BA Journalism Studies course structure

The University has a modular structure for its degree courses. Each degree programme consists of a series of modules, six of which are to be taken in each year, usually three modules in each semester.

Modules are taught at different levels and normally you will take level 1 modules in the first year of the course, level 2 modules in the second year and so on.

Each module has a number of credits attached (20 for a full module and 10 for a half module) and you are required to obtain a total of 360 credits on a three-year course. Please ensure you check the credit value of each module you take.

Your final degree classification will be assessed on your performance in respect of the 240 credits you obtain at levels 2 and 3.

Typical modules for BA Journalism Studies

Level 1

At level 1, you will gain an overview of the skills that go into the production of a newspaper and will be introduced to news gathering and writing techniques in the module JNL102.

The lecture programme will provide a general introduction to journalistic practice and issues facing the journalist while workshop sessions give the opportunity to master practical skills.

Academic modules focus on history and analysis and ethical and contemporary issues.

Level 2

Skills will be developed further at level 2 and in the second semester students will be introduced to techniques of radio journalism.

This will include using news sources, interviewing and presentation skills, structuring an item and putting together a news bulletin.

Other modules include multimedia journalism, newsroom cultures, language and journalism, law and investigative journalism.

Level 3

At level 3, students will develop televisual skills, including shooting news stories on video, basic editing and presentation techniques and structuring news bulletins.

Print skills introduce editing and specialist journalism. They will also study European and global issues and undertake independent research and/or production.