What Media Course Should I Study? A Student’s Guide to the Best Options in the UK

What Media Course Should I Study?

What Media Course Should I Study? A Student’s Guide to the Best Options in the UK

If you’re considering a creative or communication-focused degree, you’ve probably asked yourself: what media course should I study? With so many options in the UK — from film production to journalism, public relations to gaming — it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. The truth is, media degrees are incredibly varied, and the best one for you will depend on your interests, skills, and career goals.

In this guide, we explore ten of the most popular and rewarding media courses available in the UK. We’ll look at what each course covers, what kinds of jobs they can lead to, how many UCAS points are typically needed, and where you might want to study them. You’ll also hear from a real student who found her direction through one of these programmes.

Media and Communication

Media and Communication is one of the most versatile degrees available in this field. It blends digital literacy, communication theory, and critical thinking with hands-on media analysis. Courses often cover topics like branding, media ethics, global communication, and the impact of social platforms on society. It’s ideal for students who want to keep their career options open — many graduates go into PR, digital marketing, social media, or audience research. Entry requirements usually sit between 112 and 136 UCAS points, and universities like Leeds and East Anglia are particularly well regarded in this area.

Film and Television Studies

For those fascinated by cinema or television, Film and Television Studies offers a more academic path. This course delves into storytelling, genre, audience reception, and film history. Rather than learning how to make films, you’ll study how they are structured, received, and interpreted. Students often go on to work in screenwriting development, research, curation, or criticism. Entry requirements tend to be higher — often between 128 and 153 points — with strong programmes at Warwick and Exeter.

Journalism

If you have a nose for news and a passion for storytelling, journalism might be the right fit. These courses teach the fundamentals of reporting, writing, media law, ethics, and digital publishing. Journalism degrees can be quite practical, often including placements or opportunities to write for student publications. Whether you're aiming to be a news reporter, magazine writer, or online editor, journalism offers a solid foundation. Entry requirements can vary significantly, ranging from 96 to 153 UCAS points depending on the university.

Digital Media

Digital Media degrees are tailored to the online age. From video production to web design and digital storytelling, this course is ideal for students who want to work in fast-paced, creative environments. You'll develop skills in design software, video editing, animation, and interactive media — often alongside UX and audience engagement theory. Graduates typically find roles in content creation, design, and digital project management. Entry is usually between 128 and 159 points, and strong courses are offered at Sheffield and Southampton.

Advertising and Public Relations

For those interested in persuasive messaging and brand communication, Advertising and PR courses are a smart choice. These degrees explore audience psychology, copywriting, strategic campaigns, and media planning. Students often work on real-life case studies and brand simulations, preparing for careers in agencies or in-house marketing teams. Entry requirements tend to be moderate, typically around 112 to 136 points. Leeds and UEA offer well-structured programmes with strong industry links.

Film and Television Production

This is the course for hands-on creatives who want to be behind the camera. Film and Television Production covers directing, cinematography, editing, and post-production. Many universities include live briefs and collaborative projects with industry professionals. If you're dreaming of working on set, in editing suites, or with production teams, this practical degree could be your launchpad. Competitive programmes require around 128 to 153 UCAS points, with Warwick and Exeter leading the field.

Broadcast Journalism

Broadcast Journalism focuses on audio and visual storytelling, training students for careers in radio, TV, and digital news. You’ll learn how to produce content, use broadcasting equipment, write for the ear, and report in real time. It's well-suited to confident communicators who thrive under pressure and want to inform the public. Entry requirements range from 112 to 153 points, with strong options available at universities like Leeds and Newcastle.

Media and Cultural Studies

If you're more interested in how media reflects and shapes culture, identity, and politics, Media and Cultural Studies could be the ideal fit. This is a theory-heavy degree that critically explores representation, gender, race, power, and globalisation. It appeals to students who enjoy debate, analysis, and thinking deeply about the media’s role in society. Graduates often go into research, NGO work, consultancy, or postgraduate study. Entry points are generally between 112 and 136, with respected courses at Leeds and East Anglia.

Games Design and Development

Gaming is one of the UK’s fastest-growing creative industries, and games design degrees combine creativity with technical skills. You’ll study storytelling, 3D modelling, user experience, and even game psychology. Many universities offer industry-focused projects and collaborative development work. The UK currently has the fifth-largest gaming market in the world, and graduates can work in design, development, animation or project management. Most courses ask for between 128 and 159 UCAS points, and institutions like UCA and UEA offer standout programmes.

Music and Sound Production

For those passionate about sound, Music and Sound Production teaches studio recording, audio editing, live sound engineering, and music technology. It’s a perfect blend of creative expression and technical precision. Students go on to become producers, engineers, composers, or audio designers for film and games. UCAS requirements typically range from 96 to 136 points, and respected courses are offered at Surrey, Leeds Beckett and BIMM.

What are the Pass Rates and Grade Distribution for Media Studies in the UK?