The University of Hertfordshire offers a BA (Hons) Media and Philosophy, a unique and challenging course that integrates innovative media practice alongside philosophical debate. This course allows students not only to develop practical media production and communication skills, but also to critically consider deep philosophical concerns concerning society, ethics, technology, and human life. It is designed for people who want to combine critical thinking and creativity, putting them on track for stimulating careers in media, cultural, and knowledge industries.
The course evolves throughout three years, each year building on the one before to produce a combination of theory, creativity, and independent research:
Year 1: The fundamentals of media studies and philosophy are taught to the students. They study how media make culture and communication, and also study classic and modern philosophical questions. Practical workshops make the students familiar with digital media tools, research methods, and scholarly writing.
Year 2: In Year 2, both strands are made more advanced. Students learn more sophisticated media projects such as film, web pages, or broadcasting production, along with learning topics such as ethics, metaphysics, and political philosophy. More emphasis at this level is placed on connecting philosophical thinking to contemporary media and culture.
Year 3: Independent and professional study are the focus of the third year. A media or philosophical dissertation or a combination of the two is completed, as is a specialized module in philosophy of mind, aesthetics, and arguments in new media. Practical production and critical skills are acquired that can initiate careers or postgraduate research.
Curriculum Structure
The academic content is combined with creative practice through the course. The key elements are:
Core Media Modules: Subject matter including media production, digital storytelling, media theory, and cultural analysis.
Core Philosophy Modules: Ethics, knowledge, reality, political philosophy, and contemporary debates.
Practical Workshops: Having the opportunity to create digital media projects using industry-standard software.
Independent Project/Dissertation: A final-year project that allows students to combine both media and philosophy.
The University of Hertfordshire places a strong emphasis on experiential learning and practical implementation:
Creative Projects: Students acquire portfolios through practical coursework in film, digital media, and online content.
Philosophy in Action: Applying philosophical frameworks to interact with issues of the day in media, politics, and technology.
Internships and Work Placements: Practical experience in media, cultural, and creative industries.
Student Societies: Membership of the Philosophy Society or Media-related clubs provides opportunities for collaboration, argument, and creation.
International Outlook: The students will also be eligible to take part in study abroad programs, adding to their intellectual and cultural experience.
The students are supported by the University of Hertfordshire's professional careers service, which provides:
Personal guidance and mentoring
CV writing, interviewing, and networking skills
Attendance at employer events and careers fairs
Employability
The course graduates are well-trained for a range of careers. They embark on careers in media production, journalism, online marketing, public relations, publishing, broadcasting, and cultural institutions. The philosophical aspect of the course also equips students for critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills that make them highly adaptable in educational institutions, policy-making, and the business sector.
Further Academic Progression
Graduates may further go on to further studies with postgraduate programs, such as an MA in Media Studies, Philosophy, Creative Writing, Digital Culture, and related fields, and teacher training (PGCE) or professional programs in communication, law, and business.
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