Course overview
The MA in Media, Communications and Culture at the University of Nottingham Malaysia (UNM) offers an interdisciplinary approach, blending theoretical and practical skills to help students thrive in the dynamic media landscape. Throughout the programme, students will develop critical insights into global media transformations, exploring contemporary issues such as postcolonialism, digital media, and the culture industry.
A key feature of the Master’s programme is a fully funded, optional 1-week Digital Storytelling and Production module at CNN Academy in Abu Dhabi, where students gain hands-on content creation experience with CNN experts. This immersive opportunity allows students to refine their storytelling and technical skills while enhancing global media exposure.
Engage with industry professionals and academics, strengthening your research, analytical, and communication skills. The programme offers flexible pathways, allowing students to specialise in media, cultural policy, or combine both. With access to cutting-edge facilities, including a Digital Media Lab, this course will prepare students for careers in media, journalism, marketing, public relations, and more.
Why choose this course?
- Exclusive Collaboration with CNN: Gain hands-on experience in digital storytelling and production through an exclusive one-week optional module in collaboration with the CNN Academy. Create high-quality content that meets CNN’s global production standards and enjoy a fully paid trip to Abu Dhabi to work in a real-world media environment.
- Advanced Media and Cultural Analysis: Delve into cutting-edge theories and practices of media, communications, and cultural studies. Understand the socio-economic and political contexts that shape cultural formations, both historically and in today’s digital landscape.
- Practical Industry Insights: Gain practical media skills through workshops, digital storytelling, and industry simulations. Learn from academics and professionals, bridging theory with real-world experience.
- Independent Research Excellence: Master advanced research techniques through in-depth dissertation projects and essays. Develop critical thinking and analytical skills to evaluate media transformation and cultural dynamics.
- Professional Growth and Communication Skills: Refine your writing, presentation, and time management skills. Gain the confidence and professionalism needed to excel in academic, creative, or managerial roles.
- Versatile Career Preparation: Equip yourself with transferable skills for a wide range of careers, including journalism, media production, cultural policy, public relations, and academia.
Course content
The full-time MA Media, Communications and Culture course lasts 12 months and is divided into two semesters and a summer period, and you will take three modules per semester. You will then complete a dissertation over the summer to be submitted in September. If you are studying the course part-time, you can complete this within 24 or 36 months, depending on your circumstances.This course covers the history of contemporary media communications and cultural studies, new forms of political economy and agency in an era of digital media. Some modules cover geography and information infrastructures, the ethics and politics of communication practices, and the symbolic and aesthetic forms of contemporary media.
Core modules
- Dissertation in Media, Communications and Culture
- Research Methods and Design
Optional modules (pick 5)
- Approaches to Theory
- Issues and Challenges in Contemporary Media
- Mass Media
- Postcolonial Theory
- Working in the Culture Industry: Case Study Workshops
- Digital Storytelling and Production
Entry requirements
All candidates are considered on an individual basis and we accept a broad range of qualifications. The entrance requirements below apply to 2025 entry.
Entry requirements
A relevant second-class honours degree (2:2) or international equivalent. Non-UK qualifications will be assessed against this standard.
Applicants must hold a degree from a recognised university. We welcome students from all academic backgrounds and consider a wide range of qualifications. For certain programmes, prior qualifications must be in related fields. As part of the admissions process, applicants may be invited to attend an interview if further evaluation is deemed necessary.
Eligibility can only be confirmed upon submission of a complete application.
English language requirements
IELTS (Academic): |
6.5 (with no less than 6.0 in each element) |
TOEFL (iBT): |
90 (minimum 19 in Writing and Listening, 20 in Reading and 22 in Speaking) |
PTE (Academic): |
71 (with no less than 65 in each element) |
| MUET: | Band 4.5 |
- IELTS (Academic), TOEFL iBT, and PTE (Academic) test results must be less than two years old.
- IELTS One Skill Retake is accepted.
- IELTS Academic Online, TOEFL iBT Home Edition, and PTE Academic Online are not accepted.
- MUET results are valid for five years from the release date.
Careers
This programme equips you with the skills and knowledge to accelerate your career and explore new paths in various industries.Â
- Public Relations Manager
- Media Consultant
- Brand Strategist
- Corporate Communications Manager
- Marketing Communications Director
Are you ready to embark on an exciting career journey after graduation? At the University of Nottingham Malaysia, our Careers Advisory Service is here to support your career aspirations. We offer a range of professional services, including résumé writing assistance and interview preparation, to equip you with the tools needed to excel in today’s competitive job market. Contact careers@nottingham.edu.my to learn more.
