Aims, objectives and learning outcomes

This programme will focus on fostering a critical understanding of the changing global media environment and on preparing graduates who will have an insight into the role of the media and how society exchanges information through communication in democratic societies, as placed within historical and theoretically-grounded contexts.

With platform convergence, and a dissolving of the walls between information and entertainment media, the study of media and communication – in particular with a focus on international issues such as media audiences, social media; globalisation; populism; digital literacy; and misinformation – has resonance with university applicants interested in undergraduate degree programmes with a focus on the media and communication studies.

Study abroad and work placement opportunities will be provided in the third year of the programme. The programme will create graduates with a broad range of knowledge, understanding and professional capacity. Students will be able to tailor their exit options depending on subject choice.

Aims and Objectives of the Programme

• To develop ethical, articulate and responsible graduates who will contribute to the strengthening of democracy in Ireland and internationally
• To encourage personal academic development through a coordinated series of modules that incorporate small group research-led teaching and learning experiences
• To equip students with transferable media studies, communications and critical thinking capacity that will poise them for future success in the labour market
• To allow students opportunities to explore career paths in media and communication
• To develop students’ research skills and afford them an appropriate grounding for further educational opportunities nationally and internationally
• To allow students acquire a digital and media literacy skillset
• To prepare students for postgraduate study in media and the creative industries

Learning outcomes for the Programme

On successful completion of this programme students will be able to:

• Demonstrate global awareness of contemporary concerns in media and communication
• Employ excellent oral and written communications skills to construct persuasive arguments and perform effective cultural critiques
• Develop an appropriate level of capacity in areas of media and communication
• Have an awareness of future career opportunities and pathways for those with interests in media and the wider communications fields
• Analyse media, past and present, with attention to issues of representation, identity, and other social concerns
• Work collaboratively, in teams and under deadlines to produce content
• Employ research skills, including the use of appropriate sources, to construct effective arguments
• Demonstrate scholarly writing skills appropriate to the discipline

Graduate Attributes:

This programme aims to develop graduates with the creative and critical skills necessary to prosper in today’s highly flexible labour market in the global media industry. The programme aims to foster in its graduates the following values, knowledge and skills:

Values

• Sustainable
• Globally aware
• Critical thinker
• Creative, innovative and entrepreneurial
• Ethical, responsible and reflective
• Collaborative

Knowledge:

• Communications and media theory, wider Arts specialisms
• Storytelling fundamentals
• Production processes for media practice

Skills:

• Highly developed communication skills across multiple platforms
• Critical and reflective thinking
• Professional knowledge of the range of skills required for media production