Media and Communication (Extended Degree) BA (Hons)

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Northumbria University

Program Overview

The BA (Hons) Media and Communication (Extended Degree) at Northumbria University is a dynamic program designed to immerse you in the evolving world of media and communication. Ideal for students aiming to build a robust foundation before diving into advanced studies, this course blends theoretical insights with practical application, preparing you for a range of careers in the media industry.

Curriculum Structure:

Year 0 (Foundation Year):
The foundation year focuses on enhancing your academic skills and preparing you for higher education. Modules like Academic Language Skills for Arts aim to bolster your writing and research capabilities, ensuring you're equipped to tackle university-level coursework. This year is pivotal for building confidence and academic proficiency.

Year 1:
In the first year, you'll delve into the history and evolution of media through the Media, Communication and History module, providing a comprehensive understanding of media's role in society. Digital Media Writing will hone your skills in crafting compelling content for various digital platforms, emphasizing clarity and engagement. Additionally, Analysing Media and Film introduces critical approaches to media texts, enhancing your analytical abilities.

Year 2:
The second year emphasizes practical application and strategic thinking. Media Communication Planning allows you to develop and execute media campaigns, integrating theory with real-world scenarios. You'll also undertake the Media and Communication Project, a module designed to refine your practical skills and prepare you for professional challenges.

Focus Areas:
Media History, Digital Content Creation, Strategic Media Planning, Communication Campaigns, Media Analysis.

Learning Outcomes:
Critical Media Analysis, Effective Digital Communication, Strategic Planning in Media, Research and Project Management Skills, Professional Media Practice.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation):
While specific accreditation details are not provided, the program's comprehensive curriculum aligns with industry standards, equipping graduates with the skills sought by employers in the media sector.

Reputation (Employability Rankings):
Northumbria University is renowned for its strong emphasis on employability, with a significant percentage of graduates securing employment or further study shortly after completing their degrees. The university's focus on practical experience and industry connections enhances the employability of its graduates.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

🎬 Real-World Learning in Media and Communication

At Northumbria, the Media and Communication (Extended Degree) is designed to connect classroom learning with real-world experience. The program focuses on practical, hands-on projects, helping students not only understand media theory but also gain the skills needed to thrive in the dynamic world of media and communication.

Key Experiential Learning Opportunities:

Media and Communications Project:
This capstone project allows students to work in small groups to create a live website on a topic of their choice, incorporating audio, video, and written content. It brings together knowledge from multiple modules and provides a practical outcome that reflects industry practices.

Arts Work Placement Year:
An optional module that offers substantial industry experience. Students can undertake a full-time work placement in a relevant organization, gaining professional skills and valuable insight into how media roles operate in the real world.

Media Industries Module:
This module explores the structure and workings of media industries, helping students understand how the media landscape functions and evolves.

Consuming Media Module:
Students analyze different forms of media and study audience behaviors, providing a deeper understanding of contemporary media consumption patterns and its effects.

Media and Communication Project Supervision:
Throughout the capstone project, students receive guidance from dedicated supervisors, ensuring they develop both practical skills and transferable competencies for future careers.

Blackboard Ultra e-Learning Portal:
Northumbria’s online platform offers easy access to teaching materials, announcements, and guidance notes, making learning flexible and well-organized both on and off-campus.

These experiential learning opportunities are a core part of the BA (Hons) Media and Communication (Extended Degree), ensuring students graduate with both the knowledge and practical experience needed to succeed in the media industry.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the BA (Hons) Media and Communication (Extended Degree) at Northumbria University are well-prepared for exciting and varied roles within the media and communication industries. Combining strong theoretical foundations with practical skills, the program equips students for careers such as:

Media Planner
Digital Content Creator
Public Relations Officer
Media Research Analyst

Support & Employability:

Work Placement Opportunities: The course includes a mandatory work placement module, giving students at least four weeks of real industry experience. This hands-on exposure not only enhances employability but also allows students to apply their classroom learning in a professional setting.

Industry Partnerships: Northumbria University works closely with both national and local media partners, including the British Film Institute, providing students with access to internships, work placements, and collaborative projects that strengthen their practical experience and industry connections.

Accreditation & Recognition: The program is designed to meet current industry standards, ensuring graduates leave with qualifications that are valued and recognized by employers in the media and communication fields.

Further Academic Progression:

Postgraduate Opportunities: Graduates of the BA (Hons) Media and Communication (Extended Degree) can choose to continue their studies at the postgraduate level. Northumbria University offers a variety of master's programs that allow students to deepen their expertise and open doors to more specialized career paths in media and communication.

Conclusion: Choosing this degree at Northumbria University gives students a strong foundation for a successful career in the ever-evolving media and communication industries. With supportive services, valuable industry connections, and a curriculum designed to meet real-world demands, students are well-positioned for both immediate employment and further academic opportunities.