MA - Media & Communication

2 Years On Campus Masters Program

Manipal Academy of Higher Education Dubai

Program Overview

The MA in Media and Communication at Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Dubai is a dynamic two‑year postgraduate program designed to prepare you for a creative and influential career across media, journalism, digital content, public relations, and more. Whether you aim to work behind the camera, craft compelling stories for global audiences, or lead strategic communication campaigns, this program equips you with the skills and confidence to thrive in the fast-moving media world.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1 – Building Media Foundations

In your first year, you will develop a deep understanding of how media works, exploring courses like Communication Theory and Practice, Media Writing, and Editing and Design, which set the stage for both creative and analytical work. You will also gain practical skills through Introduction to Media Production and Communication Research Methods, learning how to shape powerful messages and understand audiences across platforms, while beginning to explore electives related to your chosen specialization.

Year 2 – Deepening Specialisation & Professional Practice

The second year allows you to specialize and apply your knowledge through advanced courses and real-world projects. You will complete a Dissertation that reflects your individual media interests and choose electives aligned with tracks such as Broadcast Media, Print & New Media, Communication Management, Film Studies, or Graphics & Animation. This year also includes a professional Internship, giving you hands-on experience and the opportunity to build a portfolio that employers value.

Focus Areas

Broadcast media, print and online journalism, communication management, film and animation, media writing, editing and design, media research, and advanced production techniques.

Learning Outcomes

Graduates will be able to apply media and communication theories, produce professional multimedia content, conduct research, manage strategic campaigns, and lead media projects in both traditional and digital environments.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

This degree is offered under the academic license of Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Dubai, which is accredited by the UAE’s Commission for Academic Accreditation (CAA) and recognized by the Ministry of Higher Education & Scientific Research, ensuring that your qualification meets regional education standards.

Reputation (Employability & Recognition)

MAHE, Dubai holds a 5-Star rating from the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) for educational quality and student experience, and benefits from the global presence and reputation of Manipal Academy of Higher Education, a well-known international academic brand.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Dubai, the MA in Media and Communication goes beyond theory, giving you hands-on experience from day one. You’ll develop practical skills using professional media equipment and software, working on projects that reflect real-world media and communication practices. From studio shoots and digital editing to internships and workshops with industry professionals, the program ensures you graduate with both creative confidence and technical expertise.

Here’s how this learning experience is delivered:

Professional Production Studios: Work in TV and radio production studios equipped with broadcast cameras, advanced lighting, green screens, high-quality microphones, and audio mixers, giving you practical experience in producing professional content.
Editing Suites & Software: Access dedicated editing suites on both Mac and Windows platforms, learning video and audio post-production using industry-standard software.
Hands-On Media Projects: Engage in projects such as scripting, shooting, and editing multimedia content, helping you build a strong, industry-ready portfolio.
Internships & Industry Exposure: Participate in immersive internships with media organisations to apply your skills in real professional settings and gain valuable industry connections.
Workshops & Expert Sessions: Attend workshops and sessions led by media professionals and alumni, bringing current trends and practical insights directly into your learning.
Dedicated Media Library & Learning Tools: Benefit from a specialized media library and digital resources that support both practical projects and academic research.

These facilities and experiences are at the heart of the program, helping you transition seamlessly from the classroom to professional media environments with confidence and skill.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the MA in Media and Communication at Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Dubai are well-prepared to step confidently into creative and strategic roles across the media and communication landscape. You could pursue positions such as a media and public relations specialist, journalist or news writer, creative content producer or digital strategist, and broadcast presenter or producer. With the practical skills, industry experience, and portfolio projects gained during the program, you’ll be ready to make an impact in media teams, communication agencies, newsrooms, and digital platforms:

Career Services Support – The university offers dedicated career services, including one-on-one career counselling, resume and interview preparation, and access to networking events and career fairs to help you successfully navigate your job search.
Internship & Employment Support – Students receive strong internship and placement support, providing real workplace experience that often leads to full-time roles after graduation.
Employment Stats & Starting Salaries – Graduates have access to competitive packages in the UAE, with early-career salaries in media and communication roles that are attractive and tax-free.
Industry Exposure & Partnerships – The program connects students with a wide range of organisations across industries, offering networking opportunities and exposure to current industry practices.
Accreditation & Long-Term Value – The degree is accredited by the UAE’s Commission for Academic Accreditation (CAA) and the university has a 5-Star rating from the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), giving your qualification long-term credibility in both regional and global job markets.
Graduation Outcomes – Alumni have gone on to careers in corporate communication, news media, content creation, public relations, and broadcasting, equipped with practical skills, internship experience, and a strong industry-ready portfolio.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing the MA in Media and Communication, you can continue your studies in specialised fields or research pathways. Many graduates pursue PhD programs in communication, media studies, digital media, or related social sciences to deepen their expertise and open doors to academic, research, or senior leadership roles. Others choose professional certifications in digital marketing, media analytics, or strategic communication to further refine skills that are highly sought after in the industry.