BA (Hons) Contemporary Media Cultures students present exhibition on urban landscape and identity
Final year students on BA (Hons) Contemporary Media Cultures present photographic show and launch magazine at Hotel Elephant.
BA (Hons) Contemporary Media Cultures
College
LCC
Start date
September 2020
Course length
3 years
UCAS code
P301
BA (Hons) Contemporary Media Cultures explores what it means to study media and culture in a contemporary context and through a critical perspective.
With a strong focus on key concepts in media and cultural studies, it investigates the role that media, cultural and creative processes play in shaping today’s world.
Why choose this course at London College of Communication
- A unique blend of theory and practice: this theory-based course helps you develop critical thinking by putting your ideas into practice through the use of digital technologies, film and photography. You’ll develop a critical understanding of different media industries.
- Personalisation: In year 1 and 2, you will have the chance to personalise your degree by choosing an optional unit from a course in the Media and Communications programme.
- Work experience and networking: The course prepares you for a successful career in the media industry, from photography to filmmaking, curation to digital practices, providing insights into the creative industry. The industry-based speaker series in years 2 and 3 provide students with opportunities to network with industry professionals and organisations.
- International opportunities: As part of Creative Week in Year 2, we organise a study trip to New York where you can visit various media companies and liaise with experts in the field.
- Where graduates have gone to work: A great number of our recent graduates have been accepted into prestigious Master programmes in the field of Music, Fashion, Cultural Studies and Media. Our students have found full-time positions in media, communication and arts industries.
Timothy Ogu
Timothy a graduate of BA (Hons) Contemporary Media Cultures, formally known as BA (Hons) Media and Cultural Studies, talks us through their work during the LCC Degree Shows 2017.
Course stories
Facilities
Lens-Based and Audio-Visual
Find out about the workspaces and studios that support Lens-Based and Audio-Visual practice.
Printing and Finishing
Discover our printing techniques, from Lithographic Printing to Print Finishing and Bookbinding.
The Digital Space
The Digital Space is an open-plan, creative hub with computers set up with specialist software.
Course overview
This course will help you understand the links between the academic concepts explored in the degree and how they can be applied to different media.
The course draws on a range of new academic perspectives and combines them with the making of media, such as film, photography, audience-specific writing and digital content.
What can you expect?
- In this course you’ll learn how to apply critical notions of the arts, media and cultural industries to media text though the use of photography, film, and web-based platforms.
- You’ll also learn how to develop those critical skills necessary to analyse creative industries and various media texts.
- You will learn how to communicate your ideas effectively and you’ll be exposed to a highly diverse international media environment.
- The units on this course are designed in a way to develop your collaborative skills.
- With a growing interest for environmental issues at the local and global level, we’ll teach you how to navigate the dynamic social and cultural landscape through partnerships, workshops and learning activities.
- Further, you will learn how to establish relationships that benefit individuals, local communities, organisations and society at large.
Work experience and opportunities
Throughout the duration of the course, we’ll provide you with several opportunities for paid internships, work experiences and collaborations with media experts.
You will be able to benefit from our close collaboration with the library services and the digital space.
As you’ll develop your independent research and study skills, you’ll also learn how to be proactive in identifying the best opportunity for you.
Our students have been exploring a vast array of options from fashion to film and photography by liaising with the LCC service Careers and Employability.
Course structure
The academic year for this course is divided into 2 blocks.
The 1st block is of 15 weeks’ duration from late September to mid-February. In accordance with the University timetable, there will be a four week holiday in December.
The 2nd block is also of 15 weeks’ duration from mid-February to the end of June with a four week holiday for Easter.
Mode of study
Undergraduate -Full time. It runs for 93 weeks in full time mode. It is divided into 3 stages over 3 academic years. Each stage lasts 31 weeks.
Course units
Each unit of the Degree is credit-rated, the minimum unit size is 20 credits. There are 120 credits per year, and 360 credits make up the BA (Honours) degree.
Each unit descriptor indicates the number of learning hours associated with that unit. The proportion of hours devoted to types of learning will vary according to the purpose and nature of the unit.
Year 1
In Year One, more emphasis is placed on directed learning. As you progress through the course, this emphasis shifts as you take responsibility for directing your own learning, moving towards the ultimate goal of being an independent learner.
Introduction to Contemporary Media Cultures (20 credits)
The unit considers a range of media texts and contexts including web-based media, film, television, advertising and news production.
Key Concepts in Media and Culture (20 credits)
This unit is designed to introduce you to the major models and concepts used in the study of contemporary media culture; examining institutions, practices and texts.
Identity and Difference (20 credits)
This unit examines key theories and concepts around the study of cultural identity, difference, affect, ethics and the politics of representation with a focus on visual culture and its theorisation.
Theory and Analysis in Media Culture (20 credits)
The unit assesses the way meaning in media texts is produced through the interrelationship between text and reader. It focuses on the range of critical methodologies available to the media student researcher.
Global Media Cultures (20 credits)
This unit explores the factors that have shaped these changes to media production and consumption, and their implications for national and cultural identities. Drawing on theories of globalisation and political economy, we will explore the landscape of contemporary media culture via a series of international case studies.
Optional Unit
Students can choose one of the following:
- Advertising Theories and Contexts (20 credits, BA Advertising)
- Visual Communication (20 credits, BA (Hons) Media and Communications)
- Branding and Digital Marketing (20 credits, BA (Hons) Public Relations)
Year 2
In your second year the theoretical approach shifts. Units are more tailored to very specific case studies.
We teach through the study of relevant academic materials alongside close readings of television and film texts. You also have the opportunity to explore these ideas through collaboratively producing short films.
In this year we more directly address the question of what it means to work in the media and how the 'nature of work' is changing.
Film Theory and Cinematic Practice (20 credits)
The objective of this unit is to provide you with an opportunity to draw on film theory and put it to use in the production of a short film, which draws on the major themes and debates covered in the unit.
Television and Its Futures (20 credits)
This unit examines how audiences are shaped by the multi-platform delivery of television and how cinema has been transformed into the contemporary landscape of international media distribution and exhibition.
From Audiences to Networks (20 credits)
This unit explores spectatorship and the formation of the audience within national and cosmopolitan contexts.
Professional Industry Practice (20 credits)
This unit will enable you to define and critically reflect on the challenges and possibilities that shape work in these industries, and to recognise and assess alternative modes of creative production.
Collaborative Project (20 credits)
The unit will introduce you to team skills and the roles and responsibilities associated with group working and additionally enable you to put into practice principles associated with personal and professional development.
Optional Unit
Students can choose one of the following:
- Behavioural Insights (20 credits, BA (Hons) Advertising)
- Digital Cultures (20 credits, BA (Hons) Media and Communications)
- Convergent Media: From Radio to Podcasting (20 credits, BA (Hons) Media and Communications)
- Media Relations (20 credits, BA (Hons) Public Relations)
Year 3
In year three you will focus in the first term on units that bring together key themes, concepts, debates and ideas from the degree; allowing you to explore them in more detail.
Interventions: Contemporary Media Activism (20 credits)
This unit explores the relationship between media, social change and ‘critical consciousness’. We ask: What is the role of alternative and social media in the shaping of today's world?
Digital Screen Cultures (20 credits)
The unit analyses the post-cinematic screen cultures, thinking about how film, for example, has been transformed by digital platforms.
The Critical Practitioner (20 credits)
This unit is your opportunity to produce a portfolio of work, which is either shown for public exhibition or produced for publication.
Major Project (60 credits)
Your final Major Project is a crucial part of your degree. This unit gives you the opportunity to focus on a piece of research developed around an area of study that you are particularly interested in.
Students produce either a written dissertation or a project that puts into practice the ideas of the course through the production of one or more media texts, created alongside a written critical reflection and analysis.
Learning and teaching methods
- Lectures/large group learning
- Workshop & seminar learning
- Academic tutorials
- Skills based workshops
- Personal tutorials
- Self-directed learning
- Outside speakers
- Study trips and visits
- Research methods training
- Assessed assignments
Assessment methods
- Practical project work and computer based activities
- Prepared writing
- Responses to case studies
- Oral presentation
- Personal presentations of prepared work
- Simulations and role plays
- Workshop based activities
- Written research projects
- The creation of a portfolio of collection of work, which may contain a number of different activities.
Staff
Chiara Minestrelli
Acting Course Leader, BA (Hons) Contemporary Media Cultures
Dr Zoetanya Sujon
Programme Director, Communications and Media
Dr Berfin Emre Cetin
Senior Lecturer, Communications and Media
Nicola Baird
Associate Lecturer, BA (Hons) Contemporary Media Cultures
Lab Ky Mo
Lecturer, BA (Hons) Contemporary Media Cultures
Dr Barbara Plotz
Associate Lecturer, BA (Hons) Contemporary Media Cultures
Chris Sams
Associate Lecturer, BA (Hons) Contemporary Media Cultures
Dr Corinne Silva
Associate Lecturer, BA (Hons) Contemporary Media Cultures and MA Media, Communications and Critical Practice
Dr Sara Marino
Senior Lecturer, Communications and Media
Dr Gracia Ramirez
Associate Lecturer, Media School
Dr Jonathan Wright
Senior Lecturer, BA (Hons) Contemporary Media Cultures
Associate lecturers
Emma Duester
Barbara Plotz
Tom Whittaker
How to apply
Opportunities for all
We are committed to making university education an achievable option for a wider range of people and to supporting all of our students in achieving their potential both during and after their courses.
We welcome applications from people with disabilities. If you have a disability (e.g. mobility difficulties, sensory impairments, medical or mental health conditions or Asperger’s syndrome) we strongly encourage you to contact us on disability@arts.ac.uk or +44 (0)20 7514 6156 so that we can plan the right support for you. All enquiries are treated confidentially. To find out more, visit our Disability & Dyslexia webpages.
Entry requirements
The course team welcomes applicants from a broad range of backgrounds from all over the world. The course attracts students who apply direct from A-level (or equivalent) or from Foundation Diploma in Art and Design, or other art or design courses, as well as mature students who may have previously worked in industry.
The standard entry requirements for this course are as follows:
80 UCAS tariff points, which can be made up of one or a combination of the following accepted full level 3 qualifications:
- A Levels at grade C or above (preferred subjects include: English; History; Media; Business; Art and Design, or other subjects within Social Sciences).
- Pass at Foundation Diploma in Art & Design (Level 3 or 4).
- Merit, Merit, Pass at BTEC Extended Diploma (preferred subjects: Art and Design, Business/ Business Studies, Media).
- Merit at UAL Extended Diploma.
- Access to Higher Education Diploma (preferred subject: Digital and Creative Media, Marketing, Humanities and Social Sciences, Film and Production).
- OR equivalent EU/International qualifications, such as International Baccalaureate Diploma at 24 points minimum
And 3 GCSE passes at grade 4 or above (grade A*-C).
APEL - Accreditation of Prior (Experiential) Learning
Applicants who do not meet these course entry requirements may still be considered in exceptional cases. The course team will consider each application that demonstrates additional strengths and alternative evidence. This might, for example, be demonstrated by:
- Related academic or work experience
- The quality of the personal statement
- A strong academic or other professional reference
- A combination of these factors.
Each application will be considered on its own merit but we cannot guarantee an offer in each case.
English language requirements (International/EU)
IELTS level 6.0 or above, with at least 5.5 in reading, writing, listening and speaking. Please check our main English language requirements page for more information.
All classes are conducted in English. If English is not your first language you will be asked to provide evidence of your English language ability when you enrol.
Selection criteria
The details on your UCAS application (including the academic reference and your personal statement) will be assessed against the following criteria:
- A demonstrable interest in the discipline of contemporary media cultures
- An understanding of the need for a critical and analytical approach (through research and practice) to this area of study
- Commitment to the study and development of your own creative practice and subsequent career opportunities
Making your application
Personal statement advice
This is an important part of your application and should demonstrate to the team that you are interested in contemporary media cultures, and that you have thought carefully about why you want to study on this course.
You can demonstrate this through your previous work experience or study, personal experience and your ambitions for personal development as a student at LCC.
You should ensure it is written clearly, and free of any spelling mistakes. It is your chance to impress the team by demonstrating your appreciation of what the course can offer you and how you feel it will help you in the future.
State what you personally would bring to the course, and explain what motivates you to learn, explore and experiment.
Please note: This course does not require a portfolio as part of the application.
Apply for this course though Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS):
- University code: U65
- Course code: P301
London College of Communication courses are listed under University of the Arts London.
Application deadline
We recommend you apply by 15th January for equal consideration. However this course will consider applications after that date, subject to places being available.
Making a deferred application (for entry in 2021/22)
Home/EU applicants are permitted to make a deferred application. International applicants are not permitted to make a deferred application.
External student transfer policy
If you are currently studying at another institution and have successfully completed 120 credits (year 1) or 240 credits (years 1 and 2) in the equivalent units/modules on a degree course and wish to continue your studies at London College of Communication, you can apply to transfer to year 2 or year 3 respectively.
The Admissions Tutor will consider applicants for entry to year 2 and 3 on a case by case basis, subject to places being available on the course. You must apply through UCAS and indicate POE 2 for entry to year 2 or POE 3 for entry to year 3 on your application.
Further information about the external student transfer policy can be found on the Office for Students Information page.
Referral to alternative UAL courses
The University operates a cross-referral system, where applicants can be considered for and offered a place on an alternative course, if the admissions tutor feels they are more suited to that course. If you wish to opt out of the cross-referral process you can do so at the application form stage.
Erasmus
For further information on Erasmus and UAL exchange schemes, please visit the Erasmus and Non-Erasmus Exchanges section on the UAL website.
International applicants can apply through either of the following routes:
- Through one of our official representatives in your country
- Through UCAS
- Through a direct application
If you are applying through UCAS, you will need the following information:
- University code: U65
- Course code: P301
London College of Communication courses are listed under University of the Arts London.
Further information on applying via UCAS is provided on the University Applying through UCAS page.
For full details on the application process, visit the Undergraduate application page, and for further advice for international applicants, please visit the UAL International Application page.
Application deadline
We recommend you apply by 15th January for equal consideration. However this course will consider applications after that date, subject to places being available.
Immigration history check
International applicants, whether applying online via UCAS or through a UAL representative or by direct application, you will need to complete an immigration history check to establish whether you are eligible to study at UAL. If you do not complete the check, we will not be able to proceed with your application.
Making a deferred application (for entry in 2021/22)
International applicants are not permitted to make a deferred application.
External student transfer policy
If you are currently studying at another institution and have successfully completed 120 credits (year 1) or 240 credits (years 1 and 2) in the equivalent units/modules on a degree course and wish to continue your studies at London College of Communication, you can apply to transfer to year 2 or year 3 respectively.
The Admissions Tutor will consider applicants for entry to year 2 and 3 on a case by case basis, subject to places being available on the course. You must apply through UCAS and indicate POE 2 for entry to year 2 or POE 3 for entry to year 3 on your application.
Further information about the external student transfer policy can be found on the Office for Students Information page.
Referral to alternative UAL courses
The University operates a cross-referral system, where applicants can be considered for and offered a place on an alternative course, if the admissions tutor feels they are more suited to that course. If you wish to opt out of the cross-referral process you can do so at the application form stage.
Study Abroad applicants
International undergraduate students can apply to join BA (Hons) Contemporary Media Cultures for a period of up to three terms as a Study Abroad student.
Visit the Study Abroad page for details of how to apply.
After you apply
Communicating with you
After you have successfully submitted your application, you will receive an email confirming we have successfully received your application and providing you with your login details for the UAL Portal. We will request any additional information from you, including inviting you to upload documents through the portal. You should check your UAL Portal regularly for any important updates and requests.
If you have achieved or expect to achieve the standard entry requirements we will consider you for a place on the course.
We make our offers based on the strength of the whole application, and therefore don’t routinely invite applicants to interview. To find out more, view our Undergraduate Application Process page.
International applicants may be invited to interview in person at LCC, or via Skype if overseas or unable to attend. Details of this interview will be sent via the UAL Portal.
What happens next?
We will advise you of your application outcome through UCAS Track. If you are an International applicant and have applied directly or through an agent, we will notify you through the UAL Portal.
We invite all offer holders to come to London College of Communication to attend one of our Offer Holder events. Offer holders will have the chance to meet the team, find out more about the course, and see our diverse and vibrant student community in action.
Successful applicants will be guided through the rest of our admissions stages and towards enrolment on the course.
Deferring your place
If you are offered a place for 2020/21 but wish to defer to 2021/22, information on how to do this and who to contact can be found in your offer letter.
International applicants will have to pay a pre-payment in order to defer. In all cases, deferred places will be held for one year.
Fees & Funding
Home / EU fee
£9,250 (2020/21).
Tuition fees may increase in future years for new and continuing students, in line with an inflationary amount determined by government. Please visit our undergraduate tuition fees page for more information.
International fee
£22,920 (2020/21).
Additional costs
In addition to tuition fees you are very likely to incur additional costs such as travel expenses and the cost of materials. Please read the information on our additional costs page.
Accommodation
Find out about the accommodation options available and how much they will cost.
Scholarships and awards
There are a number of scholarships and awards available to students on this course. Use our search tool to find out more information.
Careers and alumni
BA (Hons) Contemporary Media Cultures will help you to build up a range of transferable skills; the capacity to organise your ideas and make arguments; the ability to critique cultural objects and cultural practices; understand how the media is organised and how this organisation shapes content.
You will also build your confidence and develop the ability to present your ideas in a creative and authoritative way.
Graduates develop successful careers in the media, cultural and creative industries, including media and communication management and research, advertising, marketing, PR and film festival development.
