Media and Communications BA (Hons)

If you’re looking to gain real-world, hands-on media skills while building strong academic knowledge, the BA (Hons) Media and Communications programme at Keele University is an ideal choice. This degree blends theory and practice, helping you understand how media works — and how to create it yourself. You’ll have the chance to work in professional spaces, use industry tools, and bring your creative ideas to life through film, sound, and digital media projects. Whether working independently or in a team, you’ll develop a professional portfolio, explore storytelling across different formats, and gain experience that prepares you for the media industry.

Here’s how experiential learning is built into the programme:

• Access to a professional Media Suite – You’ll develop hands-on production skills using professional-grade cameras, sound equipment, and image production tools.

• Training with industry-standard software – You’ll gain practical experience in digital editing, filmmaking, and post-production through modules such as Filmmaking Fundamentals, which covers everything from camera work to editing techniques.

• Collaborative workshops and seminars – Group projects, film and podcast production, and visual storytelling sessions encourage teamwork, creativity, and constructive feedback from peers.

• Real-world work experience – Through the Work Experience in Media, Communications and Culture module, you can complete a placement with a media organisation to gain valuable professional experience and enhance your portfolio.

• Optional placement or international year – You can choose to extend your studies with a placement year in industry or spend a year abroad at one of Keele’s partner universities, adding global experience to your learning.

• Digital learning through KLE – Keele’s online learning environment supports your studies with resources, discussion boards, and interactive learning materials beyond the classroom.

• Access to state-of-the-art facilities – Keele’s library, research resources, and media technology centres provide everything you need to support your creative projects and independent research.

If you choose the BA (Hons) Media and Communications at Keele University, you’ll graduate ready to take on dynamic roles such as Media Producer, Digital Content Specialist, Communications Officer, or Social Media Manager. This degree equips you with the creative, strategic, and technical skills needed to thrive in today’s fast-paced digital landscape — where storytelling and technology come together to shape how we communicate.

How the programme supports your career progression

Career support and employability services:
Keele’s dedicated Careers and Employability team provides tailored guidance to help you plan your next steps. From building a professional portfolio to preparing for interviews, you’ll have access to expert advice and workshops. You can also choose to take a work placement year, where you’ll gain valuable hands-on experience in a professional setting with full support from university staff.

Graduate outcomes and employment prospects:
About 85% of Keele graduates are working or continuing their studies within 15 months of finishing their degree. Three years after graduation, the average salary is around £20,000, with most earning between £15,000 and £25,000. These figures reflect the strong employability focus built into the programme and the versatility of the skills you’ll develop.

Industry connections and real-world experience:
Keele’s Media and Communications students benefit from partnerships with organisations like BBC Radio Stoke, The Sentinel, and Cross Rhythms Radio. These collaborations provide opportunities for placements, internships, and networking with professionals in the media industry. You’ll also have access to the university’s state-of-the-art media production facilities, allowing you to build a strong creative portfolio throughout your studies.

Transferable and long-term value:
A Keele degree prepares you not just for your first job, but for a lifelong career in the evolving media sector. You’ll graduate with expertise in critical analysis, creative production, and professional communication, making you adaptable across diverse roles in media, marketing, PR, and digital communication.

Graduation outcomes:
By the time you finish the course, you’ll have a comprehensive portfolio, practical production experience, and refined analytical and communication skills. These open doors to careers in television, journalism, digital marketing, public relations, and content creation, among many others.

Further academic progression:
After completing this degree, you might choose to advance your studies with a Master’s in Media Studies, Digital Communication, or Cultural Analysis. Alternatively, you could pursue postgraduate certificates in areas like film production, interactive media, or social media strategy, or even continue towards a PhD in Communication or Cultural Studies. Whatever path you choose, your Keele degree provides the foundation for both creative and academic success.