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Undergraduate

BA (Hons) Media Communications

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Student working in the Studio. Image by Alys Tomlinson.
College
London College of Communication Start date
September 2022 Course length
3 years UCAS code
P302

With an emphasis on the social and cultural impact of digital media forms, BA (Hons) Media Communications examines the technologies, practices and policies that drive modern media communications.

Re-approval

Please note this course is undergoing re-approval. This is the process by which we ensure the course continues to provide a high-quality academic experience. During re-approval there may be some changes to the course content displayed on this page. Please contact us if you have any questions about the course.

Why choose this course at London College of Communication

  • You will develop critical thinking and writing skills, and knowledge across: digital media, moving image, photography and podcasting.
  • Work collaboratively on project briefs set by industry professionals, enabling you to engage in project management, pitching of ideas, and furthering your personal and professional development.
  • The course covers a mix of media theory and creative practice ensuring that graduates are fully equipped to target careers in the media and communications industry.
  • You will explore the benefits of the culture of connectivity for individuals, community and brands, and its implications for social and political life.

Open Days

The next Online Open Day for this course will be on Friday 18 February at 4.30pm (GMT). Book your place.

Online Open Day

(Recorded October 2021)

Course Leader, Thomas Giagkoglou, gives an overview of studying BA (Hons) Media Communications.

Student work

All Talk: Billy No Dates

This podcast explores why UAL Students are most right swiped on dating app Badoo and features an interview with Olivia Petter from The Independent's Millennial Love podcast.

Work by Emily Carr, Erinna Donohoe and Franki Collard

▶ Listen now

Destigmatise

This podcast series focuses on mental health and the stigma around it. In this episode, Ifan and Jiliane focus on bipolar disorder and interview Bipolar Barbie and others who suffer with the mental health condition.

Work by Ifan Barber and Jilliane Lee

▶ Listen now

UALunzipped

In this podcast Mahima, Mariam, Tyler and Cecile discuss the pressures surrounding fashion culture at University of the Arts London.

Work by Tyler Love, Mahima Kasham, Mariam Sesay and Cecilie Lauridsen

▶ Listen now

Price of a Ticket

This podcast series explores a range of issues faced in the creative industries. This episode focuses on mental health within the performing arts sector.

Work by Armani Sutherland, Prachee Mashru and Solomon Thomas-Lea

▶ Listen now

This Town

The North-East's collapse economically and politically has left many of their regional towns in abandonment by the government and has formed a misrepresentation by the British media.

This Town is a short poetic film about the North-East Town of Darlington and serves to create an empowering message of hope and community spirit.

Work by Kate Hardy

The Liverpool Equinox

This auto-ethnographic film studies the norms and values of the community of Liverpool. It considers the boycott of The Sun newspaper in and around Merseyside after the 1989 Hillsborough disaster as an expression of communal solidarity.

Work by Amy Jackson

Student voices

Simran Sokhi

Student voices

Simran’s documentary The Hate We Received incorporates screengrabs and recordings to investigate racism in British tabloid papers.

Prachee Mashru

Student voices

Prachee's final major project looks at the relationship between misogyny and hip-hop.

Stories

Facilties

  • Red light indicating recording is taking place.
    Image © Vladimir Molico
    Lens-based and Audio-visual

    Find out about the workspaces and studios that support Lens-based and Audio-visual practice.

  • A close-up of the moveable type available in the Letterpress area.
    Image © Lewis Bush
    Printing and Finishing

    Discover our printing techniques, from Lithographic Printing to Print Finishing and Bookbinding.

  • Student reading a book in between two bookshelves in the Library
    Students in the Digital Space. London College of Communication, UAL. Photograph: Alys Tomlinson
    The Digital Space

    The Digital Space is an open-plan, creative hub with computers set up with specialist software.

Course overview

This degree course responds to the continuing transformation of media communications.

Intersecting media platforms have brought about the production of new forms of content, targeted at both general and niche audiences. The attention of these audiences is now a prime commodity.

What can you expect?

You can expect to gain an in-depth understanding of current theories of the media, with an emphasis on the social and cultural impact of digital media forms, e.g. social and interactive media.

The rapid growth of media platforms, such as open source software and social network sites, creates new opportunities for participation and changes dramatically the way users communicate and exchange information.

This degree will encourage students to develop a critical understanding of these communication technologies through content production and by stimulating debate.

Applied skills such as image manipulation, editing and working with layout software will be taught, so that you’re able to produce audio-visual texts for diverse platforms.

Work experience and opportunities

You’ll become familiar with camera and audio recording equipment to create and store original material. Different styles of writing are also practiced so that you will be proficient in drafting accompanying text, whatever the context.

You will leave the course able to select the best platform to disseminate content to intended audiences and have the ability to successfully pitch and present your ideas.

On a theoretical level, the BA (Hons) Media Communications will engage you in the latest debates concerning the cultural, social and economic issues that shape the way meaning is produced and circulated, and the many issues that intersect within this academic investigation.

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

BA (Hons) Media Communications runs for 93 weeks in full time mode. It is divided into 3 stages over 3 academic years. Each stage lasts 33 weeks.

Contact us

Register your interest to receive information and updates about studying at UAL.

Contact us to make an enquiry.

Course units

In common with all courses at the University of the Arts London, this course is credit rated. The course is 3 years, levels 4-6. Each year requires you to achieve 120 credit points. To be awarded the BA (Hons) Media Communications qualification, you need to accumulate a total of 360 credits.

Year 1

Introduction to Media Communications (20 credits)

This unit will introduce you to the basic theories and concepts in media communications. You will develop fundamental skills around media analysis, interpretation and creative thinking.

Digital Media (20 credits)

In this unit you will be introduced to the theory and practice of digital media production through an exploration of present and future media technologies leading to a digital media project.

Media Technologies and Platforms (20 credits)

This unit will give you an insight into contemporary media industries to enhance your understanding of how diverse media platforms and technologies fit socially and culturally in a global society.​

Audiences: Traditions and Futures (20 credits)

You will develop your understanding of what an ‘audience’ is in the contemporary culture of convergence. You will explore this creatively through a film project.

Visual Communication (20 credits)

​This unit explores the importance of visual forms in contemporary media and communications to question notions of representation, surveillance, and user participation, among others. You will also be introduced to the practice of photography and digital image editing.

Optional unit (20 credits)

​You will also choose an option unit, which in the past has included:

  • Global Media Cultures (20 credits)
  • Advertising Theories & Contexts (20 credits)
  • Branding & Digital Marketing (20 credits)

Year 2

Mapping Social Media (20 credits)

​This unit focuses on the collection and interpretation of data from social media platforms to enhance your understanding of critical engagement with digital tools and the ethical issues associated with this. You will present your social media data research through a web solution.

Convergent Media: From Radio to Podcasting (20 credits)

This unit will offer you the opportunity to create and edit sound recordings for the purposes of producing a podcast show targeted at a given audience.

Digital Cultures (20 credits)

Develop an in-depth understanding of the culture of networked connectivity and evaluate the possibilities for new forms of online and offline collaboration. You will also explore the political and economic implications of digital cultures on society.

Professional Industry Practice (20 credits)

​The focus of this unit is on your personal and professional development. You will have the opportunity to research a chosen sector within the media industry and develop an understanding of ways to target it, in order to help support your personal and professional growth and employability.

Promotional Media Communications (20 credits)

You will study the contemporary culture of promotion by looking at the media context in which promotional activities, such as branding and advertising, are situated within the rise of consumer culture. The unit will also allow you to explore effective ways of framing a message through a practice-based project.​

Collaborative Project (20 credits)

​This unit will offer you the opportunity to work collaboratively with students from other courses and/or disciplines across the College on a set brief, with a view to help you develop strong team working skills, project management, and presentation skills.

Optional unit (20 credits)

You will also choose an option unit, which in the past has included:

  • Behavioural Insights (20 credits)
  • Film Theory and Cinematic Practice (20 credits)
  • Media Relations (20 credits)

Year 3

Live Project (20 credits)

​In this unit you will engage in a practice-based project for a given organisation by responding to a set project brief. The unit offers you the opportunity to consolidate and further advance your creative skillset.

Media, Regulation and Power (20 credits)

​This unit explores theoretical considerations of the role and function of contemporary media and its complex relationship to social, cultural and political developments.

You will study these through media’s own determining role in influencing public opinion, pushing ethical boundaries and exploring the political economy of emerging platforms.

Digital Futures (20 credits)

This unit explores the future of our digital media technologies. Using a range of forecasting methods and techniques you will develop informed predictions of change and our digital ‘futures’.

Major Project (60 credits)

​You can choose between a theoretical or a practice-based dissertation to work a research topic from across the interdisciplinary field of media and communications.

Learning and teaching methods

  • Lectures
  • Seminars
  • Tutorials
  • Computer based or supported learning
  • Workshop sessions
  • Project work
  • Individual and group work.
  • Industry guest speakers will contribute where appropriate.

Assessment methods

  • Report and essay writing
  • Practical workshop and computer based activities
  • Individual and group projects and project appraisals
  • Oral and seminar presentations/Seminar Notes
  • Dissertation (or equivalent)

Staff

Course Tutors

The course is delivered by experienced media academics and practitioners who come from a variety of academic and professional backgrounds. Course team members are research active - their teaching is informed by their own research practice - and maintain vital links with the various sectors of the culture and creative industries to keep the course content fresh and up-to-date.

How to apply

Information for disabled applicants

UAL is committed to achieving inclusion and equality for disabled students. This includes students who have:
     
  • Dyslexia or another Specific Learning Difference
  • A sensory impairment
  • A physical impairment
  • A long-term health or mental health condition
  • Autism
  • Another long-term condition which has an impact on your day-to-day life
Our Disability Service arranges adjustments and support for disabled applicants and students. Read our Disability and dyslexia: applying for a course and joining UAL information.

Entry requirements

Home/EU/International

BA (Hons) Media Communications welcomes applications from candidates applying direct from A-level or other equivalent qualifications, but will also consider applicants who have completed a foundation or Access to HE course, or a BTEC National Diploma in a related subject.

Applicants who have not completed an appropriate educational qualification but do have substantial work experience in the industry may also be considered.

The standard entry requirements for this course are as follows:

96 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, Merit at BTEC Extended Diploma (preferred subjects: Creative Media and Journalism, Business/ Business Studies, IT & Computing, Media).
  • Merit at UAL Extended Diploma.
  • Access to Higher Education Diploma (preferred subject: Journalism, Digital and Creative Media, Marketing, Humanities and Social Sciences).
  • 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/Home/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 media communications.
  • 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.

Personal statement advice

This is an important part of your application and should demonstrate to the team that you are interested in media communications, 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.

Making your application

Home International

You must apply for this course though Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS), where you'll need the following information:

  • University code: U65
  • Course code: P302

London College of Communication courses are listed under University of the Arts London.

Application deadline

We recommend you apply by 26 January 2022 for equal consideration. However this course will consider applications after that date, subject to places being available.

Deferring your place

This course accepts requests from offer holders to defer their place for one academic year. Deferral requests are granted on a first-come, first-served basis until all deferral places are filled, or a deadline has been reached, whichever is sooner. Read our Admissions Policy for details, including how to request a deferral and by when.

Transfers

If you are currently studying somewhere else on a course in an equivalent subject area and would like to transfer to this course, you can transfer to:

  • Year 2, if you’ve completed 120 credits in Year 1
  • Year 3, if you’ve completely 240 credits in Years 1 and 2

Apply via UCAS and choose Year 2 or 3 for your POE (Point of Entry)

Please check our Student Transfer Policy for more important information and be ready to provide us with your current course handbook and Year 1/Year 2 unit transcripts.

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.

There are 2 ways international students can apply to an undergraduate course:

If you are applying through UCAS you will need the following information:

  • University code: U65
  • Course code: P302

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 26 January 2022 for equal consideration. However this course will consider applications after that date, subject to places being available.

Deferring your place

This course accepts requests from offer holders to defer their place for one academic year. Deferral requests are granted on a first-come, first-served basis until all deferral places are filled, or a deadline has been reached, whichever is sooner. Read our Admissions Policy for details, including how to request a deferral and by when.

Immigration history check

You will be asked to complete an immigration history check to establish whether you are eligible to study at UAL. We will not be able to proceed with your application until you have submitted your completed Immigration History Form.

Transfers

If you are currently studying somewhere else on a course in an equivalent subject area and would like to transfer to this course, you can transfer to:

  • Year 2, if you’ve completed 120 credits in Year 1
  • Year 3, if you’ve completely 240 credits in Years 1 and 2

Apply via UCAS and choose Year 2 or 3 for your POE (Point of Entry)

Please check our Student Transfer Policy for more important information and be ready to provide us with your current course handbook and Year 1/Year 2 unit transcripts.

If you are an International applicant and studying outside the UK, please complete your Direct application and then contact us via your UAL Portal to ask to be considered for Year 2/Year 3.

Please be ready to provide an official document (translated into English) from your current university, explaining the learning outcomes of the units you have completed.

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) Media Communications 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.

International applicants may be invited to an online interview. Interview details will be sent via the UAL Portal.

Please add @arts.ac.uk to your contacts to ensure that you do not miss any important updates re: your application to UAL.

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 attend one of our online Offer Holder events. This is your opportunity to meet the academic team and fellow offer holders, find out more about the course, and get a taste of what it will be like to study here.

Requesting feedback

This course receives a high number of applications, and we can’t provide feedback to everyone who is unsuccessful. We can only provide feedback after you’ve had an interview.

If you would like to request feedback – please email lcc.ukeu@arts.ac.uk if you are a Home or EU applicant, or lcc.international@arts.ac.uk if International. We are only able to provide feedback to you directly, or to someone you have told us in writing can receive it on your behalf

Successful applicants will be guided through the rest of our admissions stages and towards enrolment on the course.

Fees and funding

Home fee

£9,250 per year

This fee is correct for 2022/23 entry and is subject to change for 2023/24 entry. Tuition fees may increase in future years for new and continuing students.

Home fees are currently charged to UK nationals and UK residents who meet the rules. However, the rules are complex. Find out more about our tuition fees and determining your fee status.

International fee

£23,610 per year

This fee is correct for 2022/23 entry and is subject to change for 2023/24 entry. Tuition fees for international students may increase by up to 5% in each future year of your course.

Students from countries outside of the UK will generally be charged international fees. The rules are complex so read more about tuition fees and determining your fee status.

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Careers and alumni

The course will provide you with a thorough understanding of identified key skills necessary for a successful career in media or to progress further with your education.

Alumni

Graduates of this course would be suited to pursue careers in marketing communications, branding consultancy, market research and consumer analysis, news media, TV production, or work as digital media practitioners and social media editors.

This is a new course delivered across the School of Media and the School of Design. Alumni of the two Schools are currently working in as diverse sectors of the media and creative industries as arts institutions, film production and news organisations, both in the UK and abroad.

Alumni

London College of Communication

Contact

Telephone

+44 (0)20 7514 6500
Address
Elephant & Castle

London
SE1 6SB