The Bachelor of Arts (Global Media) at the University of Galway is a modern, four-year honours degree that combines media theory with creative, hands-on practice to help students understand how media shapes culture, politics, and everyday life around the world. It suits curious, creative students who enjoy storytelling, digital media, and critical thinking, and who want to build skills that are relevant across today’s global media industries.
Curriculum Structure
Year 1: Foundations in Media
In first year, students develop a strong foundation in how media operates within society and culture. Core modules such as Introduction to Media and Communications, Digital Literacy, and Popular Culture, Media and Society introduce key concepts, research skills, and critical approaches that prepare students for more advanced media study.
Year 2: Understanding Media and Audiences
Second year builds on these foundations by exploring how media influences audiences and public debate. Through modules like Understanding Media Audiences, Power without Responsibility, and practical media production units, students begin to analyse media power while also developing skills in multimedia storytelling and content creation.
Year 3: International and Professional Experience
In third year, students can choose to study abroad at one of the University’s international partner institutions or undertake a relevant work placement. This year allows students to apply their academic knowledge in real-world or global settings, gain professional experience, and build confidence before entering their final year.
Year 4: Advanced Media Practice and Research
The final year focuses on advanced media analysis and creative production. Students take specialised modules such as Advanced Media Production and Global Media Innovation, alongside topics like Gender, Identity and the Media, AI and Algorithms, or Climate Action Communication, and complete a major project that showcases their academic and practical skills.
Focus Areas
Global media studies, digital storytelling, multimedia production, audience analysis, media ethics, cultural and social impact of media
Learning Outcomes
Graduates develop strong media literacy, critical thinking, digital content creation skills, global awareness, and professional communication abilities suited to a wide range of media and creative careers
Professional Alignment (Accreditation)
This programme is an NFQ Level 8 honours degree, recognised within Ireland and internationally across media, communications, and creative industries
Reputation (Employability Rankings)
The University of Galway is consistently ranked among the top universities worldwide, with strong international recognition for graduate employability and academic quality
At the University of Galway, Global Media students learn by actively creating, analysing, and experimenting with media from the very start of the programme. Practical media production is built into the degree through project-based modules, collaborative coursework, and opportunities to work with real platforms and audiences. Students develop hands-on skills in audio, video, and digital storytelling while using professional facilities across campus, ensuring they graduate with both academic insight and a strong practical portfolio.
This hands-on approach is supported through a range of real learning experiences and resources, including:
A third-year work placement option, allowing students to gain professional experience with media organisations, creative agencies, NGOs, or communications teams
The opportunity to study abroad at one of the University of Galway’s international partner universities, experiencing global media cultures firsthand
Practical media production modules where students create podcasts, video projects, and multimedia content as part of assessed coursework
Access to student-run media outlets, including Flirt FM radio station and Sin newspaper, where students can produce and publish real content
Use of the James Hardiman Library’s equipment lending service, providing access to cameras, audio recorders, microphones, tripods, and editing workstations
The University’s MakerSpace facilities, supporting digital creativity, experimentation, and multimedia production
Group-based projects and collaborative assignments that mirror real media industry workflows and build teamwork, communication, and project management skills
Graduates of the Bachelor of Arts in Global Media at the University of Galway leave with versatile skills that open doors across media, communications, and creative industries. Many go on to roles such as digital content creator, media analyst, communications specialist, or social media strategist, applying their practical media production skills and critical thinking in real-world settings. The programme ensures you are ready to step into a dynamic career where creativity and strategy are equally valued.
Students are supported in their transition to the workforce in a number of ways:
The University Career Development Centre provides guidance on CVs, interviews, job searches, and networking events, helping students prepare for media and communication roles.
A high proportion of graduates from arts and media programmes are employed or in further study within six months of completing their degree, reflecting strong employability.
Work placements and industry projects give you hands-on experience and professional connections before graduation, helping you stand out in the job market.
Partnerships with media organisations and creative companies offer access to recruitment events, internships, and opportunities to work on real-world media projects.
The degree is an NFQ Level 8 honours qualification, recognised nationally and internationally, adding credibility for employers and providing a solid foundation for postgraduate study.
Graduates often secure roles that combine creativity, communication, and strategic thinking, including content production, media planning, brand storytelling, and audience analysis.
Further Academic Progression:
After completing the BA in Global Media, students can continue their studies with postgraduate programmes that build on their media and communication expertise. Options include a Master of Arts in Global Media and Communication, which focuses on global audiences and advanced communication strategies, or an MA in Journalism, ideal for those interested in reporting and newsroom practice. Postgraduate study can also lead to PhD research opportunities for students who want to pursue academic or high-level analytical careers.



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