Media, Technology and Ethics, MS

The MS in Media, Technology and Ethics combines analysis, problem-solving and hands-on projects that empower students to navigate the complex intersections of technology, media and ethics. Students will graduate with the intellectual concepts and practical skills to excel in diverse career paths in diverse industries including information technology, media, healthcare or advanced academic research.

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Photo by Charles Gauthier for the College of Arts, Media and Design / Northeastern University

The past decade has transformed technology into an essential layer of every industry. As society grapples with the opportunities and challenges posed by artificial intelligence, blockchain, cloud computing and more, this program offers a unique opportunity to engage critically and creatively with these advancements. An interdisciplinary approach allows students to explore the ethical, communicative and political dimensions of media technologies. This informs hands-on learning where students carry out research and creative projects to bridge analysis and real-world applications.

A range of courses give graduates the knowledge and expertise to succeed in high impact careers: problem-solving know-how, analytical skills, leadership and communication skills. Critical thinking skills learnt through case studies and real-world scenarios empower graduates to tackle complex technological and ethical challenges. In addition to applying creative strategies to solve pressing problems in media technologies, students gain the skills to lead conversations about the societal impact of media technologies in important industries such as media and healthcare.

The MS in Media, Technology and Ethics consists of 32 credit hours. For the Fall 2025 incoming cohort, the program will have a two-year plan of study.

Learning Outcomes

The program will guide students to:

  • Use empirical analysis to evaluate and critique the ethical and communicative dimensions of technology.
  • Articulate how social and cultural values shape how technology functions and how people use technology.
  • Use communication theories to effectively communicate ideas and arguments.
  • Produce, translate and apply communication/media research to complex problems.
  • Evaluate and critique the role of technology and communication practices in knowledge production.

Curriculum

Core Requirements

  • Media and Technology Ethics
  • Communication and Technology Research Methods
  • Critical Data Studies
  • Digital Technologies and Global Society
  • Democracy, Technology and Equality

Sample Electives

  • Technology and Strategic Communication
  • Media and Advocacy in Theory and Practice
  • Information Visualization Principles and Practices/Information Design Critique Seminar
  • Digital Media: Theory and Practice
  • Game Design and Analysis
  • AI Ethics

 

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Experiential Concentrations

In addition to the core requirements, students will complete one of the following experiential concentrations:

  • Applied Research
  • Civic Engagement and Policy
  • Data Visualization
  • Game Design
  • Information Ethics
  • Media Content

Additional Resources

Program Coordinator

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