BA (Hons) Media, Communication and Video Games

– Gain an understanding of the key developments in this major global industry- Critically examine central elements of video games – production, reception, and textual functions – within the context of wider media history and culture- Learn transferable skills, creative thinking, and have opportunities to apply theoretical knowledge to practical projects through the use of media technologies- Study the impact of digital media and the convergence of old and new media – Use the Work Placement module to gain experience in an organisation relevant to your career aspirations and explore opportunities to study abroad in the USA.The rise of mobile gaming, the battle for the ultimate cloud gaming platform, and the role of virtual reality – there’s lots to play for in this fast-moving, hyper-creative, multi-billion pound growth industry. And that’s what makes it so fascinating and rewarding to study. We’ll get you started and provide you with the skills and confidence to navigate your way around the engrossing, cutting-edge world of video games.Our dynamic programme will help you develop critical thinking and a deep understanding of video games within the context of wider media culture. You will explore the history and development of video games, narrative and storytelling, representation and identities, gamers and audiences, the gamification of everyday life, and many other exciting areas. As a member of our Media and Communication department of widely-published experts, you will develop a strong understanding of the media industries and contemporary trends in media culture and communication. In addition, you will learn practical and transferable skills, creative thinking, and the chance to apply academic knowledge through the use of various media technologies.Year 1 introduces you to the academic study of the media, developing a broad understanding of key issues, concepts and debates in a variety of contexts. You will take modules such as: Introduction to Media, Culture and Society; Manipulating Media; Introduction to Design Thinking; Understanding New Media; and practical modules in Digital Media Skills and Digital Publishing.In Year 2, you will take dedicated video games and social media modules, as well as modules in Exploring Media Theory and an introduction to Media Research Methods. A Work Placement module will help you start planning for your future career as a graduate. Your final year will include a module called Video Game Worlds module and a year-long Extended Independent Project, where you will write an academic dissertation or create a large practical project, that will allow you to demonstrate the full range of your knowledge and skills in a deep and sustained fashion. You will also study modules such as Dark Side of the Net, Big Data and Algorithmic Cultures, Community Media, and Climate Crisis and the Media.A choice of optional modules in Years 2 and 3 include Exploring Teaching as a Career, Interrogating TV, Politics and the Media, Celebrity Cultures, and Documentary and Photojournalism. You will benefit from collaborating with fellow students from different programmes of study within the School of Media and Film in a friendly interdisciplinary learning environment. This will provide you with a wide range of knowledge and experience, which will give you an edge in your chosen graduate career. As well as roles in game production, design, marketing and testing, graduates are prepared for careers across the media and cultural industries, such as journalism, media management, social media branding, public relations and advertising.