Online Degrees in Media
Learn more about the online degrees offered by the University of Illinois College of Media.
Bachelor’s in Media (Online)
Understanding Today’s Media Landscape
The BA Media is a 100% online, flexible degree-completion program that draws from all three departments in the College of Media—Advertising, Journalism, and Media & Cinema Studies. Designed for students who have already started their academic journey, this program will give you a broad understanding of today’s media landscape, plus the applied skills employers are seeking. You’ll learn how to:
- Apply strategy, research, and communication methods across industries
- Analyze and evaluate media using cutting-edge tools
- Write, edit, and create ethical, culturally relevant content
- Develop audio, video, and digital storytelling projects
If you were not previously enrolled at the University of Illinois, you may apply as a transfer student to the BA Media program.
If you were previously enrolled at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign in any college, you may apply for admission to the BA Media program via a petition for re-entry directly to the College of Media.
Master’s in Journalism, Online Science and Technology Journalism Specialization
Communicate Science, Discoveries, and Innovations to the General Public
This flexible online program—with a focus on science and technology journalism—is offered through the University of Illinois Department of Journalism. This program is designed for communicators, journalists, scientists, and other working professionals in the science and technology industries who want to upskill and gain specialized training to advance in their careers.
- Take coursework in science journalism, humanizing science through video storytelling, communicating science with augmented reality or with virtual reality, writing for television and streaming news, intro to genomics, advanced science and technology reporting, and more
- Examine and report on the science of genomics and its applications to environment, health, and technology
- Work on professional news platforms and explore a topic in depth in your master’s project
Master’s in Strategic Brand Communication
Lead Brand Communications across All Channels and Drive Growth
Learn from faculty from both the Sandage Department of Advertising in the College of Media and the Department of Business Administration in the Gies College of Business, as well as from brand marketing, advertising and multimedia industry leaders. Customized for working professionals, earn your degree online in just 17 months.
- Strategically lead in an ever-changing, global multimedia environment
- Think in terms of developing innovative and integrative solutions
- Effectively manage brand messaging and content throughout diverse industries
- Respond effectively to new technologies, emerging media and market trends
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
Questions? Contact us!
If you have questions or would like to learn more, feel free to reach out to us!
BA Media:
media-online@illinois.edu
MS Journalism:
journmaster@illinois.edu
MS Strategic Brand Communication:
ms-sbc@illinois.edu