MA Media Culture and Society

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

University of Leicester

Program Overview

Program Overview:
If you’re fascinated by how media shapes culture and want to learn how advertising influences audiences worldwide, this MA is an excellent choice. The course combines creative media skills with critical thinking, giving you the tools to understand campaigns, analyze audience behavior, and create compelling media content.

Curriculum Structure:

Year 1:
In the first year, you’ll build a solid foundation in media and advertising. Core modules cover areas like Media Theory, Advertising Strategy, and Digital Marketing, helping you understand how media messages are crafted, how audiences respond, and the role of advertising in society. You’ll also develop practical skills in creating content across different platforms.

Year 2:
The second year allows you to specialize and apply your skills. You might choose modules such as Creative Advertising Campaigns, Media Analytics, or Consumer Behaviour, depending on your career goals. The year culminates in a dissertation or major project, giving you the chance to explore a topic in depth and produce professional work that can become part of your portfolio.

Focus Areas:
Advertising strategy, digital media, consumer behavior, media analytics, creative campaign development

Learning Outcomes:
By the end of the program, you’ll be able to critically evaluate media campaigns, create engaging content, analyze audience behavior, and apply your skills in real-world media and advertising contexts.

Professional Alignment:
The MA prepares you for careers in advertising, digital marketing, media planning, brand management, or media consultancy.

Reputation:
Leicester is well-regarded for its research and practical approach to media studies, and graduates benefit from strong industry connections that help open doors to exciting careers.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

The MA in Media and Advertising at Leicester is designed to give you both the creative and practical skills needed to thrive in the fast-paced world of media and marketing. You’ll explore how media shapes culture and consumer behaviour while learning how to craft campaigns, design content, and engage audiences across multiple platforms. This isn’t just theory — you’ll gain hands-on experience, producing real advertising content and building a portfolio that makes you job-ready.

Here’s how experiential learning comes alive on this program:

  • Practical Advertising Projects: Work on real campaigns, from strategy to execution, using the latest digital tools and software.

  • Media Analysis & Strategy: Learn how to interpret audience behaviour, trends, and media metrics to make informed advertising decisions.

  • Portfolio Development: Create a professional collection of your work — from campaigns and content to research projects — to showcase your skills to employers.

  • Industry Engagement: Take part in masterclasses, workshops, and guest lectures led by industry professionals to build networks and gain insights.

  • Global Perspective: Explore media and advertising in international contexts, preparing you to work in diverse and evolving markets.

  • Research & Innovation: Develop skills in both creative practice and critical research, helping you approach advertising challenges thoughtfully and strategically.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the University of Leicester’s MA in Media and Advertising are equipped to navigate the dynamic and evolving advertising landscape. The program provides both theoretical insights and practical skills, preparing students for impactful careers in the global advertising industry. Alumni have advanced into roles such as:

  • Advertising Strategist – Developing and implementing comprehensive advertising strategies for brands.

  • Media Planner – Coordinating and optimizing media campaigns across various platforms.

  • Creative Director – Leading creative teams to produce innovative advertising content.

  • Brand Consultant – Advising companies on brand development and positioning.

University Support and Industry Connections:

  • Careers and Employability Services: Offering personalized guidance on CV writing, interview preparation, and job search strategies.

  • Work Experience Opportunities: Encouraging students to gain practical experience, with many completing work placements by the end of their course.

  • Industry Partnerships: Collaborations with various media and advertising organizations ensure that the curriculum remains current and relevant.

Further Academic Progression:

After completing the MA, graduates can continue their studies through:

  • PhD in Media and Communications: Engaging in advanced research on media trends and communication strategies.

  • MSc in Digital Marketing: Acquiring skills in digital content creation and media technologies.

  • MA in Public Relations and Communication: Expanding expertise in managing organizational communication and media campaigns.

Program Key Stats

£21400 (Annual cost)
£9,250 (Annual cost)
£ 29
Sept Intake : 14th Jan


71 %

Eligibility Criteria

3

NA
NA
NA
6.5
90

Additional Information & Requirements

Career Options

  • Media Manager
  • Social Worker
  • Manager Communication
  • Operational Communications Specialist

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