In Comparative Media Studies, we investigate and engage in the world’s complex media environment. We research multiple media forms and technologies, from books, pamphlets, and silent films to social media, virtual reality, and globally-networked games. We study the emerging media practices of states, corporations, social movements, fan communities, and everyday people. Embracing MIT’s motto of mens et manus, we design and create media through practice-based research labs. We examine media within the contexts of varied cultures, societies and social structures, and we critique and design media to empower communities. Above all, we are committed to an ethically and critically engaged approach to the study and production of media.
Research Themes
Our research groups, using a lab model, produce diverse projects. But collectively they work within themes of equity, critical design, and open collaboration.
Graduate program admissions paused for the 2021-2022 academic year
Because of the complexities and uncertainties presented by COVID-19, we have decided to pause admission to the CMS master’s program for this coming year.
Latest
Video: Mauricio Cordero, “BORDERx: A Crisis In Graphic Detail”
BORDERx is a comic anthology that examines the border crisis from a variety of points of view and narrative formats, featuring 70 contributors from all over the world.
Faculty opening: Assistant or Associate Professor, Media Studies, with focus on civic media
The application deadline is January 4, 2021, with a start date as early as July 1. Apply at academicjobsonline.org.
Video: Lana Swartz, “New Money: How Payment Became Social Media”
Alum Lana Swartz’s book New Money frames money as a media technology, one in major transition.
