Linguistics and Media

Linguistics and media is a combination that illuminates how language and communication work in the world, from the structures of grammar and meaning to the ways in which media institutions and platforms shape what we read, watch and hear. Linguistics is the scientific study of language, encompassing phonetics, phonology, syntax, semantics, pragmatics and sociolinguistics. Media studies examines how media organisations function, how content is produced and distributed, and how audiences engage with and are influenced by media messages.

Together they give you a rigorous and critically informed perspective on the communication landscape in which we all live.

Nottingham Trent University's three-year full-time programme includes a sandwich year with embedded work placement opportunities, giving you professional experience in a media, communications or related organisation alongside your academic studies. NTU has a strong track record of connecting students with industry through its professional programmes. The typical entry tariff for this programme is around 120 UCAS points.

You will study the core areas of linguistics, developing your ability to analyse language systematically and to understand how language varies across social groups, contexts and cultures. The media component will cover media industries and institutions, the sociology of media, digital media and social platforms, journalism, advertising and content production. You will also explore areas where the two disciplines connect most directly, such as media language, political discourse, advertising rhetoric and the representation of social groups in media texts.

Graduates of linguistics and media programmes work in journalism, digital content, social media management, advertising, public relations, broadcasting, publishing and communications. The linguistic component of the degree adds analytical depth that distinguishes graduates who have studied language formally from those with only practical media skills. Many graduates also work in education, language therapy, research and information management.

The placement year at NTU typically provides a direct route into professional networks in the relevant sectors. Postgraduate study in linguistics, media studies, journalism, communications or speech therapy is available for those who wish to develop a specialism.