Course summary

The Communication MA gives you an in-depth critical understanding of digital and traditional media, and the many different factors that shape communication and mass media – providing you with a distinctive competitive edge in the creative industries careers market. The University of Westminster pioneered the UK’s first media studies degrees in 1975, and is home to the Communication and Media Research Initiative (CAMRI), one of the world’s most respected research centres in this field. Taught within the centre, the Communication MA draws on the latest thinking in media policy, political economy and communication theories, and encourages you to develop strong critical thinking, research and communication skills. You will conduct research both as part of a team – for example analysing how a story has been covered by different media outlets – and individually, during your dissertation, on a topic that fascinates you and is agreed with your supervisor. One of the things that sets this course apart is its breadth of both theory and practice. You will explore the political, economic, cultural and sociological forces that impact mass media, and learn how AI is influencing society through the lens of equality and justice. You can also learn to develop a digital media business plan and pitch it, and gain hands-on skills in podcasting. You will be taught by an international team of research-active academics, many of whom have industry experience in organisations such as the BBC, Xinhua (Chinese news agency), and NGOs including Social Change Online. Studying in Harrow in North-West London you will be part of a vibrant, diverse community of students and staff in the creative sectors, close to the UK’s media hub and in close proximity to major broadcasters and other media companies.