Public Relations and Media with a Foundation Year, BA (Hons)

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Swansea University

Program Overview

The BA (Hons) Public Relations and Media with a Foundation Year at Swansea University is designed for creative, curious students who want to understand how media shapes the world and learn how to influence it through effective storytelling and communication strategies. The program combines academic theory with hands-on experience, preparing students to become confident communicators across industries such as media, marketing, and public relations.

Curriculum Structure

Foundation Year
The foundation year offers a strong introduction to the principles of communication, culture, and media, giving students the essential academic and creative skills needed for success in higher study. Modules like Media, Culture and Society, Introduction to Digital Media, and Critical Thinking help students build confidence in research, writing, and presentation while exploring the foundations of modern communication.

Year 1
Students dive into the world of media and public relations, exploring how stories shape audiences and influence reputation. Courses such as Digital Media and Culture, Media History and Development, and Introduction to Public Relations introduce the techniques used by media professionals and PR specialists to manage communication across multiple platforms.

Year 2
This year focuses on developing advanced skills in media production and strategic communication. Modules like Public Relations Practice and Strategy, Journalism and Global Media, and Researching Media Audiences give students the tools to plan campaigns, analyse audience behaviour, and create impactful messages for brands and organisations.

Year 3
The final year encourages independence and creativity, allowing students to specialise in their chosen areas through practical and research-based work. Modules such as Global Public Relations, Media Ethics and Regulation, and the Independent Research Project challenge students to apply their learning to real-world issues, preparing them for professional success.

Focus Areas: Public Relations, Media Strategy, Digital Communication, Journalism, Brand Management, Media Ethics

Learning Outcomes: Graduates will develop strong analytical, communication, and creative skills; gain expertise in PR and media strategy; and learn to critically engage with global media trends and technologies.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation): The program is closely aligned with industry practices and informed by the latest developments in communication and public relations, ensuring relevance to employers and professional standards.

Reputation (Employability Rankings): Swansea University ranks among the top 25 in the UK for Communication and Media Studies (The Guardian University Guide 2025) and is recognised for its strong graduate employability and student satisfaction.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Swansea University, students in the BA (Hons) Public Relations and Media with a Foundation Year program don’t just study communication theory—they live it. From day one, you’ll engage in hands-on projects that mirror real-world media environments. The program is designed to help you develop practical skills in storytelling, media production, digital content creation, and strategic communication. With access to cutting-edge facilities, industry-standard tools, and opportunities to collaborate on campaigns, you’ll gain the kind of experience employers truly value.

Here’s how Swansea helps you put your learning into practice:

State-of-the-art Media Facilities – Work within the purpose-built media suites that include editing labs, production rooms, and professional-grade equipment for audio and video creation.
Digital Tools & Software – Gain proficiency using industry software for multimedia production, digital marketing, and public relations management.
Collaborative Projects – Engage in group campaigns and creative assignments that replicate real PR and media agency work, encouraging teamwork and professional communication.
Work Placements & Industry Links – Benefit from Swansea’s strong connections with media organizations, PR firms, and creative industries, which often lead to work placements and networking opportunities.
Specialist Libraries & Resources – Make use of the university’s extensive digital and physical media collections, including access to journals, archives, and professional publications.
Expert-Led Workshops – Learn directly from media practitioners and guest lecturers who share their current industry insights and real-world experience.
Student Media Opportunities – Participate in campus media such as student radio, television, and digital publications to enhance your creative portfolio.

Through this blend of academic knowledge and hands-on experience, Swansea ensures that you graduate as a confident, career-ready communicator—equipped to make your mark in public relations and media.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates from the BA (Hons) Public Relations and Media with a Foundation Year at Swansea University go on to exciting careers in media, communications, marketing, and public relations. They develop as strategic communicators, skilled storytellers, and confident media professionals ready to work in both public and private sectors. Typical career roles include PR Officer, Communications Executive, Social Media Manager, and Content Producer.

Your degree opens doors to a wide range of opportunities:

Dedicated Career Support: Swansea’s Careers and Employability team offers one-to-one guidance, CV and interview workshops, employer networking events, and access to placements or work experience that build real-world skills.
Graduate Success: Many Swansea graduates secure roles in leading agencies, public organisations, and digital communication firms soon after graduation, benefiting from the university’s strong employability focus.
Industry Connections: The Media and Communication department maintains strong partnerships with BBC Wales, Trinity Mirror, and Oxfam Cymru, helping students gain insights and experience through guest lectures, internships, and live projects.
Professional Recognition: The degree’s emphasis on practical and theoretical learning ensures its long-term value in an ever-evolving media landscape.
Graduate Outcomes: Swansea’s media and communication graduates have an excellent track record of securing professional employment or further study within six months of completing their degree.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing this degree, students can continue their academic journey with postgraduate study at Swansea or elsewhere — options include the MA in Communication, Media Practice and Public Relations, MA in Digital Media, or research-based pathways such as MPhil or PhD in Media and Communication. These advanced qualifications further strengthen expertise and career prospects in global media and communication industries.