Program Overview

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Introduction to the Digital Media and Creative Industries MA/PGDip

The University of Birmingham offers a Master of Arts (MA) and Postgraduate Diploma (PGDip) in Digital Media and Creative Industries. This program is designed for individuals seeking to lead and inspire the creative sector, transforming their creativity into a career.

Course Overview

The MA Digital Media and Creative Industries is ideal for graduates starting their careers or those looking for the next step in their creative careers. This course discovers how digital media practices offer innovative opportunities for the creative and cultural industries. It enhances expertise in areas like digital content creation, project management, data analytics, and critical thinking. The program develops transferable and industry-specific skills suited to roles in:

• Digital marketing and advertising
• Media production and broadcasting
• Content strategy and management
• Start-ups and entrepreneurship in the creative industries

Course Structure

The MA runs over 12 months full-time, while the PGDip runs over 8 months full-time. Both programs can also be studied on a part-time basis. The course is divided into three terms: Autumn, Spring, and Summer.

Autumn Term

The Autumn term runs from September to December, lasting 11 weeks. Full-time students normally take three modules per term in the first two terms. There are two hours of seminar time per module per week, with an emphasis on guided independent learning. Students begin planning and submit a proposal for their dissertation during the first term.

Course Highlights

The program's interdisciplinary teaching draws on expertise and experience from across the arts and humanities departments, providing key insights into the sector. Students develop industry-specific skills, from digital advertising and marketing to media production, project design, and delivery. The course includes collaborations with cultural partners, allowing students to work on live briefs considering key issues in the creative sector.

Module Information

The MA program comprises 120 credits of taught modules and a 60-credit dissertation. The PGDip program comprises 120 credits of taught modules, without a dissertation. Modules run for one term, with each module involving a two-hour weekly seminar. The modules listed are subject to change, but currently include:

• Creative Industries and the Law
• Digital Storytelling
• Global Creative Industries
• Leadership in the Creative Industries
• Marketing in the Creative and Cultural Sector
• Multimedia Adaptation

Students must choose one of the following:

• Creative Media Project
• Dissertation

Entry Requirements

To gain a place at Birmingham, applicants must meet the general entry requirements and those specific to the course. A 2:1 Honours Degree or equivalent in a relevant subject is required. International students must demonstrate a suitable level of English proficiency, usually through IELTS or equivalent qualifications.

English Language Requirements

For this course, IELTS 6.5 with no less than 6.0 in any band is required. Equivalent qualifications, such as TOEFL, Pearson Test of English, or Cambridge English, are also accepted.

Fees and Scholarships

The University tuition fee covers the cost of tuition, supervision, assessment, and membership to the Guild of Students. Fees for 2026 entry are:

• £11,250 (full-time)
• £5,625 (part-time)

The University offers various scholarships, including the Birmingham Masters Scholarships, which award £3,000 to over 300 students each year.

Application Process

To apply for a postgraduate program, students must submit their application and supporting documents online. The application deadline for UK and non-visa requiring applicants is August 28, 2026.

Career Opportunities

By studying a postgraduate degree in Digital Media and Creative Industries at Birmingham, students develop transferable skills suited to a range of career paths, including:

• Publicity
• Video Editor
• Editorial
• Creative Director/Producer
• Cultural Co-ordination
• Digital Journalism

Employers of the School of English, Drama, and Creative Studies graduates include Birmingham Museums Trust, Hachette UK, BBC, and Fremantle Media.

Student Experience

At Birmingham, students have the opportunity to discover new experiences, develop different skills, and make friends for life. The University offers a range of accommodation options, exciting activities, and support services to ensure a welcoming and sociable environment.