Course Overview
Course summary
Are you ready to lead the next wave of transformation in the ever-evolving world of media? At Westminster, we don’t just prepare you to succeed in today's media industries but also equip you with the tools to contribute to their evolution in the future. The Media Management MA is for aspiring individuals who wish to embrace a digital media career, building businesses and forging strategies that will shape the next media ecosystem.
The Media Management MA has been nurturing and developing media professionals for twenty years. Our academics have not just witnessed the sweeping changes that have disrupted the media ecosystem; they have been active participants in the process, with decades of experience as managers, audience analysts and policy researchers. Our aim is to teach commercial and strategic skills supporting creativity. As a result, Westminster alumni can be found in established and emerging media in every corner of the globe.
Through applied projects, optional work experience and learning from knowledgeable industry researchers, you’ll have the opportunity to work alongside organisations that will challenge and energise your skill sets and media perspective. We will prepare you to make a tangible impact while learning and you’ll engage with real issues – whether it’s to develop an AI strategy, construct a social media campaign or build the institutions and ecosystems needed to support marginalised voices and advance sustainability.
If you have an entrepreneurial vision, we’ll help you bring it to life with guidance and mentorship from seasoned practitioners and investors from the media and tech space. Our focus on core business skills enables you to manage and plan complex media projects, positioning you to change the world through content, strategy or policy. In partnership with the Westminster Enterprise Network, you’ll have access to a powerful culture of start-up incubation, with practical business support and opportunities to pitch for seed funding, transforming your ideas into impactful ventures.
Top reasons to study with us
- Career pathways for changemakers: from global companies to grassroots media and academic research, our programme provides a bridge into roles where you can enact systemic change.
- Media leadership and strategy for a complex future: we support your ability to use evidence, foresight and empathy to lead strategically and successfully. Your learning will focus on innovation, diversity, transparency, accountability, and change.
- Learn to critically evaluate: develop cutting-edge analytic skills that enable you to understand power dynamics in media. Join internationally recognised academics in CAMRI (Communication and Media Research Institute), a leading centre in the study of media and communication.
- Global perspectives: you will develop the skills to navigate and appreciate diverse media landscapes across regions and cultures.
- Commercial awareness with integrity: grasp the economics of media and content creation, while learning how to balance purpose with profit. Build the financial literacy designed to support successful enterprises and ventures that prioritise human impact.
Course structure
The following modules are indicative of what you'll study on this course.
Core modules
This module is for those new to content production in English and those new to producing professional content and will enable you to develop new creative proposals and the associated production bible. The module will help you to hone your skills in pitching your ideas to commissioners and other potential investors.
This module provides an overview of the course and the strategic and operational disciplines required for modern media executives. It also introduces you to a number of conceptual tools that you will use throughout the course. The module analyses key drivers for change within media industries and the context for managerial decision-making. You will also acquire important skills in report-writing and professional presentation techniques.
How do media markets function and how can we measure their size and pace of development? This module will introduce you to the economics of the media and content industries, including broadcasting, print, film, recorded music and interactive products and services. You will examine the revenue and cost structures of these industries, and the economics of the key processes of production, distribution and consumption. The module provides tools enabling decision-making based on market data.
Media innovation and entrepreneurialism is concerned with the processes and practices by which companies and entrepreneurs finance and develop new products and businesses, and take them to the market. This module examines the structured processes by which organisations can foster innovation. It also requires you to apply these principles in the envisioning of a new media product and in the development of a business plan. Entrepreneurialism and the application of creativity in business development is valued by media firms and contributes to student employability.
Option modules
This module will develop your theoretical understanding and practical leadership skills specific to media organisations. You will assess your own leadership skills and identify areas you wish to develop as part of your personal career plan (PDP). You will also write a report outlining how you observed leadership skills on a project or within an organisation, the results achieved, and the implications for your own practice.
The module addresses the fundamental challenges involved in organising and managing the operation of media companies. It examines the degree to which it is possible to apply conventional management techniques for achieving efficiency and quality in the creative and editorial processes of media organisations. In particular the module focuses on how digitisation and convergence are changing the methods of managing those processes.
This module offers a theoretical framework for understanding how, in a global context, media organisations operating in each of the key media verticals are changing their strategies and operations in response to disruptive environmental challenges – particularly technological ones. The module also provides you with a critical approach to the application of foresight tools and practical skills, in order to help you explore the future for yourself in an evidence-based and realistic fashion.
This module focuses on strategic planning and research skills and the tools required to inform effective advertising. Students will study a range of planning and research processes and tools including account planning, market research, insight identification, media planning, connection planning and trend forecasting, in addition to working with a client brand in order to structure a business problem into a creative proposition to reach an audience more effectively. The module will be assessed through the production of a research phase and subsequent strategic and creative plans, with supporting rationale.
Professional project
The major project is an optional culminating project that allows you to undertake a substantial, practically-oriented final assignment. You will have the opportunity of testing your ability to apply theory, research, and synthesis skills in the analysis and solving of a specific industry problem or in the securing of an identified opportunity and to reflect critically on its execution. Tutors will work with you to scope the project and formulate the proposal.
Dissertation
The course culminates with a major research-based project. You will take a research and methods course designed to introduce you to the key tools for collecting and analysing evidence. Group work in Semester One orients you towards identifying and refining your individual research topic, which must be specific to the Media Management MA. Topics must be related to the strategic and commercial challenges faced by media businesses. You will be encouraged to focus your research upon the challenges and opportunities confronting a specific media firm or group of media organisations.
For more details on course structure, modules, teaching and assessment Download the programme specification (PDF).
To request an accessible version please email [email protected]
Get your copy of the University of Westminster prospectus and browse the range of courses on offer.
Contact us for general course enquiries:
+44 (0)20 7911 5000 EXT 65511
(Mon–Fri, 10am–4pm GMT)
Live chat with us
(Mon–Fri, 10am–4pm GMT)
Open evenings
Join us at an open evening online or on campus. Get a feel for student life at the University of Westminster and talk to course leaders and our support teams.
Can't attend? See more open events
Careers
The media and creative industries have become key drivers of economic growth and job creation. The new jobs in these industries require graduates who are creative and entrepreneurial, who possess the creativity to generate new creative content, products, and services, and the entrepreneurial skills to turn them into successful, sustainable businesses.
The Media Management MA aims to develop students to fill these new roles by enhancing their business instincts and commercial skills. It also provides them with a critical understanding of industry production practices, enabling them to work in global media and creative businesses of any size.
The University’s Careers and Employability Service has built up a network of over 3,000 employers around the world, helping all our students explore and connect with exciting opportunities and careers.
Develop in-demand skills
This course will equip you with the skills required to prosper in a rapidly evolving industry, which increasingly requires professionals who can deal with the challenges presented by new technologies, consumer behaviour, and evolving business models.
Industry engagement
You’ll learn from industry speakers and have the opportunity to attend a range of talks, masterclasses and workshops by media practitioners and researchers, across the University and at industry events in London.
Employers around the world
The University’s Careers and Employability Service has built up a network of over 3,000 employers around the world, helping all our students explore and connect with exciting opportunities and careers.
Job roles
This course will prepare you for a variety of roles in a range of present and future industries, including:
- Social Media Manager
- Media Production Co-Ordinator
- Podcast Producer
- Creative Manager
- Creative Editorial Content Creator
- Website Management
- Media Entrepreneur
- Communications Executive
- Media Strategist
- Development Executive
Industry Links
- BFI
- Cinegirl
- Liberty Communications
- ZigZag Productions
- Alibaba
- BBC World Service
- Bertelsmann
- Goldcrest Films
- Hunan TV
- Mediacom
Westminster Employability Award
Employers value graduates who have invested in their personal and professional development – and our Westminster Employability Award gives you the chance to formally document and demonstrate these activities and achievements.
The award is flexible and can be completed in your own time, allowing you to choose from a set of extracurricular activities.
Activities might include gaining experience through a part-time job or placement, signing up to a University-run scheme – such as mentoring or teaching in a school – or completing online exercises.
Read more about our Westminster Employability Award.
Course Leader
Nino Cirone
Lecturer
Nino Cirone has over 30 years’ experience in media. He began his career testing pilot programmes for the BBC, ITV, Sky and Channel Four, before moving on to researching presenters, new technologies, new channels, and helping develop new shows. At Fremantle Media he was charged with looking for new trends; finding what viewers might want in the future and briefing producers on ways to achieve these new programmes. Areas of expertise include media industry strategy; new media technologies; the television industry; the film industry; television and app format design; international media organisations; digital product design and development.
"Our graduates lead with confidence and vision. We’re excited to welcome passionate changemakers like you."
Course Team
Why study this course?
Leading provider
We're ranked top 10 among UK institutions for Communication and Media Studies in the QS World University Rankings 2021, and also ranked 4th in the UK in the Complete University Guide 2022 for Research Quality in Communication and Media Studies.
Learn from experts
You’ll be taught by academic staff with extensive experience of advising and managing media organisations.
Easy access to central London
Based just a 20-minute tube ride away from the heart of the city, you’ll be perfectly placed to access networking opportunities in London’s media industries.
Entry Requirements
A minimum of an upper second class honours degree (2:1) or a lower second class honours degree (2:2) in a relevant discipline.
Applicants may be required to submit a short written assignment. Applicants may also be asked to take part in a Skype interview.
If your first language is not English, you should have an IELTS 6.5 overall, with at least 5.5 in each element.
Applicants are required to submit one academic reference.
Recognition of prior learning and experience
If you have previously studied at university level, or have equivalent work experience, academic credit may be awarded towards your course at Westminster. For more information, visit our Recognition of Prior Learning page.
Application process
Visit our How to apply page for more information on:
- the application process
- what you need to apply
- deadlines for applications
A minimum of an upper second class honours degree (2:1) or a lower second class honours degree (2:2) in a relevant discipline.
Applicants may be required to submit a short written assignment. Applicants may also be asked to take part in a Skype interview.
If your first language is not English, you should have an IELTS 6.5 overall, with at least 5.5 in each element.
Applicants are required to submit one academic reference.
Recognition of prior learning and experience
If you have previously studied at university level, or have equivalent work experience, academic credit may be awarded towards your course at Westminster. For more information, visit our Recognition of Prior Learning page.
Application process
Visit our How to apply page for more information on:
- the application process
- what you need to apply
- deadlines for applications
More information
University preparation courses
Our partner college, Kaplan International College London, offers Pre-Master’s courses that may help you gain a place on a postgraduate degree at Westminster.
To find out more, visit University preparation courses.
What our students say
Zhenzhen Liang
Media Management MA - 2014
Director of International Affairs | China Film Producers' Association
I think the strategic management skills, the marketing skills, and the research skills I learned at Westminster are the most valuable parts.
Learn new skills
Volunteer and gain new skills
We offer a number of different volunteering opportunities for you to learn new skills, create connections, and make a difference in the community.
Develop your entrepreneurial skills
Our award-winning Westminster Enterprise Network offers industry networking events, workshops, one-to-one business advice and support for your start-up projects.
Get extra qualifications
We provide access to free online courses in Adobe and Microsoft Office applications, as well as thousands of specialist courses on LinkedIn Learning.
Fees and Funding
UK tuition fee: £9,700 (Price per academic year)
When you have enrolled with us, your annual tuition fees will remain the same throughout your studies with us. We do not increase your tuition fees each year.
Find out how we set our tuition fees.
Paying your fees
If you don't wish to pay the whole amount of your fees at once, you may be able to pay by instalments. This opportunity is available if you have a personal tuition fee liability of £2,000 or more and if you are self-funded or funded by the Student Loans Company.
Find out more about paying your fees.
Alumni discount
This course is eligible for an alumni discount. Find out if you are eligible and how to apply by visiting our Alumni discounts page.
Funding
There is a range of funding available that may help you fund your studies, including Student Finance England (SFE).
Find out more about postgraduate student funding options.
Scholarships
The University is dedicated to supporting ambitious and outstanding students and we offer a variety of scholarships to eligible postgraduate students.
Find out if you qualify for one of our scholarships.
Additional costs
See what you may need to pay for separately and what you tuition fees cover.
International tuition fee: £17,500 (Price per academic year)
When you have enrolled with us, your annual tuition fees will remain the same throughout your studies with us. We do not increase your tuition fees each year.
Find out how we set our tuition fees.
Paying your fees
If you don't wish to pay the whole amount of your fees at once, you may be able to pay by instalments. This opportunity is available if you have a personal tuition fee liability of £2,000 or more and if you are self-funded or funded by the Student Loans Company.
Find out more about paying your fees.
Alumni discount
This course is eligible for an alumni discount. Find out if you are eligible and how to apply by visiting our Alumni discounts page.
Funding
There are a number of funding schemes available to help you fund your studies with us.
Find out more about funding for international students.
Scholarships
The University is dedicated to supporting ambitious and outstanding students and we offer a variety of scholarships to eligible postgraduate students.
Find out if you qualify for one of our scholarships.
Additional costs
See what you may need to pay for separately and what you tuition fees cover.
Teaching and Assessment
Below you will find how learning time and assessment types are distributed on this course. The graphs below give an indication of what you can expect through approximate percentages, taken either from the experience of previous cohorts, or based on the standard module diet where historic course data is unavailable. Changes to the division of learning time and assessment may be made in response to feedback and in accordance with our terms and conditions.
How you’ll be taught
Teaching methods across all our postgraduate courses focus on active student learning through lectures, seminars, workshops, problem-based and blended learning, and where appropriate practical application. Learning typically falls into two broad categories:
- Scheduled hours: examples include lectures, seminars, practical classes, workshops, supervised time in a studio
- Independent study: non-scheduled time in which students are expected to study independently. This may include preparation for scheduled sessions, dissertation/final project research, follow-up work, wider reading or practice, completion of assessment tasks, or revision
How you’ll be assessed
Our postgraduate courses include a variety of assessments, which typically fall into two broad categories:
- Practical: examples include presentations, podcasts, blogs
- Coursework: examples include essays, in-class tests, portfolios, dissertation
Data from the academic year 2024/25
Research groups
Our research achieves real-world impact and we are proud to claim a rich and diverse profile of high-quality research and knowledge exchange in a wide range of disciplines.
Find out more about our research groups related to this course:
Supporting you
Our Student Hub is where you’ll find out about the services and support we offer, helping you get the best out of your time with us.
- Study support — workshops, 1-2-1 support and online resources to help improve your academic and research skills
- Personal tutors — support you in fulfilling your academic and personal potential
- Student advice team — provide specialist advice on a range of issues including funding, benefits and visas
- Extra-curricular activities — volunteering opportunities, sports and fitness activities, student events and more
Course location
Harrow is our creative and cultural hub, home to most of our arts, media and digital courses. It houses state-of-the-art facilities for every discipline, including project and gallery spaces, film studios, creative labs, collaborative learning spaces, and the Westminster Enterprise Network.
Harrow Campus is based in north-west London, just 20 minutes from the city centre by train.
For more details, visit our Harrow Campus page.
Contact us
Call our dedicated team on:
+44 (0)20 7911 5000 ext 65511
Opening hours (GMT): 10am–4pm Monday to Friday
Opening hours (GMT): 10am–4pm Monday to Friday
More information
Your Westminster
Book an open day. Order a prospectus. Sign up for newsletters.