Communication MA

Course summary

This highly regarded course offers a rigorous analysis of the political, economic, cultural and sociological factors which shape the practices and outcomes of mass media. It will give you the opportunity to study and research the main ways in which social scientists have analysed the role of the mass media and communication, and how to develop, evaluate and apply research to evaluate those theories.

The MA ensures that you will receive a relevant, well-grounded, high-quality education and skill base, and a clear and comprehensive understanding of communication and the mass media. It is designed both for those who already work in or want to work in the media, and for those who want to go on to pursue further academic research in media and communication.

Based on continuous assessment, the course is taught in lectures and seminars by the team from Westminster’s top-rated Communication and Media Research Institute (CAMRI). You will be part of a bustling, multicultural academic department which boasts a strong research culture. You will be able to attend the regular talks by outside speakers (academics and practitioners) on a variety of communication and mass media issues.

CAREER PATH

Students are encouraged to seek work experience in the industry and opportunities are regularly communicated by members of staff. This has often led to full-time employment once graduating from the course. In addition, the MA course takes advantage of the vibrancy of the media environment in London.

For instance, students are encouraged to benefit from events taking place in London, e.g. at Frontline Club. Equally, there are a number of activities within the Department that give plenty of opportunities to students for networking which increases their employability.

An example here is the University’s Communication and Media Research Institute (CAMRI) seminars every fortnight where leading researchers present their work. This extracurricular activity promotes networking among MA students and gives them an opportunity to meet PhD students, other research staff and visiting speakers. Further networking opportunities are offered by the regular workshops and conferences which the various research centres within CAMRI organise and which our students can attend for free. These workshops and conferences bring together academic researchers, industry representatives as well as regulators and policy makers.

GRADUATE EMPLOYMENT

The MA course is well established and has a strong international reputation. Our students are very successful in gaining employment status, in many cases straight from graduating the course. Graduates have found jobs in middle- and upper management in media industries, as well as the broader private (e.g. consulting and advertising firms) and public sector (e.g. government ministries, regulatory authorities), international organisations and NGOs. Some graduates also continue to do PhD research.

Success in their Masters degree has allowed many who have been in media jobs before joining the course to move into more senior roles within their companies or organisations and to transfer to new sectors of the media.

Graduates from the MA Communication have found roles in a wide variety of media and communications organisations including: CCTV, Xinhua News Agency, BBC World Service, KBS (South Korea).

CAREERS AND EMPLOYABILITY SERVICE

Our Careers and Employability Service is here to support you to achieve your full potential.

With a growing network of over 3,000 employers around the world and a team of experienced careers consultants, we provide you with a variety of opportunities to work and develop new skills. As a University of Westminster student, you’ll have access to our services throughout your studies and after you graduate.

A minimum of an upper second class honours degree (2:1) or a lower second class honours degree (2:2) in a humanities or social sciences discipline and/or have relevant professional experience.