Media & Broadcast Production

Overview

This MA is an intensive programme providing you with a solid foundation in media-based storytelling by combining in-depth research methods with a practical, hands-on approach to learning. It will teach you how to record and edit in audio and video formats; how to research, produce, script and edit your own material, whether it is short features or long-form documentary; and how to produce stories for radio, TV and interactive online platforms. To do this, you’ll also learn effective interviewing techniques. This MA will teach you how to identify a good story and then how to research and pitch it for a successful commissioning outcome.



Whether you want to be a broadcast journalist, a radio or podcast producer, a videographer, a documentary filmmaker, a media production/communications specialist, a post-production editor or immersive media practitioner, our practice-centred approach will strategically position you to work for any aspect of radio or podcasting; factual TV; documentary and informational production. On completing this MA, you will have numerous factual media outputs under your belt in radio/podcast, TV, documentary, interactive and experimental hybrid formats. This will be the basis of a robust work portfolio with which you can then enter the work market.



The programme is designed to appeal to graduate students in the Humanities and Social Sciences, particularly those with backgrounds in English, politics, history, journalism, cultural studies, and creative writing. Previous academic study of or practical experience in areas of the media is beneficial but not essential. This would also interest those from other disciplines who want to retrain and have already had some relevant media industry experience.

Course Structure

Full Time;

Semester One: Three compulsory modules

Semester Two: Two compulsory modules and one optional

Summer: Dissertation



Part Time;

Year One, Semester One: Two compulsory modules

Year One, Semester Two: One module

Year Two, Semester One: One compulsory module

Year Two, Semester Two: Two modules

Year Three, September to May: Dissertation



Year 1

Core Modules

• Broadcasting Genre (20 credits)

• Media & Broadcast Production Dissertation (60 credits)

• Broadcast Journalism (20 credits)

• Documentary Practice (20 credits)

• Media & Broadcast Analysis (20 credits)

• Hybrid Storytelling (20 credits)



Optional Modules

• Interactive Media (20 credits)

Graduate

Normally a 2.1 Honours degree or equivalent qualification acceptable to the University in an Arts, Humanities or Social Sciences subject.



Applicants with qualifications below 2.1 Honours degree standard may be considered if they can demonstrate appropriate relevant experience. The University's Recognition of Prior Learning Policy provides guidance on the assessment of experiential learning (RPEL). Please visit http://go.qub.ac.uk/RPLpolicy for more information.

Applicants are advised to apply as early as possible and ideally no later than 16th August 2024 for courses which commence in late September. In the event that any programme receives a high number of applications, the University reserves the right to close the application portal. Notifications to this effect will appear on the Direct Application Portal against the programme application page.



How to Apply

Apply using our online Postgraduate Applications Portal and follow the step-by-step instructions on how to apply.

Written assignments

Practical assignments, accompanied by a reflective essay

1 year full-time, 3 years part-time.



Teaching Times

Most teaching will take place Monday to Friday, 9am-6pm. Occasional events, usually optional, may take place outside of this. Students will also have to find time for independent study and for undertaking group work, particularly on practical modules.

Entry Year: 2024/25

Career Prospects

Introduction

This programme is designed to offer a range of highly useful skills, experience and understanding regarding broadcasting and contemporary media, which are useful in a range of careers, including broadcasting, journalism, marketing, press and public relations, advertising and teaching. Some students choose to continue their studies to PhD level on a chosen specialised topic in Media and Broadcast Production.

http://www.qub.ac.uk/directorates/sgc/careers/