Leeds Beckett University offers the BA (Hons) Media and English, a course that integrates creative exploration with critical analysis. The course has been designed to prepare students with the skills to understand how the media and literature shape culture, society, and individual identity as well as practice good communication and analytical capabilities. By bringing together the study of media with the richness of English literature, students gain a rich and engaging academic experience.
The course is structured across three years with a clear academic trajectory for the students:
Year 1: Students are introduced to the fundamentals of both media and English. This entails the study of how the media industries function, learning about key theories, and beginning to analyze film, television, and digital media. In English, students study different types of literature, ranging from novels and poetry to plays, and begin to learn core skills in close reading and interpretation.
Year 2: The course goes deeper with more sophisticated theories and case studies. Students begin to critically assess the effect of media on society and how literature builds cultural context. Modules can include debates in contemporary media, critical studies in literature, and practice in building research and essay-writing skills. Students also begin specializing in areas that interest them most.
Year 3: In the third year, students complete advanced modules that allow them to bring their learning in both subjects together. They complete a dissertation or final project, which provides the possibility of undertaking original research on an area of interest within media or English. The year is centered on creativity, critical thinking, and preparation for post-graduation life, either through further study or work.
Curriculum Structure
The Media and English BA (Hons) combines theoretical study and active participation. The course consists of:
Modules in Media Studies: Covering issues such as film, television, journalism, advertising, and media's digital cultures.
Modules in English Literature: Reading texts across periods and genres, including modern, postmodern, and contemporary literature.
Practical Projects and Research: Students engage in creative and research-based projects that develop academic and professional skills.
Independent Dissertation/Project: A chance to specialize and develop new work in media or literature.
Learning at Leeds Beckett extends well beyond lectures and seminars, with particular emphasis on real-world experience:
Work Placements and Internships: Bids to gain professional experience through links with media business, publishing companies, cultural organizations, and creative agencies.
Industry Events and Guest Lectures: Experts from media, publishing, journalism, and the cultural industry come as guest speakers and present their experience to the students.
Student Media Initiatives: Students are given chances to become engaged with the university's own media outlets, radio, online forums, publications, and creative writing initiatives, bringing classroom learning to life.
Study Abroad and Exchange Programs: Opportunities are also provided to study abroad and gain international experience, broadening academic and cultural outlook.
Leeds Beckett supports student career development throughout the degree, with access to career guidance, workshops, and one-to-one consultation. Students receive help with CV building, interview preparation, and networking.
Employability: The graduates in Media and English BA (Hons) are highly adaptable and can seek employment in various professions. Some go on to pursue jobs such as journalism, publishing, public relations, marketing, teaching, advertising, cultural industries, and creative writing. Others go on to seek careers in media production or digital communication, wherein analytical as well as communication skills are prized.
Further Academic Progression: It is typical for students to continue learning at postgraduate level, and among the potential courses include Master's in Media, Communication, English Literature, Creative Writing, Journalism, or Cultural Studies. Some pursue teaching qualifications or professional training in related fields.



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