BA (Hons) Mass Communications, Advertising and Public Relations

At Edinburgh Napier University, studying BA (Hons) Mass Communications, Advertising & Public Relations means learning by doing from day one. This course is built around real-world experience — you won’t just study how campaigns work, you’ll create them. Through hands-on projects, client briefs, media production workshops, and collaborative work, you’ll develop the creative, strategic, and technical skills employers are looking for in the fast-moving world of media and communications. You’ll also benefit from professional-standard facilities, digital tools, and opportunities to work directly with industry experts.

Here’s how you’ll put your skills into practice throughout the course:

• Real client projects: Work on live briefs and group campaigns that mirror the work of real PR and advertising agencies.

•  Industry-standard tools: Get hands-on experience with Adobe Creative Cloud (Photoshop, InDesign, Premiere Pro) to design visuals, edit content, and produce digital media.

• Specialist media facilities: Access professional media labs, studios, editing suites, and production equipment used for creating high-quality content and campaigns.

• Work placements and internships: Gain real-world experience in PR, advertising, or media organisations through work-based learning modules and placement opportunities.

•  Industry engagement: Learn directly from guest speakers, visiting professionals, and agency partners who share insights into current trends and best practices.

•  Research and resources: Make use of the university’s extensive library, digital archives, and creative resources to support your coursework and project development.

•  Interdisciplinary opportunities: Collaborate with students and staff across the School of Arts & Creative Industries to broaden your creative skillset and expand your portfolio.

A degree in Mass Communications, Advertising & Public Relations from Edinburgh Napier University sets you up for a dynamic and creative career in the media and communications industry. With a strong mix of strategic thinking, storytelling skills, and hands-on experience, you’ll graduate ready to take on exciting roles in agencies, brands, non-profits, and global organisations. Many of our graduates build careers as Public Relations Officers, Advertising Account Executives, Social Media Strategists, and Brand Communications Managers, shaping how companies connect with audiences and tell their stories.

Here’s how Edinburgh Napier helps you succeed after graduation:

• Career support that works: The dedicated Careers & Employability team offers one-to-one advice, CV and interview coaching, work placement support, and networking events with employers in PR, advertising, and media.

• Strong graduate outcomes: Around 92% of graduates are in employment or further study within 15 months of completing the degree.

•  Industry recognition and partnerships: The course is accredited by the Public Relations and Communications Association (PRCA), giving your degree strong professional credibility and enhancing your job prospects.

•  Competitive starting salaries: Graduates in communication and media roles typically earn around £24,000 within 15 months of graduation, with many progressing quickly into senior roles.

• Career-ready skills: About 60% of graduates secure roles directly related to their degree, working in PR agencies, media companies, marketing consultancies, and global brands.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing your degree, you can choose to specialise further with a master’s in communications, digital marketing, public relations, or media studies. Many students also continue into PhD research, contributing to new insights in media, culture, and communication. With the solid foundation you build at Napier, you’ll be well-prepared for postgraduate study or research anywhere in the world.