Bournemouth University

What you'll study

This programme mixes theoretical understanding of media and communication with practical skills in content creation and campaign planning. You will study core topics such as media and society, audience analysis, media law and ethics, and research methods, alongside practical modules in digital production, social media strategy, journalism fundamentals and public relations.

• Foundations of Communication and Media — key concepts, historical developments and contemporary debates in media and communication.
• Digital Media Production — practical workshops in video, audio, editing and multimedia storytelling using industry-standard equipment and software.
• Journalism and News Production — reporting, feature writing, online news production and verification techniques.
• Public Relations and Strategic Communication — campaign planning, stakeholder management and reputation-building.
• Social Media and Digital Marketing — social media strategy, analytics, content planning and paid digital promotion.
• Media Law, Ethics and Regulation — legal and ethical frameworks that affect media practice in the UK and internationally.
• Research Methods and Dissertation/Independent Project — qualitative and quantitative methods leading to a final-year research project or practical portfolio.
• Professional Practice and Placement Options — opportunities for work placements, live briefs with industry partners, and professional development modules. Many students choose the optional placement/sandwich year to gain substantial workplace experience.

The course is typically delivered through lectures, seminars, practical workshops, group projects and assessed portfolios or project work. Students are encouraged to build a professional portfolio of media work throughout the degree.

Entry requirements

Bournemouth University seeks applicants who demonstrate both academic ability and clear interest in media and communication. Typical entry expects completion of a secondary school qualification such as A-levels, a relevant BTEC or equivalent qualifications, with additional consideration given to applicants with vocational experience or mature applicants. Applicants should normally have passes in English language; a minimum level of numeracy or GCSE-equivalent mathematics may also be required for some routes.

International students must meet English language requirements. Selection may be based on UCAS application, personal statement and references; for some applicants the department may request a short piece of written work or a portfolio evidencing relevant skills (for example journalism samples, media content, or communications work).

Career prospects

Graduates from this programme typically move into a range of media and communication roles across public, private and third sectors. Common entry-level roles include:

• Journalist, reporter or multimedia content producer for online, broadcast or print outlets
• Public relations or communications officer in corporate, charity or public-sector organisations
• Social media manager, community manager or digital marketing executive
• Copywriter, content strategist or brand communications assistant
• Media planner, research analyst or audience insight specialist

Many students also progress to postgraduate study in media, journalism, marketing or related disciplines, or take professional qualifications in PR and marketing. The emphasis on practical skills and real-world briefs positions graduates to enter creative and communications industries confidently.

Why study at Bournemouth University

Bournemouth University is known for its industry-engaged, practice-led approach to media and communication education. The Media School offers specialist facilities such as broadcast-standard studios, radio suites, editing suites and multipart production labs, enabling students to learn with the equipment used in professional settings.

The university places strong emphasis on employability: students benefit from opportunities for placements, live client briefs and structured professional development. Bournemouth’s location supports access to a vibrant creative cluster and regular industry events, while academic staff maintain links with media employers that help inform curriculum design and provide networking opportunities.

Overall, the BA (Hons) Communication and Media at Bournemouth University is built to combine critical understanding with practical capability, preparing graduates for a wide range of careers in the contemporary media and communications landscape.