Media and English

Media and English is a combination that brings together two disciplines concerned with how texts are made, how they work and what they do in the world. English literature and language develops your capacity for close reading, careful interpretation and well-evidenced argument about written texts across forms and periods. Media studies examines how images, sounds, data and narratives are produced, distributed and consumed across different platforms and industries, asking what this means for culture, politics and everyday life.

Together they develop a sophisticated understanding of communication in both its established literary forms and its contemporary digital manifestations.

At Leeds Beckett University, this three-year full-time programme includes a year abroad, which gives you the opportunity to study media and English in a different cultural and linguistic environment. The programme draws on teaching from published authors, media industry professionals and researchers, creating a learning environment that connects academic rigour to creative and professional practice. You will develop your analytical and critical writing skills alongside your understanding of contemporary media industries and literary traditions.

You will study literature across periods and genres, media theory, digital and social media, journalism, broadcasting, film, cultural industries and the historical contexts of both fields. Creative and analytical work develop together, building your ability to both analyse and produce texts across multiple forms.

Graduates go on to careers in journalism, publishing, broadcasting, digital media, content creation, communications, marketing, public relations, arts administration and education. The combination of literary and media literacy is valued across all sectors where clear communication and critical thinking are required. Some go on to postgraduate study in English, media studies, journalism, cultural studies or creative writing.