Top UK Universities For Communication And Media Studies
Here’s our full guide on the Top Universities For Communication And Media Studies in the UK. We have curated a list of high-ranking universities which offer affordable, globally-recognised qualifications for Communication and Media Studies.
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UK University League Table for Communication And Media Studies (2024)
The University League Table for Communication and Media Studies below displays the top-ranking universities for studying Communication and Media Studies in the UK. We’ve compiled a list of universities you should look out for, based on UK and global rankings, as well as entry requirements.
What do you Study in Communication and Media Studies Degrees?
A Communication and Media Studies degree equips you with the skills needed for a career in the media industry. Through this programme, you’ll gain expertise in dissecting how media mirrors, portrays, and exerts influence. Your studies will keep you updated on the most recent developments in news, technology, and discussions spanning press, broadcasting, advertising, and digital platforms. Additionally, you’ll explore a wide range of subjects, encompassing public relations, marketing, production, ethics, cultural studies, and communication theory.
Careers for Communication and Media Studies Graduates
What can you do with a degree in Communication and Media Studies? Many graduates find employment taking on various roles such as:
Public Relations Specialist: Managing the image and reputation of organisations or individuals through media and communication strategies.
Media Planner/Buyer: Planning and purchasing advertising space in various media outlets to reach target audiences effectively.
Social Media Manager: Creating and managing social media content and campaigns for brands and organisations.
Content Creator/Writer: Producing written, visual, or multimedia content for websites, blogs, magazines, or television.
Journalist/Reporter: Investigating and reporting news stories for newspapers, magazines, online platforms, or broadcast media.
Marketing Coordinator: Assisting in the development and implementation of marketing strategies and campaigns.
Advertising Account Executive: Managing client relationships and coordinating advertising campaigns for agencies.
Event Planner: Organising and coordinating events, conferences, and promotional activities.
Media Analyst: Conducting research and analysis of media trends, audience behavior, and market data.
Film/Video Producer: Overseeing the production of films, videos, or documentaries, from concept to final product.
Corporate Communication Specialist: Managing internal and external communications for businesses and organisations.
Radio or TV Presenter: Hosting shows, interviews, or programmes on radio or television.
Market Research Analyst: Collecting and analysing data to provide insights into consumer behaviour and market trends.
Best Universities For Communication And Media Studies
In 2024, the top UK university for Communication and Media Studies degrees is Loughborough University. The university offers a 3-year programme that covers both historical and contemporary developments in various media sectors, including digital and social media, television, film, advertising, news, and journalism. It equips you with key theories to understand how media and communication shape meaning, influence identity, and impact society. Additionally, you’ll receive practical training in vital analytical skills for media and cultural industry jobs, including social media analysis, interviewing, focus groups, content analysis, surveys, and data analysis.
Another top university is the University of Strathclyde. Strathclyde’s programme combines a strong foundation in both traditional literature and emerging fields of study in media and communication. Employers will highly value the skills honed during this course, such as adept written and verbal communication, critical analysis, the ability to engage in intellectual discourse, and a penchant for innovative thinking.
The programme not only provides a deep understanding of the media industry but also arms you with the technical and professional abilities necessary for success in journalism, communication, information design, and management. These skills are put into practice in the vibrant media hub of Glasgow and beyond, making Strathclyde an ideal launchpad for a dynamic career in journalism, media, and communications.
Recommended Communication and Media Studies Schools In The UK
The University of Leeds provides an extensive program that explores the central role of media in our daily lives. This course equips students with essential skills and theoretical insights to analyse and critically evaluate the societal impact of media and offers a comprehensive understanding of communication and media theory within broader economic and societal contexts. The program includes practical modules for students interested in refining their abilities in new media production and practice. Taught by experienced researchers, students have the opportunity to specialise in fields like digital media, film studies, journalism, and more.
Swansea University’s Media and Communication program offers a comprehensive educational experience, equipping students with practical skills essential for careers in media, marketing, and related fields, while also providing transferable skills highly valued by employers for broader career prospects. With a diverse curriculum encompassing radio and video production, digital and social media, journalism, public relations, branding, and marketing, students have the opportunity to learn from both experienced industry professionals and leading academics. If you’re considering a more affordable option, this is one to look out for.
How To Apply To Study Communication and Media Studies In The UK?
Step 1: Choose A University
The first step is to look for popular and high-ranking Universities in the UK that offer courses you are interested in. Refer to the table above to start your search. Here are some things to consider when applying:
- Location
- Employability/Graduate prospects
- Fees
- Entry requirements
- University Ranking
Step 2: Preparations
Once you have narrowed down the search to your top five universities, the first step is to prepare necessary documents and forms. This includes school leaving certificates, exam results, the UCAS application form and a written Personal Statement, among other documents that may be required.
Step 3: Submit UCAS Application
The application process for UK universities differs from local universities as applications go through an organisation known as UCAS, the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service. UCAS handles all admission applications to UK universities, including those submitted by international candidates like you.
To ensure a better chance of getting accepted, it is important that you prepare all the necessary documents and fill out all forms correctly. We also recommend that you apply for multiple universities simultaneously to ensure that you get your preferred offers. Read our full guide on UCAS here.
More about UCAS
The entire application process might be daunting and lengthy for some, so let us help you. Make a free appointment with us today for professional assistance in submitting applications to your preferred UK universities.
Communication and Media Studies Entry Requirements
Here are some of the common entry requirements and tests a student has to pass before being accepted at a UK university to study Communications and Media Studies.
- English Language Test requirement – such as IELTS or TOEFL.
- Criminal records declaration (DBS/Disclosure Scotland for Scottish Universities)
- Health checks.
- Entrance interviews.
- Personal statement. This is a supporting document and part of your application to a UK university. Usually, you will write about what you hope to achieve studying at the course, what you plan to do after graduating and why you are applying for this specific university.
Frequently Asked Questions
In Communications and Media Studies, students study a diverse range of topics, including media theory, production, journalism, digital media, public relations, and cultural analysis. They explore how communication and media shape society, examine media content critically, and often gain practical skills in media production, journalism, and digital communication, preparing them for careers in various fields such as journalism, public relations, advertising, digital media, and cultural analysis.
The number 1 university for Communications and Media Studies in the UK is Loughborough University, according to 2024 rankings.
The common entry requirements for studying Communications and Media Studies in the UK include English language tests, criminal record declarations, health checks, entrance interviews and submission of a personal statement.
The tuition fees range between £17,000 to £28,000 per annum for international students, depending on the university. The ranking and location of a university might also affect tuition fee costs.
The UCAS deadline for Communication and Media Studies programmes is 15 January on the year of admission. Do take note that the deadline for Oxford and Cambridge is 15 October.
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