Media/Film/Tv Studies

Course summary

The mass media is one of the most fascinating world-changing phenomena of the last 100 years. Media studies draws on sociology, psychology, art, economics and business studies to provide a valuable insight into the theory and practice of mass communication. Today it is obvious that the mass media not only reflect our attitudes and values, they also help to shape them. How they do that, why they do that, and the effect they have on individuals, communities and cultures, are issues at the heart of media studies. This exciting course aims to provide a range of media skills and knowledge relevant to you as both critical consumers and competent producers of media. In addition to extending your own understanding and enjoyment of media texts, it would certainly improve your career prospects as communication in all its forms is becoming more sophisticated and calling for a more educated workforce. Media Studies is a demanding subject. You are required to have a firm grasp of current affairs, modern technologies and fundamental concepts. You will explore in detailed written formats, the theoretical framework of media studies: representations, audiences, media forms and institutions. In addition to contemporary media examples, you will explore historical media texts, and the contexts in which they were produced, in order to develop a sophisticated understanding of the development of the mass media over time.