Merrill College to Launch Media, Technology and Democracy Minor in Fall 2025

The University of Maryland’s Philip Merrill College of Journalism will launch its first undergraduate minor, Media, Technology and Democracy, in Fall 2025. The program 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 may be of interest to UMD students pursuing careers in government, public policy, public health, business, communication or information. The application is now open to all UMD students.

“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 — “Journalism History, Roles and Structures” (JOUR200) — one lower-level elective and three upper-level electives from a menu of options.

Almost all classes required for the minor can transfer to the journalism major. Students who want to learn more about the minor or schedule an advising appointment can contact the Merrill College Student Services team at jouradvising@umd.edu or 301.405.2399.