Media and Communications BA (Hons)

Study level: Undergraduate
Three students sitting in front of a big screen tv with macbooks

Our Media and Communications course will immerse you in the driving forces of media exchange (theory) and the single trait that unites most, if not all media content: storytelling.

Year of entry

Location

Coventry University (Coventry)

Study mode

Full-time
Sandwich

Duration

3 years full-time
4 years sandwich

Course code

P910

Start date

September 2024


Course overview

Our Media and Communications course is designed to help you negotiate and operate in contemporary media landscapes, exploring a wide range of communication, culture and media theory.

  • In the course of your study, you will explore Media through research, live and immersive projects, academic essays, multi-media venues such as podcasts, blogs, social media platforms, video and audio-visual content, potential live events, and more.
  • The course focuses on both the comprehension of contemporary developments in media and communication studies and the best-suited, most flexible creative practices to enter the creative industries.
  • This course addresses patterns of media production and consumption prevalent in the contemporary workplace, helping you to develop a wide range of skills, transferable knowledge and practical competences so you can thrive in relevant and current fields of employment, and in international settings.
Hand selecting a user icon in a coloured circle.

Joint Top Modern University for Career Prospects

Guardian University Guide 2021 and 2022

Five stars in a speech bubble.

5 QS Stars for Teaching and Facilities

QS Stars University Ratings

City buildings next to a tree.

Top 5 UK Student City (Coventry)

QS Best Student Cities Index 2023

Why you should study this course

  • Significant links with a wide variety of employers and media practitioners, such as Phoenix Cinema, Electric Arts and EA Games, many of whom offer professional experience opportunities in the forms of placements (subject to availability, successful application and additional costs may apply)2.
  • You will have opportunities to learn how stories are found, created and disseminated across a range of platforms working alongside students from other courses in the School of Media and Performing Arts. These collaborative opportunities allow you to widen your knowledge and exposure to other subject areas and professions. You will have the opportunity to collaborate with other students, so you can share your insights and experience which will help you to develop and learn.
  • Recent graduates of the course have gone on to work within the film industry, advertising, television, radio, communication management and PR, publishing, the arts and creative media and media education for companies including, Apple, Nielsen, Spark 44, WPP, Virgin, EA Sports, Jaguar Land Rover, Linney Group, IKEA Group, KPMG, Selfridges, Reprezent Radio, Citroen and the BBC. Many also go on to pursue master’s level study.
  • From the outset, we aim to foster your critical thinking, to develop your technical, creative, reflective and analytical abilities, with the aim of giving you a thorough grounding in research, providing basic skills in production and post-production, as well as guiding you through project management experiences, which are essential skills to succeed in this ever-expanding and changing sector.
No.13

for Media and Film Studies in the UK

The Guardian University Guide 2023

School of Art and Design Showcase

Engage with and explore the talents and achievements of our art and design Foundation Year course and final-year students.

Find out more
art_design_showcase_banner

Tom's placement year with video game giants Electronic Arts

Third-year Media and Communications student Tom talks about his placement year with EA Games Guildford, and how Coventry helped him along the way.

Read his story
Tom at EA Games

What you'll study

This course has a common first year.

The common first year enables you to work alongside students doing similar courses to you, to widen your knowledge and exposure to other subject areas and professions. You will have the opportunity to collaborate with other students, so you can share your insights and experience which will help you to develop and learn.

If you discover an interest in a specific subject you have studied, upon successful completion of your first year, you could swap degrees with another course in your common first year (subject to meeting progression requirements).

Common first year courses

  • Media and Communications BA (Hons)
  • Journalism BA (Hons)

In the first year, the curriculum is shared across related courses allowing you to gain a broad grounding in the discipline before going on, in the second and third years, to specialist modules in your chosen field.

Modules

In year two, you will continue to develop the skills and knowledge you’ve learnt. We do this by embedding the following four principles into the curriculum and developing your:

  • Technical skills – digital fluency, backed with the right academic knowledge
  • Study skills – to be an adaptive, independent and proactive learner
  • Professional skills – to have the behaviour and abilities to succeed in your career
  • Global awareness – the beliefs and abilities to be a resilient, confident and motivated global citizen

You will develop more advanced knowledge and skills to do with: careers in the industry, new technologies, and the world of public relations, amongst others.

Modules

There’s no better way to find out what you love doing than trying it out for yourself, which is why a work placement2 can often be beneficial. Work placements usually occur between your second and final year of study. They’re a great way to help you explore your potential career path and gain valuable work experience, whilst developing transferable skills for the future.

If you choose to do a work placement year, you will pay a reduced tuition fee3 of £1,250. For more information, please go to the fees and funding section. During this time you will receive guidance from your employer or partner institution, along with your assigned academic mentor who will ensure you have the support you need to complete your placement.

Modules

Year three aims to bring you to the level to enter the world of work by consolidating your knowledge and skills from year one and two. Your studies could culminate in a dissertation, the production of a documentary film, or by launching a curated exhibition based on your independent research of an area of interest to you.

You will have the opportunity to choose between two specialist modules, ‘Global Networks and Communities’ and ‘Political Communication’ to total 120 credits in your final year.

Modules

We regularly review our course content, to make it relevant and current for the benefit of our students. For these reasons, course modules may be updated.


How you'll learn

Your development will be through academic writing and discussion as well as activity-led learning, live projects, real-world working simulations, experimentation and play. The Media and Communications mobility technology pack allows you to develop your own learning and working pattern in a flexible way, so your experience is adaptable and yet part of a strategic course vision. Your personal tutor will regularly review and discuss your progress on the course.

The core aim of the course teaching and learning strategy is that, upon graduation, you are able to function as an agile creative professional within the media and cultural industries, understand the strategic and emerging trends in media and communications, and respond to and/or generate innovation.


Teaching contact hours

  • We understand that everyone learns differently, so each of our courses will consist of structured teaching sessions, which can include:
  • On campus lectures, seminars and workshops
  • Group work
  • Self-directed learning
  • Work placement opportunities2.

The number of full-time contact hours may vary from semester to semester, however, on average, it is likely to be around 12 contact hours per week in the first and second year dropping to around 10-12 contact hours per week in the third and final year as you become a more independent learner.

Additionally, you will be expected to undertake significant self-directed study of approximately 15 hours each week, depending on the demands of individual modules.

Part of university life is undertaking self-directed learning. During a typical week you will have time that allows you to work independently to apply the skills and knowledge you have learnt in taught or facilitated sessions to your projects or assignment briefs. This self-directed learning allows you to use your research skills, consolidate your knowledge or undertake collaborative group work.

As an innovative and enterprising institution, the university may seek to utilise emerging technologies within the student experience. For all courses (whether on-campus, blended, or distance learning), the university may deliver certain contact hours and assessments via online technologies and methods.

Since COVID-19, we have delivered our courses in a variety of forms, in line with public authority guidance, decisions, or orders and we will continue to adapt our delivery as appropriate. Whether on campus or online, our key priority is staff and student safety.


Assessment

Assessment within the BA (Hons) Media and Communications course is integrative and aligned with the development of informed, motivated and critically reflective students and professionals of media and communication.

Given the complexity of the field of media and communications, you will be encouraged and supported to produce various forms of research and creative outcomes, including:

  • Pieces of academic writing
  • Media artefacts
  • Portfolios
  • Presentations
  • Reflection and creative works

You will acquire regular feedback on your development from tutors, peers, and instructors.

The Coventry University Group assessment strategy ensures that our courses are fairly assessed and allows us to monitor student progression towards achieving the intended learning outcomes.


International experience opportunities

Our course is designed to reflect the increasingly international context of media and culture; this is reflected strongly in the course curriculum. Modules such as ‘Transcultural Film’ and ‘Living in the Digital World 3’ heavily embed a specific attention to global issues both in terms of approached topics, international seminars and field activities.

We aim to provide a field trip2 in year one which will be in the UK (subject to availability costs of trip are included within course fees) and an international field trip2 in either year two or three. (Subject to availability, meeting visa requirements and additional costs) both of which are reviewed annually to ensure the choices are both timely and in response to previous student experiences. Recent fieldtrips have included: Reykjavik, Oslo, Berlin, Aarhus, Lisbon, Madrid, Barcelona, Prague, Geneva and more. Our course field trip projects involve researching real life case studies touching upon a wide range of creative industries, screen and digital media related issues, documenting and reflecting on the research and finally creating both a presentation event as well as crafting a media artefact.

Please note that all international experience opportunities may be subject to additional costs, competitive application, availability and meeting applicable visa and travel requirements are therefore not guaranteed2.


Entry requirements

Typical offer for 2024/25 entry.

Requirement What we're looking for
UCAS points 112
A level BBC
GCSE Minimum 5 GCSEs at grade 4 / C or above to include English
BTEC DMM
IB Diploma 29 points
Access to HE The Access to HE Diploma. Plus GCSE English at grade 4 / C or above.

If you do not have the typical entry requirements, you may want to consider studying this course with a foundation year. We recognise a breadth of qualifications, speak to one of our advisers today to find out how we can help you.

Chat with us

Portfolio

You may be required to attend a portfolio showcase, activity session or audition or submit a portfolio via email (as is appropriate to your course), either virtually or face to face, as is practical to arrange. Invites for these sessions will be sent directly to your contact email.

Each application will be considered on its merits.

Are you eligible for the Fair Access Scheme?

We believe every student should have the opportunity to dream big, reach their potential and succeed, regardless of their background. Find out more about our Fair Access Scheme.

Select your region to find detailed information about entry requirements:


You can view our full list of country specific entry requirements on our Entry requirements page.

If you do not have the typical entry requirements, you may want to consider studying this course with an international foundation year. Upon successful completion our International Foundation Year - Art, Design and Media will provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to progress onto this undergraduate degree.

Alternatively, visit our International hub for further advice and guidance on finding in-country agents and representatives, joining our in-country events and how to apply.

English language requirements

  • IELTS: 6.0 overall, with no component lower than 5.5.

If you don't meet the English language requirements, you can achieve the level you need by successfully completing a pre-sessional English programme before you start your course.

For more information on our approved English language tests visit our English language requirements page.

Chat with us


Fees and funding

2024/25 tuition fees.

Student Full-time Part-time
UK, Ireland*, Channel Islands or Isle of Man £9,250 per year Not available
EU £9,250 per year with EU Support Bursary**
£19,850 per year without EU Support Bursary**
Not available
International £19,850 per year Not available

If you choose to do a work placement2, you should consider travel and living costs to cover this. There is also a tuition fee3 of £1,250 that will cover your academic support throughout your placement year.

For advice and guidance on tuition fees and student loans visit our Undergraduate Finance page and see The University’s Tuition Fee and Refund Terms and Conditions.

We offer a range of International scholarships to students all over the world. For more information, visit our International Scholarships page.

Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching, assessments, facilities and support services. There may be additional costs not covered by this fee such as accommodation and living costs, recommended reading books, stationery, printing and re-assessments should you need them. Find out what's included in your tuition costs.

The following are additional costs not included in the tuition fees:

  • Any optional overseas field trips or visits: £400+ per trip.
  • Any costs associated with securing, attending or completing a placement (whether in the UK or abroad).

*Irish student fees

The rights of Irish residents to study in the UK are preserved under the Common Travel Area arrangement. If you are an Irish student and meet the residency criteria, you can study in England, pay the same level of tuition fees as English students and utilise the Tuition Fee Loan.

**EU Support Bursary

Following the UK's exit from the European Union, we are offering financial support to all eligible EU students who wish to study an undergraduate or a postgraduate degree with us full-time. This bursary will be used to offset the cost of your tuition fees to bring them in line with that of UK students. Students studying a degree with a foundation year with us are not eligible for the bursary.


Facilities

Coventry University is home to superb facilities.

Two male students presenting in a TV studio to a camera in the foreground.

Television Studio

You’ll have access to our on-site television studio The Tank, offering specialist equipment such as large cameras, mixing facilities and fibre-optic wiring throughout.
 

Male student setting up a photography light in a studio.

Photography Suite

This specialist facility is available to media students to take and process photos in a professional environment. There is also support for printing, high-end scanning and film processing.

Exterior front of the Ellen Terry building.

Media Loan Shop

Our media loan shop provides you with access to the equipment and support you need to excel in your studies – from basic audio recorders to professional cameras and expert advice from our technicians.


Careers and opportunities

On successful completion, you will be able to:

  • Demonstrate critical thinking around the history and development of media and communication forms in local, national, and global contexts.
  • Critically analyse the convergence of theory and practice across diverse modes of media and communication landscapes.
  • Engage in creative production practices utilising the most appropriate media and communications tools to further modes of media storytelling.
  • Understand the role of changing technology, including emergent digital technologies in media and communications, content manipulation, distribution, access and participation and how to adapt core skills in line with industry requirements.
  • Demonstrate how media and communication genres inform, disrupt and impact on central areas of content creation, public cultures and socially diverse communities.
  • Be adaptable, creative and self-reflexive in producing research and content in event organisation and participation for a variety of audiences and in a variety of media and communication contexts.
  • Comprehend the media field as a broad and multifaceted area and deploy interdisciplinary skills in order to navigate the fluid, flexible and changing nature of media production and reception.
  • Consider the role of media and communications industries from an ethical and professional stance, demonstrating knowledge and insight in order to see their value for a variety of organisations and contexts, from local community groups to global corporations.

The creative media industries account for some of the most exciting and diverse careers available – you could go on to become a producer, technician, presenter, reporter, PR specialist, writer, editor or critic.

We take great pride in our outstanding track record of graduate success – with 97% of graduates in work or continuing their studies after six months, DHLE 2016/17, (published 2018). Our course places your future career at its core, aiming to prepare you professionally and providing opportunities to gain substantial practical experience so you’re ready to launch a successful career in the media and cultural industries. It is designed to enable you to work for a range of media organisations, which may include the BBC, independent companies, global media organisations, or as a freelance/independent media manager, producer or researcher.

Coventry University is committed to preparing you for your future career and aims to give you a competitive edge in the graduate job market. The university's Talent Team provide a wide range of support services to help you plan and prepare for your career.

Where our graduates work

Recent graduates of the course have gone on to work within the film industry, advertising, television, radio, communication management and PR, publishing, the arts and creative media and media education for companies including, Apple, Nielsen, Spark 44, WPP, Virgin, EA Sports, Jaguar Land Rover, Linney Group, IKEA Group, KPMG, Selfridges, Reprezent Radio, Citroen and the BBC. Many also go on to pursue master’s level study.

Further study

There is also the chance to go onto master’s level study upon successful completion of your undergraduate degree.

You may be entitled to an alumni discount on your fees if you decide to extend your time with us by progressing from undergraduate to postgraduate study.

I knew I wanted to do a Media and Communications course because it covers so many aspects of the industry I love. Once I met my tutors during Open Day and could see the passion they had for the subject, I knew Coventry was for me. Every year, we get to do a portfolio module which is a great way to build our skills and showcase our work to employers.

Jennifer Cassidy, Media and Communications BA (Hons) student, 2021
Media and Communications students sat down and smiling

Graduate Immigration Route visa

Based on current information from the UK Government, international students whose study extends beyond summer 2021 may be eligible for a visa under the UK Government’s Graduate Immigration Route, which will enable students to stay and work, or look for work, in the UK at any skill level for up to two (2) years. Check the most up to date guidance available to check your eligibility and any updates from the UK Government before making an application or enrolment decision.


How to apply

Full-time students applying to start in September 2024 can apply for this course through UCAS. Read our application pages to find out your next steps to apply.

Part-time students should apply directly to the university.


If you'd like further support or more information about your course get in touch with us today.

International codes:
AHU085

How to apply

For further support for international applicants applying for an undergraduate degree view our International hub.

You can also download our International guide which contains lots of useful information about our courses, accommodation and tips for travel.

This course with foundation year is not currently available to international students. If you do not meet the entry requirements to directly join year 1 of the degree, please take a look at our International Pathways Programme for additional options.


Get in touch with us today for further advice and guidance.

You may also like

Coventry University (Coventry) Media Production student with a clapperboard and two students in the background with filming equipment

Media Production BA (Hons)

Coventry University (Coventry) Two students standing in front of a filming camera emulating a tv studio

Journalism BA (Hons)

Coventry University (Coventry) Colourful graphic shot of student holding hands with another student out of shot

Digital Media BA (Hons)


Discover Uni stats