BA in Media (Online)
Flexible Online Degree
Designed for working adults
Top Ranked
Illinois was ranked the #9 public university and the #33 national university in 2024-2025
U.S. News & World Report
Gain New Skills
Advance in your career and attract more opportunities
This 100% online, flexible degree-completion program draws from all three departments in the College of Media—Advertising, Journalism, and Media & Cinema Studies—to give students a broad understanding of today’s media landscape, plus the applied skills employers are seeking. You’ll learn how to:
- Analyze and evaluate media using cutting-edge tools
- Write, edit, and create ethical, culturally relevant content
- Develop audio, video, and digital storytelling projects
- Apply strategy, research, and communication methods across industries
Choose Your Pathway
Graduates are prepared for careers in media and beyond, including roles in business, government, nonprofits, and education where media and communication expertise is essential.
What are the requirements for admission?
- The Media, BA degree is open to students who have completed some undergraduate coursework at Illinois or another institution but did not earn a bachelor’s degree.
- A minimum GPA of 2.5 is expected, however, a holistic review will be conducted for each applicant considering academic and other experiences.
- Previous coursework or experience related to media is recommended but not required.
How do I apply?
- Students who were previously enrolled at the University of Illinois in any major, should complete the re-entry form and submit it directly to the College of Media.
- Students who are applying to the program from another institution should complete the transfer application through the Office of Undergraduate Admissions.
Do I need to take a full course load each semester?
- No! Students in the Bachelor of Arts in Media program may register for full-time student status, but are also able to enroll as part-time students, taking less than 12 credits each semester.
Questions? Contact us!
If you have questions or would like to learn more, feel free to reach out to Eddie Njoroge, the BA in Media program coordinator, at media-online@illinois.edu.