UNIVERSITY OF BRADFORD
Faculty of Engineering and Informatics
School of Media, Design and Technology
Programme: BA (Hons) Media Studies with Cinematics
Awarding and teaching
institution:
University of Bradford
Final and interim awards:
BA (Honours) [Framework for Higher Education
Qualifications level 6]
Diploma of Higher Education [Framework for
Higher Education Qualifications level 5]
Programme title:
Certificate of Higher Education [Framework for
Higher Education Qualifications level 4]
Media Studies with Cinematics
Duration:
3 years full time; 4 years full-time including a
year of study abroad and/or a work placement; 46 years part time
UCAS code:
P3W6 BA/MSCin
Subject benchmark
statement:
Communication, Media, Film & Cultural Studies
Date produced:
February 2005
Last updated :
June 2015
Introduction
The University of Bradford has a long track record in offering courses in new media
technologies, media production and media studies. This programme has been
developed by the School of Media, Design and Technology, part of University’s
Faculty of Engineering and Informatics. The city of Bradford is the home of the
National Media Museum, and the BA Media Studies with Cinematics course makes
use of its extensive resources. School of Media, Design and Technology has strong
links with the BBC and Creative Skillset, the sector skills council for the creative
industries. Bradford is also the world’s first UNESCO City of Film. Our partnerships
and collaborations provide you with the opportunity to experience interdisciplinary,
shared learning within a vibrant, creative environment.
The Media Studies with Cinematics programme takes a mixture of traditional and
new approaches. Focusing partly on media institutions, histories, audiences, and
tools for the analysis of media products, the course also takes advantage of the
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School’s up-to-date expertise in new media content creation and production
technology – in areas such as television, Web design, digital media and
photography. Bradford graduates go on to exciting jobs in the new media industries
and many have won national and international awards for their work.
The BA Media Studies with Cinematics programme is designed for students who
wish to develop a critical understanding of the development and current status of the
media and film industries, the products they make, and their audiences. On this
programme you will also study the major media production forms. Some of the
teaching on the programme is done by practising media professionals and research
academics, and the production resources, both at the University are of high
professional standard. Media Studies with Cinematics students also benefit from the
rich resources of the National Media Museum’s film programme.
The School aims to provide Honours degree programmes which enable you to
develop an integrated range of knowledge, understanding and skills in the field of
media studies through critical engagement with media theory alongside content
design and production practice. In addition the programmes aim actively to
encourage students to develop a portfolio of appropriate transferable skills and
attributes.
Even if you don’t wish to work in the media, a media studies degree provides you
with the critical, analytical, and problem-solving skills that are required in so many of
today’s commercial environments. What’s more, a degree in media helps you make
better sense of what’s going on in the world around you – an enormous amount of
what we know comes to our attention through the media – a Bradford Media Studies
with Cinematics degree will give you an invaluable insight into the ways in which our
media work.
Programme Aims
The programme is intended to:
A1.
Enable you to develop a contextual knowledge of the development and
current status of the media and film industries and institutions, the products
they make, and their audiences.
A2.
Enable you to develop an integrated range of knowledge, understanding and
skills in the field of media studies and cinematics through critical engagement
with media theory.
A3.
Enable you to develop your professional knowledge and skills in creative
content design and production practice.
A4.
Enable you to develop a portfolio of appropriate transferable skills and
attributes.
A5.
Enable you to develop lifelong independent learning skills.
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Programme Learning Outcomes
When you have completed the programme you will be able to:
LO1. Demonstrate an in-depth knowledge and understanding of the major
contemporary issues and of the historical development of media and
cinematic forms, languages, ethics and institutions and their relationships to
their audiences and to commerce, state and government.
LO2. Apply your knowledge and understanding of the major theoretical tools and
critical analytical skills in the interpretation of media and film texts.
LO3. Demonstrate an informed understanding of the social, political, cultural,
technical, and economic conditions of media production, distribution, and
reception in national and international contexts.
LO4. Apply your knowledge of and competence in key technologies and practices
of media and film production.
LO5. Demonstrate discipline-specific skills in media content creation, specification,
design, production, and evaluation.
LO6. Demonstrate the ability to produce project work to high technical and aesthetic
standards with the ability to make informed judgements in the context of
rapidly developing and converging media industries.
LO7. Apply appropriate personal and transferable skills in data management and
presentation; interpretation and transformation of information; creative and
systematic problem solving; and communication.
LO8. Demonstrate the application of effective skills in teamwork and leadership,
project management and personal management.
On completion of this award at Certificate of Higher Education level, you will be able
to:
1. Explain relevant theories, models and principles as they apply to media and
cinema industries and institutions.
2. Present and evaluate ideas and concepts relevant to the main forms of media
and film.
3. Collect information, ideas and concepts from recommended sources, organizing
and referencing them appropriately.
4. Work effectively as individuals and in groups being able to communicate ideas
and arguments effectively and accurately both orally and in writing.
5. Demonstrate development as an independent learner, showing skills of
organisation, group working and inquiry.
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On completion of this award at Diploma of Higher Education level, you will be able
to:
1. Identify and explain the main theoretical approaches and practices found within
media and film studies.
2. Identify, examine and evaluate elements of the media and cinema currently and
historically.
3. Compare and contrast alternative approaches adopted by the media and
cinema contextualising them in social, political, cultural, technical, and economic
environments.
4. Synthesise theory and practice to show an advanced understanding of concepts
and processes relevant to the media.
5. Integrate and analyse relevant knowledge and reflect on it.
6. Deploy a range of academic and research skills.
7. Demonstrate stronger project management skills, being able to select and
deploy strategies to secure outcomes aiding your development as an
autonomous learner.
8. Communicate your ideas and arguments fluently in writing and orally.
Although the University does not recruit directly to Ordinary degrees, this route is
available. A Bachelor’s degree (Ordinary) is awarded to students who have
demonstrated:





a systematic understanding key aspects of their field of study, including
acquisition of coherent and detailed knowledge informed by aspects of media
studies with cinematics.
an ability to deploy accurately established techniques of analysis and enquiry
within media studies and cinematics.
conceptual understanding that enables the student:
o to devise and sustain arguments, and/or to solve problems, using ideas
and techniques.
o to describe and comment upon particular aspects of current research,
or equivalent scholarship, or practice in media studies and cinematics.
an appreciation of the uncertainty, ambiguity and limits of knowledge.
the ability to manage their own learning, and to make use of primary sources.
Typically, holders of the qualification will be able to:


apply the methods and techniques that they have learned to review,
consolidate, extend and apply their knowledge and understanding.
communicate information, ideas, problems and solutions to both specialist
and non specialist audiences.
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And holders will have:

the qualities and transferable skills necessary for employment requiring:
o the exercise of initiative and personal responsibility
o the learning ability needed to undertake appropriate further training of a
professional or equivalent nature.
Curriculum
The programme is offered over 3 years full-time. The provisions for part-time mode
are typically 6 years: the exact arrangements will be discussed with individual
applicants. The map of your studies is detailed in the tables below showing core (C)
and optional (O) modules. Each year, or stage, of an Honours programme
comprises 2 semesters with 60 credits being studied in each semester. In Stages
Two and Three students will have 40 credits core and select 20 credits options in
each semester. The Ordinary comprises 100 credits in each stage.
Stage 1 [Level 4]
By the end of this stage, you will have acquired a broad knowledge base of
fundamental technical, practical and theoretical concepts and will be able to apply
them to your work in critical film and media analysis and digital film and media
production.
Module
Code
Module Title
Type
Credits
Level
Semester
EM-0152D
Higher Learning in Media
C
20
4
1
EM-0153D
Film - Style and Language
C
20
4
1
EM-0134D
Media Histories
C
20
4
1
EM-0157D
Institutions and Audiences
C
20
4
2
EM-0148D
Visual Literacy and
Communication
C
20
4
2
EM-0156D
Moving Image Production
C
20
4
2
Students who have achieved at least 120 credit points at Level 4 may exit the
programme and are eligible for the award of Certificate of Higher Education.
Stage 2 [Level 5]
By the end of this stage, you will be able to analyse and evaluate information on key
theoretical perspectives and film and media contexts and will be able to relate this
information to your own work, identifying opportunities for the development of your
own portfolio of industry facing work.
Module
Code
Module Title
Hons
Ord
Credits
Level
Semester
EM-0287D
Social Media
C
C
20
5
1
EM-0211D
Soundscapes
O
O
20
5
1
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EM-0278D
Hollywood and Society
C
O
20
5
1
EM-0281D
Factual Production
O
O
20
5
1
O
O
20
5
1
EM-0258D
Media Ethics, Compliance &
Sustainability
EM-0238D
International Media
C
C
20
5
2
EM-0273D
Media Archaeologies
C
O
20
5
2
O
O
20
5
2
EM-0279D
Representations of Race in Film
and TV
EM-0251D
British Film and Television Drama
O
O
20
5
2
Students who have achieved at least 120 credit points at Level 5 may exit the
programme and are eligible for the award of Diploma of Higher Education.
Stage 3 [Level 6]
By the end of this stage, you will be able to critically review, consolidate and extend
a considerable specialist knowledge in cultural, film and media theory and
demonstrate the successful application of this to your own research-based and self
directed projects.
Module
Code
Module Title
Hons
Ord
Credits
Level
Sem
EM0371D
Narrative in Culture
O
O
20
6
1
EM0369D
Creative Media Enterprise
O
O
20
6
1
EM0347D
Dissertation - Preparation
C
C
20
6
1
EM0353D
Experimental Filmmaking
C
C
20
6
1
EM0364Q
Dissertation – 8000 Word Write-up
C
C
40
6
2
EM0373D
Drama Production
O
20
5
2
EM0365D
Alternative Film and Media
O
20
6
2
The curriculum may change, subject to the University's programme approval,
monitoring and review procedures.
Study abroad and work placement opportunities
You have the option to undertake an industrial placement, or of studying or working
abroad for a year between stages 2 and 3; this option is strongly encouraged. The
School has an industrial training co-ordinator who has contacts with a large number
of outside organisations and who assists in helping you find a placement. The
university’s International Office provides a wide range of opportunities and support
for students to gain international experience. Both options provide the opportunity to
gain valuable experience, and are viewed favourably by prospective employers.
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Teaching and Assessment Strategies
You will experience a wide range of teaching and learning environments. Concepts,
principles and theories are generally explored in formal lectures, practised in
associated tutorials and seminars, and demonstrated in laboratory classes. Practical
skills are developed in laboratory, workshop, and studio sessions. Professional and
personal skills are developed through discussion and small-scale project work which
involves problem solving and design exercises, often tackled by working in small
groups supported by members of academic staff. Project work is used to bring
various aspects of your programme together.
A particular strength of this
programme is the contribution made to the teaching programme by successful
practising media professionals. Working with students and staff from other academic
programmes, you will have the opportunity to experience collaborative learning,
drawing on the extensive and up-to-date subject knowledge of research active staff.
Each 20-credit module on the programme requires you to commit 200 hours of
study. Some of these hours will be formally timetabled - lectures, laboratories,
seminars, tutorials and workshops – and others will involve you in carrying out
private study. The balance between these forms of study changes as you pass
through the three years of the programme. There are a lot of “contact hours” (time
spent with tutors) in the earlier stages of the programme; the final year is mostly
project based, and at this stage you will be expected to manage your own learning,
under the general guidance of your tutors.
Basic principles and concepts are addressed in the first year (Stage One) of your
studies. In the second year (Stage Two) a more analytical approach is taken, and in
the final year (Stage Three) you will have the opportunity to synthesise and critically
review the knowledge, understanding, and skills you have gained throughout the
programme.
Methods of assessment are similarly varied and your progress will be assessed
using a mix of formal examinations, presentations and seminar papers, reports,
laboratory tests, essays, coursework assignments, and projects. The appropriate
method is chosen so that you may demonstrate the particular learning outcomes of
each module.
Assessment Regulations
This Programme conforms to the standard University Regulations which are
available at the following link: http://www.bradford.ac.uk/aqpo/ordinances-andregulations/
Admission Requirements
The University welcomes applications from all potential students regardless of their
previous academic experience; offers are made following detailed consideration of
each individual application. Most important in the decision to offer a place is our
assessment of a candidate’s potential to benefit from their studies and of their ability
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to succeed on this particular programme. Consideration of your application will be
based on a combination of your formal academic qualifications and other relevant
experience.
If you have prior certificated learning or professional experience which may be
equivalent to parts of this programme, the University has procedures to evaluate this
learning in order to provide you with exemptions from specified modules contained
within the curriculum. Please talk to us if you do not fit the standard pattern of entry
qualifications. The University of Bradford has always welcomed applications from
disabled students, and these will be considered on the same academic grounds as
are applied to all applicants. If you have some form of disability you may wish to
contact the programme leader before you apply.
Entry requirements: Typical offer (UCAS tariff points): 280

To include 160 points from 2 GCE A levels or equivalent. No specific subject
requirements, although those involving media and English will be an
advantage. Or DMM in a relevant BTEC Diploma. International Baccalaureate
(see UCAS tariff point requirements).

GCSE English and Maths minimum grade C

Minimum IELTS at 6.0 or the equivalent
Students will be invited to attend an interview as part of the selection process.
A typical offer to someone seeking entry through the UCAS scheme would be 280
points. However, applications are welcome from mature students (those over 21
years of age on entry) and candidates with non-standard qualifications or who,
lacking academic qualifications, have significant relevant experience. On completion
of a UCAS form you will be invited to the School for an Applicant Visit Day when you
will have the opportunity to meet staff, view the facilities and discuss “the Bradford
experience” with current students.
Learning Resources
The JB Priestley Library on the city campus and our specialist libraries in the School
of Health and the School of Management provide a wide range of printed and
electronic resources to support your studies. We offer quiet study space if you want
to work on your own, and group study areas for the times when you need to discuss
work with fellow students. Subject librarians for each School provide training
sessions and individual guidance in finding the information you need for your
assignment, and will help you organise your references properly.
Student PC clusters can be found in all our libraries and elsewhere on the campus.
Many of these are open 24/7. You can also use the University's wireless network to
access the internet from your own laptop. Most of our online journals are available
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on the internet (both on and off campus), and you can also access your University
email account, personal information and programme-related materials this way.
Staff are on hand during the daytime to help you if you get stuck, and there is a 24/7
IT helpline available.
School of Media, Design and Technology is equipped with several computer suites
running Windows 7 or the latest Intel based Apple Macs. Software includes Creative
Suite 5, AVID and Final Cut Pro. Students have free access to the latest high
definition video cameras, shooting broadcast quality formats onto solid state media.
These are provided with a range of accessories including lighting, microphones,
audio recording equipment and tripods and professional grip equipment. A selection
of digital SLR cameras and accessories are available for photography work including
full frame (35mm) equipment. A wide range of tripods, filter kits, lenses, additional
batteries and memory are also available for these kits. Dedicated studio spaces are
available for audio recording, photography, video/chromakey and television
production,
including
a
unique
television
Outside
Broadcast
Unit.
http://ts.inf.brad.ac.uk/
The National Media Museum provides both a unique learning environment and a
large body of resources relating to media, photography, film and television, as well
as a huge and growing archive of rare artefacts, photographs, television
programmes and over 9000 books and other publicationsAs a student you will also
enjoy access to unique screenings and events, and to all of the festivals held at the
Museum. Our partnership with the BBC means our students get regular opportunities
to work on 'live' briefs and win BBC placements, enabling them to make valuable
contacts in the industry and develop an in depth understanding of how the
corporation works.
Student Support and Guidance
Programme Team
Support for you personally and in your programme of study, will be provided both by
the University and the Programme Team. You will be allocated a personal tutor who
is someone with whom you will be able to talk about any academic or personal
concerns. The School will ensure that there is someone available with whom you
feel comfortable to help and support you. You will be provided with a comprehensive
series of handbooks that you can consult on a range of learning issues and your
programme tutors will be available to consult on subject specific queries.
The Hub, Student Support Centre
The Hub, Student Support Centre provides a central reception where students can
receive information, advice and guidance on a whole range of topics about their life
at University. The Hub is located in the Richmond Building adjacent to the Atrium.
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The teams located within The Hub:

Accommodation
 Admissions
o Education Liaison
o Enquiries
 Student Administration and Support
o Bursaries and Financial Support
o Finance and Credit Control Group
o Payzone
o Records and Tuition Fees
 International Office
 Customer Service Team
www.brad.ac.uk/hub
+44 1274 232233
Students’ Union
We value the feedback provided by students and collaborate with the Students’
Union, through a system of programme representatives and formal staff student
liaison committees, so that any issues you wish to raise are addressed rapidly.
The Students’ Union and the University of Bradford work in partnership to provide
confidential counselling and welfare services where you can get help with any aspect
of your personal or academic life. Student Financial and Information Services
(based in the Hub) will provide you with information about a diverse range of issues
such as council tax, personal safety and tourist information. International Students
can access a range of additional advice and support services through the Student’s
Union.
Employability and Career Development
The University is committed to helping students develop and enhance their
employability profile and capabilities through learning opportunities embedded within
the curriculum.
Furthermore, the University is committed to supporting students to develop their
commitment towards a career pathway(s) and to implementing a career plan.
Professional career guidance and development support is available throughout your
time as a student and as a graduate from Career Development Services. The
support available from Career Development Services includes a wide range of
information resources, one to one appointments, a weekly workshop programme, a
mentoring programme, graduate recruitment and careers fairs, plus information and
help to you find part time work, summer work placements, graduate internship
programmes and graduate entry vacancies. In addition, some students as part of
their programme of study may have the opportunity to complete a Career & Personal
Development accredited module delivered by the Career Development Service.
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All students are encouraged to access Career Development Services at an early
stage during their studies and to use the extensive resources available on their web
site www.careers.brad.ac.uk.
Career Development Services annually undertakes a survey of all graduates to find
out their destination six months after graduation. The survey gathers data on the
employment and further study routes graduates have entered and a range of other
information including job roles, name and location of employers, salary details etc.
The survey findings for each programme of study are presented on the programme
information pages on the University website and via Career Development Services’
website www.careers.brad.ac.uk
Students are encouraged and supported to engage with work based learning either
in a one year placement (normally between stages two and three) or in short term or
part time work experience. This enables students to engage with an appropriate
industry-environment prior to graduation. Undergraduates are also encouraged to
use the School Alumni website (http://graduates.scim.brad.ac.uk/) to facilitate this
process, and to find opportunities to become involved in project work outside of the
University environment, as well as to find paid employment. Students also have
access to the School Digital Media Academy which supports students who wish to
start their own companies.
Through our partnership with the BBC students have opportunities to engage with
practicing media professionals and make contacts within the industry.
Learner Development Unit for Academic Skills Advice
For undergraduate students who are looking to improve their marks during their time
at university, study skills and maths advice is available to all regardless of degree
discipline or level of study. Students can access a programme of interactive
workshops and clinics which is delivered throughout the year. This is in addition to
our extremely popular face-to-face guidance from our advisers, who also offer a wide
range of online and paper based materials for self-study.
http://www.bradford.ac.uk/academic-skills/index.php
Disability
Disabled students will find a supportive environment at Bradford where we are
committed to ensuring that all aspects of student life are accessible to
everyone. The Disability Service can help by providing equipment and advice to
help you get the most out of your time at Bradford and is a place where you can
discuss any concerns you may have about adjustments that you may need, whether
these relate to study, personal care or other issues. For more information contact
the Disability Service by phoning: 01274 233739 or via email:
disabilities@bradford.ac.uk
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University policies and initiatives
Learning and Teaching
Our University approach to learning, teaching and assessment is encapsulated by an
integrated set of themes and principles within our Curriculum Framework. All of our
degree programmes have been designed to provide you with an inclusive and
engaging learning environment which gives you the opportunity to thrive and develop
in your area of study. Our research-informed programmes have a particular focus on
developing your employability. We also place a strong emphasis on collaborative,
real-world and enquiry-based learning, supported by appropriate learning
technologies. Our assessment is designed not just to measure your achievement,
but also to shape and guide your learning through preparing you for the increasing
level of challenge as you progress through your degree. Together, these lead to you
developing a distinctive set of graduate attributes which will prepare you for life
beyond university.
Ecoversity:
Ecoversity is a strategic project of the University which aims to embed the principles
of sustainable development into our decision-making, learning and teaching,
research activities campus operations and lives of our staff and students. We do not
claim to be a beacon for sustainable development but we aspire to become a leading
University in this area. The facilities we create for teaching and learning, including
teaching spaces, laboratories, IT labs and social spaces, will increasingly reflect our
commitments to sustainable development. Staff and student participation in this
initiative is crucial to its success and its inclusion in the programme specification is a
clear signal that it is at the forefront of our thinking in programme development,
delivery, monitoring and review. For more details see www.bradford.ac.uk/ecoversity
Further Information:
For further information, please check the University prospectus or contact
Admissions.
The Admissions Office
The University of Bradford
Richmond Road
Bradford, BD7 1DP
UK
+44 (0)1274 233054
http://www.brad.ac.uk/courses/
The Admissions Office
Faculty of Engineering and Informatics
The University of Bradford
Horton Building
Richmond Road, Bradford, BD7 1D, UK
+44 (0)1274 235963
ugadmissions@scim.brad.ac.uk
http://www.bradford.ac.uk/ei/media-designtechnology/
The contents of this programme specification may change, subject to the University's
regulations and course approval, monitoring and review procedures.
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