Media has now fundamentally integrated itself into our everyday existence. It has moved from being primarily a means of entertainment to something that affects every aspect of our lives. Whether you are a broadcast programme-maker, an internet content provider, a teacher, a politician or a corporate manager producing a Power-Point presentation, a practical and theoretical understanding of how the media works will benefit you. BA Media Arts combines analytical study with the practical production of a wide range of genres, including directing screen fiction, cinematography, documentary, sound design, gallery and installation orientated art. Fundamental to the degree is understanding, critically evaluating, acquiring and learning to use an audio-visual language. Working in the media demands an ability to analyse and judge film and television texts as a necessary counterpart to creating them. The degree incorporates the study of both film and television, tracing the development of European, American and world cinemas, and British and some American television, in their artistic, cultural, and institutional contexts.

In this innovative degree course, you will develop critical and creative skills, including the ability to produce a range of work across media forms – from short films, documentary, TV studio production to video and photo installations. These creative practices are underpinned by a range of critical abilities, from historical and ideological analysis to an understanding of the economics and power structures that inform media production. Across this creative and critical programme, students develop the transferable skills most valued by employers, such as written communication, presentation, working as part of a team and critical thinking. We use our strong links with industry to run a very successful work placement scheme, which provides not only a fantastic opportunity to apply your skills in a real-life environment, but the chance to practice the skills required when applying for a job or making a pitch. Our recent graduates have very successfully entered a wide range of careers including terrestrial and satellite broadcasting, film and television production and information technology and design. We have created video directors, Hollywood script supervisors, independent documentary film makers, web designers, marketing professionals and contemporary artists. Many graduates also go on to advanced study in a variety of fields. To find out more about what our graduates are doing now, please see the department’s website|.