Postgraduate Certificate in Media and Communications

Program Overview

---

The PGCert in Media and Communications at Goldsmiths provides a comprehensive introduction to the interdisciplinary fields of media, communication, and cultural studies. It equips students with critical thinking skills, analytical abilities, and transferable communication skills valuable in various professional fields, particularly within the media industries. The program offers a blend of compulsory and optional modules, allowing students to tailor their studies to their interests.

Program Outline

---

PGCert in Media and Communications

---

Degree Overview

---

Overview:

The Postgraduate Certificate in Media and Communications offers a comprehensive introduction to the interdisciplinary fields of media, communication, and cultural studies. It encourages critical thinking about contemporary global media landscapes and your role in today's mediated society.

---

Objectives:

• Equip students with the knowledge and skills to analyze media institutions, structures, and practices.
• Develop an understanding of the complex relationship between media, culture, and identity in the contemporary world.
• Foster critical thinking skills and the ability to engage in nuanced discussions about contemporary media and communication issues.

---

Description:

• Blends sociological and political economy perspectives on media institutions with cultural studies frameworks focusing on individual experiences in a media-saturated world.
• Draws insights from various disciplines, including sociology, anthropology, geography, psychology, literature, and history.
• Cultivates transferable analytical and communication skills valuable in various professional fields, particularly within the media industries.

---

Outline

---

Program Content and Structure:

• The program consists of 60 credits divided into two parts:
• Compulsory Modules:
• Introduction to Media and Communications Theory (30 credits) - Provides a foundation in key concepts, theoretical frameworks, and historical developments in the field.
• Optional Modules:
• Students choose an additional 30 credits from the extensive suite of MA option modules offered by the Media, Communications, and Cultural Studies department.
• Options may include: Digital Cultures, Television Cultures, Journalism Studies, and more.

---

Course Schedule:

The program runs for three academic terms (September-June), equivalent to part-time study.

---

Modules:

• Introduction to Media and Communications Theory: Explores core theoretical frameworks, historical developments, and critical approaches within media and communication studies.
• Optional modules: Varying content depending on student selection, covering diverse areas like digital cultures, television studies, journalism, cultural studies, and more.

---

Assessment

• Assessment methods vary depending on the chosen modules.
• Typically include essays, presentations, group projects, and exams.
• Emphasis on critical analysis, argumentation, and clear communication of ideas.

---

Teaching

---

Teaching Methods:

• Interactive seminars encouraging student participation and discussion.
• Workshops and practical activities depending on the chosen modules.

---

Faculty:

• Experienced academics and researchers actively engaged in the field of media and communication studies.
• Experts with diverse specializations and research interests, offering a broad perspective on the subject.

---

Unique Approaches:

• Encourages independent critical thinking and intellectual engagement with the subject matter.
• Provides a collaborative learning environment fostering dialogue and exchange of ideas.
• Guides students to access relevant theoretical and empirical resources for informed research and analysis.

---

Careers

---

Potential Career Paths:

• Media and communications industries (journalism, broadcasting, public relations, advertising, marketing)
• Cultural and creative industries
• Policy and research organizations
• Education
• Non-profit and advocacy organizations

---

Opportunities and Outcomes:

• Develops strong analytical and research skills valuable across diverse sectors.
• Enhances communication and presentation abilities for effective professional engagement.
• Provides foundational knowledge and skills for further study or career advancement in media and communication-related fields.

---

Other

• The program benefits from the department's strong industry links, hosting events connecting students with experts and potential career opportunities.
• The department is ranked 2nd in the UK for 'world-leading or internationally excellent' research and 16th in the world for communication and media studies.
• The department welcomes inquiries about the program.