Alumni - Kirsten Cozens, BA Publishing Media

As soon as I visited the Oxford Brookes campus and met some of the Publishing Media lecturers, I knew this was the degree for me.  I still was not too sure what publishing exactly entailed, but I loved reading, writing, and creativity, and that is what I got on this course. 

The Publishing Media degree is tailored to give students the best professional skills they need to succeed in the industry, both in business and creative aspects, which have been invaluable throughout many of my internships and interviews. I felt that not only was I learning about creating content for different audiences, identifying the right markets for different publications, and understanding the business behind the creativity, but I also developed those all-important team work and leadership skills.  

Aside from the knowledge and confidence I gained, the networking opportunities available whilst studying on this course have been vital, and is what makes this course stand out from others across the country. From being taught by guest lecturers who hold some of the leading and most inspiring industry jobs, to the annual speed networking event run by the department, there are so many opportunities to be had. It was one of these contacts (as well as one amazing lecturer) that helped me land the job I have now as a Marketing and PR assistant for the children’s publisher Walker Books UK.

My role requires me to be extremely organised and proactive, as I look after the admin and day to day running of the department. As well as this, I write marketing and promotional copy, contribute to campaign ideas, and work on author events, festivals, and launches. My degree at Brookes has undoubtedly helped me prepare for the role, whether that be general background knowledge or the best research avenues. I can even sit in on sales target meetings and understand all the finance, something I can only do thanks to the business modules on this degree!

Joining the Publishing family at Brookes – and it really feels like that – is one of the best decisions that I ever made. The lecturers are world class and the modules are perfect for developing skills you will actually go on to use, even when half your week is filled with launch parties! 

Posted on 19 Sep 2016 around 11am