Bournemouth University

What you'll study

The programme covers advanced study of media industries, audiences, digital cultures, representation and media policy, alongside research methods and a substantial independent research or professional project. Core themes include media theory and criticism, contemporary communication practices, data and analytics for media, and the relationship between media, politics and society.

• Research methods for media and communication – qualitative and quantitative approaches, research design, ethics and data handling.
• Media industries and production cultures – structures, economics and labour of contemporary media organisations.
• Digital media, social platforms and audiences – platform dynamics, audience studies and engagement strategies.
• Representation, identity and policy – critical approaches to media content, regulation and cultural impact.
• Professional project or dissertation – a substantial independent research dissertation or applied project working with industry briefs or practice-led outputs.
• Optional modules – may include topics such as global media, political communication, media entrepreneurship, or specialised production modules depending on availability.

Teaching typically combines seminars, workshops, lectures and supervised research supervision. Assessment methods include essays, research reports, presentations, portfolios and the final project. Students are encouraged to develop both analytical skills and practical competencies relevant to contemporary media roles.

Entry requirements

Applicants normally need a UK honours degree at 2:1 level or an international equivalent in media, communications, humanities, social sciences or a related subject. Applicants with a lower-second class degree and significant relevant professional experience may be considered. You should be able to demonstrate academic potential, critical thinking and, where relevant, creative or professional practice.

International applicants whose first language is not English will be expected to meet Bournemouth University’s English language requirements; an overall IELTS score around the mid-6 band is typically required with minimum component scores specified by the university. Specific offers and conditions are confirmed by the university on application.

Career prospects

Graduates from this programme progress to a wide range of careers across the media and communications sector and beyond. Typical roles include:

• Content strategist, digital producer or social media manager
• Media researcher, audience insights analyst or data-driven communications specialist
• Public relations, communications officer or corporate communications roles
• Policy advisor, media regulator or NGO communications specialist
• Journalism, editorial or commissioning positions (with additional practical experience)
• Further academic study including PhD research in media and communication studies

The programme’s emphasis on research skills and professional practice helps graduates move into both practitioner roles and research-led careers.

Why study at Bournemouth University

Bournemouth University’s Faculty of Media and Communication is a specialist centre with a long-established reputation for media research and professional engagement. Students benefit from well-equipped media facilities, production suites and industry-standard software, alongside access to research-active academics working on contemporary media topics.

The university has strong links with regional, national and international media organisations, offering opportunities for guest lectures, industry briefs and placements. The course’s balance of critical analysis and applied work is designed to prepare graduates for flexible careers in a rapidly changing media landscape.