Foundation College

Introduction to the Media

Key information

Duration
3 weeks
Start of programme
Summer 2024
Attendance mode
Full-time
Location
Russell Square, College Buildings

Course overview

The course provides insights into both the structure and agency of media practices. 

Through lectures and project planning, students will become media literate. They will learn to be critical about the power of the media and its influence on how we see the world. Students will also learn about how media can empower us to have our media agency to inform, educate and entertain each other.

The English language classes are integrated with the course topics. Particular emphasis is placed on developing your speaking and discussion skills.  Your team-building, interviewing and negotiating skills will be enhanced.

Entry recommendations

Students should be at an intermediate level of English in order to follow and participate in classes. We do not require proof of English level, but as a guideline IELTS 5.5, TOEFL IBT 76 (or equivalent) are recommended.

Structure

This 3-week course explores the following topics:

Lecture 1: Documentaries

This topic looks at the use of documentary techniques such as propaganda, emotion and realism to inform and influence audiences.

Lecture 2: Broadcast media

Television is still one of the main sources of information and entertainment and is very influential in the forming of opinion. This section will examine different types of programmes such as public service broadcasting, programmes about nature and the environment, reality television and popular Netflix series.

Lecture 3: Advertising

The critical focus will be on the commercial and creative aspects of the advertising industry.

Lecture 4: International news

This session will look at international news in a digital era as well as critically examining Herman and Chomsky’s theory of manufacturing consent.

Lecture 5: Film

The focus will be mainly on Hollywood cinema from a political economic perspective as well as discussing its global appeal.

Lecture 6: The internet

This section will discuss social media, interdependence and cultural imperialism.

Important notice

The information on the website reflects the intended programme structure against the given academic session. The modules are indicative options of the content students can expect and are/have been previously taught as part of these programmes. 

However, this information is published a long time in advance of enrolment and module content and availability is subject to change. 

Teaching and learning

Subject courses with English support are taught by two teachers, a subject specialist and a language expert. The subject classes use lectures, seminars and cases studies, whereas the integrated language classes focus on skills development (especially speaking and listening) using the subject content.

This is a full-time course with classes every day plus additional time for independent research. Students work towards delivering a presentation at the end of the course. You can expect to strengthen language skills and deepen subject knowledge, whilst gaining greater confidence in communicating in English in an academic setting.

All teaching takes place on campus with additional class excursions to places of interest in London. The maximum number of students per class is 20.

Students will have access to SOAS library including our wide range of e-books and e-journals. You will receive a certificate for successful course completion.

Fees and funding

Fees

  • 3 weeks (1 block): £2,200 GBP
  • 6 weeks (2 blocks): £3,960 GBP (save £440*)
  • 9 weeks (3 blocks): £5,940 GBP (save £600*)

*Compared to the cost of multiple individual blocks. The reduced fees for multiple blocks above are available for 2 or 3 blocks booked at the same time.