Understanding media and communication – from creator to consumer.
This BA (Hons) Media and Communication degree takes you through the intricacies, history, and future of the media and communications that we create and receive every day.
With a broad range of modules, the course combines theory and practice to provide you with the knowledge and skills needed for employment in an extensive variety of industries. Examples include the creative and cultural industries, marketing, journalism, management, public relations, press offices, and more.
Carefully curated by Northumbria’s leading media practitioners, theoreticians and historians, the BA (Hons) Media and Communication unpacks all the elements of media and communication – how it’s made and how it’s received. Every module draws on active research which is expertly brought to life in your lectures and seminars.
This degree is dynamic, interdisciplinary, and addresses real world challenges, which you can tailor to ensure you will have the best possible foundation for future study and continued success.
Why choose Northumbria to study Media and Communication?
Student Rated - Communication & Media Studies at Northumbria is ranked 9th in the UK for overall Student Experience (Times Good University Guide, 2024).
Taking on Tomorrow – This course is contemporary, future-facing, and critically rigorous, preparing you to make positive impact in the world.
Research Powerhouse –Art and Design at Northumbria is ranked 4th in the UK for research power (REF, 2021). This is a rise of 6 places compared to 2014.
Your Learning Experience
This course is delivered through a mix of classroom and studio-based learning, with engagement with the cultural centres in the region available to further enhance your learning.
Your modules will be taught through lectures, seminars, practical sessions, workshops, and fieldtrips. Meanwhile, you’ll be assessed using a range of methods including practice-based submissions, essays, and presentations.
In your third year, you can extend your studies, either taking an additional placement year or even taking a year to study abroad in the likes of mainland Europe or North America.
In your final year, you will embark on a Dissertation or Practical Media Research Project which is an opportunity to focus on what interests you most while developing your portfolio and academic skills.
How does this course enhance my employability?
From the very start of your studies, you are supported as you begin to develop transferable skills, such as critical thinking, communication, team working, and confidence.
As your studies progress, you’ll then hone these skills to more industry-specific proficiencies. On the course, you’ll learn how to use industry-standard video/sound editing software, identify the key elements of media writing, and understand the planning and production required in research, design, storytelling, presentation, content production, and the application of theory.
An invaluable opportunity for first-hand employability skills is the chance to embark on an industry placement during your third year. Here you will be immersed in the industry, getting to grips with exactly how your knowledge can be applied, and gaining confidence, professionalism, and skills which will stay with you for life.
Many modules have been specifically designed to enhance your employability and encourage you to consider how your interests align with potential future career routes after graduation. As well as this, in the final year module, ‘Employability Portfolio’, you will generate a digital portfolio that you can take to interviews after graduation, and a ‘location’ statement explaining how your portfolio illustrates the knowledge and skills you can offer employers.
See other similar courses you may be interested in: BA Film or BA Theatre and Performance