Keele University

What you'll study

This degree combines practical media production with modules on design, interactivity and the cultural contexts of digital media. You will gain hands‑on experience with video production, audio, web design, UX/UI fundamentals, basic scripting for interactive media, and image production, alongside studies in media theory, digital culture, and research methods.

• Core practical modules: video production and editing; audio production and podcasting; digital imaging and motion graphics; web design (HTML/CSS) and responsive layouts; introduction to interactive design and prototyping.
• Technical and creative skills: scripting for media (e.g. JavaScript basics or visual scripting tools), user experience and usability testing, game and app prototyping, digital storytelling and narrative design.
• Theory and context: media, society and culture; digital ethics and copyright; audience and participation studies; media history and critical approaches to digital content.
• Research and professional practice: project planning, portfolio development, group projects and a substantial final-year individual or group project that showcases technical and conceptual strengths.

The course is typically structured to progress from introductory, hands‑on modules in the first year to more specialised options and a major project in later years. Options often include placement or work‑based learning modules and opportunities to study interdisciplinary topics in computing, design or business.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a recognised secondary school qualification or equivalent higher education access qualification. Keele normally considers A‑levels, BTECs, Scottish Highers, Irish Leaving Certificate, and a range of international qualifications; specific subject requirements vary but a background in a relevant subject (such as media, art & design, ICT, computing or English) is helpful. Portfolios or examples of recent practical work (video, websites, design samples) may be requested to support an application.

Mature students and those with relevant work or vocational experience are encouraged to apply; English language proficiency is required for applicants whose first language is not English, and Keele provides recognised pathways and support for meeting that requirement.

Career prospects

Graduates go on to roles across the creative and digital industries. Typical career paths include digital content producer, social media manager, multimedia journalist, web designer/front‑end developer, UX/UI assistant, video editor or motion graphics artist. The programme also prepares students for roles in digital marketing, e‑learning content production, and project management in creative teams. Some graduates pursue postgraduate study in areas such as digital media, human‑computer interaction, or media research.

Placement modules and industry connections supported by the university’s careers service help students build professional networks and develop a portfolio of work that employers in the creative and tech sectors value.

Why study at Keele University

Keele offers a campus‑based learning environment with access to specialist facilities and a supportive teaching culture that emphasises small‑group teaching and one‑to‑one supervision. The university encourages interdisciplinary study, allowing Digital Media students to take modules from related areas such as computing, design, business and the arts.

Students benefit from practical workshops, studio space and technical support, combined with opportunities for work placements and external project collaborations. Keele’s careers and enterprise services provide employability support, help with industry placements and guidance on building professional portfolios and freelance practice.