Communication Studies

Dublin City University

Ireland, Dublin

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Dublin City University

Ireland , Dublin

Key Facts

Program Level

Bachelor

Study Type

Full Time

Delivery

On Campus

Course Code

DC131

Campuses

Main Site

Program Language

English

Start & Deadlines

Next Intake Deadlines12-Jan-2026

Apply to this program

Go to the official application for the university

Duration 3 year(s)

Tuition Fee

EUR 17,300 / year

Next Intake 12-Jan-2026

Communication Studies

About

Overview

If you’re interested in communications and media, then DCU is THE place for you! Through the BA in Communications Studies degree here in DCU, you can explore the world of communications while also learning essential basics of media production. This three-year degree will appeal to you if you are curious and have a strong interest in people, society and the media. Communication is fundamental to every organisation and sector and this degree equips you with vital skills in critical and analytical thinking and teaches how to communicate across all forms of media.

Mix of theory and practice

The course is a mix of theory and practice - it combines an understanding of communication, media and society with best practice in media production. You’ll learn about different types of communication ranging from organisational communication to public relations, advertising and information campaigns. You’ll also learn about the role of media and social media, at home and abroad, as well as gaining hands-on experience in the creative and production side with practical classes in video production, photography and imaging, digital media production and audio production.

Follow your passion

As well as taking core foundational and production modules, you can choose from a selection of optional modules in your degree. This allows you to follow your passion and develop expertise in a number of key areas that reflect your aptitudes. Optional modules on offer include Crime, Policing and the Media; Television Drama; Media Law and Press and Public Relations.

Teamwork and self-motivation

The degree calls for the ability to both work as a member of a team and have the self-motivation to work alone. So if you’re flexible and multi-skilled, this course will be right up your street!

Requirements

Entry Requirements

Leaving Cert

In addition to the general entry requirements for admission to the university the following entry requirements apply:

Minimum of H4 in English.

GCE A Level

In addition to the general entry requirements for admission to the university the following entry requirements apply:

GCE A-Level C English.

FET Level 5

Please visit our Admissions webpage for details on course requirements or how to apply to DCU.

Please visit our QQI FET webpage for details on DCU courses, open days, campus tours or school visits.

To apply to DCU, please visit www.cao.ie.

Mature Applicants

Mature entry is a competitive process. Applicants must demonstrate:

a genuine interest in the programme(s) they are applying for
academic experience and competency in their chosen field of study
an ability to engage and succeed on the programme

All applicants must complete a statement of interest to be considered for the mature application route.

For further guidance on the mature application process please see the CAO Website

Advanced Entry

Applicants that have completed at least one year of study at NFQ Level 6, 7 or 8 at another institution may apply to continue their studies on a similar programme at DCU. There should be substantial overlap in content between the two programmes to be considered for a transfer. Results and other supporting documentation must be submitted to CAO by the closing date of 1st July. This is a competitive application process for a small quota of advanced entry places. Offers are made on a rolling basis until all places are filled. Early application is advised. Please note: Applicants should also consider applying through the appropriate route for first year entry to the programme they are interested in. This application process is only for advanced entry.

International Applications

International candidates are expected to have educational qualifications of a standard equivalent to those outlined above. In addition, where such candidates are non-native speakers of the English language they must satisfy the university of their competency in the English language. For further information on international applications click here.

English Program Requirements

Undergraduate Applicants - Minimum English Standards

Applicants whose first language is not English must provide evidence of equivalent competence in English Language, through their school leaving examination or in a recognised English language test. The minimum standards for entry to DCU are outlined below.

Applicants are assessed on the results of a single sitting only.

EXAMINATION

Level Required

Irish Leaving Certificate English

O6/H7

GCE A-Level English Language

Grade D

GSCE

Grade C

IELTS ACADEMIC

Composite score of 6.5 or above, with no less than 6.0 in any one component.

*Scores must be achieved in one sitting.

TOEFL

237 (computer-based),
580 (paper-based test)

TOEFL iBT

Total Score of 92

Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CAP)

Overall score of 180 with a minimum of 169 in all components.

Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English (CAE)

Overall score of 180 with a minimum of 169 in all components.

English Test for Academic and Professional Purposes (ETAPP)

Pearson Test of English (PTE Academic)

63 (with a minimum of 59 in all components)

Duolingo

Duolingo will be accepted with a minimum score of 120 and a score of at least 110 in each subscore. Please ensure the verification link is provided when submitting this evidence and you share your results with DCU.

Additional Information

Your English language certificate must be awarded within the two years prior to the start date of your DCU programme.
English Language requirements for individual programmes may be higher than published here. Please refer to the programme page for further details.
Scores on your English language proficiency test must be achieved in one sitting.

Alternative Requirements/Evidence of Competency

In exceptional circumstances, results in examinations other than those published may be accepted as proof of competence in English language. This may include non-native speakers of English who have completed their education through the medium of English in a country where English is the official language. Please include the details of any English language examinations and proof of successful completion when applying to DCU.

For further details about DCU English Language Requirements, please contact DCU Admissions.

Career

Careers & Further Options

Careers

If you’re not sure of the career direction you wish to pursue, that’s okay! The BA in Communication Studies will give you a great grounding in communication that will stand you in good stead in many careers, giving you a chance to explore the production side of media and the ability to specialise as you progress in your degree.

This course will help you become an excellent communicator and develop your creative, analytical and problem solving skills, all of which are highly transferable across any industry.

The degree offers great flexibility for your future career that will allow you to work and live anywhere, move between sectors and follow your passion whether that's in a creative role, involvement in a political campaign or fundraising for a not for profit organisation; among many other jobs and careers. This degree also provides a strong foundation for further study.

Career Areas

Media and independent companies
In-house communications
Journalism
Film-making/TV programming
Public Service
Marketing/Advertising agency
Event management
PR / Public Affairs agency
Publishing
Academia
Research

Career Prospects

In-House Communications Specialist

Communications Consultant

Journalist

Content Marketer

Digital Media Specialist

TV/Radio Producer

Programme Researcher

Event Manager

Public Relations Consultant

Internal Communications Specialist

Copywriter

Academic

DCU Career Services

DCU graduates are highly sought after by employers. Our Graduates work in environments ranging from large multinationals to SMEs, family businesses and start-ups across every sector.

DCU Careers Service has a number of learning and development initiatives in place for our students, giving them the skills they need for a successful career path.

Go to our Careers site to find out more about career planning, our mentorship programme, skills development and online resources for students when working on CVs and making applications.