BA Cultural, Creative and Media Industries

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Manchester

Program Overview

The BA Cultural, Creative and Media Industries at the University of Manchester offers a dynamic exploration into the multifaceted world of creative sectors like music, film, fashion, theatre, publishing, and digital media. This interdisciplinary program equips students with the knowledge and practical skills to thrive in leadership roles, cultural entrepreneurship, and policymaking within these industries.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1: The foundational year introduces students to key theories of cultural production and examines various industries through case studies. Mandatory modules include Culture as Industry, Creative Work 1: From Artisans and Bohemians to the Creative and Knowledge Economies, and Researching the Creative Industries: Data, Ethics, and Policy. Optional units such as Decoding Inequality: Reimagining Digital Culture and The Art of Film allow students to tailor their learning experience.

Year 2: Building upon the first year, students delve into the business aspects of creative industries, focusing on strategies and entrepreneurial practices. Modules like Creative Work 2: Making Money from Creative Work, Creative Work 3: Starting Your Own Creative Business, and Creative Work 4: Freelancing in the Creative Industries provide insights into product development, monetization, and the dynamics of freelancing.

Year 3: The final year emphasizes the application of knowledge through group and solo projects. Students assess the impact of government policies on creative industries, exploring areas like city improvement, regional and national growth, and the well-being of communities. This year culminates in a major research project and practical assignments, integrating theory with real-world scenarios.

Focus Areas: Cultural Production, Creative Entrepreneurship, Media Policy, Digital Culture, Arts Management

Learning Outcomes: Critical Analysis, Strategic Thinking, Entrepreneurial Skills, Research Proficiency, Policy Evaluation

Professional Alignment (Accreditation): The program is designed to align with industry standards and prepares students for professional roles in the cultural, creative, and media sectors.

Reputation (Employability Rankings): The University of Manchester is renowned for its strong ties to the creative industries, offering students access to a vibrant cultural scene and opportunities for placements in organizations such as the BBC and ITV. This connection enhances employability prospects for graduates.

If you're passionate about shaping the future of cultural and creative industries, the University of Manchester's BA Cultural, Creative and Media Industries program offers the perfect platform to launch your career.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

If you're thinking about a career in the exciting world of cultural, creative, and media industries, the BA Cultural, Creative and Media Industries at the University of Manchester is designed to give you both a broad and practical foundation for success.

This program immerses you in the diverse worlds of music, film, TV, fashion, gaming, publishing, and the performing and visual arts. By blending theory with hands-on experience, you'll develop the skills to take on leadership roles, drive creative projects, influence industry practices, and even launch entrepreneurial ventures in these fields.

The course’s structure, combined with Manchester’s vibrant cultural scene, ensures that learning extends far beyond the classroom. You’ll work on real-world projects, collaborate with classmates, and get opportunities to connect with professionals—all designed to prepare you for a thriving career in the creative industries.


Experiential Learning Opportunities:

Group and Solo Projects: In your final year, you’ll put your learning into practice through both individual and team projects, tackling challenges that reflect real-life situations in the creative and cultural sectors.

Internships and Work Experience: The program opens doors to internships and placements, helping you gain hands-on experience and build meaningful professional networks.

Digital Tools and Software: You’ll work with industry-standard software and digital tools, essential for creating, analyzing, and presenting content in the cultural and creative sectors.

Field Trips and Industry Visits: The course includes trips to cultural institutions, giving you firsthand insight into the workings of museums, galleries, and other creative organizations.

Research Facilities: Engage with research centers that explore the intersections of humanities, social sciences, and technology, allowing you to collaborate on innovative projects.

Libraries and Learning Resources: Extensive library collections and digital archives will support your research and academic growth throughout the course.

Supportive Learning Environment: The University of Manchester fosters a collaborative and inclusive atmosphere, where faculty and peers provide guidance and support to enhance your learning experience.


By choosing this program, you’re not just studying—you’re actively stepping into the cultural, creative, and media industries, gaining the skills, insights, and experiences to thrive in this dynamic field.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the BA (Hons) Cultural, Creative and Media Industries at the University of Manchester are well-prepared to pursue exciting and diverse careers across the cultural, creative, and media sectors. The program’s interdisciplinary approach equips students with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in a variety of roles, such as:

  • Creative Producer: Leading and managing the development of creative projects across different media platforms.

  • Cultural Policy Advisor: Providing guidance to government and non-government organizations on cultural initiatives and policies.

  • Media Strategist: Designing and implementing strategies for media campaigns and content distribution.

  • Arts Manager: Overseeing arts organizations and events, ensuring their smooth operation and long-term success.

These roles are supported by a curriculum that emphasizes creative problem-solving, research, project management, market analysis, and entrepreneurship, giving graduates a strong foundation to thrive in the industry.


University Support & Industry Connections

The University of Manchester offers extensive support to help students build their careers:

  • Creative Manchester: A dedicated initiative connecting students with industry professionals and providing opportunities for internships and collaborations with leading cultural organizations.

  • Stellify Programme: A unique program encouraging students to engage in transformative experiences that foster both personal and professional growth.

  • Guest Lectures and Industry Insights: Students benefit from lectures and insights from industry practitioners and creative professionals, giving them a clear understanding of the current landscape in the creative and cultural sectors.

While specific employment statistics or salary figures for this program are not detailed, the University’s strong reputation and industry connections provide graduates with a significant advantage in the job market.


Further Academic Progression

Graduates of the BA (Hons) Cultural, Creative and Media Industries can also pursue further study to specialize and enhance their expertise, such as:

  • MA Arts Management, Policy and Practice: This master’s program offers in-depth knowledge of arts management and cultural policy, preparing students for leadership roles in the cultural sector.

  • PhD in Arts and Cultural Management: For those interested in advanced research, this professional PhD integrates practical experience with academic study, bridging the gap between academia and industry.

These postgraduate pathways enable graduates to deepen their understanding and expand their career prospects within the cultural, creative, and media industries.

Program Key Stats

£27,800
£ 29
Sept Intake : 14th Jan


42 %
No
No

Eligibility Criteria

AAB
N/A
35
80 - 95

N/A
N/A
7.0
100

Additional Information & Requirements

Career Options

  • Arts Administrator
  • Media Producer
  • Cultural Project Manager
  • Marketing Executive
  • Event Coordinator
  • Public Relations Officer
  • Content Creator
  • Digital Media Specialist
  • Journalist
  • Film/TV Production Assistant
  • Museum/Gallery Curator
  • Social Media Manager
  • Copywriter
  • Brand Strategist
  • Theatre/Performance Manager

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