Modules

The degree consists of 50% media theory and 50% media practice. We aim to provide an inspirational learning experience in which theory and practice influence and enrich each other in the production of original creative and intellectual work.

This programme is not just about studying media – it goes beyond that and explores how technology and human life are connected and how media is influenced by society. We look at different philosophical ideas about technology and human existence, and we also study how media is made from a sociological perspective. It's an exciting and comprehensive programme that looks in depth at interesting topics.

We look at issues of identity through critical race studies, queer theory and critiques of post-feminism. We investigate global screen cultures and also the role of news in democracy. All of this, together with critical, creative practice in production equips our students to be the thinking media practitioners of the future.

Year 1 (credit level 4)
Theory
In your first year you'll study five theoretical modules that introduce you to the major fields of study.

You take the following compulsory modules:
Film and the Audiovisual: Theory and Analysis
Key Debates in Media Studies
Media History and Politics
Media Arts
Culture and Cultural Studies

Practice
Over the duration of your first year you will take 'Introduction to Media Practice' which will introduce you to our media production areas. You will select four practice areas from our list of eight: animation, audio, creative writing, filmmaking, journalism, illustration, interactive media and photography. You will spend five weeks in each of these areas, helping you explore and experiment with these media practices, enabling you to pick one to specialise in throughout the rest of your degree.

Introduction to Media Practice

Year 2 (credit level 5)
Theory
In the second year, you'll explore the major fields of study in more depth through a range of core and optional modules.

You take the following compulsory modules:
Media, Modernity and Social Thought
Psychology, Subjectivity and Power

You'll also study optional modules to the value of 30 credits from a list provided annually by the department.
This will include:
The Goldsmiths Elective
The Goldsmiths Project

Practice
You will begin working in your practice specialist area over the year, helping you to make a more ‘in depth’ approach to media production - learning about technique, storytelling, the creation of meaning, and how you can use your creativity to make an impact in media and culture in your chosen specialist field.

You will take the following modules:
Media Production Specialism 1
Media Production Specialism 2

Year 3 (credit level 6)
Theory
You'll study optional modules to the value of 45 credits from a list provided annually by the department.

Practice
In your third year you will build on all your specialist skills and knowledge from the second year to devise, research and make a major final project. You will be given platforms to showcase this developing work in public forums such as publications, websites, galleries and screenings aimed at helping you build an audience for your work in preparation for entry into the creative industries. This will culminate in an opportunity to participate in a degree show.

You will also carry out a work placement, giving you an opportunity to utilise your skills and apply them directly in the creative industries.

Media Production - Final Project
Work Placement

Please note that due to staff research commitments not all of these modules may be available every year.

Assessment methods

You’ll be assessed by a variety of methods, depending on your module choices. These include coursework assignments such as extended essays, reports, presentations, practice-based projects or essays/logs, group projects and reflective essays, as well as seen and unseen written examinations.