COURSE CURRICULUM

The MA in Media and Global Development is a one-year program designed to explore the role of media in promoting social change, development, and humanitarian action around the world. It offers a critical understanding of how communication can influence aid policies, support fundraising and advocacy efforts, and promote human rights and public health messaging. Students engage with core fields such as communication for development, humanitarian communication, and media development, examining how media can both support and challenge power structures within society. The course also delves into the role of media in democracy, migration, and social movements, encouraging students to think critically about theories, methods, and their own media experiences.A key feature of the program is its strong practical component. Through the “Media and Development in Practice” module, students work on real-world media projects with community partners or NGOs, gaining hands-on experience in areas like content production, social media strategy, or project design. Past partners include organisations such as Save the Children, ActionAid, the British Red Cross, and BBC Radio Norfolk. This module emphasizes reflective learning and peer feedback over traditional lectures, offering students a unique opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge in a real-world context.In the final phase of the course, students can choose between writing a dissertation or undertaking a professional work placement. Many have secured internships with high-profile organisations such as the UN, UNESCO, BBC Media Action, and the Refugee Council. The program also includes a research training module designed to build strong qualitative and quantitative research skills in preparation for these final projects. This MA is ideal for students who want to combine academic study with practical experience and are interested in how media can be a powerful force in global development and humanitarian work.