MA Communication and Media

Year 1

(Award available for year: Master of Arts)

Learning outcomes

On completion of the programme students should have shown evidence of being able to:
to demonstrate a sophisticated understanding of key theoretical approaches in communication and media studies and the ability to apply them in their own research
- to demonstrate advanced analytical abilities in dealing with complex communication related problems
- to demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of research techniques and methodologies applicable to their own research or advanced scholarship in the media and communication field.
- to demonstrate the ability to identify and define a research question in the general area of communication and media.
- to demonstrate the ability to develop and execute a research project within the field of media and communication.
- to develop an in depth critical understanding of at least two specialised fields within communication studies
- to take a proactive and self-reflective role in working and to develop professional relationships with colleagues and peers
- to demonstrate additional expertise and an understanding of contemporary research, in one or more designated areas of the field.

Transferable (key) skills

Masters (Taught), Postgraduate Diploma & Postgraduate Certificate students will have had the opportunity to acquire the following abilities as defined in the modules specified for the programme:
- the skills necessary to undertake a higher research degree and/or for employment in a higher capacity in industry or area of professional practice;
- evaluating their own achievement and that of others;
- self direction and effective decision making in complex and unpredictable situations;
- independent learning and the ability to work in a way which ensures continuing professional development;
- critically to engage in the development of professional/disciplinary boundaries and norms.

Assessment

Achievement for the Postgraduate Diploma and Postgraduate Certificate will be assessed by a variety of methods in accordance with the learning outcomes of the programme and will involve the achievement of the students in:
- demonstrating the ability to apply breadth and/or depth of knowledge to a complex specialist area;
- drawing on a range of perspectives on an area of study;
- evaluating received opinion;
- make sound judgements whilst understanding the limitations on judgements made in the absence of complete data.