University of Leicester

What you'll study

This programme combines theoretical analysis, empirical methods and practical projects to explore how digital media shape everyday life, public debate and institutional practice. Core topics typically include digital media theory and history; social and cultural approaches to online platforms; digital politics and activism; data, surveillance and privacy; and research methods for digital studies.

Teaching formats include seminars, workshops, media production labs and supervised research. Assessment methods commonly involve essays, policy briefs, digital media projects or portfolios, presentations and a substantial dissertation or practice-based research project. Students can usually tailor their studies through optional modules and by selecting a dissertation topic that reflects their interests in areas such as social media analysis, digital journalism, civic technology, platform governance, or data ethics.

Typical modules and subjects

• Foundations of Digital Media and Society (theory and key debates)
• Research Methods for Digital Studies (qualitative and quantitative approaches, digital trace data)
• Platforms, Power and Governance (policy, regulation and platform accountability)
• Digital Culture and Society (identities, communities and everyday practices)
• Data, Surveillance and Ethics (privacy, algorithmic impact and ethics)
• Professional Practice or Media Production module (content creation, UX, campaign design)
• Dissertation or Practice-Based Research Project

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a UK honours degree or an international equivalent in a relevant discipline such as media, communications, sociology, politics, cultural studies, computer science, or a related field. Candidates with a lower second-class honours degree plus relevant work experience or professional practice in media and digital roles may also be considered.

Applicants whose first language is not English will need to demonstrate proficiency through a recognised English language qualification at the level required by the University. Selection is based on academic performance, personal statement and, where applicable, a portfolio of work or professional references. Mature students with substantial relevant experience are welcome to apply and may be assessed on the strength of their professional record.

Career prospects

Graduates of this MA move into a wide range of roles across public, private and third-sector organisations. Common career paths include social media and content strategy, digital communications, digital policy and public affairs, media research and audience insight, user experience (UX) research, digital marketing, data ethics and governance, and roles in civil society or government working on digital inclusion and online harms.

The programme also provides a strong foundation for doctoral study for those who wish to pursue academic or research careers in digital media, communication studies or related social sciences.

Why study at University of Leicester

The University of Leicester offers this programme within a research-active environment with a long-standing focus on media and communication research. Students benefit from research-led teaching, opportunities to engage with ongoing projects, and access to specialist facilities and training in digital research methods.

Leicester's academic staff work across interdisciplinary networks and maintain links with external organisations, providing students with opportunities for industry-informed learning, guest lectures and applied projects. The University also offers careers support, contemporary teaching spaces and a diverse student community in a city with good transport links and a lively cultural scene.