MSc Cybersecurity Technology with Placement
The MSc Cybersecurity Technology with Placement program at Canterbury Christ Church Uni...
BA Public Relations and Media
Canterbury
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
Canterbury Christ Church University (CCCU) in the United Kingdom offers a BA Public Relations and Media program designed to cultivate talent in communications within the rapidly evolving media landscape. This degree provides a comprehensive understanding of how to identify target audiences, craft effective messages, and select the right media channels for successful communication. The program stands out due to its strong emphasis on "learning-by-doing," where students develop creative and digital skills crucial for influencing audiences on behalf of clients, particularly within the world of social media. Significantly, the degree is fully accredited by the Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR) and benefits from Partner University status with the Public Relations Consultants Association (PRCA), ensuring that the curriculum meets industry standards and provides students with professional recognition and networking opportunities from the outset.
Curriculum: The BA Public Relations and Media curriculum at CCCU offers a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skill development essential for a career in communications. In the first year, core modules typically include "Introduction to Public Relations," "Media Audiences," "Media Meanings and Messages," "Media Production 1," "Professional Practices," and "Research Skills." As students progress, they delve into topics such as "PR: Campaign and Planning," "Researching Media and PR," "Media Industries," "Publishing Practices," and "Advertising and PR Practices." The program integrates a strong focus on practical application through business simulation exercises and live briefs. Students learn to use various computer software packages to produce creative communication materials and develop an appreciation for the role of marketing within an organization. A key element of the curriculum is a mandatory work placement of at least 20 days within a related PR or media role, providing invaluable real-world experience.
Research Focus: The BA Public Relations and Media program at Canterbury Christ Church University is delivered by expert tutors and industry professionals who are actively engaged in research within the fields of media and communications. Their research interests span areas such as media discourse, commercialisation, technology, and online communities, ensuring that teaching is informed by the latest academic insights and industry trends. Students are encouraged to develop strong research skills through dedicated modules like "Research Skills" and "Researching Media and PR." The curriculum uses case studies and academic research to provide students with a robust understanding of the theoretical underpinnings of public relations and media practices, enabling them to apply this knowledge critically in different settings. This research-informed approach fosters graduates who are not only skilled practitioners but also thoughtful analysts of communication phenomena.
Industry Engagement: Industry engagement is a hallmark of the BA Public Relations and Media program at CCCU, designed to ensure graduates are "work-ready" and possess relevant professional experience. The degree's full accreditation by the Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR) and partnership with the Public Relations Consultants Association (PRCA) provide students with direct links to the industry and professional networks. The curriculum is frequently updated with input from industry professionals and features guest speakers who offer current insights into the field. A compulsory work placement of at least 20 days in a PR or media role allows students to gain practical experience, with previous students having worked for notable organizations like London Fashion Week, Marks and Spencer, and Holiday Extras. The program emphasizes a "learning-by-doing" approach, including business simulation exercises and live briefs, to hone creative and technical skills.
Global Perspective: The BA Public Relations and Media program at Canterbury Christ Church University inherently embraces a global perspective, recognizing the international nature of communication and media landscapes. Students learn how to identify target audiences and select appropriate media channels within a context where communication often transcends national borders. The curriculum's exploration of media audiences, meanings, and messages implicitly covers diverse cultural contexts. While the program is rooted in the UK, the principles of public relations and media management are universally applicable, preparing graduates to work with multinational corporations, international NGOs, or global media organizations. The university's diverse student body and faculty also contribute to a rich learning environment where different cultural perspectives on communication are explored, enhancing students' understanding of global PR trends and cross-cultural communication strategies.
Location
Canterbury
Score
IELTS 6
Tuition Fee
£ 15500
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed their secondary education with a minimum overall score of 60% 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 60.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 59.
- Some programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
Canterbury Christ Church University (CCCU) offers various scholarships and financial aid options to support international students in their academic journey. These scholarships are designed to help reduce the financial burden of tuition fees and living expenses, enabling students to focus on their studies and make the most of their university experience.
International Merit Scholarship: This scholarship is awarded to international students based on their academic performance and achievements. It provides a significant discount on tuition fees, making it more affordable for high-achieving students from abroad to study at CCCU.
Global Students Scholarship: This scholarship is aimed at supporting international students who demonstrate excellent potential and their studies. It offers a percentage reduction in tuition fees for undergraduate and postgraduate international students.
Graduates of the BA Public Relations and Media program from Canterbury Christ Church University are exceptionally well-prepared for dynamic careers within the communications industry, armed with a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills. The program's full accreditation by the Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR) and its Partner University status with the Public Relations Consultants Association (PRCA) provide graduates with a significant advantage, signaling to employers a strong foundation in industry best practices and ethical standards. The emphasis on "learning-by-doing" through live client briefs, business simulations, and mandatory work placements ensures that alumni possess the hands-on experience and digital proficiency essential for influencing audiences across various platforms.
Public Relations Account Executive/Officer: Working for PR agencies or in-house communications departments, managing client accounts, drafting press releases, organizing events, handling media relations, and executing PR campaigns.
Social Media Manager/Strategist: Developing and implementing social media strategies for brands or organizations, creating engaging content, managing online communities, and analyzing social media performance to enhance online presence and reputation.
Content Creator/Copywriter: Producing various forms of written and multimedia content for websites, blogs, social media, press kits, and marketing materials, ensuring messages are clear, compelling, and aligned with communication objectives.
Digital Marketing Executive: Working in marketing teams to plan and execute digital campaigns, which can include search engine optimization (SEO), email marketing, pay-per-click (PPC) advertising, and content marketing, often with a strong focus on online PR.
Media Relations Specialist: Building and maintaining relationships with journalists, editors, and influencers, pitching stories, coordinating interviews, and managing media inquiries to secure positive media coverage for an organization or client.
Communications Officer/Manager: Within a company or organization, managing internal and external communications, developing communication strategies, writing corporate messages, and overseeing reputation management.
Event Manager/Publicity Coordinator: Planning, organizing, and promoting events (e.g., product launches, conferences, charity fundraisers) to generate positive publicity and achieve organizational objectives.
Crisis Communications Specialist: Focusing on managing an organization's communication during challenging or controversial situations, developing crisis response plans, and mitigating reputational damage.
Journalist/Reporter (with further specialization): While the program focuses on PR, the strong media understanding, writing skills, and research abilities can provide a foundation for entry into journalism, particularly in areas like feature writing, online news, or specialized industry reporting.
Freelance PR Consultant: Utilizing the entrepreneurial skills and industry insights gained to offer independent public relations and media services to a variety of clients, building a portfolio across different sectors.
