The programme may be taken full-time (one year) or part-time (two years). Students are required to attend lectures and seminars and will engage in individual as well as group-based learning activities. The programme consists of taught modules for two semesters followed by a dissertation (completed over the summer months). The MA modules provide students with up-to-date knowledge of social media processes, and their impact on a variety of areas, with an emphasis on communication and socio-political life. All students are required to take instruction in research methodologies which enables them to collect and analyse data from different social media. Students are required to conduct their own research and write a dissertation on a subject in the area of social media.

Graduates of the programme can be confident of finding employment in a variety of media related industries, in communication-related roles in other industries, or of broadening their horizon and prospects in their existing career. The programme will have immediate relevance for those interested in updating their knowledge and skills; for those who seek further specialization in an increasingly important field of communication; and for those looking for a shift in their career towards a more social and communicative role. In addition, the MA in Social Media Studies offers an excellent route for further academic progression.