Media and Development MA

Program Overview

Media and Development MA

Overview

Our Media and Development MA explores the multifaceted and rapidly evolving media and communications sector and its implications for developing economies – providing a route to a diverse range of careers.

Course Structure

You’ll study four compulsory modules focused on policy and theory, including a dissertation which will involve conducting a major piece of independent research. You will also choose three optional modules from a broad range which encompasses business strategy, entrepreneurship, sociology, politics and the development of practical media skills.

Core Modules

Advanced Independent Study (Dissertation/Project)

This module provides guidance on how to conduct a major piece of independent research, supplemented by group work and individual supervision. Group work during Semester One orients students towards identifying and refining their individual research topic, which must be specific to their MA course and route. Dissertation/project supervisors are assigned at the start of Semester Two. Supervision takes place in Semester 2 and 3. The dissertation/final project is submitted by the end of August.

60 credits

Communications Policy and Global Development

This module provides you with an overview of the theoretical and practical history of communications within the development process of middle and lower income economies and asks you to consider the impact of international institutions in the expansion of western media. You will examine the role of new technologies and the role of BRICS/alternative actors (e.g. China/NGOs) in global communications policy and development. The module concludes by examining the impact of activism on the shaping of policies for public service media.

20 credits

Media and Communication Theory

This module covers a range of theoretical approaches to studying media and communication in a loosely historical order. You will acquire an understanding of the historical contexts in which these ways of thinking emerged, be introduced to the leading thinkers driving these approaches, and explore key concepts associated with them. You will focus on critically assessing the strengths and weaknesses of each approach, and you will be encouraged to carefully consider the applicability of each to the current communications landscape. The module will finish with a look at the most recent debates in the field, addressing the question of whether new media do indeed require new theory. You will acquire an understanding of what constitutes a history of the field, covering the main Western theories that have shaped communication studies, while also having the opportunity to be exposed to recent non-Western approaches, in accordance with the University's overall approach to decolonising the curriculum.

20 credits

Critical Approaches to Global Development

This module aims to provide you with a rounded understanding of key theories that inform thinking about development, knowledge of the historical experience of global development—especially since the Cold War—and an understanding of some of the most significant policy debates in international development today. It also introduces you to the role of media in development.

20 credits

Optional Modules

Semester 1 (option modules)

• Approaches to Social and Cultural Diversity
• Digital Media Production
• Fundraising for Social Justice
• Global Media
• Political Analysis of Communications Policy
• Political Economy of Communication
• Policies for the Digital Age
• Critical Issues in Campaigning

Semester 2 (option modules)

• Digital Media Business: Strategy and Entrepreneurship
• Introduction to Documentary for Social Change
• Media, Activism and Politics
• Media Audiences in the Digital Age
• Media Work Experience
• Researching Media and Communication
• Strategic Campaign Communications
• The Sociology of News

Entry Requirements

• A minimum of a lower second class honours degree (2:2). Applicants who do not meet the normal entry requirements can be considered with lower qualifications if they have significant work experience.
• If your first language is not English you should have an IELTS 6.5 overall, with at least 5.5 in each element.
• Applicants are required to submit one academic reference.

Tuition Fees

• UK tuition fee: £10,900 (Price per academic year)
• International tuition fee: £18,000 (Price per academic year)

Research Groups

• Communication and Media Research Institute (CAMRI)

Supporting You

• Study support – workshops, 1-2-1 support and online resources to help improve your academic and research skills
• Personal tutors – support you in fulfilling your academic and personal potential
• Student advice team – provide specialist advice on a range of issues including funding, benefits and visas
• Extra-curricular activities – volunteering opportunities, sports and fitness activities, student events and more

Course Location

Harrow is our creative and cultural hub, home to most of our arts, media and digital courses. It houses state-of-the-art facilities for every discipline, including project and gallery spaces, film studios, creative labs, collaborative learning spaces, and the Westminster Enterprise Network.

Harrow Campus is based in north-west London, just 20 minutes from the city centre by train.