BA (Hons) Media Production - (Level 6 | Top-up)

Contemporary Issues in Media explores the dynamic and rapidly evolving landscape of modern media. This module invites you to critically engage with current debates, trends, and challenges shaping the media industries today. Topics may include digital convergence, media ethics, representation, platform power, globalisation, and the impact of emerging technologies such as AI and virtual reality. You will select a topic of personal or professional interest and develop a research essay that demonstrates independent thinking, critical analysis, and an understanding of relevant theoretical frameworks. Through seminars, guided research, and peer discussion, you will refine your ability to construct well-supported arguments and engage with contemporary scholarly discourse. This module not only encourages intellectual curiosity but also prepares you for thoughtful, research-driven engagement with the media world beyond university.

001: 100% Assignment 3,000 words or equivalent

The Final Major Project (FMP) is a pivotal and highly individualised module that marks the culmination of the Media Production degree. This module enables you to apply the full range of skills, knowledge, and creative vision you have developed over the course of your studies in the research, planning, and execution of a significant, original media production. The FMP offers you the freedom to explore your professional identity and future ambitions by developing a project that reflects both your personal interests and specialist strengths within the wider field of media production. Whether you identify primarily as directors, cinematographers, editors, producers, screenwriters, sound designers, or multi-skilled creatives, the FMP allows you to carve out a distinct voice and vision. You are encouraged to develop content that aligns with the type of work you aspire to produce professionally, ensuring the project serves both as a creative statement and a calling card for the industry.

25% Presentation 10 minutes

75% Major Project, 4,500 words or equivalent

This module prepares you for the transition from academic study to professional practice by offering industry-relevant experiences and focused career development. Through hands-on projects, critical reflection, and professional skills training, you will create a tailored portfolio that showcases your creative and technical strengths in alignment with your career goals. Engagements may include commissions, client-led briefs, or interdisciplinary collaborations, offering real-world insights into media production environments. These experiences support skill enhancement and the formation of a strong professional identity across specialisms such as directing, editing, producing, or content creation. You will also develop high-quality application materials—CVs, showreels, websites, and cover letters—alongside strategies for self-promotion and networking. Emphasis is placed on refining communication and presentation skills through activities like mock interviews and industry panels. By the end of the module, you will have a compelling portfolio, increased confidence, and the professional insight needed to launch a successful media career.

50% Portfolio 3000 words or equivalent

50% Presentation 10 minutes

You will investigate a range of enterprise opportunities within the creative industries, spanning profit-driven businesses, not-for-profit charities or volunteer organisations, media initiatives, and publicly or privately funded projects. Alongside theoretical and conceptual exploration, you will receive support to develop a practical enterprise project aligned with their long-term goals and aspirations.

Portfolio, Practical & Written, x3000 words or equivalent: 100%

The Sports Documentary Techniques module introduces you to the art and craft of sports documentaries, focusing on the unique challenges of storytelling within the sports genre. You will explore various documentary styles, develop skills in research, planning, and production, and learn to use industry-standard equipment and software. Through practical assignments, you will create a high-quality short documentary or key scenes from a larger project, gaining experience in pre-production, shooting, and post-production. The module emphasises critical reflection and analysis, preparing you to present your work and evaluate its impact and quality in a professional context.

Portfolio x 80 production hours or equivalent: 70%

Presentation: 30%

This module equips you with professional skills to optimise team performance in complex media industry settings. You will explore and apply specialist ethical values, professional standards and codes of conduct, critically evaluating decisions and responsibilities. Emphasis is placed on self-reflection and peer evaluation to foster growth. The module also nurtures creative problem-solving and project design, enabling you to produce innovative solutions tailored to multifaceted industry challenges.

Portfolio, x3600 words: 60%

Practical Assessment: 40%

In the Live Sports Reporting module, you will dive into the fast-paced world of live sports journalism. You will learn to write real-time match reports, update social media accounts on the fly, and attend pre- and post-match press conferences to create content for your own media outlets. This module is designed to help you develop essential industry skills, from crafting compelling narratives to managing the pressures of live reporting. Through a portfolio of work covering multiple sporting events, you’ll showcase your ability to produce professional, high-quality content while honing the soft skills needed to excel in this exciting field.

Portfolio: 100%