English and Media

English and media studies together examine the languages and forms through which meaning is made and communicated. English literary study develops your ability to read critically, analyse how texts work, and engage with the cultural and historical contexts that shape them. Media studies extends that analytical lens to television, film, journalism, social media, and digital content, examining how these forms are produced, circulated, and consumed, and what kinds of power and meaning they carry.

The combination develops graduates who are fluent in the analysis of contemporary communication culture.

At Nottingham Trent University in Nottingham, this three-year full-time degree includes a sandwich year, giving you a professional placement in a media, communications, publishing, or related industry before your final year. This practical experience is a significant asset, allowing you to apply your analytical skills in a working environment, understand the professional realities of media production, and build the networks and portfolio that support graduate employment. You will study English literature and language, critical and cultural theory, media industries, journalism, digital media, television and film analysis, and the changing landscape of public communication in a digital age.

The programme develops strong analytical, communication, and writing skills alongside practical media literacy.

Graduates from English and media programmes go on to work in journalism, broadcasting, publishing, marketing, public relations, digital content creation, social media management, education, and the creative industries. The combination of critical thinking and media literacy produced by this degree is valued across any sector that depends on effective communication. Many graduates continue to postgraduate study in media and communications, creative writing, or journalism to develop specialist expertise.