What is Media Law?

Media law is the practice, study, and theory of law pertaining to mass media and interactive media. Media law is a subset of communications law and deals with issues that arise when new and old forms of media collide with legal systems around the world. How intellectual property relates to the creation and distribution of music, literature, film, television, radio, and the Internet has developed a need for professionals who understand how to navigate through complex legal systems in a rapidly changing world.

Media law is a relatively new field of study. It emerged from the growing demands of the entertainment industry. Media lawyers are generally employed by media owners or creators to handle issues arising from any number of laws ranging from copyright, privacy, defamation, and taxation to rights of publicity or employment agreements.

Why study Media Law?

Many students take media law courses as part of their undergraduate degree but often pursue the subject further at the postgraduate level. A master’s degree in media law can either be taken through an institution's graduate school or through law school. Students who wish to specialize exclusively in legal issues related to mass media can do so at the doctoral level. A doctoral degree in media law equips individuals with the necessary training to analyze and apply legal principles to communications issues using a combination of theoretical and practical approaches.

What careers are available in Media Law?

Once a student completes a course in media law, there are many career choices available. These can include working as a copyright lawyer, media consultant, entertainment lawyer, or intellectual property attorney. Other possibilities include a career in journalism or public relations.

The USA is home to some of the world's top universities. Students can expect a diverse, innovative, and engaging student experience. The country emphasizes accessibility and quality independent research, allowing students to push the limits of their field should they want to.

American English is extremely dominant in the USA, so classes will likely be in English, with a few exceptions. This means that many schools will ask for proof of English proficiency through the TOEFL iBT test before admitting international students.

Additionally, American landscapes and environments allow students to study where they can feel comfortable. From crowded urban centers to tropical areas, the USA has it all!

LLM is Latin for legum magister, signifying Master of Laws. LLMs are advanced professional degrees typically completed by individuals who already hold an undergraduate degree in Law or a related subject.