About Communication Studies, BA - at Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University (XJTLU)

The BA Communication Studies programme will provide you with an understanding of the theories and practices of communication, including digital media technology, and the market mechanisms of the various media industries, equipping you with an international outlook and a sound understanding of the quickly changing media world. By studying this programme, you will:

• Develop an understanding of the interdisciplinary perspectives that enable effective analysis of communications and the media
• Gain a thorough working knowledge of the operation of communication systems
• Develop an understanding of journalism and practical journalistic skills
• Develop a comprehensive awareness of a range of techniques and approaches to communication and media
• Promote a critical awareness of cultural and transcultural aspects of communications and the media, as well the contrasting Western and Chinese perspectives in the global media, including screen media and journalism
• Gain practical experience in media production and an understanding of how the media function
• Comprehend and apply digital media and understand how they are revolutionising the world we inhabit.

Why should I study Communication Studies at XJTLU?

You will graduate with a critical and theoretical knowledge of the contexts of communication studies in combination with developing practical skills in digital media production. You will have access to:

• Language classes to improve your international employability
• A digital media laboratory, featuring Apple iMac computers, Final Cut Pro X editing software and the Adobe suite of professional digital media production software
• Sony high-definition digital video production kits for short film-making, digital media and documentary production
• Cutting-edge film and TV studios to propel your media work to the next level
• BA Communication Studies graduates, as with all XJTLU undergraduate programmes, will earn two degrees: An XJTLU degree from the Chinese Ministry of Education and a globally recognised degree from the University of Liverpool, a member of the Russell Group of leading UK universities.

Knowledge and skills

Upon completion of the programme you will understand the principal concepts of communication theory, and how these can be used to understand:

• The way communication works across a range of media
• The portrayal of China in western media from both historical and contemporary perspectives
• News values, ethics, journalistic professional practice, and the various constraints on the news production process
• The differences and similarities in the attitudes and values that permeate different media in China and English-speaking countries
• The function and use of linguistic, rhetorical and persuasive devices in various forms of public communication, especially advertising, in a range of different media.

Modules

• Year One

  UK degrees are three years long whereas in China they are four, therefore we do accept students with certain qualifications directly into Year Two, which is the start of the main academic programme. Most students, however, enter into Year One, which provides you with a range of interesting modules, language classes and core skills for your degree.

• Year Two

  Compulsory modules:

  • Analysing communication
  • Media management
  • Journalism: theory and practice
  • Communication in China
  • Media ethics.

  Elective modules:

  • Screen-writing for film and TV
  • Perspectives on visual media
  • Investigative journalism
  • Introduction to linguistics
  • Close reading.

• Year Three

  Compulsory modules:

  • Media theory
  • Adaptation across the media
  • Digital media and video production
  • Global media and entertainment
  • Global journalism
  • China and the digital revolution

  Elective modules;

  • Chinese cinema
  • Translation
  • Literature of the enlightenment
  • Postcolonial literature
  • Interpreting
  • Jane Austen

• Year Four

  Compulsory modules:

  • Final year project
  • Theoretical debates in film studies
  • Documentary
  • Portrayal of China in Western media
  • Intercultural communication

  Elective modules:

  • Technoculture
  • European cinema
  • Animation
  • British romanticism
  • Modern poetry
  • The Gothic
  • Postmodern literature

Careers

BA Communication Studies graduates may pursue a professional career within the media in print and online, or in national and international broadcast organisations. They may also go into public relations, advertising, and other areas where communication skills are crucial.

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Entry requirements for this course

Contact Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University (XJTLU) to find course entry requirements.

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View all courses at Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University (XJTLU)

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Related information

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