication, and digital media sectors:

Career support at AUS plays a key role in employability, with Career Services offering personalized career advising, CV and interview support, internship guidance, and access to job opportunities through the AUS career portal
Employer engagement and recruitment events, including the AUS Career Fair, connect students with regional and international organizations looking for media and communication talent
Industry connections and internships developed through the Department of Media and Communication help students gain hands-on experience with media organizations, often leading to long-term employment
Graduate employability outcomes are strengthened by AUS’s strong academic reputation and employer recognition, with alumni working in media, communication, public relations, research, and digital content roles across the UAE and internationally
Degree recognition and long-term value are supported by AUS’s accreditation by the UAE Ministry of Education, ensuring lasting academic and professional credibility

Further Academic Progression:
Graduates who wish to continue their studies can pursue doctoral programs in media, communication, or cultural studies, particularly if they are interested in research or academic careers. Others may choose to enhance their professional profile through specialized postgraduate certifications in areas such as digital media, strategic communication, or journalism.