Master of Science - Media and Communications

This multi-faceted course examines the development of structures of power, control and ownership of the media, and how media can be mobilised in activism, resistance and in social justice movements. Drawing on leading international academics and media professionals from across London, Communication and Media Studies at Brunel University London can be studied through two pathways, a theoretical pathway or a media practice pathway.

The academics and media professionals will offer students the latest knowledge and draw on cutting edge debates to analyse how the media shapes culture and society, how digital media shapes social and power relations, and how media can be used for social activism.

On the theoretical media and communications route, students develop a detailed and meaningful understanding of the wide discipline of media and communications. They will engage with media and communications theory and research techniques, and develop skills that will allow them to critique media and communications in a sophisticated fashion. Students also have the opportunity to meet professionals working in the broadcast, advertising and marketing industries and to take part in course‑related field trips.

The course is designed to meet the needs of advanced students with backgrounds in media, sociology and other relevant disciplines and is also perfectly suited for professionals in the communications/broadcast industry seeking to gain a more sociologically informed understanding of those industries. The courses offer a distinctive focus on media activism and politics.

The degree offers the opportunity to study London’s media industry including a mixture of industry visits, guest lectures, mentoring and practical skills development to accommodate different student needs, with a strong emphasis on student engagement with entrepreneurship and professional development. Graduates typically progress to further advanced academic research or pursue careers in the media industries. Destinations will include independent media production companies, public and private institutions (BBC, Channel 4, ITV) and an increasing number of media activist organisations.