Creating my Future: Why Studying Digital Media and Content Creation at the University of Greater Manchester was the Best Decision I Made

By Oliver Tyler – Final-Year BA (Hons) Digital Media and Content Creation Student

Hi, I’m Oliver Tyler, a final-year student on the BA (Hons) Digital Media and Content Creation course at the University of Greater Manchester. I’ve just submitted my final major project—and as I write this, I’m preparing for several exciting job interviews! It’s a surreal and rewarding feeling, knowing the work I’ve put in is opening real doors.

I came to the UK from Michigan, USA, and choosing this university was one of the most positive and defining choices I’ve made. Back home, I had certain expectations about what university life would be like—big lecture halls, limited access to staff, and not much room for creative freedom. What I found here was completely different in the best way possible.

A Course that Builds Skills and Confidence

My background has always included art and design—my dad’s a professor of art, and creativity has been a huge part of my life. But what really attracted me to the Digital Media and Content Creation course was its versatility. I’m the kind of person who loves to understand how every part of a creative project works, and this course delivered exactly that.

We didn’t just learn theory—we did the work. From branding and marketing strategy to photography, graphic design, video production, and audio editing—every skill was hands-on and taught by professionals with real-world experience. And what’s more, the lecturers here truly care. They took the time to understand my vision and gave me the support and freedom to bring it to life.

A Community that Supports your Growth

One of the questions I get asked all the time is: Why Bolton? The truth is, that’s exactly why I chose it. It’s close to the energy of Manchester, but Bolton offers a more personal, tight-knit learning environment. I didn’t want to be lost in a crowd—I wanted a place where I could build relationships with tutors, work closely with peers, and grow in confidence.

Here, the tutors know their students. I always felt seen and supported—whether I was stuck on a project or ready to take on something new. They’ve helped guide me not just through assignments, but also through real-world challenges. Most of them have industry experience, so their advice has always been grounded in what actually works out there.

Real Clients, Real Experience

One of the most valuable parts of the course? Working on live briefs with real clients. These projects have given me a strong understanding of how creative industries operate—what clients expect, how to present ideas, and how to adapt to feedback. They’ve also given me a solid portfolio, which has been a huge asset when applying for jobs.

My advice for any future student is this: use every opportunity to build your portfolio while you’re here. Ask to borrow equipment. Book extra studio time. Collaborate with others. These moments can really set you apart when you’re starting out in the industry—and the facilities here make it all possible.

Ready for What’s Next

As I finish up my final year, I’m excited about what’s next. I feel prepared, confident, and creatively inspired. I’ve built a strong portfolio, developed professional skills, and made lasting connections. Studying Digital Media and Content Creation at the University of Greater Manchester hasn’t just been about getting a degree—it’s been about discovering my path and taking the first real steps toward a creative career I care deeply about.

If you’re passionate about creativity, content, design, or storytelling, this course could be your perfect fit. It certainly was for me—and I can’t wait to see where it takes me next.

Dr Steven Speed, Programme Leader and Senior Lecturer, said “Oliver has made a fantastic contribution to our course over the last three years and has been an exemplary student. This is a broad-based course that demands a lot from our students, but the breadth of contemporary skills really does set students up for a fantastic future career. Through the sort of commitment and resilience that all our final year students have shown it works well as a platform for them to fulfil their ambitions. All of this year's graduates are either already working in the industry or going for interviews for their first digital media jobs over the next few weeks so they can all start before they even graduate. Well done to each and every one of them!”

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