Feather In The University Of Sunderland�s Hat Sunderland University has been awarded world-class accreditation for its highly-rated media degree courses. Following rigorous assessment by experts working in the creative industry, Sunderland�s MA Media Production, MA Radio and BA Hon's have been given the industry kite-Mark of quality. Newscaster Alastair Stewart, who is an honorary graduate and has hosted the student media awards ceremony at Sunderland, said: �This is another fine feather in the University of Sunderland�s hat. �Our media studies students are among the brightest in the land. �That our courses are recognised for their practical excellence, as much as their academic rigour, is great news for the students and for their potential employers.� The Tick award came from Creative Skillset, the industry body which supports skills and training for people and businesses in the UK�s creative industries. It is in addition to the university�s seven previously accredited degrees in journalism, broadcast journalism and public relations. This year there were 96 courses approved out of 156 applications from the UK�s colleges and universities, and Sunderland�s MA in media production is the only Creative Skillset accredited programme nationally. Graeme Thompson, Dean of Arts, Design and Media at the University, said: �In the current highly competitive Higher Education market, it is essential for universities to be serious about delivering industry-relevant courses in the creative industries to achieve accreditation. �Students wanting to gain a degree to improve their career prospects in this sector are making a major investment in undergraduate or postgraduate studies. Accreditation from industry-led bodies such as Creative Skillset helps reassure students that they are choosing the right course at the right university.� Creative Skillset also highlighted the courses access to exceptional studios and production facilities at the David Puttnam Media Centre, at St Peter�s Campus, as well as the talents and reputations of its staff and visiting lecturers. The panel were impressed by the university�s extensive links with the industry. |
