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BA (Hons) English and Media Studies
Falmer
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The BA (Hons) English and Media Studies program at the University of Sussex offers an engaging and dynamic curriculum that combines the study of English literature with media theory and analysis. This interdisciplinary program is designed to equip students with the critical thinking, research, and communication skills necessary to understand the complex relationship between literature, media, and culture. Students will engage with a wide range of texts, media formats, and digital platforms, exploring how these mediums shape and reflect societal values, political ideologies, and global trends. The program prepares graduates for careers in media, communications, publishing, journalism, advertising, and the creative industries, with opportunities for hands-on experience and industry engagement.
Curriculum: The curriculum of the BA (Hons) English and Media Studies program is structured to provide students with a broad understanding of both English literature and media studies. In the first year, students are introduced to foundational concepts in English literature, media theory, and cultural studies. Topics include the analysis of literary works from various periods and genres, as well as an exploration of media history and communication theory. As students progress through the program, they will delve deeper into specialized subjects such as digital media, media ethics, film studies, gender and media, and the role of media in shaping public opinion. The curriculum also emphasizes practical skills, including writing for different media platforms, multimedia production, and digital content creation. Students are encouraged to engage with a range of media forms, including print, digital, film, television, and social media, developing a well-rounded understanding of the media landscape.
Research Focus: The research focus of the BA (Hons) English and Media Studies program is centered around the interdisciplinary exploration of literature and media. Students will have the opportunity to engage in research across a range of topics, including the role of media in shaping culture, identity, and society. Research in English literature includes examining works from historical, postcolonial, and contemporary perspectives, while media studies research explores the impact of new technologies, digital media, and the global circulation of media content. Key areas of focus include the study of popular culture, media representation, audience theory, film and television analysis, and the intersection of media and politics. The program encourages students to conduct independent research and analysis, allowing them to explore topics of personal interest within the realms of literature and media studies. Sussex's faculty members are active in research and provide students with the support and guidance needed to develop their own scholarly inquiries.
Industry Engagement: The University of Sussex places a strong emphasis on employability and industry engagement. Through partnerships with media organizations, publishing houses, film production companies, and cultural institutions, students gain access to valuable opportunities for internships, work placements, and industry collaborations. These practical experiences provide students with hands-on skills and insights into the real-world media industry, allowing them to apply academic knowledge to professional settings. The university’s location near Brighton, a creative hub with a vibrant media and arts scene, further enhances students' access to the media industry. In addition to work placements, the program offers networking events, career workshops, and guest lectures from industry professionals, helping students build valuable connections that can lead to internships or job opportunities after graduation.
Global Perspective: The BA (Hons) English and Media Studies program at the University of Sussex offers a global perspective by exploring media and literature from diverse cultural, social, and geographical contexts. Students will examine how media shapes and is shaped by global issues such as migration, globalization, identity, and social movements. The program also encourages students to explore the global circulation of literature and media, considering the impact of digital platforms and international media markets. Students can gain additional global exposure through opportunities such as study abroad programs, where they can experience different media systems, cultures, and educational practices. This international perspective enhances students' understanding of how media operates on a global scale, preparing them for careers in international media, journalism, and communications.
Location
Falmer
Score
IELTS 6
Tuition Fee
£ 23175
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed their secondary education with a minimum overall score of 80% or equivalent in their respective country's grading system.
English language proficiency:
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.0 or 6.5 with no individual component below 5.5.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 80.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 59.
- Some programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
The University of Sussex offers a range of scholarships and financial support for international students to help make studying in the UK more accessible. These scholarships recognize academic excellence, support for underrepresented groups, and the ambition to help students thrive in their studies.
Sussex International Scholarships: The University offers a range of scholarships specifically for international students, including the Sussex Excellence Scholarships.These awards typically cover a portion of the tuition fees and are available for students pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate degrees.
Specific Country Scholarships: The University also offers country-specific scholarships for students from particular regions, such as Africa, India, and China.These awards are often designed to make studying at Sussex more accessible for students from those regions.
The BA (Hons) English and Media Studies program at the University of Sussex provides students with a diverse skill set, blending literary analysis and media theory to open doors to a wide range of career opportunities. Graduates are well-prepared for roles in media, communications, publishing, advertising, and creative industries, with the flexibility to work in various sectors where strong analytical, writing, and digital media skills are highly valued. The interdisciplinary nature of the degree, combined with industry engagement opportunities, ensures that students are equipped to enter the competitive job market with the knowledge and experience necessary to succeed.
Media and Journalism: Graduates of the BA (Hons) English and Media Studies program are highly sought after in the media and journalism sectors. The program’s strong focus on media theory, critical thinking, and content creation prepares students for roles in print, broadcast, and digital media. Students can pursue careers as journalists, editors, reporters, or content creators for newspapers, magazines, websites, and news agencies. With the rise of digital journalism, graduates also find opportunities in online media, social media platforms, and digital content management. Furthermore, the program’s emphasis on media ethics and communication theory ensures that graduates are equipped to navigate the evolving media landscape.
Public Relations and Communications: The combination of communication skills and critical analysis learned in this program makes graduates well-suited for careers in public relations (PR) and communications. Graduates can work as PR specialists, communication officers, brand managers, or social media coordinators in a wide range of industries, including corporate businesses, non-profit organizations, cultural institutions, and governmental bodies. The program’s focus on storytelling and audience analysis helps students craft effective media strategies and communicate messages to diverse audiences. Additionally, Sussex’s proximity to the creative and media industries in Brighton provides valuable networking opportunities and connections with PR firms.
Marketing and Advertising: The skills developed in the English and Media Studies program, particularly in digital media, content creation, and communication, are highly transferable to careers in marketing and advertising. Graduates can work as digital marketers, content strategists, advertising executives, or media planners. They can be involved in creating advertising campaigns, managing social media platforms, developing content strategies, and analyzing market trends. The program’s emphasis on media production, audience engagement, and critical analysis enables graduates to work effectively in marketing roles, while the global perspective on media enhances their ability to work in international markets.
Publishing and Writing: For those with a passion for writing and literature, the BA (Hons) English and Media Studies program provides a solid foundation for careers in publishing. Graduates can pursue roles as editors, literary agents, copywriters, or content managers in publishing houses, online platforms, or magazines. The program’s emphasis on critical reading and analysis allows graduates to engage with texts at a deep level, which is a valuable skill in editorial and publishing positions. Freelance writing, blogging, and content creation are also viable career paths for graduates who wish to work independently. Additionally, graduates may choose to work in academic publishing or take on roles related to educational content development.
Film and Television Production: Graduates with an interest in visual media can pursue careers in film and television production. The program's combination of media theory and practical production skills equips students to work as media producers, directors, screenwriters, or video editors. The interdisciplinary approach of the program enables graduates to analyze and create media content, making them suitable candidates for positions in production companies, TV networks, film studios, and streaming services. The program also offers opportunities for students to gain hands-on experience in media production, further enhancing their career prospects in the entertainment industry.
Creative Industries and Arts Management: The BA (Hons) English and Media Studies program also opens up career options in the broader creative industries, including roles in arts management, event planning, and cultural programming. Graduates can work in museums, galleries, theaters, and other cultural institutions, managing exhibitions, coordinating events, or working in arts administration. The program’s focus on media production, cultural analysis, and creative thinking provides graduates with the skills needed to manage and promote creative projects. Graduates may also work in film festivals, arts festivals, or other cultural organizations that require media expertise and organizational skills.
Education and Teaching: Graduates interested in education can pursue careers in teaching and academia. With a focus on literature, media theory, and communication, the program prepares graduates for teaching English, media studies, or related subjects in schools or colleges. Many graduates go on to complete postgraduate qualifications, such as a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE), to become fully qualified teachers. Alternatively, some students may choose to work in educational content development, curriculum design, or academic research, particularly if they wish to contribute to the field of media and literary education.
Digital Media and Technology: With the growing influence of digital media technologies, graduates of the English and Media Studies program are well-positioned for careers in digital media, web development, and technology-focused roles. Graduates may work as social media managers, content strategists, digital analysts, or app developers, creating and managing digital content for brands, tech firms, or entertainment companies. The program’s focus on the digital transformation of media prepares students to understand the evolving nature of digital platforms, while practical experience in content creation helps them succeed in digital environments.
