Year 2 (national level 5):
Core modules:
Media Studies 1
Focus on factual media output including journalism, documentary, current affairs, and reality TV in this critical and analytical module.
Cultural Theory and Popular Culture 1
Examine different theoretical approaches and traditions involved in the study of popular culture and the analysis of texts and practices of popular culture. Learn about the most influential approaches to the study of popular culture including Marxism(s), psychoanalysis, postmodernism, and feminism, using relevant examples such as popular music, advertising, film, television, and consumption (shopping, football and fan culture).
Researching Media in Everyday Lives
Consider selected studies and developments in research into the significance of media in people's everyday lives. Focus on published academic research in which reflections have been offered on the uses of a range of media.
Academic Research Skills
Prepare for more sustained independent study in extended future projects such as dissertations. Build on existing study skills while introducing new research methods with a view to building your confidence and preparing you to plan and carry out research projects.
Optional modules:
Marketing Advertising and PR Communications; and
In this module, you'll learn about the complementary and competing roles of paid, earned, social, and owned media, including advertising, sales promotion, direct marketing, and public relations. You'll explore how these can be successfully integrated to achieve specific objectives in marketing communications. You'll gain knowledge of each discipline, then use case studies to provide practical solutions to a range of specific communications problems.
Practical PR, Strategy and Theory
Build on the theoretical and practical foundation you developed in your first year to learn the key elements in the process of creating a PR strategy for a real-world client or employing organisation. Engage with a critical review of PR planning models and gain an understanding of the importance of research and the study of a variety of case studies. Learn about the importance of ethical codes that aim to guide practitioners in the minefield of modern-day PR practice.
OR
Magazine Writing 1; and
Develop feature writing skills by tackling long form journalism, including articles that look at the issues behind the news and profiles that provide real insight into the lives of their subjects.
News Journalism 1
Refresh and refine your newswriting and design skills, building on the foundations from year 1 by experimenting with a wider range of journalistic styles appropriate for a number of platforms. You'll further your skills in using design software and prepare for the NCTJ production exam.
OR
Scriptwriting; and
Develop and write a short film script. Learn about genre, narrative, structure, character, and how to create and correctly format a film script.
Video Documentary Production
Devise, develop and deliver a short documentary in groups. Analyse the documentary form and further develop production skills such as planning, organisation, production management, camera, lighting, sound, digital workflow, and post-production techniques.
Availability of optional modules is subject to students having met any prerequisites.
