BA (Hons) Media Communications
Course summary
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.
About this course
You will develop a critical understanding of new communications technologies through content production and by stimulating debate.
Applied skills such as image manipulation, different styles of writing, editing and working with layout software are covered. You will also learn how to project manage, pitch and present your ideas.
Open Days
The next Open Day for this course will be announced shortly
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 details
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 publication on the web. 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 become familiar with project planning, budgeting and financial management including the production of timelines. Finally, this course will train you 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.
What students say ...
Direct a film, produce a radio show, or create an advertisement, whilst learning interesting theories on propaganda and consumerism from industry-recognised lecturers. I really wanted to study Sociology or Film Production, thanks to this course I can do both!
Year One BA (Hons) Media Communications studentBA (Hons) Media Communications has helped develop my understanding in the important theories, issues and debates in the media industry. We cover a broad range of practical work, such as film and web design along with important theory-based topics, which are relevant in today's economy.
Year One BA Media Communications student
Showcasing your work
All students are advised to set up a profile on portfolio.arts.ac.uk, UAL’s new portfolio platform, which can be done at any point during your time at LCC and will last for up to 12 months after graduation.
This platform is often used to source student work for promotional use on the website, social media and for print and can be a great way of getting your work seen. You may also be asked to have a portfolio profile for the selection process when it comes to degree shows.
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
Units summary:
- Introduction to Media Communications (20 credits)
- Digital Media (20 credits)
- Media Technologies and Institutions (20 credits)
- Media Texts and Audiences (40 credits)
- Visual Communication (20 credits)
Year 2
Units summary:
- Mapping Social Media (20 credits)
- Convergent Media: From Radio to Podcasting (20 credits)
- Digital Cultures (20 credits)
- Researching Media Industries (20 credits)
- Promotional Media Communications (20 credits)
- Collaborative Unit (20 credits)
Year 3
Units summary:
- Live Project (20 credits)
- Media, Regulation and Power (20 credits)
- Digital Futures (20 credits)
- Major Project (60 credits)
Changes to courses
Information provided by the University is accurate at the time of first publication. Courses, however, remain subject to change. Changes may be necessary to improve the quality of educational services, in order to meet the latest requirements of a commissioning or accrediting body, in order to bring course content in line with best practice activities across the Higher Education sector, in response to student feedback, and/or due to a lack of student demand for certain units or options.
Events may arise outside of the reasonable control of the University which lead to changes to courses. Such events may include industrial action, civil disorder, severe weather, and changes in applicable laws and/or safety requirements.
If you have accepted a place on a course, we shall notify you of any changes as soon as reasonably practicable.
Webpage updates
We will update this webpage from time to time with new information as it becomes available. In the meantime, if you have any questions, use our register your interest form.
Staff
Ruth Butah
Associate Lecturer, Communications and Media programme
Adrian Crookes
Associate Dean, Media School
Joanne Woodman
Associate Lecturer, BA (Hons) Public Relations and BA (Hons) Media Communications
Sara Marino
Acting Co-Course Leader, BA (Hons) Contemporary Media Cultures
Zoetanya Sujon
Acting Programme Director, Communications and Media
Course Leader
Dr Thomas Giagkoglou
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
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
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 minimum entry requirements for this course are:
80 UCAS tariff points gained at GCE Advanced (A) Level or equivalent. (A-level subjects studied may include: English; History; Media; Business; Art and Design, or other subjects within Social Sciences). Ideally your A-levels will be achieved at grade C or above.
Or
One subject at A-level achieved at grade C or above PLUS Foundation Diploma in Art & Design (Level 3/4).
Alternatively you will be considered if you have achieved a minimum of 80 UCAS tariff points from one of the following qualifications:
- BTEC Extended Diploma
- UAL Extended Diploma in Art and Design
- Access to HE Diploma
- International Baccalaureate Diploma
- Equivalent EU or Non-EU qualifications
Additionally you will have achieved passes at grade C/grade 4 or above in at least three GCSE subjects.
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.
How we assess your application
Your application form is reviewed when you apply to the University. 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.
This course doesn’t require you to provide a portfolio.
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.
Making your application
This section includes information on how to apply, course entry requirements, selection criteria, and information about interviews.
Home/EU/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 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 2020/21)
Home/EU applicants are permitted to make a deferred application. International applicants are not permitted to make a deferred application.
Entry to Year 2 or Year 3
If you have successfully completed year 1 of a degree course at another institution and wish to continue your studies at LCC, you can identify the point of entry as year 2 on your application, and consideration will be given by the course admissions tutor.
LCC will consider applications for entry at Year 3 in exceptional cases only.
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 overseas representatives in your country
- Through a direct application
- Through UCAS
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.
Making a deferred application (for entry in 2020/21)
International applicants are not permitted to make a deferred application.
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.
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.
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.
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 2019/20 but wish to defer to 2020/21, information on how to do this and who to contact can be found in your offer letter.
International applicants will have to pay a deposit in order to defer. In all cases, deferred places will be held for one year.
Fees & Funding
Home / EU fee
£9,250 (2019/20).
Tuition fees for undergraduate degree courses have been set at £9,250 per year for full-time study. This applies from the 2019/20 academic year, subject to changes in the law. 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
£19,930 (2019/20).
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
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.