MA in Media and Broadcast Production

This MA is an intensive programme providing you with a solid foundation in media-based storytelling by combining in-depth research methods with a practical, hands-on approach to learning. It will teach you how to record and edit in audio and video formats; how to research, produce, script, and edit your own material, whether it is short features or long-form documentaries; and how to produce stories for radio, TV, and interactive online platforms. To do this, you’ll also learn effective interviewing techniques. This MA will teach you how to identify a good story and then how to research and pitch it for a successful commissioning outcome.

Whether you want to be a broadcast journalist, radio or podcast producer, videographer, documentary filmmaker, media production/communications specialist, post-production editor, or immersive media practitioner, our practice-centered approach will strategically position you to work for any aspect of radio or podcasting; factual TV; documentary and informational production. Upon completing this MA, you will have numerous factual media outputs under your belt in radio/podcast, TV, documentary, interactive, and experimental hybrid formats. This will be the basis of a robust work portfolio with which you can then enter the work market.

The program is designed to appeal to graduate students in the Humanities and Social Sciences, particularly those with backgrounds in English, politics, history, journalism, cultural studies, and creative writing. The previous academic study of or practical experience in areas of the media is beneficial but not essential. This would also interest those from other disciplines who want to retrain and have already had some relevant media industry experience.

Media and Broadcast Production highlights

Industry Links

We have strong links to the BBC and relationships with local and global media organizations. We have industry professionals as guest speakers, both from Northern Ireland as well as internationally: foreign correspondents, award-winning directors, producers, photographers, editors, and scriptwriters. Students can take part in a range of talks, and events and have regular opportunities to engage with the vibrant media scene in Northern Ireland and the international media landscape.

Student Experience

Students are encouraged to develop their own interests throughout the degree, guided by the staff, whose expertise is wide-ranging, covering broadcast journalism, factual (audio and video) documentary production, hybrid storytelling, interactive media, virtual reality, media research & analysis, and communications.

Career Development

Students will use equipment and facilities acquired and designed in collaboration with BBC NI and other industry representatives. The Media and Broadcast MA is taught at the Sonic Arts Research Centre, the home of the world-renowned Sonic Lab. Students have opportunities to explore hybrid forms of storytelling using industry-level cameras, editing software, and facilities.