Journalism, Media and Communication and Social Policy

Journalism, media and communication is a discipline that examines how information is gathered, produced and distributed in a world where the relationship between media organisations, audiences and democratic life is both more complex and more consequential than it has ever been. It combines critical understanding of how the media industry works with the technical and professional skills in journalism, communication and information design that working in that industry requires. When combined with social policy, you add a rigorous analytical framework for understanding how public policies are made, how they affect people's lives, and how media coverage shapes public understanding of social issues.

At the University of Strathclyde, this four-year programme offers both dimensions in a city with a vibrant media market.

You will develop a critical understanding of the media industry and its relationship to democracy, politics and society, alongside practical skills in journalism, communication and the digital tools that modern media work requires. The social policy component develops your understanding of welfare systems, housing, health, education and social inequality, giving you the substantive knowledge to cover social issues with depth and accuracy. The programme is taught in Glasgow, giving you access to a dynamic professional media environment and the opportunity to apply your learning in real contexts.

A second subject can be taken alongside the core programme, enhancing your expertise further.

Graduates move into careers across the media industry, including journalism in print, broadcast and digital formats, public relations, corporate communications, content creation and social media management. The social policy dimension makes graduates particularly well suited to roles in public interest journalism, policy communications, advocacy and the third sector. Many graduates work in government communications, campaign organisations and research bodies where an understanding of both media and policy is directly relevant.

Postgraduate study in journalism, media studies, social policy or public affairs is a natural further step.