Like it or not, media is an ever-present force in our lives. Whether we're consuming the traditional forms of media – television, newspapers or radio – or newer, more immediate forms – such as Facebook video, blogs, memes or podcasts. What will I learn? The BA Media & Communications combines the cultivation of critical thinking, research and writing with real-life media research and production skills. The overarching aim of this programme is for students to gain both theoretical and practical grasp of media and communications as an area of intellectual, creative and professional practice not limited to one particular industry. You will develop a practical and theoretical understanding of the media and creative industries. You will cultivate skills relating to storytelling and practices of representation in audio-visual media and transmedia. You will study media theory, history, media technologies, creative cultures, institutions, content and audiences. You will learn to write for different kinds of media, use cameras, sound recording equipment and post-production/editing technologies. Placement options in Year 3 enable students to gain work experience at businesses and organisations across the media and creative industries.

This course will prepare you to be among the content creators and creative entrepreneurs of tomorrow. It will prepare you for employment in professional communications, including social media and marketing communications, as well as all types of journalism and creative content making. Employers of our graduates include media agencies, publishers, independent production companies, broadcasters, and businesses with a significant public-facing online presence. Many graduates go into postgraduate study, and a number of alumni work as freelance media professionals or have their own businesses. Typically, you can expect 12 contact hours per week in classes of around 20-30 students. Teaching is a mixture of studio work, seminars, lectures and workshops. This enables students to learn design and the associated creative processes in a supported environment and to develop 'hands-on' skills.