Course content
Throughout the programme, students create dynamic interactive media artefacts such as mobile phone applications, 3D games and websites. These are built by utilising coding languages such as HTML 5, CSS3, Javascript, JQuery Mobile as well as software packages such as Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Flash, PhoneGap, Final Cut Pro and Unity 3D. However, applicants do not necessarily have to have any programming skills before starting the course.
Year 1 - Level C
Media Theory
The aim of this unit is an introduction to the critical thinking and learning processes involved in studying media culture at academic level and beyond. It encourages you to reflect upon your own practice and research ideas and concepts that have shaped the development of contemporary media culture.
Production 1
You will have production workshops covering image acquisition, creation and modification, and website creation. You will also acquire a knowledge of 20th century design and its relation to interactive media. Basic production issues and basic interface design will be taught, this includes, navigation and usability, fitness for purpose, generating ideas, moodboards, time management and photography. You will also learn the importance of interacting with your audience, using pre-production and production processes, animation and other visual styles, audio and image combinations and then testing this with your audience and analysing the feedback.
Collaborative Project
During the summer term you work alongside others in BA Television Production and BA Scriptwriting for Film and Television to produce larger, innovative projects that test your collaborative and creative ability.
Year 2 - Level I
Professional Studies
To develop a critical understanding of the role of the producer as a collaborative media manager in a 360 degree cross platform environment. You will gain an understanding of the legal and ethical contexts in which the media operate and experience the commissioning process first hand.
Media Theory Options
Students choose to specialise, focusing on two specific themes in media theory over two 6 week periods. This encourages students to reflect on the implications of such theories for their production work.
Production 2
This production unit introduces students to the rapid turnaround of individual projects based on small design problems that will support and enhance their portfolio. This is followed by a group production project that will draw on the skills learned in the first part of the unit to enable students to conceptualise, pitch for, manage and deliver a media artefact. You learn how to evaluate the work you have done in a reflective manner with reference to appropriate media theories.
Research Methods
You will be introduced to different approaches to media research methods and techniques. This unit prepares you for your dissertation in Year 3.
Interactive Media Project
You will work on a group project set to a brief. Topics covered include web accessibility, server-side (PHP) programming, media encoding & delivery, software master classes, pitching and presentation skills, and managing a team.
Professional Work Placement - 4 weeks minimum
Everyone is expected to undertake a four-week minimum placement in the summer between Years 2 and 3. The placement offers you the opportunity to put to use the skills you have learned in an industry context and make useful contacts within the industry. Recent placement companies include: BBC Interactive TV, Sony Music, EMAP performance, and Sky Television.
Year 3 - The Placement Year
Optional 1 year placement
Year 3 or 4 (depending on placement) - Level H
Dissertation
A substantial piece of writing which demonstrates the synthesis of the student's practical knowledge gained through production work, and analytical and theoretical understandings developed elsewhere in the course.
Concept Development
The aim of this unit is to provide a route-map for the development of final year students. This experience grows from exposure to the real world through a work placement, to the initial pitching of ideas for the graduate project, and the development of those ideas through to their final forms, and then finally to publicly exhibit the outcomes of their work.
Graduate Project
The graduate project gives you the chance to develop a substantial interactive media artefact. Drawing on all the skills you learnt through your three years at BU, this project is the major culmination of your journey into interactive media so far. You will be expected to concieve and identify, research and develop, produce and deliver an interactive media artefact that has substantial scope in the real world.
The year ends with an Interactive Media Production Show, which gives you the opportunity to showcase your work to industry professionals and potential employers, alongside friends, family, and past graduates from the course. This show is usually held in London.
