Media Practice for Development and Social Change MA

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

University of Sussex

Program Overview

Program Overview:
If you're driven by the idea of using media to spark social and political change, this MA at Sussex is designed for you. It combines hands-on media production with critical theory, empowering you to engage with global issues like inequality, human rights, gender, and environmental justice. You'll learn to create impactful media—whether through documentaries, podcasts, or social media campaigns—that amplifies underrepresented voices and drives meaningful action.

Curriculum Structure:

Year 1:
In your first year, you'll dive into core modules that blend theory and practice. The Producing Media for Development and Social Change module introduces you to practical skills in digital documentary, photography, podcasting, and basic web design, all within a critical context focusing on development and social change. You'll also explore the role of media in global, social, and political change, emphasizing the importance of civil society and alternative media organizations.

Year 2:
Building on your foundational knowledge, the second year allows for specialization and deeper exploration. You can choose from a range of elective modules that align with your interests and career goals. The program culminates in a dissertation or a major media project, allowing you to apply your skills and knowledge to a topic of your choice, guided by expert supervision.

Focus Areas:
Media as tools for global, social, and political change; civil society and alternative media organizations; activist media; citizen journalism; participatory media; specialized broadcast media; social media; social inequality; human rights; gender issues; environmental change.

Learning Outcomes:
Graduates will possess the ability to critically analyze media's role in development and social change, create impactful media content, and engage ethically with global issues. You'll be equipped to work in various sectors, including non-governmental organizations, media production, and advocacy groups.

Professional Alignment:
The program aligns with industry standards, preparing students for careers in media production, development communication, social advocacy, and related fields. It provides a solid foundation for those interested in pursuing roles that leverage media for social good.

Reputation:
The University of Sussex is renowned for its research excellence and strong industry connections, enhancing employability prospects for graduates in the media and development sectors. The program's interdisciplinary approach ensures that students are well-prepared to address contemporary global challenges through media.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

The MA in Media Practice for Development and Social Change at Sussex is all about using media to make a real difference. You won’t just study theory — you’ll get hands-on experience creating documentaries, podcasts, photography projects, and web content that tackle pressing social issues like human rights, gender equality, and environmental change. The program is designed to help you combine creative media skills with a critical understanding of development and social change, preparing you to create work that has impact.

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

Practical Media Production: Develop your skills in digital storytelling, from podcasts and documentaries to photography and web content, all within a real-world social change context.
Industry Engagement: Participate in masterclasses and events led by media and development professionals, helping you build your network and professional skills.
Global Perspectives: Work alongside an international cohort, gaining insights into different social and cultural contexts that enrich your projects and learning.
Tailored Projects: Choose between a practical or written dissertation, and explore national or international placements to align your work with your career goals.
Ethical Media Practice: Learn to use media responsibly and thoughtfully to address social inequalities and global challenges.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the University of Sussex's MA in Media Practice for Development and Social Change are equipped to drive impactful change through media. This interdisciplinary program combines critical theory with hands-on media production, preparing students to address global challenges such as inequality, human rights, and environmental issues.

Typical career paths include:

Development Communications Specialist – Designing and implementing media strategies for NGOs and international organizations.
Media Producer for Social Change – Creating content that raises awareness and advocates for policy change.
Community Media Coordinator – Facilitating participatory media projects that empower marginalized communities.
Advocacy Campaign Manager – Leading media campaigns that influence public opinion and policy.

Sussex offers robust support to enhance employability:

Career Services: Providing 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 organizations ensure that the curriculum remains current and relevant.

The program's strong academic foundation and practical experience ensure that graduates are well-prepared for the evolving media landscape.

Further Academic Progression:

After completing the MA in Media Practice for Development and Social Change, graduates can pursue further studies in specialized areas such as:

PhD in Media and Communications: Engaging in advanced research on media trends and communication strategies.
MSc in Digital Media: Acquiring skills in digital content creation and media technologies.
MA in Public Relations and Communication: Expanding expertise in managing organizational communication and public relations strategies.