Course Alumni
What are the job opportunities offered by this course?
- Eamon Pardesi
- Freelancer, Vivo Communications
"" BA (Hons) Media and Communication (Web and New Media) - UCAS code G493
Is it for me?
This three year course is designed for students who want to develop a career in web design or management, DVD and CDROM production, or any of the fast-growing areas of new media production, including the gaming industry, mobile phones, and interactivity.
What does it involve?
You will begin by learning how to create websites for real life clients, as well as building general visual design skills. You will then add knowledge of streaming media and e-commerce and gain skills in site promotion, Flash game design and animation.
You will build interactive products for platforms other than the web, such as mobile phones, CDROM and DVD, before choosing to explore an expanding area of new media. Visiting speakers will help build your knowledge and ensure you are working on the cutting edge of new developments.
The multimedia nature of the department means that you will have the chance to develop related skills in other media of your choice, including audio and video editing, print design and digital imaging.
You will also work with students in other disciplines so typical projects might involve producing a streaming radio station, a DVD for a TV production, a magazine CDROM, or a Flash website for a band or record label.
Complementing the practical skills, you will develop a broad base of media theory and analysis skills, looking at the digital media landscape and its effects on production, consumption, and media products themselves. You will also have the opportunity to explore digital cultures, analysing virtual communities and emerging technologies in all areas of the media, as well as speculating on future developments.
The Professional Studies strand of the course will build your contacts in the new media sector, help you find placements in the industry, and improve your employability.
Will I do placements as part of the course?
You will undertake two industry placements during your course, at the end of the Year 1 and Year 2. Your tutors will work with you to find placements suited to your interests or specialist areas; the department's close links with industry mean that students are able to find placements with the top media employers. These placements provide an invaluable insight into working in the media, as well as contributing to your CV and improving your employability.
What will I be able to do when I've finished the course?
Upon successfully completing the degree, you will be able to design, plan and manage a website, interactive promotion campaign, CDROM, DVD, mobile phone or other platform-based product. You will have a critical understanding of online cultures, the new media landscape and developments in the industry - and you will have gained professional experience and contacts within the new media field. You will also have desirable complementary skills in other media based on the areas you have chosen to study - these might include digital imaging, video and audio production, media relations, journalism, music industry skills, or print design.
Career opportunities open to you include web design, games design, content management, multi-platform design, online journalism, DVD production, public relations, animation, interactive TV, and mixed media design.
What are the entry requirements?
Academic qualifications (shown below) are only part of what we look for in an applicant. You will also need to demonstrate an interest in and knowledge of the web and new media industry, design aptitude and basic computer literacy, and ideally some media-related work experience.
Normally we look for one of the following:
- 280 Tariff Points
- a BTEC ND with Distinction overall
- an International Baccalaureate with 32 points
- an equivalent qualification or experience as judged by the department: if your experience is particularly extensive, or your portfolio demonstrates advanced ability, we may accept lower qualifications.
Applicants are also advised to read around the subject of new media and interactivity, and explore examples. Some good places to start include:
- This video about Web 2.0
- Wikipedia's entry on web design
- 'Magazine for people who make websites' A List Apart
- Web Pages That Suck: "learn good web design by looking at bad web design"
How do I apply?
For information on applications or to apply now visit the Applications page.
