Northumbria University
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.
4 Student Reviews
Filter reviews-
Communication Design07 Jan, 2023
StudentPKStudent of Masters in Communication DesignI’m doing Masters in Communication Design from Northumbria University and I am very pleased with the experience. The program is well-structured and provided me with a comprehensive understanding of the principles of communication design. The coursework is challenging but rewarding, and I’m able to develop my skills in areas such as typography, layout, branding, and digital media. The faculty is professional, knowledgeable and supportive, and they provided me with valuable feedback whenever it is required.
View moreProgramme: Communication DesignDegree: Master'sGraduation: 2023Delivery Type: On CampusCampus: Newcastle -
Journalism and ...17 May, 2022 Studentmixed
Some module was really really helpful, some are just like a filler for a gap there.
View more
Great facility and student life since it’s a very new campus located in the busy city centre, next to Newcastle uni.Programme: Journalism and Mass CommunicationDegree: Bachelor'sGraduation: 2022Delivery Type: On CampusCampus: Newcastle -
Media, Film ...15 Apr, 2022 StudentLack of help
Sometimes the course feels like it moves too fast for the lack of development we have had due to the pandemic and thus making some of us feel like we have a lack of skills compared to students of the same level in the past.
View moreProgramme: Media, Film and TelevisionDegree: Bachelor'sGraduation: 2022Delivery Type: On CampusCampus: Newcastle -
Criminology and ...12 Apr, 2022 StudentHelpful Staff, Great Nightlife and an Unforgettable 3 Years.
The programme contained everything which was talked about at the open days, and more despite Covid-19. From examining items for traces of blood and fibres to visiting a mock crime scene, to giving a witness statement in court. I genuinely felt excited to complete my work. The staff are all extremely friendly and helpful and provide all students with useful information and guidance to produce high-quality assignments. The campus is a busy one, with what seems to be a different activity every day. There are a variety of cafes and bars on campus to suit every student’s craving, all with student-friendly prices. Personally, I love visiting Habita in between lectures and having lunch. The careers guidance has been amazing, and I have been able to access a 1-1 appointment whenever I felt I needed one. In addition to these appointments, there is a huge amount of detailed information online which is very helpful. I feel there is a wide range of career prospects open to me, not only due to my degree but also due to the invaluable work experience I have gained working as a student at Northumbria University. There are many different roles available for students and I have gained many highly sought after skills whilst flexibly working around the university and my other life commitments.
View moreProgramme: Criminology and Forensic ScienceDegree: Bachelor'sGraduation: 2022Delivery Type: On CampusCampus: Newcastle
