University of Liverpool - UOL
speciality:
Communication
What is a Communications degree?
Communications is a universal degree, which explores the traditional forms of communication such as verbal, physical, visual and written communication but also extends beyond that to cover mass communication and social media. There are different types of communications degrees depending on the degree level.
Overall, Communications focuses on teaching effective communication through social media, web, print, mass media and verbal communication. However, there are two types of Communications degrees that exist. For instance, a Bachelor of Arts in Communications in the US is focused on preparing students for careers that are connected to writing, marketing, promotions, journalism and public relations. In contrast, Bachelor of Science in Communications is dedicated to the technology used in the science behind modern communication and prepares students for careers in production or sound engineering.
A Communications degree teaches students about how media and communication influences cultures, societies and people’s identities. It involves a significant amount of critical writing and research and covers different disciplines such as journalism, public relations, entertainment production, marketing, event planning and so many more disciplines, which are somehow connected to exchanging information and conveying messages. There are also different specialization options associated with this degree, including political communication, mass media, journalism, health communication, etc.
It is worth noting that a Communications degree has many intersection points with psychology, sociology, linguistics and in some cases politics.
Benefits of a Communications degree
The main benefit of a Communications degree is its universal nature. It applies to almost any subject or professional setting. For example, some of the top careers in the field of Communications include announcers, art directors, editors, broadcast and sound engineering technicians, reporters, correspondents, broadcast analysts, technical writers, writers and authors, interpreters, translators, etc. Therefore, it keeps students’ career options open and doesn’t require them to have a predetermined career path that they want to follow.
Communications degrees prepare students to make an impact from the start of their careers unlike other degrees, which require further training. This is possible thanks to the multitude of professionally accredited degrees in Communications, which develop students’ abilities based on the established standards in the field. Moreover, there are many Communications courses, which offer work placement opportunities that enable students to gain the required professional skills before they have even started their career.
Another benefit associated with Communications degrees is the fact that they develop students’ written and verbal communication skills significantly.
A major advantage of Communications over other degrees is that in most cases there are no prerequisites required to study Communications.
Communications degree structure
The duration of a Communications degree varies depending on the country and degree level. For example, Higher Education Institutions in the UK offer 3-year Bachelor’s courses. In some cases, the course may extend to four years if students are given the opportunity to spend a year abroad or in industry between the second and third year through a sandwich course. Bachelor’s degrees in Communications in the US usually take around four years to complete.
Over the duration of a Bachelor’s Communications degree, students are expected to learn and be able to apply the established communications theories by developing the technical skills required to work in a professional setting. In the first year of their studies, students learn predominantly how media and communication influences cultures, societies and people’s identities. Optional modules may introduce them to professional communication, journalism, documentary, film-making, marketing, etc. In addition to the introductory topics, this degree allows students to learn about more complex areas of communications such as interpersonal relations, brand management and linguistics at a later stage. For instance, the second and third years enable students to get a deeper understanding of theoretical concepts related to media and culture and develop practical skills in research and communications. Additionally, students may have the opportunity to take optional modules and pursue their interests in different areas related to Communications such as gender, race, youth, culture, digital media, political communication, public relations, etc.
The most common duration of a Master’s degree in Communications is between 1 and 2 years depending on the mode of study (full-time or part-time) and country.
PhD and MPhil degrees in Communications require students to dedicate anywhere between 3 and 6 years to their studies depending on the mode and country of study.
6 Student Reviews
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Advertising and ...2 months ago
StudentGBMarketing @ Uni of LiverpoolI’m a second-year Marketing student at the University of Liverpool and overall I’ve had a positive experience. The course mixes theory with real marketing examples, and lecturers are supportive and knowledgeable. The campus is easy to navigate, student life is active, and Liverpool is affordable compared to other big cities. Some modules can feel lecture-heavy and communication could be smoother at times, but the experience has become more engaging in second year. I’d recommend it to students looking for a solid marketing degree in a fun and student-friendly city.
View moreProgramme: Advertising and Public Relations + MarketingDegree: Bachelor'sGraduation: 2027Delivery Type: On CampusCampus: Liverpool -
Communication12 Mar, 2025 StudentAn insightful course
The University of Liverpool is a well-respected institution known for its strong research output, particularly in science, engineering, and health sciences. As a member of the Russell Group, it offers a high standard of teaching and industry connections, particularly in fields like medicine, business, and law. The campus blends historic architecture with modern facilities, and the city itself provides a vibrant and affordable student experience. While student satisfaction varies depending on the course, Liverpool’s reputation, career prospects, and global alumni network make it a solid choice for higher education.
View moreProgramme: CommunicationDegree: Bachelor'sGraduation: 2026Delivery Type: On CampusCampus: Liverpool -
Media and ...22 Oct, 2024 StudentGBExcellent Degree Programme
I do Media and Culture and love the course modules. They’re all super interesting and clear, as well as the lecturers being extremely helpful. There is a good amount of workload that is challenging yet manageable. The University resources are also very helpful alongside a lovely campus.
View moreProgramme: Media and Cultural StudiesDegree: Bachelor'sGraduation: 2026Delivery Type: On CampusCampus: Liverpool -
Bachelor of ...23 Sep, 2024 StudentGBCampus and teaching
University teaching is a good standard. However, support and allowances for exceptional circumstances are very hard to obtain. In my case, I found there was very little support with mental health services. Teaching times are limited.
View moreProgramme: Bachelor of Arts in Communication and MediaDegree: Bachelor'sGraduation: 2025Delivery Type: On CampusCampus: Liverpool -
Communications and ...09 Feb, 2023 StudentGBExcellent academia but lacks pastoral support
I am currently doing my postgraduate degree in Media, Culture and Everyday Life at the University of Liverpool. Whilst I have enjoyed the academic aspects of the course, and the excellence of the teaching staff, I would definitely urge prospective students to consider other factors before coming here. I have experienced a considerable lack of pastoral support, and difficulty in accessing mental health resources. There is also a lack of community feel in comparison to my last university, the University of Sheffield, and the societies are less active in organising events.
View moreProgramme: Communications and Media StudiesDegree: Master'sGraduation: 2023Delivery Type: On CampusCampus: Liverpool -
Digital Media28 Sep, 2022 StudentStudent Friendly
The University of Liverpool has created an environment which makes the growth of students as smooth as possible. Whether it is helping them make friends, giving them a tour or helping them with their studies, they have covered it all.
View moreProgramme: Digital MediaDegree: Master'sGraduation: 2023Delivery Type: On CampusCampus: Liverpool
