Media Studies BA(Hons)

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Brighton

Program Overview

The Media Studies BA(Hons) at the University of Brighton is designed for students curious about how media shapes and influences our connected world. You will engage with a dynamic curriculum that spans media production, film, journalism, ethics, and political communication, all while learning from industry professionals and research-active lecturers.

Curriculum Structure:

Year 1:
In your first year, you will build a strong foundation in media theory and practice. Modules like Introduction to Media Studies, Digital Media Skills, and Media, Culture and Society help you understand media’s role in society while developing technical skills in production and analysis.

Year 2:
The second year deepens your practical and theoretical knowledge. Courses such as Media Production Projects, Journalism and News Writing, and Political Communication allow you to apply your skills in real-world contexts. You also have the opportunity to undertake a placement, gaining invaluable industry experience.

Year 3:
In the final year, you focus on specialization and independent projects. Modules like Advanced Media Production, Research Methods, and Media and Ethics encourage you to create professional-standard work while exploring the ethical and societal implications of media.

Focus Areas: Digital media, film and television production, journalism, media ethics, political communication

Learning Outcomes: Students will gain critical media literacy, production expertise, research skills, and professional experience preparing them for diverse media careers

Professional Alignment (Accreditation): Industry-informed curriculum with placement opportunities to develop employable skills

Reputation (Employability Rankings): High student satisfaction with teaching quality (National Student Survey 2025: 96.8% positive) and strong graduate employability within media sectors

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At the University of Brighton, the Media Studies BA(Hons) program emphasizes hands-on, experiential learning to ensure students graduate with practical skills that are highly valued in the media industry. You’ll engage directly with media production, film, journalism, and digital communication, learning not just theory but how to apply it in real-world contexts. With a strong focus on creative and professional development, the course equips you to work confidently across various media platforms. Facilities and resources are designed to mirror professional environments, giving you a real taste of working life:

Experiential learning includes:

Placement Year: A compulsory second-year work placement offering real-world industry experience.
Media Production Facilities: Access to television studios, green screens, and audio-visual production suites.
Digital Tools & Software: Training with industry-standard editing and production software for audio, video, and digital media projects.
Group Projects: Collaborative assignments that simulate professional media production environments.
Field Trips & Industry Visits: Opportunities to visit media organizations and attend live events for hands-on exposure.
Research & Study Resources: Comprehensive library access and specialized media collections for independent research.
Support from Industry Professionals: Guidance from research-active lecturers and media practitioners embedded in the curriculum.

This immersive approach ensures that by the time you graduate, you’re not only academically prepared but also practically experienced, ready to make an impact in the fast-evolving media landscape.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Future Progression & Opportunities

Graduates of the Media Studies BA(Hons) at the University of Brighton are well-prepared to embark on exciting and diverse careers across the media landscape. Alumni have gone on to thrive in roles such as:

Journalists
Editorial Assistants
Social Media Managers
Media Analysts

These opportunities span a range of industries, including journalism, marketing, advertising, publishing, and the arts. By combining theoretical knowledge with hands-on experience, the program ensures that graduates are ready to meet the challenges of today’s fast-evolving media world.

University Support & Industry Connections

Careers Connect: This platform helps students explore part-time work, internships, placement years, and graduate job opportunities, offering valuable support in building professional networks.
Industry Placements: The university’s strong connections with industry give students real-world experience and meaningful contacts. Past students have secured placements with renowned organizations such as the BBC, Google UK, and The Guardian.
Brighton Marathon Partnership: Through a multi-year partnership with London Marathon Events, students gain experience working alongside professionals in sports media, event management, marketing, and promotions.
Graduate Earnings: Brighton Journalism graduates rank among the top 35% in the UK for earnings in media, journalism, and communications three years after graduation.
Accreditation: The degree holds long-term recognition within the industry, ensuring it remains a respected and valued qualification.

Further Academic Progression

After completing the Media Studies BA(Hons), students have several pathways to continue their academic journey:

Postgraduate Studies: Advance your practical skills and critical thinking in journalism through an MA, PGCert, or PGDip.
Specialized Master’s Programs: Deepen expertise and expand career options with programs in areas such as media production, digital marketing, or communications.
Research Opportunities: Pursue research-focused programs like an MRes or PhD to contribute to academic knowledge and progress in academia or research institutions.

The University of Brighton provides a supportive environment for ongoing learning, offering guidance and resources to help graduates achieve their professional and academic ambitions.