Year One (Preliminary Year)
The first year comprises a special programme of English for Academic Purposes designed by staff from the highly experienced Centre of English Language Learning (CELE) at the University of Nottingham. This is carefully integrated with introductory communications modules covering media, texts and culture, preparing students fully for years 2–4 of the degree.
Some of the content modules on year 1 are specifically related to the study of communications: Media and Texts: Society, Critical, Creative, and Reflective Thinking, Media and Texts: Culture, and Reading and Vocabulary Enhancement.
See Year One Programme for more information.
Year Two (Qualifying Year)
In this first year of specialist study there are core modules covering fundamental aspects of communications, culture and society, including media and society, communication and technology, and communication and culture. These extensive twenty-credit modules are structured around a student-centred approach to learning with extensive reading set alongside practical exercises intended to familiarise students with contemporary communications theory and practice. A compulsory Research Design module will also introduce you to the principles and methods of research in the field. You will also begin your language studies which are designed to foster the multi-lingual critical communication skills needed to be successful in the international arena today.
Year Three (Part I)
During this year, you will build on the skills and knowledge you have acquired so far by applying them to a more in-depth study of issues relating to contemporary international communications in a variety of core and optional modules. Compulsory modules on Emerging Media Technologies and Media Ethics will deepen your engagement with current developments and ethical questions in the field. You will also choose from a range of optional modules and continue your language studies at a second higher level.
Additionally, you will have the opportunity to participate in an exchange or study abroad programme for one or both semesters of their third year.
See Exchange and Study Abroad Programme for more information.
Year Four (Part II)
In this year you can choose from a number of optional modules that allow you to focus in greater depth on specific media forms and cultural practices. Besides taught modules the focus of your study in this final year is an individual dissertation project. This is on a topic of your own choice and consists of guided research spread over the whole academic year. You will also complete your language training with a third more advanced level.
Please note that the structure of this degree and its modules may be subject to change.