BA English and Media & Communications

The BA English and Media & Communications at the University of Exeter combines the study of literature with the exploration of media, communication, and digital cultures, helping students understand how ideas, stories, and messages are created and shared across different platforms. This interdisciplinary programme is ideal for students interested in writing, creative industries, journalism, media, and communication, while developing strong analytical, research, and professional skills for careers in publishing, marketing, digital media, and communications.

Curriculum structure

Year 1

Your first year introduces you to the core principles of English literature, media, and communication studies, helping you understand how texts and messages shape culture and society. You will study modules such as Beginnings: English Literature before 1800, Perspectives on Communications, and Communications Research Methods, while optional modules including Digital Cultures: Narrative, Creativity, Industry, The Novel, The Poem, Academic English, Rethinking Shakespeare, and Imagine This: Prompts for Creative Writing allow you to explore storytelling, literary interpretation, digital media, and creative expression.

Year 2

In your second year, you will develop a deeper understanding of media practices, communication strategies, and literary analysis. Modules such as Communications in the Workplace, Desire and Power: English Literature 1570-1640, Theatrical Cultures in Early Modern England, Modernism and Modernity: Literature 1900-1960, Romanticism, Adaptations: Text, Image, Culture, Creative Writing: Building a Story, and Creative Writing: Making a Poem allow you to explore communication in professional settings, literary movements, creative writing, and the relationship between texts and media.

Year 3 (Optional Study Abroad or Employment Experience)

If you choose the four-year pathway, you can spend your third year studying abroad at an international partner university or gaining professional experience through an Employment Experience placement. These opportunities allow you to broaden your global outlook, gain workplace experience, and apply your knowledge of English and communications in real-world academic or professional environments.

Final Year

In your final year, you will complete an independent research project through a Dissertation in either English or Media & Communications while selecting advanced modules based on your interests. You will develop specialist knowledge in areas such as media, communication practices, digital culture, and literary studies, while strengthening your ability to research independently, analyse complex ideas, and present original arguments.

Focus areas

English literature, media and communications, digital cultures, storytelling, creative writing, literary analysis, communication research, workplace communication, media industries, cultural studies, professional writing, research skills, digital media.

Learning outcomes

Develop advanced skills in analysing literature, media, and communication practices while improving your research, writing, presentation, and critical thinking abilities. You will learn how to communicate effectively across different formats, understand the influence of media on society, conduct independent research, collaborate with others, and apply creative and analytical skills in professional environments.

Professional alignment (accreditation)

The BA English and Media & Communications develops valuable skills in communication, research, creativity, teamwork, digital awareness, problem-solving, and critical analysis that are highly valued by employers. Although the programme does not have a specific professional accreditation, it provides excellent preparation for careers in media, publishing, journalism, marketing, public relations, communications, creative industries, and related sectors.

Reputation (employability rankings)

The University of Exeter supports students in developing career-ready skills through practical learning opportunities, professional experience options, and access to specialist resources such as Special Collections, the Bill Douglas Cinema Museum, and the Digital Humanities Lab. Students benefit from a learning environment that connects academic study with real-world communication practices, creative industries, and research opportunities.