International Media and Communications Studies Bachelor of Arts (with Honours) - BA (Hons)

Communication defines us as human beings.

At Nottingham. you’ll be given the chance to think critically about the rapidly changing world of media and communication in a global context. From the legacies of European Empires, to the transformative power of new media technologies, you’ll develop a critical understanding of media and communication in a wide range of cultural contexts and political systems around the world.

Drawing on a range of approaches (such as sociology, communication theory, politics and cultural studies), you’ll explore:

* technology - what we use and how it shapes communication 

* content - what we say and how other people understand it

* impact - how individuals, groups and countries engage with different forms of media and communication

* industry – how media and communication work as an economic sector

* history – how past knowledge and experience inform current media and culture

* politics - how media empowers individuals and groups and helps change society

* ethics - the informed choices we all make in our communications and daily life

* sustainability – how the industry can help tackle global challenges such as climate change and women’s rights

As part of this course you will also undertake a staff-guided studio project throughout all three years of your degree. You’ll have the opportunity to deepen your understanding of your existing interests and also explore the unfamiliar, the difficult, the challenging, and the new.

The degree focusses on media theory and cultural history. It helps develop critical skills in:

* media analysis

* cultural awareness

* industry engagement

The broad range of teaching and learning approaches means you'll develop skills sought by many sectors, both media-related and wider. Practical and interdisciplinary skills are embedded in the course, and you’ll have the option to participate in the [Cultural, Media and Visual Studies department-wide modules](https://www.nottingham.ac.uk/studywithus/ugstudy/articles/explore-more-articles/art/modules-at-the-department-of-cultural-media-and-visual-studies.html "Overview of department-wide modules")

Many of our students gain extra practical skills through the Students' Union award-winning broadcast and print groups – [NSTV,](https://www.facebook.com/nstvofficial "NSTV facebook group") [URN](https://urn1350.co.uk/ "URN homepage"), and [Impact Magazine](https://impactnottingham.com/ "Impact Magazine homepage"). You'll get automatic membership of the [Creative Student Network](https://www.nottingham.ac.uk/studywithus/ugstudy/articles/explore-more-articles/art/the-creative-student-network--sarah-s-experience.html "Overview of the Creative Student Network"), through which you will have networking opportunities and industry insights.

Why choose this course?

Course highlights

* Beginners welcome! - you do not need any prior experience in the cultural and creative industries for this course.

* Go to Hollywood - opportunity to apply for our prestigious competitive [Hollywood Internships programme](https://www.nottingham.ac.uk/studywithus/ugstudy/articles/explore-more-articles/art/Placements_and_volunteering/Hollywood_Internships.html "Overview of Hollywood Internships programme").

* Learn a language alongside your main subject with the [Language Centre optional modules](https://www.nottingham.ac.uk/language-centre/modules-for-current-students/modules-for-current-students.aspx "Language Centre offer").

Proven results

* We’re a world top 100 and UK top 20 university (QS World University Rankings 2026).

* We’re 1st for graduates entering highly-skilled jobs (HESA Graduate Outcomes 2025).