Media and Public Relations
MA, 24 months, by distance learning
This is for you if… you want the flexibility of studying by distance learning whilst gaining a critical understanding of the practices and outcomes of public relations within the context of rapidly changing media environments.
Course Description
This postgraduate degree will provide you with the advanced skills and knowledge you need to enhance your professional development. The MA in Media and Public Relations will provide you with a thorough understanding of the principles and practice of public relations (PR) by examining the structure of the PR sector and offering insights into the way in which the industry works.
The course covers the history and development of public relations in different parts of the world and provides a theoretical framework for investigating this rapidly changing profession. You will evaluate classic and emerging PR strategies and the use of research to inform PR campaigns and to measure their effectiveness, as well as their wider social impacts. You will look in depth at successful and effective PR campaigns and at the structural relationships between PR and the media. You will consider how commercial businesses and non-governmental organisations use PR techniques to advance their objectives. This course will equip you with the skills to critically analyse PR campaigns and understand the functions of publicity and the management of crisis communications scenarios. You will gain the skills to conduct research to evaluate the effectiveness of PR campaigns and how to plan and implement an effective PR campaign.
One of the great strengths of this course is that you will be taught by lecturers and support tutors who combine specialist knowledge of theory and research methods with experience of the public relations sector and its working practices. The University of Leicester is a partner of the UK Public Relations and Communications Association (PRCA) which means you will enjoy many benefits including:
- free membership of the PRCA
- unlimited free access to PRCA online training courses
- access to a range of networking events, work placements and graduate schemes.
Key Facts
Start date:
April and October each year
Department:
School of Business
Contact:
- 0244565928 / 0244176389 /
- or visit our resource centre at the Ashia Court, 7 Dr. Isert Road, North Ridge, Accra
Why Leicester?
In 1978 the University of Leicester launched the UK’s first Masters Degree in the field of media and communication.
One of the UK’s longest established academic centres for communication and media studies, we are internationally recognised for our innovative research.
You will be taught by experienced tutors and leading researchers in the field.
As a student at a partner university of the Public Relations and Communications Association you will receive free membership of the PRCA with all the benefits that entails.
Course Structure
Year 1
Modules
- Issues in Media and Communication
- PR and Society
- Strategic Communication Management
- Media Research Design and Practice
Modules shown represent choices available to current students. The range of modules available and the content of any individual module may change in future years.
Year 2
Your dissertation provides you with the opportunity to undertake a major piece of independent research on a topic that interests you and research it in depth. You will be supported to help you identify a specific research ‘problem’ or question that you want to explore, which will help you select an appropriate methodology or methodologies in order to undertake this. You will be supported in organising and executing your research and also in writing up your findings and conclusions in a clear and effective manner.
Dissertation support covers these areas:
- What is a dissertation and the dissertation process?
- Literature review
- The dissertation journey
- Ethics approval process
- Methodological design and ethics approval
- Field work
- Write up
Modules shown represent choices available to current students. The range of modules available and the content of any individual module may change in future years.
Additional Information
Key Dates
Start date: 6 April 2020
Application deadline for April 2020 start: 30 March 2020
Start date: TBC
Application deadline for April 2020 start: TBC
Start date: TBC
Application deadline for October 2020 start: TBC
Teaching and Assessment
Teaching will involve materials produced by the core teaching staff in a variety of forms (e.g. short videos, podcasts, screencasts and wraparound commentaries), linked to a carefully structured set of required and recommended readings all provided through the online learning platform.
Students learn by working through produced materials and reading, supplemented by e-tivities for individual students to complete, and through open and structured discussion forums, moderated by module tutors. Assessment is by means of essays, critical reviews, case study reports, research methods assignments, online presentations, and a dissertation.
Entry Requirements
Normally a 2:1 degree in a relevant subject, or equivalent professional qualification.
We can give special consideration to you if you have significant work experience in a relevant field.
English Language Requirements
IELTS 6.5 or equivalent. If your first language is not English, you may need to provide evidence of your English language ability. If you do not yet meet our requirements, our English Language Teaching Unit (ELTU) offers a range of courses to help you to improve your English to the necessary standard.
Fees and Funding
This is the total course fee. You will pay this fee wherever in the world you live.
Starting in April 2020
- £11,495
Find out more about how to pay and scholarships and funding
Career Opportunities
This Masters degree will demonstrate to potential employers that you have a high level of knowledge in your particular area, which can set you apart from others in the job market. The course has a strong emphasis on research methods and training, which will have a practical application in the professional world.
Some of the key career destinations include new media organisations, as well as press and broadcast organisations with a new media component, international news agencies, government departments (e.g. publicity, education, health), advertising firms, public relations organisations, and many others.
Careers
Our Career Development Service is here to support you – by email, phone or skype – with advice on interviews, CVs, work experience and more. From registration to Graduation and beyond, they are here to help you reach your professional goals.
| Course | Qualification | Duration | Start Dates | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Media and Public Relations | MA | 24 months | April and October each year | Apply Now |