Program Overview
The Media Studies BA(Hons) at the University of Brighton equips students with critical and theoretical frameworks to analyze contemporary media. The program emphasizes media theory, critical thinking, creativity, and practical experience through a combination of compulsory and optional modules, preparing graduates for diverse careers in the media industry and related fields.
Program Outline
Media Studies BA(Hons)
Degree Overview:
The Media Studies BA(Hons) at the University of Brighton is a dynamic and contemporary program designed to equip students with the critical and theoretical frameworks necessary to understand and analyze the complex landscape of contemporary media. The program focuses on the historical development, social, cultural, and political implications, and ethical and legal aspects of media production and consumption.
Objectives:
- Equip graduates with a thorough understanding of media theory and contemporary media practice.
- Develop critical thinking and analytical skills to deconstruct and interpret media messages.
- Foster creativity and innovation in media production and communication.
- Prepare graduates for diverse careers in the media industry and related fields.
Outline:
The program comprises a combination of compulsory modules and optional modules, offering students a flexible and personalized learning experience.
Year 1:
- Producing and Consuming Digital Media: Introduces students to the critical understanding of social media consumption and production in personal and professional settings.
- Media and Popular Culture: Explores the concept of popular culture through the lens of media studies, examining various historical and contemporary forms of film, TV, music, and online popular culture.
- Critical Approaches to Media 1 and 2: Introduces key media studies theories and concepts, applying them to the analysis of real-world issues and media content.
- Video Production 1: Equips students with fundamental skills and practical experience in creating short-form non-fictional audio-visual content for web-based and traditional media platforms.
- Photographic Practice 1: Introduces the role and use of photography in visual media, exploring various aspects of promotional and editorial photography.
- Understanding Audiences: Theory and Context: Examines the role and characteristics of media consumption in the 21st century, exploring audience-media relationships and design of cross-media campaigns.
- Film, Language and History: Introduces the formal language of cinema and its contribution to narrative establishment. Explores the history of mainstream Western cinema and its technical, institutional, and economic development.
Year 2:
- Social Media for Activist and Community Groups: Provides students with an understanding of social media platforms and their role in supporting activist and community groups.
- Research Methods and Methodology: Equips students with the knowledge and skills to conduct independent research, including critical analysis, ethical considerations, and research methodologies.
- Visual Media Culture: Explores the theoretical and practical aspects of visual media culture, analyzing the production, circulation, and consumption of visual media in contemporary society.
- Media Placement: Provides students with invaluable industry experience through a four-week placement in a media-related organization.
Final Year:
- Dissertation: Students conduct an independent research project on a topic of their choice, demonstrating their ability to integrate theoretical knowledge with critical analysis of relevant media.
- Global Challenges: Examines the role of media in addressing global challenges, focusing on issues such as climate change, sustainability, and social justice.
- Politics and Political Communication: Explores the complex relationship between media and politics, analyzing media's role in shaping political discourse and public opinion.
Assessment:
Assessment methods vary depending on the module and may include:
- Essays
- Project work
- Presentations
- Portfolio development
- Examinations
- Fieldwork and industry experience
Teaching:
The program is delivered through a combination of lectures, seminars, workshops, and individual supervision. Teaching staff includes experienced academics with expertise in various media disciplines, industry professionals, and guest speakers. The program emphasizes interactive learning, critical discussion, and student-led research.
Careers:
Graduates of the Media Studies BA(Hons) program are equipped with a diverse range of skills and knowledge, preparing them for a wide variety of careers in the media industry and related fields. Potential career paths include:
- Journalist
- Editor
- Social media manager
- Marketing and communications specialist
- Academic researcher
- Media analyst
- Filmmaker
- Photographer
- Public relations specialist
- Digital media specialist
Other:
- The program emphasizes an inclusive and decolonised curriculum, reflecting the diversity of media theory and practice.
- Students have opportunities to engage with visiting media professionals and participate in industry events.
- The program includes a mandatory second-year placement, offering valuable practical experience.
- The University of Brighton is located in Brighton, a vibrant and creative city with a thriving media industry.
UK (full-time) 9,250 GBP International (full-time) 15,900 GBP
