Swansea University

What you'll study

This programme blends theoretical study of sport and culture with practical media and production skills. You will explore how sport is shaped by and shapes media, politics, identity and business, while learning to research, produce and edit content for broadcast, online and social platforms.

• Core themes: sport, media and society; cultural approaches to sport; sports policy and governance.
• Media and production: journalism and reporting for sport, broadcast production, multimedia storytelling, audio and video editing, and mobile journalism.
• Digital and social media: social media strategy, audience engagement, analytics and digital content commissioning.
• Law and ethics: media law, ethics in sports reporting and issues around privacy and defamation.
• Research and methods: qualitative and quantitative research methods, media analysis and a supervised final-year project or dissertation.
• Work-based learning: placements, live briefs and collaborative projects with external partners to build professional experience and a portfolio.

The structure typically moves from introductory modules in the first year to more specialised options and a substantial independent project in the final year. Assessment methods usually include essays, media portfolios, presentations, practical productions and a final research project.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised secondary school qualification equivalent to UK A-levels. Typical offers take account of academic achievement plus evidence of interest in media and sport, which may include a portfolio of writing or media work, a personal statement, or relevant volunteering or work experience.

• UK applicants: A-levels (or equivalent) in any subjects; GCSE passes in English and mathematics are usually expected.
• International applicants: equivalent secondary qualifications and an approved English language qualification are required.
• Mature and part-time applicants: relevant work experience, a strong personal statement and interview may be taken into consideration.

Admissions interviews or tasks may be used to assess suitability for practical media work. Applicants should consult the university’s admissions guidance for exact qualification and English language requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a broad range of careers in the sports, media and communications sectors. The combination of cultural analysis and practical media skills is valued by employers looking for staff who can produce engaging content and understand audience and industry contexts.

• Sports journalist or reporter (print, online or broadcast)
• Social media or digital content producer for clubs, leagues or media outlets
• Communications, PR or marketing roles within sports organisations and governing bodies
• Broadcast production assistant, researcher or editor
• Event communications and sponsorship activation roles
• Further study at postgraduate level in media, journalism or sport-related disciplines

Work placements, live client briefs and a professional portfolio developed during the degree help students make industry contacts and demonstrate practical competence to employers.

Why study at Swansea University

Swansea University offers a supportive learning environment with small-group teaching, opportunities for work-based learning and staff who combine academic expertise with industry experience. The university’s location gives good access to local and regional sports organisations and media outlets, as well as a distinctive coastal setting that contributes to student life.

• Interdisciplinary approach: study that bridges media practice, critical inquiry and sport studies.
• Practical facilities and support: opportunities to build a professional media portfolio and access careers and employability services.
• Industry exposure: placements, guest lectures and project work designed to connect students with employers in media, sport and communications.
• Student experience: a campus-community setting with extracurricular opportunities in student media, sport clubs and societies to apply learning beyond the classroom.

Prospective students should review Swansea University’s programme pages and admissions information for full details on modules, placements and entry requirements.