BA (Hons) Media and Communication

If you’re thinking about studying BA (Hons) Media and Communication at the University of Derby, get ready for a course that’s as practical as it is creative — built to give you the real skills, confidence, and experience you need to thrive in today’s media world.

From your very first day, you’ll move beyond theory and dive straight into hands-on work — using professional equipment, industry software, and tackling real creative briefs. This degree isn’t just about learning about media and communication, it’s about doing it.

You’ll be based at the Markeaton Street campus, home to the university’s creative facilities — from computer labs and radio studios to a fully equipped TV studio. Here, you’ll learn everything from video production and podcasting to digital content creation, writing across media platforms, and communication for both broadcast and online formats.

What really sets this course apart is who you’ll learn from. Your tutors have worked in major organisations like the BBC and ITV News, bringing invaluable real-world insights and industry connections right into the classroom.

Here’s how the hands-on, experiential learning is built into the degree:

• Access to professional tools: You’ll work with the full Adobe Creative Suite in the Mac labs, and you’ll even get your own Adobe Creative Cloud subscription for home use — so you can keep creating wherever you are.

• Industry-standard facilities: The university’s three radio studios, fully equipped TV studio, and dedicated video editing suites give you the chance to learn on professional-grade equipment used across the media industry.

• Real-world projects: You’ll work on genuine media briefs and can even join the student-run communications agency, where you’ll take on live projects for real clients — solving communication challenges and building a strong professional portfolio.

• Optional placement year: Take a year out to work in the industry, gain real experience, expand your professional network, and strengthen your CV with practical achievements.

• Dynamic learning experiences: Your learning will be varied and engaging, with workshops, news days, field trips, and seminars led by guest speakers from across the media landscape — helping you stay connected to what’s current in the industry.

• Final-year project: You’ll complete a major project for a real media organisation, giving you a tangible showcase of your skills to impress future employers.

This degree gives you more than just knowledge — it gives you a professional edge. By the time you graduate, you’ll have the confidence, creativity, and practical experience to launch your career in the fast-moving world of media and communication.

Graduates from this programme build successful careers across the media, communications and creative industries. They develop into adaptable professionals with strong storytelling, production and digital communication skills. Many go on to work as Media Officers, Content Producers or Public Relations Executives shortly after graduation, using their creativity to shape media narratives and engage audiences across platforms.

Future Progression & Opportunities:
Here’s how this degree helps you take the next step —

The Careers & Employability Service at the University of Derby is there to help you every step of the way. From personalised CV and interview support to guidance on work placements and industry networking, you’ll be fully equipped to stand out in a competitive job market.

Employment Success: Around 90% of media-studies graduates from Derby are in work or further study within 15 months of finishing their course, with average earnings around £25,000.

Industry Connections & Real Experience: The course is built around real-world learning. You’ll get hands-on experience working in student-run communications agencies, tackling real client briefs, and producing content in professional film and TV studios. The teaching team includes experienced professionals from leading organisations like the BBC and ITV, ensuring you learn directly from those active in the field.

Accreditation & Recognition: Earning a BA (Hons) from the University of Derby — a TEF Gold institution — gives you a qualification that’s respected both in the UK and internationally. It reflects strong academic standards and deep industry relevance.

Graduate Career Paths:
When you graduate, you’ll be prepared for roles such as:

• Content Producer for digital platforms

• Public Relations or Communications Executive

• Social Media Manager

• Broadcast or Production Assistant in TV, radio or online media

Your transferable skills in media and communication also open doors to careers in corporate communications, marketing, and other creative sectors.

Further Academic Progression:
If you choose to continue your studies, you’ll have a range of exciting options — from postgraduate programmes such as an MA in Strategic Communications or MSc in Media Studies, to specialised MBA pathways that blend media and business. You could also pursue professional certifications in digital marketing or public relations, or even advance to doctoral research (PhD) in media, culture or communication if you’re aiming for an academic or research-focused career.