Social Media Communications

Digital media and networked technologies have transformed the ways we share and distribute information, understand the past, participate in politics and interact with each other. The MA in Social Media Communications examines the complex impact of social media and the internet on multiple aspects of social and political life. These questions are vital as digital media have become more central to communication and information ecosystems, as well as our everyday existence.



The digital world has changed the terms of engagement in areas as diverse as business, politics and culture: while it can act as a force for good in democratising participation, cultural production, and sharing, it can also be exploitative, introducing new forms of control and surveillance.



This programme is designed for individuals seeking a thoughtful and critical understanding of social media, along with the skills to analyse and strategically harness them. The main focus of this course is to help students acquire a social science-based understanding and tools for analysing how social media platforms have developed, the power they wield, and how they operate and are governed in our globally networked society.



The MA in Social Media Communications addresses the way in which social media and connected technologies pervade all aspects of our personal lives, habits and identities, the way in which we relate to and coexist with other people, and the way in which we work and do business. It also reflects on the power hierarchies and tensions that result from the ongoing engagement with these networks by politicians, journalists, platform owners and the public.



The programme combines theory and reflection with practical skills and policy insights. It provides you with a wide skill set of cutting-edge digital tools, policy instruments, and qualitative research methods that enable you to pursue a career in digital social research, digital policy-making and governance, or a variety of digital media industries.

For admission to the MA in Social Media Communications programme, successful applicants will have:



• A degree at the level of an Irish or UK Honours undergraduate degree (H2.2 or above) or equivalent,



• Applicants with appropriate combinations of professional qualifications and experience may also be considered. This includes discipline-specific knowledge and know-how; transferable skills; basic research competency; personal effectiveness.



• Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) applicants are required to submit a cover letter along with their application under the Transcripts section of the portal, affirming their intent to apply for RPL. For more information on RPL see here.



• International candidates who are non-native speakers of English must satisfy the University of their competency in the English language.

1 year full-time

2 years part-time

Careers

Graduates of this program can be confident of job opportunities and employment in various media-related sectors or communication roles in other industries. They can also expand their career prospects in their current field. This programme is valuable for individuals wanting to update their skills, specialise in the field of communication, or transition into more socially and communicatively focused roles.



Additionally, the MA in Social Media Communications provides an excellent route for further academic progression and a research-focused career.



Career Prospects

Social Media Specialist

Digital Campaign Strategist

Engagement Coordinator

Social Media Analyst

Researcher in Digital Media and Communications

Online Community Manager

Digital Policy Officer

Digital Content Specialist