University of Leicester

What you'll study

This MA blends theoretical and applied study across media, advertising and communications. You will examine how advertising operates within media systems, explore audience and consumer cultures, and develop skills in campaign planning, creative strategy and media analysis. Teaching draws on academic research and industry practice to cover both conceptual frameworks and hands-on techniques.

• Core modules typically include theories of media and communication, advertising, branding and consumer culture, and research methods for media studies. These modules establish critical and methodological foundations for the programme.
• Practical modules focus on campaign development, creative copywriting and visual communication, media planning and digital advertising techniques including social media strategy and analytics.
• Optional modules may cover topics such as cultural industries, media policy and regulation, media law and ethics, data and audiences, or specialised elective units in digital media practices.
• Major project or dissertation is a substantial element of the MA. Students may undertake an applied project—such as a campaign portfolio or industry-based consultancy—or a longer piece of academic research that demonstrates critical engagement and methodological rigour.
• Learning methods include seminars, workshops, group briefs, practical labs and one-to-one supervision for the final project. Assessment mixes essays, project portfolios, presentations and the dissertation or major project.

Structure

The programme is delivered through taught modules followed by a substantial independent project. Full-time students typically complete the taught component before progressing to the dissertation or practical project; part-time options are usually available to accommodate working professionals.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a good undergraduate degree (or equivalent) in media, communications, marketing, advertising, journalism, cultural studies or a related discipline. Relevant professional experience in advertising, media, public relations or creative industries can strengthen an application and may be considered in place of formal qualifications.

Other typical requirements include a personal statement outlining your interest and experience, examples of project work or a portfolio if applying for the more practice-focused route, and academic references. International applicants must meet English language requirements as specified by the University.

Career prospects

Graduates leave prepared for a range of roles across advertising, media and related sectors. Common career paths include account management, media planning and buying, social media and digital campaign roles, creative strategy and copywriting, brand management, market research and audience insight, and roles in media agencies, in-house marketing teams or independent creative consultancies.

The programme’s combination of theory and practice also supports progression to research or doctoral study, or to roles that require strong analysis of media audiences, policy and regulation.

Why study at University of Leicester

The University of Leicester offers a research-active environment with expertise in media studies, cultural industries and communication research. Students benefit from academic staff who publish in media and advertising scholarship alongside links to industry partners and local creative networks. The campus location provides access to resources, events and practical opportunities that support employability and professional development.

Small-group teaching, dissertation supervision and opportunities for practical work mean students can tailor their studies to academic or career goals, while the University's student support services help with skills development, careers advice and placement opportunities.