Media and Communication BA (Hons)

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Northumbria University

Program Overview

The BA (Hons) Media and Communication at Northumbria University offers a dynamic blend of theoretical insight and practical experience, preparing you for a career in the ever-evolving media landscape. Through a combination of research-based projects and hands-on learning, you'll delve into the social, political, and technological forces shaping contemporary media and communication.

Curriculum Structure:

Year 1: Foundations of Media and Communication

Your journey begins with core modules that lay the groundwork for your media studies. In Media, Communication and History, you'll explore the evolution of media from early inscriptions to modern mass communication, understanding the societal impacts of each innovation. Analysing Media and Film introduces you to critical approaches in media analysis, focusing on elements like cinematography and narrative to deepen your understanding of media texts. Digital Media and Society examines the role of digital media in contemporary societies, addressing issues like the digital divide and the influence of social media.

Year 2: Developing Practical Skills

Building on your foundational knowledge, Year 2 emphasizes practical application. Digital Media Writing hones your ability to identify stories and write effectively for various digital platforms, emphasizing clarity and audience engagement. Media Communication Planning introduces you to the theory and practice of media communication strategy, culminating in the creation of your own media communication campaign. Digital Media – Audio and Video develops your skills in audio-visual storytelling, guiding you through the processes of planning, shooting, and editing digital media content.

Year 3: Specialization and Professional Preparation

In your final year, you'll focus on specialized modules that prepare you for the professional world. Media, Ethics and Current Affairs delves into the legal and ethical considerations of digital communication, equipping you with the knowledge to navigate complex media landscapes. The Media and Communications Project allows you to undertake an independent project, applying your skills to a real-world media issue, with guidance from a supervisor. Additionally, the Employability Portfolio module helps you develop a digital portfolio that showcases your skills and experiences to potential employers.

Focus Areas: Digital Media, Media Ethics, Communication Strategy, Media Analysis

Learning Outcomes: Critical Media Analysis, Practical Media Production, Ethical Communication Practices, Strategic Media Planning

Professional Alignment (Accreditation): The program is designed to align with industry standards, preparing graduates for roles in various media and communication sectors.

Reputation (Employability Rankings): Northumbria University is recognized for its strong employability outcomes, with graduates finding success in diverse media and communication careers.

If you're passionate about understanding and shaping the media landscape, this program offers the perfect blend of theory and practice to kickstart your career.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Northumbria University, the BA (Hons) Media and Communication program offers an exciting mix of theory and hands-on practice. Students not only explore media concepts in depth but also gain practical experience through research-based projects, preparing them for the fast-changing media landscape. The curriculum focuses on real-world applications, ensuring graduates leave with the skills needed to thrive in media and communication careers.

Experiential learning is at the heart of this program, giving students plenty of opportunities to build practical skills and gain industry experience. From digital media production to professional placements, the program ensures a well-rounded learning experience.

Key Experiential Learning Opportunities

Digital Media Production:
Modules such as Digital Media, Audio and Video introduce students to essential skills in digital media production, including audio-visual storytelling. Students are encouraged to take initiative, plan their work carefully, and work independently, reflecting real professional practice.

Industry Placements:
The Arts Work Placement Year allows students to gain meaningful industry experience. They develop professional, role-specific skills while working in real media settings. While placements aren’t guaranteed, the university offers support to help students secure these opportunities.

Study Abroad Opportunities:
Through the Arts Study Abroad Year, students can enhance their media skills while experiencing a different culture. This global perspective helps them understand media and communication in an international context.

Collaborative Projects:
Modules like Digital Media Writing simulate real-world environments where students pitch ideas, agree on briefs, and meet deadlines. Working in teams helps develop communication, collaboration, and project management skills that are essential in the industry.

Access to Industry-Standard Tools:
Students can use professional tools like the Adobe Creative Suite (InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator, Premiere Pro) on campus, ensuring they are well-equipped for professional media production.

These experiential learning opportunities are carefully designed to give students the skills, confidence, and industry experience needed to succeed in media and communication. By working on hands-on projects, taking placements, and collaborating in teams, students graduate ready to take on the challenges and opportunities of today’s media world.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduate Outcomes & Career Opportunities

Graduates of the BA (Hons) Media and Communication program at Northumbria University are well-equipped for exciting and diverse roles in the media and communication sector. By combining strong theoretical foundations with hands-on practical skills, the program prepares students to stand out in a competitive industry. Typical career paths include:

Media Planner
Public Relations Specialist
Digital Content Producer
Broadcast Journalist

University Support & Industry Integration

Northumbria University provides extensive support to help students thrive and succeed in the fast-paced media world:

Work Placement Year: An optional year-long, 120-credit module that gives students valuable industry experience, allowing them to develop professional skills and learn directly in a work environment.
Study Abroad Opportunities: The Arts Study Abroad Year module enables students to experience different cultures and educational systems, broadening their global perspective and enriching their personal growth.
Industry Partnerships: Strong connections with national and local media organizations, including The British Film Institute, offer students opportunities for internships, work placements, and hands-on projects, boosting employability and real-world experience.
Accreditation: The program is designed to meet industry standards, ensuring that graduates acquire the skills and knowledge that employers truly value.

Further Academic Progression

Graduates of the BA (Hons) Media and Communication program can continue their studies to further specialize or enhance career prospects:

Master’s Degrees: Options in Media Studies, Journalism, Public Relations, or Digital Marketing help students deepen expertise and open doors to advanced roles.
Professional Certifications: Additional qualifications in areas such as digital media, content strategy, or media law provide specialized skills that are highly sought after in the industry.

This pathway allows graduates to specialize further, engage in research, or move into senior-level positions within the media sector.