Digital Media (Taught)

Explore how digital media impacts and interacts with people and society, developing in-demand skills to embark on a creative and exciting career.

Smartphones and social media, digital networks and big data, gamification and mobile platforms – digital media continue to change the way we live, work and communicate.

This course, taught by the School of Media and Communication, interrogates the impact of digital technologies on individuals and society, providing you with the skills and knowledge to think critically and creatively about digital media.

You'll learn about diverse digital media techniques and processes, including coding and hacking, web design, digital ethnography, and more, to complement your analysis of critical theory. Merging theory and practice, you'll gain an understanding of the social, cultural and economic roles of digital media.

Module content is informed by the research interests and practice of the academic staff who teach them too, giving you the knowledge and skills to thrive in this dynamic, fast-paced sector. With a range of optional modules to choose from, you'll be able to tailor your degree to your personal and career interests, opening up diverse careers across the likes of animation, web design, social media, digital marketing and public relations.

Why study at Leeds

• Dedicated employability support: Benefit from personalised career support to give you the best start once you graduate, including talks, practical workshops, volunteering opportunities, and comprehensive research training if you want to go on to study a PhD.

• Guaranteed industry experience: While studying, you’ll have the chance to work with clients and gain consultancy experience as part of a 2-week online Global Industry Programme.

• Leeds is a hub for digital careers: From Channel 4’s national headquarters to a vibrant PR scene, we’re a northern powerhouse when it comes to the digital media industries.

• Be supported to succeed: Benefit from small tutorial groups and regular one-to-one meetings with academic staff to ask questions and discuss your work.

• Strong industry connections: Our school collaborates with the likes of the BBC, Ofcom, UK Government and European Commission to understand challenges and inform policy – partnerships and expertise that directly inform your teaching.

• Flexible, bespoke module options: A broad range of optional modules lets you tailor your studies in line with your interests and specialism.

• Fully equipped facilities: The School of Media and Communication is home to a 58-seat cinema, 80 editing bays, a cutting-edge TV studio and an extensive equipment loan service. You’ll also have access to Helix, the University's learning innovation hub for students, staff, and the local community.

• Home to digital and creative innovation: Leeds and Bradford continue to lead in promoting digital culture through the likes of Leeds Digital Festival and City of Culture, providing a dynamic environment for students.

• Close to world‑class institutions: Bradford is home to the National Science and Media Museum and the National New Media Collection, giving you direct access to significant film and digital culture archives.

• Excellent prospects: Graduate from one of the universities most targeted by the UK’s top employers (High Fliers, The Graduate Market Report 2026).

Rankings and awards

• 34th in the world for Communication and Media Studies, QS World Rankings by Subject 2026

• 4th in the UK for Communication and Media Studies, The Times and the Sunday Times Good University Guide 2026

Where this degree could take you
Graduates of this course have gone on to succeed in all manner of industries, including:

• digital marketing

• animation

• web design and development

• social media

• digital analytics

• public relations

• consultancy