Course description
Course overview
This degree combines media and IT engineering with social science. We cover the internet and broadcasting in detail. We aim for our graduates to be first class communicators as well as being able to implement new technical solutions to media challenges. The degree equips graduates to enter career paths such as: IT consultancy, broadcasting, programming, teaching, administration and management.
Course content
Year 1 and Year 2
The fundamental principles of engineering, communication and media that underpin the profession of media communication systems are studied in the first two years. This provides the background and tools for more in-depth study or specialisation in the final year. The first two years of the course include modules fundamental to all branches of the profession. These modules which are shared by the School of Engineering and Mathematical Sciences and the School of Social
Sciences will cover topics such as:
• Media science
• Web and media technology
• Media skills
• Introduction to media studies
• Sociology for media engineers
• Computer networks and graphics
• New media challenges
• News & society
In addition to this, media communication systems professionals require managerial skills, the ability to communicate effectively, a good measure of human understanding and an awareness of the economic, environmental and social implications of their activity. Our modules are designed to provide excellent training in all these areas.
Final year
In the final year you have the opportunity to take an increasing number of advanced specialist modules in the field of media communication systems such as:
• Web server technology
• The information society
• World media industry
• Object-orientated programming
• Internet engineering
A popular feature of the BEng course is the individual project which runs throughout the third year. This may be a detailed design study, an experimental and/or theoretical investigation, or a critical review of some topic related to media communication systems. Such projects will give you the opportunity to expand your knowledge and understanding in the area theoretically and practically. Also, this will be an excellent opportunity to participate and work in a team environment which is a usual characteristic of the real professional world. You will have the chance to interact with members from both schools (Engineering and Mathematical Sciences and Social Sciences), working alongside experienced researchers on highly relevant and exciting projects.
Teaching and assessment
Teaching
The course is interdisciplinary and is taught by staff from the School of Engineering and Mathematical Sciences, and the School of Social Sciences. The course structure is designed to accommodate the differing backgrounds of the students and is in a modular format. The course is taught in formal lectures, seminars and tutorials, supplemented by coursework (experimental (laboratory based) or theoretical).
Assessment
The final degree classification is based on marks obtained in the second and final academic years. The final academic year contributes twice as much as the second year to the total. Coursework and engineering applications account for approximately 30 per cent of the total.
Professional placement and study abroad
Placement year (optional)
All students enrolled on the BEng course are strongly encouraged to undertake a one year industrial training placement immediately prior to the final year of academic study. You will be paid a salary while on your placement and as this forms an integral part of the course overseas students are eligible for placements. Another option between your second and final year is to spend a year studying in North America or elsewhere in Europe.
