Postgraduate Diploma in Critical and Creative Media, Maynooth University

Maynooth, Ulster

12 Months

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About this course

This nine-month postgraduate diploma (full-time) focuses on developing practical, research, and analytical skills in media. It combines critical thinking with creative practice to address the challenges of current media industries. Students explore various media forms like film, interactive media, print, broadcast TV, and radio, understanding their historical, social, economic, and technological contexts. The programme emphasizes hands-on engagement with media tools and allows students to tailor their degree through flexible pathways, including Creative Media, Society and Justice, and History and Culture.

Why this course is highly recommended

This course offers a comprehensive approach to media education, blending practical skills with theoretical understanding. Its flexible structure allows students to focus on areas of personal interest while gaining broad media literacy, making it suitable for careers across diverse sectors like web design, film, television, arts, heritage, charities, NGOs, and corporate communications. The combination of research, critical thinking, and creative problem-solving qualities prepares students for the evolving media landscape.

Specialisation

Students can follow one of three pathways—Creative Media, Society and Justice, or History and Culture—or create their own programme by selecting modules across different subjects at MU. The programme also includes a core module in Media Research and a theoretical module in Media Theory to build foundational knowledge.

Course fees

Application fees

4.15L

1st year tuition fees

4.15L

Living cost

Degree requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised primary degree (NFQ Level 8 or equivalent honours degree). The course is open to both EU and international applicants who meet the English language proficiency requirements.

English language test

IELTS

6.5

TOEFL

PTE

DUOLINGO

120

Career prospects

Graduates of this programme are positioned for roles in media production, content creation, interactive media, and communication across various sectors including arts, heritage, charities, NGOs, and business. The skills gained, such as research, critical analysis, and creative problem-solving, are highly valued in organisations that require media engagement and wider social presence.

FAQs

Can I study this programme part-time?

Yes, the programme can be taken full-time or part-time.

What are the core modules?

The compulsory modules include Critical and Creative Media Research and Media Theory. Other modules are elective.