In today's globally connected world, where disseminating information through various media is of utmost importance to know what is going on, a media studies career has emerged as a preferred option among professionals.
Media studies is an interdisciplinary field that examines the creation, production, distribution, and consumption of media content, including but not limited to television, film, radio, journalism, digital media, advertising, and social media. Key areas covered on broad media degrees include:
- Media Theory and Criticism
- Media Production
- Media and Society
- Media Ethics
- Film, TV Studies
- Radio Production
Potential job roles include media researcher, content producer, journalist, editor, public relations specialist, advertising executive, social media manager, or media analyst.
Learn more about the best media courses in Ireland below (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2023: Media) and begin your Ireland study application by arranging a free consultation with SI-Ireland today.
Top Universities for Media Studies in Ireland
1. Dublin City University
The School of Communications at Dublin City University has offered excellent media studies courses in Ireland for over 40 years. Today, it is the top-ranked Communication and Media Studies school in Ireland as per the QS World University Rankings by Subject in 2023. Students can pursue courses in various media disciplines, including journalism, film studies, public relations, and media production at undergraduate, postgraduate and PhD levels. The curriculum is generally designed to offer a well-rounded education by incorporating theory with practical experiences through internships, media projects and collaborative work with industry partners.
- Suggested Course: MSc in Emerging Media
- Entry Requirements: Applicants should have an undergraduate honours degree (H2.2 or above) with English language proficiency scores.
- International Fees: €16,500
- QS World Ranking for Media: 101-150
- Faculties: School of Communications
- Campus: Dublin
2. University College Dublin
UCD is the biggest Irish university for students enrolled in various courses. Through the UCD School of Information and Communication Studies, the university offers specialised courses catering to students interested in media subjects. It is a part of the iSchool consortium and is among the top-ranking communication schools in the country. The study options and research opportunities at UCD concern understanding the relationship between people, information and technology. This is achieved by offering undergraduate and postgraduate courses in information and communication studies, media and communications, information systems, and digital policy. The school also engages in interdisciplinary research, allowing students to engage in projects that increase their understanding of people, society and information in technological and communication contexts.
- Suggested Course: MSc Communication and Media
- Entry Requirements: Applicants must hold an upper second-class honours undergraduate degree from a reputed institution and English language proficiency test scores.
- International Fees: €22,600
- QS World Ranking for Media: 151-200
- Faculties: UCD School of Information and Communication Studies
- Campus: Dublin
Other Ireland Universities for Media Studies
- Trinity College Dublin
Trinity College Dublin is one of the most popular Irish universities that offer media courses in various fields at different levels of specialisation. Instead of having one dedicated faculty to provide the media courses, TCD boasts of having various faculties offering courses in acting, drama, music, and digital media, among others. These programmes are available as diplomas and degrees at the undergraduate and postgraduate levels. Most courses have a comprehensive curriculum that gives students a solid foundation in media theory, critical analysis, and practical skills needed to excel in the ever-evolving media field. Students at TCD get access to technologically advanced facilities to support their studies, including media labs, film and television studios, editing suites, and equipment for digital media production.
- Suggested Course: MSc in Interactive Digital Media
- Entry Requirements: Applicants must have a 2.1 grade or higher in an undergraduate degree with English language proficiency.
- International Fees: €14,450
- Faculties: Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences
- Campus: Dublin
- University of Galway
Being a top Irish educational institution, the University of Galway provides specialised programmes through the Huston School of Film and Digital Media. Students can choose from undergraduate and postgraduate programmes in the creative fields. The school’s taught and research programmes are built upon the strong links between the academic community and the overall creative community of Galway, which is the home of the Irish Film Board. These connections allow students to collaborate with industry professionals during their study years. Graduates from the school have successfully occupied diverse roles in the media industry as film festival programmers, scriptwriters, game designers, producers and directors.
- Suggested Course: Bachelor of Arts (Film & Digital Media)
- Entry Requirements: High school diploma equivalent to Irish Leaving Certificate with minimum grade H5 in two subjects and passes in others. English language proficiency is also required.
- International Fees: €20,140
- Faculties: Huston School of Film and Digital Media
- Campus: Galway
- Maynooth University
Maynooth media studies are offered through the Department of Media Studies at Maynooth University. Students pursuing courses at the university get the option to take up undergraduate, postgraduate or PhD programmes. Each study option enables students to engage in creative production and critically appraise the media’s role in society. The curriculum has been designed to allow them to get expert theoretical knowledge and practical skills to understand the changing industry dynamics. The department works with industry partner Kairos Communal Ltd, allowing students to explore various media practices from experienced professionals. The university also engages in research projects wherein faculty and students dive deeper into subjects such as cultural policy, digital media policy, political economy of media and cinema history.
- Suggested Course: BA Media Studies
- Entry Requirements: Applicants must have a high school diploma equivalent to the Irish Leaving Certificate, and international students need English language proficiency test scores.
- International fees: €16,500
- Faculties: Department of Media Studies
- Campus: Maynooth
Study Media in Ireland
Are you interested in pursuing media courses in Ireland? If so, consider booking a free consultation with SI-Ireland today to learn more about the admission requirements and scholarships and start your application process.
FAQ
What skills does a media degree give you?
Media studies equip students with various skill sets essential for excelling in the field, such as strong analytical skills, research skills, practical communication skills in written and oral forms, creativity, adaptability and technical proficiency.
What is the scope of doing media studies in Ireland?
By pursuing media studies in Ireland, students have the scope to enter the vibrant world of communication and media. With a thriving media industry encompassing journalism, digital media, broadcasting, and cultural analysis, media studies graduates can find opportunities in diverse fields in Ireland.
Do Irish universities provide internships or exposure after graduation or during the course?
Yes, Irish universities generally offer internships, work placements, and practical projects in the media field during their graduation programmes.
What scholarships are available in Ireland for Media Studies?
Media scholarships for international students in Ireland include the Government of Ireland International Education Scholarships, which students can avail to pursue media courses. Additionally, universities in Ireland may also have their scholarship programs for media-related disciplines.
