Communication, Media and Popular Music

Communication, media and popular music brings together three fields that are deeply intertwined in contemporary culture. Communication studies examines how meaning is made and circulated through language, image and practice. Media studies analyses the institutions, technologies and texts through which culture is produced and consumed, from broadcast television to social media platforms.

Popular music adds a creative and analytical focus on one of the most pervasive and culturally significant art forms of the last century. Together they equip you to understand and participate in a media landscape that is constantly in motion.

At the University of Liverpool, this three-year full-time programme is structured with significant practical and professional opportunities. It includes a sandwich year, giving you extended experience in an industry or research environment, a year abroad at a partner institution, and work placement experience built into the programme. You will study theories of communication and representation, the history and economics of the media industries, music production, popular music history and criticism, and the digital platforms through which content is now created and distributed.

The programme develops your analytical and critical skills alongside practical competencies in media production and communication.

Graduates work in music and media industries across roles in management, production, journalism, public relations, marketing, artist management, events and broadcasting. The analytical understanding of media systems and cultural production that the programme develops is also valued in policy organisations, charities and digital businesses that need people who understand how communication works. Many graduates also build portfolio careers that combine employment in the creative industries with independent projects.

Postgraduate study in media studies, music industry management, cultural studies, journalism or communications provides a route for those who wish to specialise or move into academic or senior professional roles.