Media and Communications BA (Hons)

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

De Montfort University

Program Overview

The BA (Hons) Media and Communication at De Montfort University (DMU) offers an exciting blend of theory and practical experience, designed for students passionate about media, culture, and creative storytelling. This course is ideal for those who want to explore the evolving media landscape while developing the critical, technical, and creative skills needed for careers across broadcasting, journalism, digital media, and public relations.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1
In your first year, you’ll build a strong foundation in media theory and production. Modules such as Media, Culture and Society, Introduction to Media Production, and Understanding Media and Communication introduce you to the core principles of media analysis, industry practices, and content creation. You’ll also develop essential academic and technical skills that prepare you for more advanced work in later years.

Year 2
During the second year, you’ll deepen your understanding of media industries and start to specialise in areas that interest you. Modules like Media, Gender and Identity, Media Ethics and Regulation, and Digital Media and Innovation allow you to explore contemporary issues and emerging trends. You’ll also have the chance to enhance your creative and analytical skills through practical projects that simulate real-world media production.

Year 3
Your final year focuses on independent research and professional development. You’ll undertake a Major Project or Dissertation, demonstrating your ability to apply theoretical and practical knowledge to a topic of your choice. Modules such as Global Media, Media Audiences, and Media, Power and Politics help you engage critically with global perspectives and the impact of media on society. You’ll graduate with a polished portfolio and a clear understanding of how to navigate the professional media world.

Focus Areas: Media theory and production, cultural studies, digital media innovation, journalism, public relations, global communication.

Learning Outcomes: Graduates will gain critical analytical skills, creative media production abilities, digital literacy, and a strong understanding of media’s cultural and social impact.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation): The course is developed in line with industry standards and includes opportunities to work with DMU’s Creative Media Centre, ensuring practical experience aligned with professional expectations.

Reputation (Employability Rankings): De Montfort University is recognized for its strong focus on employability, with 97.3% of graduates in work or further study within six months of graduation (DLHE Survey). The university is also known for its industry connections and creative teaching excellence, highlighted in national rankings such as the Guardian University Guide.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

If you’re thinking about the BA (Hons) Media and Communication at De Montfort University (DMU), you’re looking at a course that’s built around the real world of media and gives you practical, hands-on experience from day one.

From advanced TV studios and radio suites to dedicated newsrooms and digital editing labs, you’ll gain skills that directly match industry expectations. With access to blue/green-screen studios, audio/video production labs, and darkrooms, you’ll be working with the same equipment professionals use — helping you prepare for the career you want after graduation.

You’ll also benefit from a block teaching model, which allows you to focus on one subject at a time, get regular feedback, and build stronger connections with both your peers and tutors.

Here’s what you can expect from the experiential learning opportunities on this programme:

Access to industry-standard facilities: editing suites, TV and radio studios, video production labs, darkrooms, and blue/green-screen studios.
Practical group and individual projects: you’ll create media content, work on client briefs, and collaborate in teams to produce broadcast, digital, or print media.
Engagement with real media partners: links with local organisations like BBC Radio Leicester, community media groups, and independent arts or cinema networks — giving you real networking and experience opportunities.
Optional placement year (4-year variant): spend a full year working in industry, immersing yourself in a professional environment before you graduate.
Focus on digital cultures and new media: work with the latest technology, explore streaming and digital cultures, and study how media continues to evolve.
Access to excellent library and learning resources: students consistently report high satisfaction with the range of resources, software, equipment, and both online and physical library tools available to support your learning.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates from the BA (Hons) Media and Communication at De Montfort University go on to exciting and diverse careers within the fast-evolving media industry. Many develop successful paths in creative content, journalism, digital marketing, and public relations, while others build their own media ventures.

Typical roles include:
• Media Producer
• PR and Communications Officer
• Digital Marketing Executive
• Social Media Manager

At DMU, students benefit from a wealth of employability support and industry connections:
• DMU Works offers personalised career guidance, professional mentoring, placement opportunities, and networking with employers to help students gain real-world experience before graduation.
• According to Graduate Outcomes data, 95% of DMU graduates from this subject area are in work or further study within six months of completing their degree.
• The course benefits from strong industry links, including guest lectures and collaboration opportunities with organisations such as BBC Radio Leicester, Channel 4, and Curve Theatre Leicester.
• The degree’s long-term accreditation value ensures that students graduate with creative, analytical, and technical skills highly regarded across media industries.
• Many graduates have gone on to careers in national broadcasting, digital agencies, media production, and brand communications—demonstrating the program’s strong professional outcomes.

Further Academic Progression:
Graduates may choose to advance their expertise through postgraduate study at DMU, such as pursuing a Master’s in Media Production, Advertising and PR Management, or Communication, Culture and Media MA. These advanced degrees allow students to deepen their specialisation and strengthen their position for leadership roles in the global media landscape.