On this very popular course, there is a strong emphasis on practical journalism practice. Candidates must decide whether they want to specialise in broadcast, online or print journalism.

During this intensive year you will learn the reporting, researching, writing and presentation skills required for being a good journalist in both radio and TV, as well as develop a critical understanding of the news media. Teaching is done in small groups by experienced industry professionals, using up to date professional-standard news production soft-ware, video and audio equipment for your journalism assignments. You will also be introduced to web-journalism and blogging.  You can also acquire the skills of a specialist correspondent by choosing from a range of specialist journalism options.

All students are encouraged to take up a work placement opportunity during the summer months.

Course content

Semester One modules

• The Principles of Journalism: exploring the key concepts underpinning journalism practice and an introduction to online journalism
• Broadcast Journalism: the skills and techniques of daily news journalism in radio and television.
• Issues in Journalism: a study of the ethical and other issues that confront journalists around the world.

Semester Two Modules

• Documentary Skills: advanced reporting and production techniques for long form TV and radio journalism
• and two other choices from:
• Specialist Journalism: we offer travel, environmental, business, investigative, medical, sports and arts and entertainment journalism.
• Online Journalism
• International Media Business
• Sociology of news

For those wishing a more theoretical option as preparation for a Final Dissertation you can also choose a module from MA Global Media or MA Communications.

During the summer months students work on an MA Final Project  of their choice. It can be either a half hour professional standard radio documentary, a TV Documentary, and Online Project or a 15,000 word Dissertation.