MA in Digital Media: Critical Studies, UCL institute of Education

12 Months

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About this course

The Digital Media: Critical Studies MA at UCL provides students with the opportunity to critically investigate the significance and interpretation of digital media. Students explore media and cultural theories, focusing on media texts, audiences, users, and digital cultures. The programme includes optional modules such as digital games, gender in digital media, and mobile media, allowing students to focus on specific topics in depth. In their final term, students undertake independent research on a topic of their choice, supported by a supervisor. The course aims to foster critical thinking and a nuanced understanding of digital media's social, textual, and cultural aspects.

Why this course is highly recommended

This MA is one of the longest-established media courses in the UK, offering a rich academic environment at UCL’s interdisciplinary Knowledge Lab. It’s ideal for students interested in the social, textual, and cultural dimensions of digital media, particularly those aiming for careers in media, arts, or cultural sectors or pursuing further research. The programme combines theoretical understanding with exposure to research-led teaching, enabling students to critically analyze various digital media forms and cultures. It also offers valuable networking opportunities through academic events and collaborations with renowned scholars, which can benefit students' future careers.

Specialisation

This course emphasizes the interdisciplinary fields of Media Studies and Cultural Studies, focusing on critically examining digital media and digital cultures. Students will explore questions of power, subjectivity, and representation within the context of digital media platforms, mobile media, and digital games. The programme is based at UCL's Knowledge Lab, a centre dedicated to researching digital media and developing digital technologies. The programme's research-active faculty from the ReMAP research centre bring current, cutting-edge insights into the classroom, ensuring a contemporary and comprehensive learning experience.

Course fees

Application fees

1st year tuition fees

36.31L

Living cost

Degree requirements

Applicants should hold a 2:1 degree from a UK university or an equivalent overseas qualification in fields such as Media Studies, Cultural Studies, Film Studies, Games Studies, Digital/Interactive Media Arts or English Literature. Those with a 2:2 and at least two years of relevant work experience may also be considered. The programme requires the completion of modules to the value of 180 credits, including a dissertation of 15,000 words or a report of 7,500 words. All coursework must meet the academic standards set by the programme and successful completion will earn the MA in Digital Media: Critical Studies.

English language test

IELTS

PTE

TOEFL

100

DUOLINGO

Want to learn more about the admission process, eligibility criteria, and acceptance rates for international students? Visit the UCL institute of Education admission page for complete details.

Career prospects

Graduates will acquire critical insights into digital media, which can be applied in various career paths. While the programme doesn’t focus on practical skills like content creation or marketing, it provides a solid foundation for careers in research, media analysis, cultural institutions, and educational sectors. Recent alumni have gone on to careers involving research, social media management, and work within cultural or educational organisations. The programme’s emphasis on analytical and research skills makes it suitable for those considering further postgraduate research or roles that require critical understanding of digital media.

FAQs

What are the entry requirements for this course?

Applicants need a 2:1 in relevant subjects such as Media Studies, Cultural Studies, or related fields, or a 2:2 plus two years of related work experience.

Is this course suitable for international students?

Yes, international students can apply, and English language requirements are outlined, with programs available to develop necessary English skills.