COLLEGE PARK — The University of Maryland’s nationally renowned Philip Merrill College of Journalism will launch the Media, Technology and Democracy minor in Fall 2025.
The college’s first undergraduate minor will deepen students’ understanding of how media and technology influence society, and prepare them to navigate and shape the information landscape in any field.
The minor is an ideal pairing for UMD students pursuing careers in government, public policy, public health, business, communication or information of any kind. The application is now open to all UMD students. Click here to apply.
“We are excited to more widely open Merrill College’s doors to UMD students who hope to expand their fluency in such topics as social justice, social media, artificial intelligence, investigative journalism, censorship and disinformation, and the value of a free press,” Merrill College Dean Rafael Lorente said. “This program will help students navigate today’s complex media environment, identify and counter misinformation, and become better communicators and citizens.”
Students in the minor will explore the history of journalism, analyze the impact of emerging media technologies, sharpen their digital literacy skills, and examine how the news media shapes public understanding of politics, culture and society.
The 15-credit program includes one required course (JOUR200, Journalism History, Roles and Structures), one lower-level elective and three upper-level electives from a menu of options. While the five classes could be completed in one semester, Merrill College recommends two to four semesters.
Almost all classes required for the minor can transfer to the journalism major. Students who want to learn more about the minor, schedule an advising appointment or explore becoming a journalism major can contact the Merrill College Student Services team at jouradvising@umd.edu or 301-405-2399.
Click here for more information on the Media, Technology and Democracy minor.