MA Documentary Journalism

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

Nottingham Trent University

Program Overview

The MA Media and Communication at the University of Portsmouth is designed to deepen your understanding of media's role in society and enhance your communication skills. This program offers a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application, preparing you for various roles in the media industry.

Course Structure

Core Modules

Media and Communication Theory: Explore foundational and contemporary theories in media and communication.
Research Methods in Media and Communication: Develop skills in qualitative and quantitative research methodologies.
Media Production: Gain hands-on experience in creating media content across different platforms.
Dissertation: Conduct independent research on a topic of your choice within the field.

Optional Modules

Digital Media: Examine the impact of digital technologies on media practices.
Public Relations and Strategic Communication: Learn about communication strategies in organizational contexts.
Journalism: Understand the principles and practices of journalism in the digital age.

Note: Module availability may vary each academic year.

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the program, you will:

Critically analyze media texts and communication strategies.
Apply research methods to investigate media phenomena.
Demonstrate proficiency in media production techniques.
Develop a comprehensive understanding of media's role in society.

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the MA Media and Communication program can pursue careers in:

Media production and direction
Public relations and corporate communication
Journalism and content creation
Digital marketing and social media management
Media research and analysis

International Students

The University of Portsmouth welcomes international students and provides support to help them succeed in their studies

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Portsmouth, the MA Media and Communication program is all about learning by doing. You’ll gain hands-on experience using professional tools and working in real media environments, so you graduate ready to step straight into the industry.

Here’s how you’ll get practical, career-ready experience:

Eldon TV Studios: Produce, present, and broadcast your own video and audio content, and get involved in the student-led TV channel, CCI TV.
White Swan TV Studio and Gallery: Access high-quality TV and audio recording facilities integrated with Eldon TV Studios for real-world media production.
Newsroom: Practice journalism in a professional environment using the same digital tools that news organizations use.
Centre for Creative and Immersive Extended Reality (CCIXR): Explore cutting-edge virtual and augmented reality technologies, the UK’s first fully integrated XR facility.
CCI Open Access Suite: Work on PCs and Macs equipped with Adobe Creative Suite and other professional software for design, editing, and media production.
Eldon Art Shop: Get all the materials you need for projects and coursework.
Video Editing Suite: Edit films and videos from start to finish, using professional-grade editing tools.

With these resources, Portsmouth ensures you don’t just study media and communication — you actively practice it, developing the skills and confidence to succeed in your career

Progression & Future Opportunities

Future Progression & Opportunities

Graduates from the MA Media and Communication program leave Portsmouth ready to take on a wide range of roles in the media, communication, and creative industries. The course combines practical skills with critical understanding of media, giving you the confidence and expertise to succeed in dynamic professional environments. Typical career paths include:

Media Analyst – Evaluating and interpreting media content and its impact on audiences.
Public Relations Specialist – Managing and enhancing the public image of organizations.
Digital Content Creator – Producing engaging content for websites, social media, and multimedia platforms.
Media Planner – Designing and implementing media campaigns for brands and organizations.
Communication Consultant – Advising companies on effective internal and external communication strategies.

University Support and Industry Links

Careers and Employability Service – Guidance on CVs, interviews, networking, and career planning.
Industry Placements and Projects – Opportunities to work with media organizations to gain real-world experience.
Professional Networks – Connections with media companies, PR agencies, and digital platforms to help build your career.
Graduate Outcomes – Many alumni progress into influential roles in media, communications, and creative industries both in the UK and internationally.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing this program, you could:

Pursue a PhD or MPhil in Media, Communication, or Digital Studies if you are interested in research or an academic career.
Take specialized courses or professional certifications in digital media, media strategy, or communications management to further enhance your expertise.