MA Communications, Media and Public Relations
Start dates: January, April, July and October.
Duration and mode of study: Two years by distance learning.
Entry Requirements
About this course
Each of our distance learning programmes shares a common first year (on successful completion of which you may choose to conclude your studies for the time being with the award of a Postgraduate Certificate in Mass Communications). The second year makes provision for more specialized study in the topic area identified in each programme’s title with the opportunity of further specialization through the pursuit of a dissertation (for an MA) or for early exit on completion of coursework (for a Postgraduate Diploma).
The specialised modules in this programme are designed for those wishing to acquire detailed knowledge of the latest research into news access and journalistic practices and on the growth, functioning and significance of PR in contemporary society. Modules cover PR and propaganda; ‘spin’ and the role of public relations in political and commercial communication; PR and the new media; media management in times of conflict, PR and the promotional practices of special interest groups; NGOs and the news. There will be opportunities for regional specialisation and a chance to explore PR practices in a global context.
Course modules
Year one modules
Module 1 Key Issues and Approaches in Media Study
Module 2 Media History and Social Regulation
Module 3 Media in Global Context
Module 4 Communications and Globalisation
Module 5 Investigating Media
Module 6 Media Industries: Convergence, Divergence
Year two modules
Module 7 Professional Practices
Module 8 Audience and Reception
Option D Critical Public Relations: Contexts and Issues
Option E Journalism: News Access and Source Power
Dissertation
Teaching and assessment methods
The course is studied by distance learning. In Year one there are five written assignments and one examination. In Year two there are four written assignments and a dissertation of 12,000-15,000 words.
Entry requirements
You should normally have a minimum of a good second class undergraduate degree (or equivalent) in a relevant discipline. If you do not possess a good first degree or an equivalent qualification, relevant professional experience will also be taken into account. Exceptionally, applicants with limited academic qualifications but with suitable professional experience can be admitted (sometimes via initial registration for the Postgraduate Certificate). You may be invited to submit an entry assignment in support of your application.
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