Media and Cultural Studies

The Bachelor of Arts in Media and Cultural Studies at Lancaster University offers students a comprehensive and critical understanding of the diverse media landscapes and cultural phenomena that shape contemporary society. This programme explores the dynamic relationship between media industries, technology, and cultural practices, providing students with the analytical tools needed to interpret and engage with media texts, platforms, and institutions. Throughout the course, students examine a wide range of topics including film, television, social media, advertising, journalism, and digital culture, fostering a nuanced appreciation of their social, political, and economic impacts. The programme encourages critical thinking, creative investigation, and practical skills, enabling students to understand the production processes behind media content and to develop their own projects. Supportive teaching, cutting-edge research, and a vibrant academic community ensure that students are well-equipped to pursue careers in media production, journalism, public relations, academia, or further postgraduate study. Emphasizing interdisciplinary approaches, the course integrates insights from cultural studies, communication theory, and media history, preparing graduates to analyze media phenomena from multiple perspectives. Lancaster University's strong industry links and emphasis on employability development help students gain relevant experience through placements and project work, ensuring they are ready to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving media environment. Whether students are interested in creative media production, critical media analysis, or cultural research, the Media and Cultural Studies programme provides a stimulating and supportive environment to develop knowledge, skills, and a critical understanding of media in the modern world.

Core

• Critical Methods in Media and Cultural Studies
• Critical Debates in Media and Cultural Studies
• Dissertation

Optional

• Women's Studies Research Project
• Feminist Media and Cultural Studies
• Debates in Gender Research
• Gender, Sex and Bodies
• Gender and Violence
• Capitalism and Crisis
• Environment and Culture
• The Social Life of Science and Technology: Theories and Debates
• Social and Cultural Theory
• Cybercultures
• Research Projects in Practice: From Design to Dissemination
• Contemporary Debates in Sociology
• Methods in Science and Technology Studies
• Mobilities, Society & Change

Requirements

• An upper second class honours degree, or its equivalent, in a relevant social science
• IELTS: 7.0 or equivalent
• Assessment: Coursework and dissertation
• Bakalavr or Specialist Diploma
• Degree certificates and transcripts of previous higher education (college/university) degrees or other courses that you have completed/for which you are currently studying. Note that, for transcripts in languages other than English, a certified English translation will be required
• Personal Statement
• Research proposal (for research degrees)
• References

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The Media and Cultural Studies programme at Lancaster University offers a range of financing options to support students throughout their academic journey. Tuition fees for UK/Home students are typically set annually by the university and can vary slightly year to year; for example, in the most recent academic year, the fee was approximately £9,250. For international students, fees are generally higher, often ranging between £16,000 and £19,000 per year, depending on the specifics of the course and the student's home country. Students are encouraged to check the official Lancaster University website for the latest fee information, as these figures are subject to change annually.

Lancaster University provides several financial support schemes, including scholarships, bursaries, and grants. The Lancaster Undergraduate Promise is an initiative designed to assist students from low-income backgrounds, offering financial support and guidance. There are also merit-based scholarships available for high-achieving applicants, which can significantly reduce the financial burden. Additionally, students can apply for government loans and grants, such as the UK Student Loans, which vary depending on residency status and course duration.

Many students also choose to fund their studies through part-time work. Lancaster University supports employability through a range of on-campus job opportunities, including roles in administrative offices, student services, and accommodation. The university’s Careers Service provides resources and guidance on securing part-time employment, internships, and placements, which can help offset living expenses and enrich academic experience.

For international students, funding options include scholarships specific to certain countries or regions, as well as outside scholarships and sponsorships. Many students also consider taking education loans from their home country where applicable. Lancaster University also offers guidance on external funding opportunities and financial planning.

Living costs are an important aspect of financing studies. Lancaster's campus is situated in a relatively affordable area, and estimated annual living expenses for students include accommodation, food, transportation, and personal expenses, which typically amount to around £10,000 to £12,000. On-campus accommodation options vary from standard rooms to en-suite apartments and are specially reserved for first-year students, with costs included in the tuition fee package for some courses.

Overall, students are encouraged to plan their finances carefully and explore all available funding streams. Detailed information about current tuition fees, scholarships, and funding opportunities can be obtained directly from Lancaster University’s Financial Support Office or the official university website, ensuring that prospective and current students have access to the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Media and Cultural Studies at Lancaster University offers a comprehensive exploration of media industries, cultural texts, and their influence on society. The programme is designed to develop students' critical understanding of contemporary media landscapes, including digital media, television, film, advertising, and social media platforms. Students examine the production, distribution, and consumption of media content, critically analyzing how media shapes cultural identities, power relations, and social issues. The curriculum integrates theoretical frameworks with practical skills, allowing students to engage with media analysis, critical writing, and media production techniques. Core modules include Introduction to Media and Cultural Studies, Media Theories, Cultural Industries, Media and Identity, and Digital Media Practice. Throughout the course, students are encouraged to develop a nuanced understanding of how media representations influence societal perceptions and individual experiences. The programme also emphasizes research skills, preparing students for postgraduate study or careers in media-related fields such as journalism, public relations, advertising, content creation, and media consultancy. Lancaster’s strong links with media industries provide opportunities for placements, internships, and live project work, enhancing employability. The university’s supportive academic community ensures a stimulating environment where students can explore diverse perspectives and engage in critical debates about media and culture. The programme’s flexibility allows students to tailor their learning through optional modules, facilitating specialization in areas such as digital media, global media, or media and society. Graduates of the programme are well-equipped to pursue careers in media industries, cultural policy, academia, or further research. Overall, Lancaster University’s Media and Cultural Studies degree combines rigorous theoretical inquiry with practical application, fostering critical thinking, creativity, and a deep understanding of the role of media in contemporary society.