MP5038 - Media Communication Planning

What will I learn on this module?

In this module you will be introduced to the theory and practice of media communication strategy and planning. You will be instructed in the workings of modern communications including public relations, advertising, media, and digital communications and the interaction of these. You will undertake applied research and analysis to deliver your own original media communication campaign including content creation following instruction and feedback given during workshops. You will also apply your creativity to explore contemporary issues in media communication practice such as issues and crisis management and the application of media communication to specific communication disciplines and industry sectors. While this module gives you the opportunity to hone a variety of skills which are transferrable across a range of career paths it is particularly valuable for students wishing to gain future employment within the media communication field.

How will I learn on this module?

You will learn through workshops, lectures, seminars, guest lectures, online resources, and independent learning. Each workshop deals with an aspect of modern media communication strategy and planning. The module is a good preparation for students wishing to complete work placement in a media communication firm in their third year and engenders knowledge useful for career aspirations within the industry. However, transferrable skills taught in the module – such as project management, teamwork, creativity, applying research and analysis to problem solving - are appropriate for a variety of career paths. The module embeds assessment for your learning that includes the delivery of media communication strategy and plan, content creation and critical reflection on contemporary issues.

How will I be supported academically on this module?

You will be supported in a variety of ways. The module tutor is available to discuss issues both during and outside scheduled teaching. Tutors can discuss issues during pre-determined Office Hours each week, and via email. Additionally, information, teaching materials and other support is available through the Electronic Learning Portal system.

What will I be expected to read on this module?

All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. Online reading lists (provided after enrolment) give you access to your reading material for your modules. The Library works in partnership with your module tutors to ensure you have access to the material that you need.

What will I be expected to achieve?

Knowledge & Understanding:
• KU1: The development of skills in media communication planning, research, and evaluation
• KU3: To demonstrable understanding of how communication works in a complex modern media environment.
• KU4: The ability to match communication strategy to the demands of a client and their audience.

Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
• IPSA1: Demonstrate ability to work in a professional communication setting

Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):
• PVA1: The themes covered during the module will encourage reflection on the role of media communication in contemporary society and the importance of ethical behaviour and responsibilities

How will I be assessed?

FORMATIVE ASSESSMENT
To prepare you successfully to undertake the summative assessment(s) on this module, formative assessments will be set by the module team. These may take the form of in-class tasks or projects, developmental activities undertaken between classes, or learning exercises/activities set over a longer period. Feedback (written and/or oral) will be provided to help you learn from, reflect on, and develop in light of these formative assessments.

SUMMATIVE ASSESSMENT
1) As a group you will deliver a pitch/plan applying the theory and practice of communication strategy and planning against a specified live brief (40%)

2) As an individual you will create two pieces of content to support the group communication strategy aligning these to a specified theory (20%)

3) As an individual you will write three short pieces (500 words each) relating a topical communications theme to a specific case study/example drawing on relevant theory to make your point. (40%).

Pre-requisite(s)

N/A

Co-requisite(s)

N/A

Module abstract

In this module you will be introduced to the theory and practice of communication strategy and planning. You will explore modern communications including public relations, advertising, media, and digital communications and the interaction of these. You will undertake applied research, problem solving and analysis to deliver your own media communication campaign for a real client with real issues allowing you to develop and apply strategic thinking and creative flair. You will also have an opportunity to explore contemporary issues in media communication practice such as issues and crisis management and the role of communication in different disciplines and sectors. You will be able to tailor this module to your own personal areas of interest and future career aspirations. While this module gives you the opportunity to hone a variety of skills which are transferrable across a range of career paths - such as project management, team work, creativity, applying research and analysis to problem solving - it is particularly valuable for students wishing to gain future employment within the media communication field.

Course info

UCAS Code P305

Credits 20

Level of Study Undergraduate

Mode of Study 3 years Full Time or 4 years with a placement (sandwich)/study abroad

Department Northumbria School of Design, Arts and Creative Industries, Arts

Location City Campus, Northumbria University

City Newcastle

Start September 2025

Fee Information

Module Information

All information is accurate at the time of sharing. 

Full time Courses are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but could include elements of online learning. Most courses run as planned and as promoted on our website and via our marketing materials, but if there are any substantial changes (as determined by the Competition and Markets Authority) to a course or there is the potential that course may be withdrawn, we will notify all affected applicants as soon as possible with advice and guidance regarding their options. It is also important to be aware that optional modules listed on course pages may be subject to change depending on uptake numbers each year.  

Contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with possible restrictions imposed by the government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors if this is deemed necessary in future.

 

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