MA in Media and International Conflict University College Dublin

On this programme, students will develop an understanding of how media interacts with war, conflict and security in international contexts. The course provides an interdisciplinary approach that considers both cultural and political dimensions of media responses to international conflict. Students will focus on issues such as: public diplomacy and soft power, the role of new media in perceptions of conflict, the production, circulation and reception of imagery of conflict, and the effects of news reporting on government policy and NGO activity.

• The programme analyses the complex roles played by the media in the presentation of conflict situations and addresses the relationships of the media, government, military, and NGOs in framing perceptions of international conflict.
• This is the only graduate programme in Ireland and one of very few in the world that blends together elements of media studies and international affairs to provide an innovative and challenging course of study
• Students can expect to take modules similar to: Media and US Foreign Policy, New Media and New Conflict, Public Diplomacy, Challenges facing US Foreign Policy. In addition student will submit a thesis 12,000 - 15,000 words.
• The programme is available on a full and part time basis.

Careers & Employability

Our graduates progress to a wide range of interesting careers.

Many of our alumni work in international communication, foreign affairs and Dublin's vibrant tech sector, where a background in the global humanities is particularly valued. Others graduates work in senior positions across a diverse range of industries including the media, Think Tanks, NGOs and advocacy work, whilst some continue on to PhD research.

Recent employers include Microsoft, LinkedIn, Kantar Media, Google, RTÉ, The Washington Marketing Group, Celtrino and the Institute for International & European Affairs. The programme will interest those seeking a career in international communications, professionals seeking more critical understanding of the international dimensions of their industry, and those wishing to prepare for advanced research in this area.

Programme Outcomes

• Students should be able to communicate in interdisciplinary, academic language about the cultural and political dimensions of media responses to international conflicts, with special emphasis on contemporary events.
• apply knowledge in a variety of professional settings or in the form of further study, including at the doctoral level.
• develop a sophisticated understanding of the ways in which media interact with war, conflict and security in international contexts.
• display an understanding of interdisciplinary modes of study.
• demonstrate an ability to communicate in writing and in public speaking with a variety of specialist and non-specialist audiences.
• learn skills that will enable them independently to accumulate further knowledge in this or other subjects.
• develop significant expertise in a chosen subject by writing a MA thesis of approximately 12,000 words with an individual supervision from an academic member of staff.
• Develop a sophisticated understanding of how media interacts with war, conflict and security in international contexts.
• Develop skills that will strenghtn students ability to independently accumulate further knowledge in this or other subjects.