Media and Public Relations MA, by distance learning

Course Type: Full Degree

Course Level: Postgraduate

Study Method: Distance Learning

Course Duration: 24 months

Course Description

This postgraduate degree will provide you with the advanced skills and knowledge you need to enhance your professional development. The MA in Media and Public Relations will provide you with a thorough understanding of the principles and practice of public relations (PR) by examining the structure of the PR sector and offering insights into the way in which the industry works.

The course covers the history and development of public relations in different parts of the world and provides a theoretical framework for investigating this rapidly changing profession. You will evaluate classic and emerging PR strategies and the use of research to inform PR campaigns and to measure their effectiveness, as well as their wider social impacts. You will look in depth at successful and effective PR campaigns and at the structural relationships between PR and the media.

Course structure

Taught modules

  • Dissertation
  • Taught modules
  • Issues in Media and Communication
  • PR and Society
  • Strategic Communication Management
  • Media Research Design and Practice

Dissertation

Your dissertation provides you with the opportunity to undertake a major piece of independent research on a topic that interests you and research it in depth. You will be supported to help you identify a specific research ‘problem’ or question that you want to explore, which will help you select an appropriate methodology or methodologies in order to undertake this. You will be supported in organising and executing your research and also in writing up your findings and conclusions in a clear and effective manner.

Dissertation support covers these areas: What is a dissertation and the dissertation process?

  • Literature review
  • The dissertation journey
  • Ethics approval process
  • Methodological design and ethics approval
  • Field work
  • Write up

Study Method

The Media and Public Relations MA degree is studied 100% online through the University of Leicester distance learning platform. As a distance learning student you will receive support throughout the course from a group of dedicated academic mentors and module tutors. You will use module study books – available in hard copy and electronically – and Blackboard, our virtual learning environment. This will give you online access to materials to support each module, discussion forums hosted by module tutors and chat rooms where you can network with fellow students.