About the course

As elements of mass media converge it is increasingly important to understand how interconnected the industry is. This Master’s course examines the key issues affecting media and communication today while introducing the theories that underpin their practice and applying them to real-life examples.

For this course you address the central issues and concepts informing the study of the media in a culturally diverse modern society. The course offers units dealing with fundamental principles and topics such as current research in mass communications; media institutions structures and policies; and research methods in the area of media. There is also a core unit focusing on international development.

You undertake a final independent dissertation based on a research project. It is this project work that provides you with the opportunity to tailor the course to your own interests (subject to staff supervisory expertise).

Why choose this course?

• Choose to start your studies in October and complete the course in 12 months (full time) or start in February and complete over 15 months (full time); part-time options are also available
• Learn from specialists in audience studies journalism political communications and radio
• Benefit from access to external industry and academic speakers through seminars organised by our Research Institute for Media Arts and Performance (RIMAP)
• Study the theories that underpin the practice of media and communication and place theory in real-life scenarios through a range of case studies
• Analyse contemporary issues through applying your growing knowledge of the media and its cultural forms
• Examine policy and ethical issues whether in the public domain or in other areas of democratic participation and citizenship
• Employ skills in critical analysis research and communication – as well as generic and creative skills – to propose solutions to contemporary issues
• Develop strong academic skills in research and critical thinking problem solving and analysis – the skills needed to progress into MPhil and PhD studies