Media and Cultural Studies, BA (Hons), with industry placement

Media industries and media cultures are constantly changing. Understanding these changes is important as media continuously influence the way we live our lives, get in touch with others, and are informed about the world. As global citizens, we are surrounded by a huge variety of messages, texts, images, and representations communicating a host of competing ideas, opinions, and values. But how much do we really know about how these texts and images are produced and shared? In what contexts do they circulate? How are they are received?Our Media and Cultural Studies programme provides you with preparation for careers in the creative sector, advertising and marketing, and communications and journalism by helping you better understand media practices, platforms, and (audio-visual) texts in an ever-changing technological context. It provides you with the theoretical insights, analytical skills, and wide-ranging knowledge needed to explore the production, consumption, and meaning of media and culture in today’s society. We investigate the social, economic, political, and practical dimensions of media in a global cultural setting, and recognise the key roles of media in shaping who we are, what we think, and what we value.To prepare students for their work placement year, our Careers and Placements Team will provide advice and guidance on: the skills required to create effective CVs, cover letters and applications; tips and techniques on how to make an impact at interviews and assessment centres; how to create a relevant digital profile; and how to research employers and career sectors of interest. In addition, there is great emphasis placed upon developing self-awareness and on how to present yourself in a professional manner to employers. This optional provision will be delivered via a blend of traditional and digital methods including face-to-face workshops, online webinars, e-courses and 1:1 appointments.The University will use all reasonable effort to support you to find a suitable placement for your studies. While a placement role may not be available in a field or organisation that is directly related to your academic studies or career aspirations, all placement roles offer valuable experience of working at a graduate level and gaining a range of professional skills. If you are unsuccessful in securing a suitable placement for your third year, you will be able to transfer to the equivalent non-placement degree scheme and continue with your studies at Lancaster, finishing your degree after your third year.