Bachelor of Communications (Honours) (Media Studies and Journalism)

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Malta

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Communications (Honours) in Media Studies and Journalism is a theory and practice-based degree that equips you with a strong foundation in media theory, journalism, and hands-on communication skills. You'll explore diverse aspects of media and communications while developing the analytical thinking and practical expertise employers genuinely value in today's dynamic media landscape.

Campus Address: Faculty of Media & Knowledge Sciences, University of Malta, Msida Campus, Msida MSD 2080, Malta.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1: Building Your Foundation

Your first year introduces you to the core principles of communications across multiple disciplines. You'll take foundational courses like Introduction to Journalism, Visual Communications and Graphic Design, and New Media and the Social World, which give you a broad understanding of how media functions in contemporary society. You'll also develop essential professional skills through Writing for Media and Communications and choose between English Rhetoric and Writing Skills for Media and Communications Students or II-Malti għall-Komunikazzjoni to strengthen your communication abilities. To progress to Year 2, you'll need to complete 60 ECTS credits.

Year 2: Deepening Your Expertise

In your second year, you'll continue building specialized knowledge while choosing elective units that align with your interests—whether that's diving deeper into journalism, media theory, or emerging communication trends. This flexibility allows you to tailor your studies to your career ambitions while maintaining the breadth that makes Communications graduates so adaptable.

Year 3: Professional Application and Research

Your final year is where everything comes together: you'll complete a dissertation, undertake practical work through a placement, and engage in a mentored project. This applied focus ensures you graduate not just with theoretical knowledge, but with real-world experience and a portfolio that demonstrates your capabilities to employers. You'll need 60 ECTS credits to successfully complete Year 3, bringing your total degree to 180 ECTS credits.

Focus Areas

Journalism, media analysis, visual communications, new media literacy, writing for professional contexts, and emerging communication technologies.

Learning Outcomes

You'll develop skills in analyzing media representations, understanding human communications across different contexts, mastering practical techniques like public speaking and presentation, and gaining competency with the latest media and communication trends and technologies.

Professional Alignment

This programme is governed by the General Regulations for University Undergraduate Awards, 2019 and the Bye-Laws for the award of the Bachelor of Communications (Honours) under the auspices of the Faculty of Media and Knowledge Sciences.

Reputation & Employability

The University of Malta's Bachelor of Communications (Honours) prepares graduates for careers across journalism, media production, communications strategy, and related fields, with alumni working in publishing, broadcasting, digital media, and organizational communications roles.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At the University of Malta, the Bachelor of Communications (Honours) in Media Studies and Journalism offers students a dynamic and hands-on learning experience that prepares them for the fast-paced world of media. The program emphasizes experiential learning, allowing students to develop practical skills through various projects, internships, and access to state-of-the-art facilities. You'll have the opportunity to work with industry-standard tools and collaborate with peers on real-world assignments, ensuring that you graduate with both theoretical knowledge and practical expertise.

Here are some key aspects of the experiential learning opportunities available in this program:

- State-of-the-Art Facilities: Access to modern media studios, editing suites, and equipment that mirror industry standards.
- Digital Tools: Proficiency in software such as Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Premiere Pro, After Effects) and other relevant media production tools.
- Group Projects: Collaborative assignments that encourage teamwork and enhance your communication skills, simulating real-world media production environments.
- Internships: Opportunities to gain hands-on experience with local media organizations, providing invaluable insights into the industry and networking possibilities.
- Field Trips: Visits to media houses, newsrooms, and cultural institutions to observe and learn from professionals in the field.
- Research Laboratories: Access to dedicated spaces for media research, allowing you to explore topics of interest and contribute to academic discourse.
- Libraries and Resources: Comprehensive library facilities with extensive collections of media-related texts, journals, and digital resources to support your studies.
- Guest Lectures and Workshops: Regular sessions with industry experts, providing insights into current trends and practices in media and journalism.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the Bachelor of Communications (Honours) in Media Studies and Journalism at the University of Malta are well-equipped to enter a dynamic job market, with a strong foundation in media theory, practical skills, and critical thinking. Typical job roles for graduates include:

- Journalist: Reporting on current events and issues for various media outlets.
- Media Planner: Strategizing and executing media campaigns for businesses and organizations.
- Public Relations Specialist: Managing communication between organizations and the public to enhance their image.
- Content Creator: Producing engaging content for digital platforms, including social media and websites.

To support your journey into the professional world, the University of Malta offers a range of services and opportunities:

- Career Services: The university provides dedicated career guidance, workshops, and job placement assistance to help you navigate your career path.
- Employment Statistics: Over 80% of graduates find employment within six months of graduation, with starting salaries averaging around €25,000 annually, depending on the role and industry.
- University–Industry Partnerships: Collaborations with local and international media organizations, such as Times of Malta and PBS, offer students valuable internship opportunities and real-world experience.
- Long-term Accreditation Value: The program is accredited by the National Commission for Further and Higher Education (NCFHE), ensuring that your degree holds value in the job market.
- Graduation Outcomes: Alumni have gone on to work in prestigious media outlets and organizations, showcasing the program's effectiveness in preparing students for successful careers.

Further Academic Progression: After completing your Bachelor’s degree, you have several options to continue your studies. You could pursue a Master’s degree in Communications, Journalism, or Media Studies, which would deepen your expertise and open doors to advanced roles in academia or specialized fields. Additionally, you might consider postgraduate diplomas or certificates in related areas, such as Digital Marketing or Public Relations, to further enhance your skill set and career prospects. The University of Malta also offers various research opportunities for those interested in contributing to the field through academic inquiry.