MA in Critical Communication Studies

Course details

The MA in Critical Communication Studies explores the relationship between communication, media and literacy. The programme places particular emphasis on ongoing developments in communications and media (e.g. digitization, new forms of online storytelling, social media) and reflects on the implications of these for learning, understanding and identity.

How media construct and fashion social identities, how they shape history and inform public debate, how they teach us about religion and politics, science and sexuality, how they influence our understandings of self and society - and just as important, how we actively interpret, remake and sometimes resist media culture - are all questions which this programme seeks to address.

The programme is aimed at people working in (or aspiring to work in) areas which involve communication, who wish to reflect on the implications and processes of communications in contemporary society as well as develop the critical capacity to analyse media and culture in an increasingly globalized and interconnected world.

Candidates should normally have a good honours degree, although in exceptional cases a candidate without such a qualification will be considered for entry.

Aims and Objectives:

• To introduce students to theories, concepts and methods in critical communication studies.
• To investigate and relate institutional, technical and social factors shaping media production and consumption.
• To critically examine evolving understandings and applications of media literacy.
• To analyse the role of media (legacy and new) in representing individuals, groups, citizens, nations and social movements in the Irish and global contexts.

Why Do This Programme?

• Distinct approach to critical communication studies with an emphasis on new media literacies.
• Student-centred supportive learning environment.
• Interdisciplinary and innovative in its content and delivery.
• Taught by a team of experienced and research-active lecturers.

Programme Structure:

The programme may be taken full-time (one year) or part-time (two years).

Students are required to attend lectures and seminars and will engage in individual as well as group-based learning activities. The programme consists of taught modules for two semesters followed by a dissertation (completed over the summer months).

During the course of the MA in Critical Communication Studies students will be guided through a variety of perspectives on communication, media and culture. The programme does not include instruction in media production skills but is designed to provide graduates with a sound theoretical basis to critically reflect on communication in the widest sense.

Modules*

Core

• Political Economy of the Media
• Research Methods
• Critical Communication Analysis
• Media Audiences and Consumption
• New Media Literacies
• Dissertation

Options

• Documentary in Film and Television
• Sex, Sexuality and Popular Culture
• Literature and the Visual Arts

Why DCU:

The DCU School of Communications has been the leading provider of taught courses in media communications in Ireland for almost three decades. The School pioneered the development of teaching in communications, journalism and multimedia and has developed a considerable knowledge base through original research and collaboration with other universities and networks worldwide.

The School also has excellent working relations with media organisations throughout Ireland, which ensures that our programmes remain relevant and up-to-date.

Career Prospects:

Graduates of the programme can be confident of finding employment in a variety of media-related industries or of widening their prospects in their existing career. The programme will have immediate relevance for those interested in teaching media literacy but is equally relevant to both private and public sector careers. It also offers a valuable gateway into a career in academia.

Entry Requirements:

The programme is aimed at people working in (or aspiring to work in) areas which involve communication, who wish to reflect on the implications and processes of communications in contemporary society as well as develop the critical capacity to analyse media and culture in an increasingly globalized and interconnected world.

Candidates should normally have a good honours degree, although in exceptional cases a candidate without such a qualification will be considered for entry.