MA in Cultural and Creative Industries, Cardiff University

Cardiff,

12 Months

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About this course

The MA in Cultural and Creative Industries is a full-time, one-year programme designed to equip students with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills relevant to the creative sectors. Based in Cardiff’s vibrant media quarter, the course offers a blend of research excellence, industry engagement, and digital creativity. Students will explore how different political, social, and cultural contexts influence these industries and will learn to manage media production and digital platforms effectively. The programme emphasizes professional development through industry placements, workshops, and visits, all aimed at preparing students for careers in the creative and cultural fields or for further research. With a curriculum that balances theory and practice, students will develop critical thinking, research skills, and industry-relevant competencies.

Why this course is highly recommended

Students are supported by leading-edge research at one of the UK’s top schools for cultural studies, ranked 2nd in the UK, and benefit from Cardiff’s central location with access to a vast professional network. The industry placement component provides real-world experience in Cardiff’s lively creative sector, helping students gain practical skills and industry connections. Additionally, the course’s blend of theory and hands-on practice, alongside the opportunity to work with external partners, makes it ideal for those looking to advance their careers in the dynamic creative industries.

Specialisation

This course focuses on the cultural and creative industries broadly, offering modules that cover digital creativity, social media management, cultural policy, and other relevant topics. It also includes optional modules such as Global Music Industries, Citizen Media, and Media, Science and Health, allowing students to tailor their learning toward specific areas of interest.

Course fees

Application fees

1st year tuition fees

25.02L

Living cost

Degree requirements

Applicants need a 2:2 honours degree in arts, humanities, social sciences, or an equivalent international qualification. If the degree is pending, interim transcripts are accepted. A minimum IELTS score of 7.0 overall, with 6.5 in all subskills, is required unless alternative evidence such as an undergraduate degree studied in the UK is provided. For non-relevant degrees, professional experience and employer references may be considered.

English language test

IELTS

TOEFL

PTE

DUOLINGO

Career prospects

Graduates can pursue careers as freelancers, start their own creative businesses, or work within SMEs or non-creative sectors as embedded creatives. Other options include roles in policy-making or further academic research. The programme’s focus on industry experience and practical skills aims to enhance employability across various fields within cultural and creative industries.

FAQs

What is the duration of the course?

The course lasts for one year, starting in September 2025.

Is industry placement included?

Yes, the programme includes a Professional Development and Placement module where students undertake a minimum of 70 hours of work experience in a creative or cultural organisation.