Master of Arts - Creative and Cultural Industries

The MA Creative and Cultural Industries is designed for graduates aiming to enter the dynamic world of the creative and cultural sectors, equipping students with the skills required for a successful career in twenty-first-century industry. This postgraduate programme integrates cross-disciplinary expertise in creative thinking, business, art, heritage, media, and journalism.

Students develop knowledge and skills to lead cultural and creative institutions of the future. The programme is delivered on campus, leveraging the Midlands as a cultural hub and benefiting from established relationships with organisations in cultural heritage, festivals, and advertising. Collaborative opportunities with creative sector partners on final projects enhance understanding of organisational operations, industry challenges, and employability skills.

The University of Derby’s Journalism team maintains extensive links with media companies, individual journalists, and industry organisations, including Reach PLC, Derby Book Festival, Derby Museums, the Society of Editors, and the British Society of Magazine Editors. The Creative Arts team provides additional contacts with galleries and exhibition organisers. The CivicLab at the University offers further engagement with external organisations such as Artcore, Derby Theatre, and Derby Museums, enabling collaboration on real-world projects.

Support is provided through one-to-one tutorials focused on research supervision, academic development, and professional aspirations. The teaching team maintains a focus on the evolving processes and contexts of creative and cultural industries, ensuring graduates have an up-to-date understanding of media and audiences. The programme is delivered in purpose-built facilities, including radio and TV studios, video editing suites, Mac suites, and a newsroom equipped with the latest software. Students also benefit from engagement with industry guests who provide insights into current media practice.