The internet has transformed political behaviour, from voting and campaigning, to protest and revolution. Study digital diplomacy, hashtag activism, internet censorship and other developments that shape politics and international relations.

Benefit from cutting-edge approaches to the study of intercultural awareness and communication skills.

MA Visual Communication: Graphic Design is an intensive contemporary programme that combines creative and professional development, experience within a nurturing, experimental, interdisciplinary, studio-based environment. The course is focused on the development of imaginative and conceptually distinctive visual practices, in which qualities of invention and discovery are underpinned by rigorous specialist expertise, preparing students to achieve a broad range of creative ambitions.  

We live in an age where almost everything that we do is connected to data. Big data and datafication – the increasing transformation of multiple aspects of everyday lives into digital data, pose great opportunities but also risks for contemporary societies. This MA course address explores and creatively utilises this transformation. We place emphasis on current and future technologies and practices such as algorithms, artificial intelligence (AI), big data, blockchain, data analytics and data mining, the Internet of Things, and others. This multidisciplinary course brings together media/communication studies and computer science. It combines hands-on and applied approaches with theoretical learning and critical analysis. It will encourage collaboration, creative practice, group work and problem-based learning. You'll apply tools and technologies to your own data challenges and projects, including from your existing professional or cultural, political, social and economic environments. The course also features optional modules from a range of disciplines across the University: Media and Communication Studies, Law, Computer Science, Politics and International Relations, and Cultural Studies. You'll be introduced to the tools and approaches that can be used for the collection, analysis, management and visualisation of data, as well as to the skills needed to critically think about the ethical, cultural, social and political implications of their practice. The course combines technical skills, critical use and creative production. It directly addresses graduates who may wish to acquire a set of skills in relation to data analytics, processing and visualisation while maintaining and furthering a critical mode of enquiry into practices and trends that shape individuals, organisations and societies today. It also speaks to graduates with technical backgrounds and work experience in data-related industries who wish to develop a more critical and multidisciplinary understanding of the social, cultural, political and economic implications of data-driven societies today.

At the heart of your experience with us in Visual Communication is the shared commitment to ‘conversational practice’. By this, we mean a practical and discursive approach to making. We see communication as essentially, a conversation to form bridges, connect people and exchange ideas.

Advance your career in digital media with the University of Birmingham’s MA Digital Media & Global Communication. This online, flexible program equips you with the skills, knowledge, and tools needed for success in media, communications, and creative industries.

On this timely course, you explore contemporary perspectives, concepts and events that challenge how knowledge about international relations (IR) is produced and how crises can be overcome. Explore the problematic assumptions about race, ethnicity, class, gender, sexuality and geography which IR can be based upon, and study contemporary topics including the resurgence of populist nationalism, international terrorism, regional and national cohesion and insecurity, war and conflict, and peace-making.

Become an effective MA International Communication practitioner with the expertise and confidence to work in an international setting. You will learn how to work with clients to produce practical communications solutions in the private, public and voluntary sectors all over the world.

Become a skilled communicator ready to work for multinational companies on our industry-focussed programme.

MA Global Media and Communications drawing on the grounded expertise of staff, offers a specialised study of the global media environment in relation to Asian, African and Middle Eastern societies and cultures, together with rigorous training in and questioning of contemporary media and communication theory.

Designed to equip you with the skills you need for a career in the creative industries or digital marketing sector, our MA Visual Communications is focused on industry experience, interdisciplinary collaboration and self-initiated study. You’ll study at the heart of our green Peel Park campus in our £55 million New Adelphi equipped with collaborative studios to mirror the industry. You’ll be involved in working on live projects with key cultural organisations within Salford and Manchester such as Islington Mill, Salford Museum and Art Gallery and Magma Books.

This dynamic, interdisciplinary MA combines public relations, international relations, and media studies through a blend of theoretical insights and practical applications such as digital media skills, harnessing the power of communication strategies to drive positive societal transformations and advocate for change.

The advance of digital technology as a result of the 4th industrial revolution means public relations (PR) and reputation and brand management are critical components of organisational planning and strategy. Our MA International Public Relations and Global Communications Management programme will help you develop the skills and techniques you’ll need to succeed as a PR and Communications professional in any industry, at an international level.

This course is ideal if you aspire to a career in corporate communications, public relations or internal communications. It offers a basis in business disciplines rather than journalism. This includes working for an agency or in-house for a company or organisation. Roles may include PR manager, internal/external communications or investor relations.

The MA in Political and Strategic Communication plays a key role in today’s increasingly turbulent world. The first decades of the 21st century witnessed an unprecedented pace of change across many domains, including politics, society, economics and technology.