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The Communication and Media BA at the University of Leeds offers an in-depth understanding of how media shapes society, from political campaigns to celebrity culture. It is ideal for students interested in exploring media theory, research, and its social, political, and cultural impacts, while also providing optional practical modules in media production.
Curriculum Structure
Year 1
In the first year, students are introduced to foundational concepts in media and communication. They study core modules such as The History of Communication, Power, Politics and the Media, and Introduction to Media and Communication Theory, while optional modules like Camera and Editing or Introduction to Cinema allow for early hands-on experience. This year focuses on understanding media’s role in society, politics, and cultural contexts.
Year 2
The second year builds on theoretical knowledge and strengthens research skills. Core modules such as Visual Communication, Media Policy, and Communication Research Methods explore media industries and policymaking. Optional modules like Journalism Ethics, Digital Storytelling, and Questioning Genre in World Cinemas enable students to specialize and gain practical experience in their areas of interest.
Year 3
In the final year, students complete a Communication Dissertation, gaining in-depth research expertise under academic supervision. Optional modules, including The Documentary and Reality, Citizen Media, and The Reporting of Politics, allow students to tailor their studies while an optional four-week work placement offers real-world experience and networking opportunities.
Focus Areas: Digital media, film studies, journalism, media theory, media research, audience analysis
Learning Outcomes: Develop critical understanding of media theories, conduct independent research, analyze social and political impacts of media, produce practical media content
Professional Alignment (Accreditation): Industry-informed curriculum with optional placements, guidance from media professionals
Reputation (Employability Rankings): Highly regarded program within the University of Leeds, known for strong graduate employability in media and communications sectors
At the University of Leeds, the Communication and Media BA is designed to give students practical skills alongside theoretical knowledge. While the course is primarily theory-based, students can choose practice-focused modules that allow them to gain hands-on experience in media production, research, and communication. The program emphasizes real-world learning, enabling students to apply their knowledge in professional contexts, collaborate with peers, and develop technical expertise using industry-standard tools. Students have access to specialist facilities and digital resources, ensuring they are well-prepared for careers in the communication and media industries.
The program’s experiential learning opportunities include:
Practical Media Modules: Options in digital media, journalism, film studies, and media production allow students to create content and develop professional skills.
Specialist Facilities: Access to a dedicated digital media lab with Adobe Creative Cloud software, a Burli-equipped radio studio, TV studio and gallery with green screen, and 40 editing suites for video and audio production.
Cinema and Screening Facilities: A 58-seat cinema equipped with HD projection, 16mm and 35mm projectors, and Dolby Digital surround sound for film screenings and analysis.
Equipment Loans: Students can borrow digital recorders, video cameras, and stills cameras for hands-on projects.
Work Placements: Optional four-week placements provide real-world industry experience and networking opportunities.
Group Projects and Workshops: Collaborative learning through seminars, tutorials, and workshops develops teamwork and communication skills.
Research Skills and Dissertation: A final-year dissertation supervised by expert academics allows students to conduct independent research on a topic of choice.
Supportive Study Spaces: Breakout rooms and a student common room within the School of Media and Communication provide spaces for collaboration and study.
Digital Tools and Software: Training in industry-standard software such as Adobe Creative Cloud supports practical learning in media production.
This combination of facilities, industry exposure, and hands-on projects ensures that graduates are ready to enter diverse careers in communication, media, and related creative industries.
Graduates from the Communication and Media BA at the University of Leeds leave with a strong foundation in media analysis, research skills, and critical thinking, preparing them for a dynamic range of careers. Typical roles include Media Analyst, Digital Content Producer, Communications Officer, and Public Relations Executive:
University career services: The Careers Centre provides tailored guidance, work placement support, CV workshops, and networking opportunities with industry professionals.
Employment stats & salary: Leeds graduates in communication and media report strong employment outcomes, with many securing roles within six months of graduation; typical starting salaries range from £22,000 to £30,000.
University–industry partnerships: The program maintains links with media organizations, including production companies and journalism outlets, facilitating work placements and live project experiences.
Long-term accreditation value: The degree is recognized for its academic rigor and equips graduates with transferable skills sought across creative and communications sectors.
Graduation outcomes: Alumni pursue careers in media, digital industries, journalism, marketing, public relations, and beyond, with opportunities to work nationally and internationally.
Further Academic Progression:
Graduates can enhance their expertise through postgraduate study in areas such as Media Studies, Journalism, Digital Communication, Marketing, or Public Relations, opening doors to senior roles in media, research, and corporate communications.
A-level: AAB including one arts, humanities or social science subject. Excluding general studies and critical thinking.If you’re taking the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) you may receive an alternative offer alongside a standard offer. In this case, the typical offer would be ABB plus grade A in the EPQ.IB: 35 overall (16 at higher level, with 5 at higher level in English or 6 at standard level).IELTS 6.5 overall, with no less than 6.0 in any component.TOEFL iBT at 88 overall with no less than 20 in reading, 19 in listening, 22 in speaking and 21 in writing.GCSE English Language or IGCSE English as a First or Second Language: C or 4. GCSE English Literature may be considered in certain circumstances for some courses.For Indian Applicants: 60-85% overall average, with 75-90% in two relevant subjects.Typically accepted Standard X qualifications as equivalent to GCSEs, except for Standard X English. Typically required Standard XII English because the curriculum of this qualification is more closely aligned with GCSE English.For US Applicants: High School Diploma 3.0 GPA with two Honors Classes at A, plus one AP at 4. ORHigh School Diploma with two Honors Classes at A, plus one IB HL course at 5. ORHigh School Diploma 3.0 GPA with two Honors Classes at A, plus one Dual Enrolment course at B.SAT II scores taken before 2021 may be accepted in lieu of an AP or HL subject (650–750), to fulfill a subject requirement, or to replace one Honors class when combined with other qualifications.English Requirements for US Applicants: Must meet one of the following: Grade 12 English with a 2.0 GPA (70%), AP English Language or Literature score of 3+,SAT (old) 1650 with 550 per section, SAT (new) 1290 (650 EBRW, 620 Math), ACT English 26, or an associate degree with 3.0 GPA. Alternatively, an IELTS 6.0, GCSE English grade C/4, or equivalent is required.English Requirements for Indian Applicants: Standard XII English at 70% or 75% depending on state board, or IELTS 6.0 overall, GCSE English C or 4 or an equivalent qualificationPublic Relations SpecialistSocial Media ManagerContent WriterJournalistBroadcast PresenterMarketing CoordinatorMedia PlannerCorporate Communications OfficerEvent ManagerCopywriterBrand StrategistDigital Marketing AnalystAdvertising ExecutiveMedia ResearcherFilm/TV Production Assistant
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University of Leeds
