Communication, Media and Culture and English Literature (joint honours) BA (Hons)

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Oxford Brookes University

Program Overview

The Communication, Media and Culture and English Literature (Joint Honours) BA (Hons) at Oxford Brookes University offers a dynamic blend of media studies and literary analysis, helping students develop both critical thinking and creative communication skills. This program is ideal for curious minds who want to explore media, culture, and literature while preparing for diverse professional opportunities.

Curriculum Structure:

Year 1:

Students will build a foundational understanding of communication, digital culture, and media, while developing critical and analytical writing skills. Modules include Literature of Oxford, Travel and Exploration in Literature, and an introduction to media and society, equipping students to engage thoughtfully with texts and media forms.

Year 2:

The focus broadens to include literature on environments and transgression, with choices such as Victorian Writing and Children's Literature. Students begin to specialise in areas like power dynamics, gender, and race in the media, and can gain practical experience through projects like website creation or filming a news bulletin.

Year 3:

Students explore advanced literary topics including Urbanisation, Women's Writing, Madness, Shakespeare, and Digital Narratives. They have the opportunity to design an independent project, further developing skills in presenting, writing, teamwork, and professional media practices such as branding, journalism, and podcasting.

Focus Areas: Media analysis, literary criticism, digital storytelling, cultural studies, practical media production.

Learning Outcomes: Critical thinking, creative problem-solving, research and analysis, written and visual communication, teamwork and independent study, intercultural understanding.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation): Not formally accredited, but aligned with media, journalism, and literature career pathways.

Reputation (Employability Rankings): Ranked 8th in the UK for Media and Film Studies according to The Guardian 2025.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Oxford Brookes, the Communication, Media and Culture and English Literature (joint honours) BA (Hons) programme emphasizes hands-on learning that equips students with practical skills alongside academic knowledge. From building websites to producing news bulletins and literary projects, students gain experience that mirrors professional environments. The course encourages collaboration, creative problem-solving, and the development of digital and communication expertise, ensuring you graduate ready to make an impact in media, literature, and related industries.

Opportunities for practical learning include:

Digital Media Projects: Build websites, film, and broadcast news bulletins.
Group Work and Presentations: Collaborate on projects, enhancing teamwork and communication skills.
Creative Assessments: Produce blogs, video diaries, literary tours, and essays to showcase varied talents.
Internships and Industry Experience: Gain exposure to branding, journalism, podcasting, and other media sectors.
Specialist Libraries and Resources: Access extensive literary and media collections at Brookes Library.
Research and Writing Support: Dedicated workshops and seminars to develop critical and analytical writing.
Workshops and Seminars: Engage in discussions that foster creativity and professional skill development.

This combination of academic study and applied experience ensures students leave with both knowledge and the confidence to excel in professional and creative fields.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates from the Communication, Media and Culture and English Literature (joint honours) BA (Hons) program at Oxford Brookes University leave well-prepared for a wide range of professional roles. They are equipped to pursue careers in media, public relations, publishing, and education, bringing strong analytical, creative, and communication skills to the workplace:

University Services: The Oxford Brookes Careers Service provides one-to-one guidance, CV and cover letter support, interview coaching, and access to careers fairs.
Employment Stats & Salaries: Graduates have strong employability prospects, with many entering competitive roles in NGOs, media, publishing, marketing, and the civil service. Average starting salaries in media and communications-related fields typically range from £22,000–£28,000.
University–Industry Partnerships: The program benefits from collaborations with local media, publishing houses, and cultural organisations, offering opportunities for internships, live projects, and professional networking.
Long-term Accreditation Value: The degree is recognised for its academic rigour and professional relevance, providing a solid foundation for future career advancement.
Graduation Outcomes: Alumni frequently progress into roles such as Media and Communications Officer, Public Relations Executive, Publishing Assistant, or Policy Advisor, while others pursue entrepreneurship in creative sectors.

Further Academic Progression:
Graduates may continue their studies with postgraduate programs in areas like Media and Communications, English Literature, Creative Writing, Cultural Studies, or Journalism, including opportunities for master's degrees at Oxford Brookes or other leading institutions worldwide.