Dive into digital media and communications on our unique theory-focused course.
Develop critical thinking skills through academic theoretical study with the support of practical, hands-on creative learning in state-of-the-art facilities. Build a thriving career in media, communications and the creative industries.
The Creative Practice modules have been some of my most memorable sessions so far. The opportunity to let loose and work with professional equipment while putting together a portfolio is really special.
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for Communications & Media Studies in the UK
Complete University Guide 2026
At Birmingham, studying Digital Media and Communications connects you to theory and practice. Your development is at the forefront - backed by research-led education in media and digital technologies and centred on developing employability skills.
Learn from experts with unique specialisms in digital studies, media, and communication from an elite Russell Group institution. Our academics and researchers address global challenges and shape media, policy, and industry.
Digital Media and Communications students embrace opportunities across the university and the city: from exploring local landmarks to prepping for future careers and bringing their creative ideas to life.
As the UK's second city, Birmingham is a cultural and creative hub. Our industrial roots paved the way for a rich offering of museums, shops, restaurants and venues. Discover our city for yourself!
Study in a department primed to help you grow as an adaptable, resilient and innovative leader in the fields of digital media and communications. Our range of modules delve into current topics such as video games, digital journalism, writing for business, AI in digital media, and more, guided by expert teaching.
Balance classroom-based study with hands-on creative learning in our state-of-the-art facilities. You'll find yourself working in a range of settings including iMac studio spaces, podcasting editing suites, and computer clusters. It's ideal preparation for roles in sectors as varied as advocacy, the creative arts, journalism, media, marketing, and publishing.
From podcasting to brain monitoring, our state-of-the-art facilities empower our students to create, perform, collaborate and explore in new and exciting ways.
Hear more about studying at Birmingham. Chat to one of our friendly students to find out more about your favourite course, our beautiful campus and life in our vibrant and cultural city.
Study at the University of Birmingham and learn from world-class experts — leaders in global teaching and research experience.
At Birmingham, you’ll have plenty of support to help you adjust to university life:
Your degree is designed to help you achieve 120 credits per year, which equals about 40 hours of learning each week. This includes lectures, seminars, workshops, independent study, revision, and assessments.
You’ll be assessed in different ways to suit each module. At the start of a module, you’ll be told how and when you’ll be assessed. Methods will vary but may include coursework (e.g., essays), group or individual presentations and projects, exams, reports or computer-based assignments.
Feedback: You will receive timely feedback on each assessment, so you can learn from it and improve your performance in future assessments.
The modules listed for this programme are regularly reviewed to ensure they are up-to-date and informed by the latest research and teaching methods.
The optional module information listed for this programme is intended to be indicative, and the availability of optional modules may vary from year to year. Where a module is no longer available, we will let you know as soon as we can and help you to make other choices.
2026/27 Session
The following must be taken:
You can also apply for a semester abroad in your second year; see the Year Abroad section below for more details.
2027/28 Session
The following must be taken:
| Module title | Credits |
|---|---|
| Global Media | 20 |
| Media in the Workplace | 20 |
| Media, Culture and Identity | 20 |
| Writing for Business | 20 |
Students must choose one 20 credit module in each semester.
An indicative list of options is provided below.
Optional modules:
You can also apply for a semester abroad in your second year; see the Year Abroad section below for more details.
2028/29 Session
One of the following must be taken:
| Module title | Credits |
|---|---|
| Digital Media and Communications Creative Project | 40 |
| Digital Media and Communications Dissertation | 40 |
Students must take 80 credits of optional modules.
Students must choose two modules per semester.
Optional modules:
Students may also apply to undertake a Professional Skills module at level H. If successful this will be taken in place of one of their semester 1 taught modules. The placement can be taken either during the summer vacation (part-time or full-time) or during semester 1 (part-time only). This must be completed prior to the Christmas vacation.
| Module title | Credits |
|---|---|
| Professional Skills | 20 |
| Professional Skills - Freelance | 20 |
You can apply to study abroad for a year in an approved university around the world. If you achieve a grade of 2.1 or above in your first year, you will be eligible to apply for a Year Abroad in your second year. If your application is successful, you will go abroad in your third year and return to us for your final year.
To secure a place at Birmingham, you'll need to meet our general entry requirements as well as those specific to your course.
AAB
6,6,5 including 32 points overall.
BTEC Extended Diploma: DDM, plus a B at A level in the required subject/s. See below for full information.
Number of A levels required: 3
We prefer applications from students offering at least one A level in an essay-based subject from our list of preferred subjects:
Ancient History; Anthropology; Archaeology; Art & Design (all pathways); Business Studies; Classical Civilisation; Classics; Drama; Economics; English Language; English Language and Literature; English Literature; Environmental Science; Environmental Studies; Film; Geography; Government and Politics; Health and Social Care; History; History of Art; Law; Media Studies; Music; Performance; Philosophy; Politics; Psychology; Religious Studies; Social Care; Social Policy; Sociology; and Theatre Studies.
General Studies is not accepted.
Students without a preferred subject but with a strong interest in the programme are still encouraged to apply and may be invited to submit a 1000 word admissions essay.
6,6,5 in Higher level subjects plus 32 points overall.
BTEC Extended Diploma: DDM, plus a B at A level in the required subject/s mentioned above.
BTEC Diploma: DD, plus a B at A level in the required subject/s mentioned above.
BTEC Subsidiary Diploma: D, plus AB at A level, including the required subject/s mentioned above.
Applicants who take the EPQ and meet our offer criteria will be made the typical offer for their programme of choice, plus an alternative offer which will be one grade lower plus a grade A in the EPQ. This offer would apply if you make Birmingham your firm choice.
Applicants who take the Core Maths qualification and meet our offer criteria will be made the typical offer for their programme of choice, plus an alternative offer which will be one grade lower plus a grade A in Core Maths. If you are also taking A-level Maths, you will not be eligible for an alternative offer through studying Core Maths. This offer would apply if you make Birmingham your firm choice.
If you are an international student, you will need to demonstrate you have a suitable level of English proficiency, usually through the form of an IELTS or equivalent qualification or a Presessional English course.
If you have a conditional offer for Birmingham where English is a requirement, you can take a Presessional English course as an alternative to retaking IELTS or a similar qualification. We offer on-campus courses all year round starting from September, including additional online courses in the summer term. Teaching takes place in small classes with no more than 18 students to maximise class participation.
Stay up-to-date with news and updates from the University of Birmingham including events, our courses and studying with us by registering your details. If you do so, you will be able to use our Offer Calculator.
Students who are eligible and complete a Pathways to Birmingham programme will receive an alternative offer, which is typically two grades below the standard offer.
Our Contextual Offer scheme recognises the potential of students whose personal circumstances may have restricted achievement in school or college. If you are eligible to benefit from the Contextual Offer scheme, you will receive an offer which is one grade lower than the standard offer. You don’t need to apply for this – it will be assessed and applied at the point of application if you’re eligible.
BBB See A levels section for preferred subjects.
ABB See A levels section for preferred subjects.
The University tuition fee covers the cost of your tuition, examination and graduation, and includes membership of the Guild of Students.
per year for domestic (UK) students for 2026/27
*The University will charge the maximum approved tuition fee per year. If Parliament agrees on an increase in tuition fees, the University will increase fees for each year of study, normally in line with these changes and will communicate any change in the fees to you without delay. The fee for September 2026 entry is £9,790 for UK students. If you are applying for 2027 entry, you will be advised of the annual tuition fee once it is confirmed by the Government.
To help with the cost of studies, undergraduate students from the UK can apply for student finance through the Student Loans Company. The support available is made up of a tuition fee loan and a maintenance loan which helps to cover living costs.
At Birmingham, we believe that financial worries should not be a barrier to accessing higher education. That’s why we offer a range of additional financial support for students through scholarships, bursaries and other awards.
If you're a UK student and starting university in September 2026, find out more about what financial support is available to you.
We want to help you reach your full potential. Explore our wide variety of scholarships available for international students.
£3,000 awards for international students applying for entry to an undergraduate programme starting September 2026.
Whatever your journey to university looks like, we’re here to support you every step of the way. For all undergraduate courses at Birmingham, you apply online through UCAS. The UCAS website has lots of information and advice around the process.
Application deadline for September 2026 entry. Applications close at 18:00 GMT.
View further information on how to apply for undergraduate courses, including advice for UK and overseas applicants.
If you have a question about our admissions process, including how to apply, your offer and how to track your application, please speak to our team.
Studying a degree in the department of Linguistics and Communications at Birmingham is an unparalleled opportunity to engage with a diverse cultural, textual and linguistic discipline, whilst also developing skills in intellectual analysis, critical thinking and articulate expression.
Our Linguistics and Communications students have gone on to secure roles such as 'Content Writer', 'Director', 'Artist' and 'Social Media Manager' working for organisations such as:
The University has commissioned Cturtle as our data partner for tracking our alumni destinations. The data above is a subset from 43,666 alumni who completed their course up to 31 July 2024.
We’re consistently one of the top UK universities targeted by leading graduate employers
High Fliers ‘Graduate Market in 2026’ report
Receive one-to-one careers advice, including guidance on your job applications, writing your CV and improving your interview technique.
Meet employers face-to-face at on-campus recruitment fairs and employer presentations.
Our aim is to make sure that success in your studies leads you on to a fulfilling career. Whatever you plan to do after your degree, the Careers Network offer support to help you identify your options, develop your skills and gain access to opportunities that propel you towards your career goal.
Hear from some of our inspiring alumni who have gone on to work for leading employers such as the UK Space Agency and BBC Sport.
Your experience studying at Birmingham will give you the opportunity to discover new experiences, develop different skills and make friends for life.
Our bustling campus with its beautiful grounds, friendly community, and excellent facilities will quickly make you feel at home. We offer you a huge variety of accommodation options in the UK’s second city, exciting activities to get involved in outside your studies, as well as all the support and advice you need.
Coming to Birmingham to study might be your first time living away from home. In our student accommodation, you can enjoy your independence in safe, welcoming and sociable surroundings.
Our cosmopolitan city has a unique history and so much to see and do. With an ever-changing food and drink scene, a vibrant nightlife and plenty of culture, our city is more than somewhere to study.
Whoever you are and wherever you come from, we are committed to providing the best possible support to our students, both before you start and throughout your time on campus.
Our beautiful campus is the place where our diverse community comes together to learn and socialise. Like a town of its own, it’s just minutes from the hustle and bustle of the UK’s second city.
Explore your options for combining subjects and shape your degree around your interests, whilst developing key skills for the world of work.
Explore our beautiful campus from wherever you are. Get a feel for the wide range of historic and modern spaces and state-of-the-art facilities.
