Introduction
How are social media linked to the economy? What role do they play in politics? How different is a life lived in and through social media? This MA addresses these and similar questions that have emerged out of the rise and rise of social media, and their increasing domination of the media and communication field.
The MA in Social Media Studies offers a critical examination of the history, operation, ramifications, functions, use and embeddedness of social media in all spheres of life. It is aimed at people who look for a critical reflection on social media, who wish to understand their uses, and also learn how to analyse and mobilize them strategically.
The emphasis of the course is on a social scientific understanding and analysis of the emergence and functions of social media in a globalized networked society.
The course addresses the way in which social media became involved in and change personal lives, habits and identities, social lives, the way in which we relate to and coexist with other people; the way in which we work and live our everyday lives; and life, which changes as a result of the ongoing engagement with social media by politicians, journalists and publics.
The main idea behind this programme is that social media leave nothing untouched, introducing changes, sometimes subtle sometimes more apparent, that must be mapped, studied and understood. Successful use of social media is premised on a deep understanding of their roles and functions and ability to analyse current and emerging practices and trends.
Programme
To introduce students to theories, critical concepts and methods relating to social media.
To Investigate and relate institutional, technical and social factors shaping social media practices.
To critically examine social media practices by a variety of actors, including politicians, businesses, journalists and publics.
To analyse the impact of social media in politics, socio-cultural and economic life.
To enable students to develop effective social media communicative strategies.
Why DCU
The DCU School of Communications has been the leading provider of taught courses in media communications in Ireland for almost three decades.
The School pioneered the development of teaching in communications, journalism and multimedia and has developed a considerable knowledge base through original research and collaboration with other universities and networks worldwide.
The School also has excellent working relations with media organisations throughout Ireland, which ensures that our programmes remain relevant and up-to-date.