Journalism BA (Hons)

 

Course Code

UCAS Code: PP53
International Code: AHU015

Location

Coventry University (Coventry)

 

Study mode

Full-time
Sandwich

Duration

3 years full-time
4 years full-time with study abroad / professional placement

Start date

September 2022

How to apply
Book an Open Day
Download a prospectus
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Course overview

Study level: Undergraduate

Our Journalism, Publishing and PR courses are ranked 2nd in the UK by the Guardian University Guide 2021 and can help you to succeed in the media industry.

  • This professionally-accredited course is focused on your employability and aims to provide you with skills and techniques to make your mark in any area of the journalism and communications industry.
  • The focus is on news-gathering and storytelling, which will provide a wealth of transferable skills including self-confidence, excellent written and verbal communications and technical skills that can be applied to other areas of the communications industry.
  • You’ll also have the opportunity to apply for industry placements*. Previous students have secured placements at Sky, the BBC, ITV, Coventry City football club, heat magazine and the New York Times amongst many others.
  • We regularly invite guest speakers into the classroom. Students have heard from a Channel 4 documentary producer/director, a BBC6 Music DJ, the diplomatic correspondent of The Times, a producer for Sky Sports, the head of Instagram and Snapchat for LADbible and a literary agent. (subject to availability)
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Global Ready

An international outlook, with global opportunities
human silhouette teaching in front of a blackdoard

Teaching excellence

Taught by lecturers who are experts in their field
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Employability

Career ready graduates, with the skills to succeed

Why you should study this course

If you have a passion for writing, producing, presenting or digital and a nose for a story, this course will prepare you for a career in journalism and relates areas. We will provide many opportunities and benefits for you along the way:

  • Coventry University has been ranked 2nd in the UK for Journalism, Publishing and Public Relations in the Guardian University Guide 2021.
  • As this course is accredited by the Broadcast Journalism Training Council (BJTC)*, we consider it to be a forward-looking degree that aims to assess trends within the media environment by aiming to offer a multi-platform approach to journalism in order to try to better prepare you for this dynamic industry.
  • We also encourage you to get outside the classroom - we’ve previously taken past students to Amsterdam and New York, where we’ve produced live content and visited world-famous media companies, as well as carrying out projects in Spain, London, Cardiff and Bristol (trips in the UK and abroad are subject to availability, meeting applicable VISA requirements and additional fees apply).
  • The course is designed to prepare you for an exciting and evolving environment that increasingly expects workers to display entrepreneurial innovation and respond to the emerging needs of both audiences and industry - while still offering traditional journalism opportunities.
  • Our previous graduates can be found working for Sky, the BBC and a range of newspapers and magazines, as well as careers beyond traditional journalism in digital fields such as social media management and content creation .
  • Access our professional broadcast equipment via our dedicated Media Loan Shop and studios . (Subject to availability). Our extensive specialist resources include a wireless suite of newsrooms, TV studio, video editing suite and radio studio.
  • We have links with employers nationally, including the BBC and Sky, and internationally in places as far afield as Europe, South Africa and the Falkland Islands , many of whom offer professional experience opportunities (subject to additional costs, application, availability and meeting applicable VISA requirements).

Accreditation and Professional Recognition

This course is accredited and recognised by the following bodies:

Broadcast Journalism Training Council (BJTC)

Broadcast Journalism Training Council (BJTC)

This course is currently accredited by Broadcast Journalism Training Council for the 2021/22 entry. If there are any changes to the accreditation of this course, we would notify applicants and students as soon as possible.

Find out more about our Journalism course:

Coventry University has given me the skillset to competently enter the world of work in broadcasting. I chose Coventry due to the industry standard equipment and the experience the lecturers had in the industry. I enjoy the practical aspect of this course. It replicates a working news room in a realistic way and prepares you for this.

Trystan Finocchiaro, Journalism BA (Hons) student
A student stood in front of a film camera with a green screen behind

What you'll study

The first year is focused on the basics of journalism. You will explore how to write and edit news and feature stories, do digital storytelling and be introduced to skills like camerawork, video and audio editing. You will also use our radio and TV studios.

Modules

  • The module aims to develop your understanding of ‘news’ through the integration of theory and practice. You will also become increasingly aware of key issues impacting and shaping society at a local and global level which will inform your practice. The module will familiarize you with core values of journalism and introduce you to traditional storytelling tools. It will also give you an opportunity to become aware of new and emerging forms of journalism and encourage you to adapt and be future-ready in a changing media landscape.

    Compulsory

    Assessment: Coursework

  • This module aims to develop your critical engagement with the position of journalism in society and its perceived role in contemporary culture. You will engage with a range of key critical issues which affect Journalism today.

    Compulsory

    Assessment: Coursework

  • This module will give you an introduction to the legal, professional and ethical matters which underpin the environment in which journalists work in on a national and international level. One key consideration will be understanding human rights concept and legislation in relation to journalists – especially freedom of expression and data protection.

    Compulsory

    Assessment: Coursework, exam

In addition to working in traditional journalism formats such as print, this course embraces the latest technologies, including 360-degree video, social media platforms and live blogs, to innovate your practice.

Modules

  • This module aims to develop your understanding of journalism’s role in society. Your critical understanding of conventional journalism will be explored in comparison to alternative, international and emerging forms of work which might be termed journalism.

    Compulsory

  • This module sets out to transform you from a student journalist to a practitioner capable of working at a professional level. Through constant engagement with current and key issues, you will continue to develop your storytelling and newsgathering skills. The learning environment will recreate a working multi-platform newsroom, complete with live assignments and deadlines. You will be equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to work in such a space – writing, shooting and recording material for outward-facing broadcast, as well as utilizing social media.

    Compulsory

    Assessment: Portfolio

  • The module aims to provide you with the opportunity to develop professional skills in journalism and to foster flexible and adaptable approaches towards employment and professional opportunities. You must work towards attaining at least 15 days (120 hours) of work placement under the supervision of a professional in industry, five of which must be consecutive, to meet the requirements of BJTC accreditation.

    Compulsory

    Assessment: Coursework

  • In this module, key aspects of legislation, which can both help and restrict the practice of journalism, will be introduced. You will be expected to fully understand the practice and scope of the Freedom of Information Act and how this act can assist in the research and production of story ideas. You will also be introduced to the increasing importance of the Data Protection Act, when both storing and accessing contacts.

    Compulsory

    Assessment: Coursework, exam

  • The module aims to encourage you to nurture your interest and develop the skills to be innovative and experimental in your approach to the use of technology in journalism. There will be a focus on on creating and nurturing an environment of innovation and disruption that will help you experiment with your ideas both individually and in groups.

    Compulsory

    Assessment: Portfolio

In the third year, your studies culminate in either a final project or dissertation on a topic of your choice.
Past students have produced and directed documentaries, designed social media campaigns, developed web series for YouTube or examined media representation of various groups

You will also look at producing weekly live TV and radio shows in your production module and have the opportunity to choose an optional specialty, including topics like entertainment and lifestyle journalism or investigative journalism.

Modules

  • The aim of this module is to prepare you to undertake a research or professional project in a topic related to journalism and/ or the broader media landscape. You will be guided in how to apply theories and concepts you’ve acquired during your studies with the support of an personal tutor.

    Compulsory

    Assessment: Coursework

  • This module sets out to consolidate your journalism newsroom skills so that you’re ready to step into the world of employment or further education. The module aims to further consolidate students’ understanding of ‘news’ and news judgment through the integration of theory and practice. They will be exposed to key issues and media perspectives which will inform their practice. The learning environment will recreate a working multi-platform newsroom, complete with live assignments and deadlines.

    Compulsory

    Assessment: Portfolio

  • These double modules offer you an opportunity to gain substantial experience in one or more areas of your chosen field of study. You will choose a relevant topic to explore and will select the process and presentation most suited to your area of interest. Your assessment type will depend on whether you choose to do a final project or a dissertation.

    Compulsory

    Assessment: Portfolio, coursework

  • Entertainment and Lifestyle Journalism (20 credits)

    This module explores the current debates around journalistic practice within entertainment and lifestyle journalism. We explore: the disruption of the entertainment sector, the needs of different audiences, key concepts within the industry, and celebrity culture.

    Assessment: Portfolio

    Investigative Journalism and Political Reporting (20 credits)

    The module prepares you for political reporting and specialist investigative journalism across all platforms. This is while also developing your understanding of politics through the exploration of a broad range of themes and issues and investigative journalism in the current professional landscape.

    Assessment: Portfolio

    Longform Journalism (20 credits)

    The module prepares students for specialist production in longform journalism, particularly writing, but also across other platforms.

    Assessment: Portfolio

    Optional

We regularly review our course content, to make it relevant and current for the benefit of our students. For these reasons, course modules may be updated.

How you'll learn

Based on a series of lectures, seminars, workshops, practical classes and one-to-one tutorials with teaching staff, we provide a focused approach to journalism which is underpinned by in-depth exploration of core traditional news-gathering, continuous production and experimentation in new and emerging forms of journalism.

We provide a real experience of working as a journalist and try to incorporate this into our teaching activities through our partnerships with organisations in Coventry and beyond. Previous opportunities have included collaborating with local news organisations, for instance covering the local elections for ITV.

Our excellent industry links enable us to host an exciting programme of guest speakers who have previously covered topics such as documentary film-making, TV news production, reporting from war zones, branding and magazine journalism.

Assessment 

This course will be assessed using a variety of methods which will vary depending upon the module. Assessment methods include coursework, tests, essays, practical or project work, group work and presentations.

The Coventry University Group assessment strategy ensures that our courses are fairly assessed and allows us to monitor student progression towards the achieving the intended learning outcomes. Assessments may include exams, individual assignments or group work elements.

Job ready

On successful completion of this course, you should know how to:

  • Make great journalism, whether that’s for digital, broadcast, print or social media.
  • Understand how global journalism works and how it impacts society.
  • Feel prepared when applying for potential future job roles within the media industry and you should have improved networks in order to do so.

On successful completion of this course, you should be able to:

  • Apply a breadth of journalism and communication skills and knowledge to professional situations.
  • Work creatively, sustainably and independently within professional situations, employing a range of journalism strategies and techniques.
  • Critically evaluate and analyse the broad range of factors that impinge upon professional and creative activities within journalism and the broader communications industry.
  • Demonstrate the ability to engage with diverse communities across a range of media platforms.
  • Identify and evaluate developing/emerging forms of journalism and communication.

International experience opportunities

Our course is designed to reflect the increasingly international context of journalism.

You will be given opportunities to engage with international students from at home and abroad. Coventry University is one of only two UK universities to have previously participated in the Pop-Up Newsroom 2018, a global cooperative project which brings together students from the UK, Netherlands, Bulgaria, India, the United States and Lebanon in a virtual newsroom to report on issues of global significance at a local level. Our past first and second year students have previously taken part with news days focusing on the refugee crisis and an international women’s day. Previous second-year students also collaborated with students from 13 universities in seven different countries as part of the Global News Relay initiative, an international collaboration of college journalism, multimedia and public relations students which broadcasts news live across the world.

What our students say

The best thing about being a student at Coventry is the programmes for students, the diversity and the wealth of resources. The facilities on my course are amazing! The city of Coventry is growing and has a lot for students.

Yasmine Summar, Journalism BA (Hons) student
A student working at a computer with multiple screens in a dark lit studio

Entry requirements

Typical offer for 2022 entry

Requirement What we're looking for
A level BBC perferably to include English, Media or related subject.
GCSE Minimum 5 GCSE's graded 9-4 including English at grade 6
BTEC DMM in Media
IB Diploma 29 to include English at Higher level. 

We recognise a breadth of qualifications, speak to one of our advisers today to find out how we can help you.

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Portfolio

You may be required to attend a portfolio showcase, activity session or audition or submit a portfolio via email (as is appropriate to your course), either virtually or face to face, as is practical to arrange. Invites for these sessions will be sent directly to your contact email.

Each application will be considered on its merits.

Are you eligible for the Fair Access Scheme?

We believe every student should have the opportunity to dream big, reach their potential and succeed, regardless of their background.

Fair Access Scheme

Select your region to find detailed information about entry requirements:

Europe

Americas

Middle East

South Asia

South East Asia

East Asia

Africa

Russia and Central Asia

You can view our full list of country specific entry requirements on our Entry requirements page.

Alternatively, visit our International hub for further advice and guidance on finding in-country agents and representatives, joining our in-country events and how to apply.

Portfolio

You will be required to submit a portfolio via email or alternatively attend a showcase activity session or audition (as is appropriate for your course) which can be virtual or face to face, as is practical to arrange. Invites to send in your portfolio or attend these sessions will be sent directly to your contact email.

Each application will be considered on its merits.

English language requirements

  • IELTS: 6.0 overall (with no component lower than 5.5)

If you don't meet the English language requirements, you can achieve the level you need by successfully completing a pre-sessional English programme before you start your course. 

For more information on our approved English language tests visit our English language requirements page.

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Fees and funding

2022/23 Tuition fees

Student Full time Part time
UK £9,250 per year Not available
International £18,050 per year Not available

For advice and guidance on tuition fees and student loans visit our Undergraduate Finance page and see The University’s Tuition Fee and Refund Terms and Conditions.

We offer a range of International scholarships to students all over the world. For more information, visit our International Scholarships page.

Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching, assessments, facilities and support services. There may be additional costs not covered by this fee such as accommodation and living costs, recommended reading books, stationery, printing and re-assessments should you need them. Find out what's included in your tuition costs.

Facilities

Our facilities help develop your practical talent so you feel prepared to enter the workplace and inspire your passion for journalism. You will have access our professional broadcast equipment via our dedicated Media Loan Shop and studios (Subject to availability). Our extensive specialist resources include a wireless suite of newsrooms, TV studio, video editing suite and radio studio.

  • Our Media Loan Shop can loan you specialist equipment which is a necessary requirement for journalism.
  • The Tank is the latest addition to Coventry University, with state-of-the-art specialist TV Studio equipment, including large cameras, mixing facilities and fibre optic wiring throughout.
  • Have you ever wanted to get into a radio booth, or learn how to work a mixing desk? The Students’ Union, Phoenix Radio, offers you the opportunity to hone your skills.

Careers and opportunities

We put employability at the centre of the course from the outset by preparing you for a potential future career in the media. The learning environment will recreate a working rolling news environment, with practical assignments and deadlines; it is purposefully designed to try and equip you with the skills and knowledge necessary to work in a professional multi-platform environment.

Where our graduates work

Recent graduates of the course have gone on to work for a range of broadcasters, newspapers, magazines and online outlets, including the BBC, Sky Sports, the Telegraph website and heat magazine.

Further study

You can choose to continue your studies at Coventry University with the Global Journalism and Public Relations MA. You may be entitled to an alumni discount on your fees if you decide to extend your time with us by progressing from undergraduate to postgraduate study.

How to apply

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Student life
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  • Student Contract

    By accepting your offer of a place and enrolling with us, a Student Contract will be formed between you and the university. A copy of the 2021/22 Contract can be found here. The Contract details your rights and the obligations you will be bound by during your time as a student and contains the obligations that the university will owe to you. You should read the Contract before you accept an offer of a place and before you enrol at the university.

    Tuition fees

    The tuition fee for the course that is stated on the course webpage and in the prospectus for the first year of study will apply. We will review our tuition fees each year. For UK and EU students, if Parliament permit an increase in tuition fees, we may increase fees for each subsequent year of study in line with any such changes. Note that any increase is expected to be in line with inflation. Following the UK’s exit from the European Union, EU students should be aware that there may be a change to UK laws following the UK’s exit, this may change their student status, their eligibility to study part time, and/or their eligibility for student finance. We will act in accordance with the UK’s laws in force in relation to student tuition fees and finance from time to time.

    For International students the tuition fee that is stated on the course webpage and in the prospectus for the first year of study will apply. We will review our tuition fees each year. For international students, we may increase fees for each subsequent year of study but such increases will be no more than 5% above inflation.

    Accreditations

    The majority of our courses have been formally recognised by professional bodies, which means the courses have been reviewed and tested to ensure they reach a set standard. In some instances, studying on an accredited course can give you additional benefits such as exemptions from professional exams (subject to availability, fees may apply). Accreditations, partnerships, exemptions and memberships shall be renewed in accordance with the relevant bodies’ standard review process and subject to the university maintaining the same high standards of course delivery. 

    Facilities

    Facilities mentioned on this page may not be relevant for every course. Due to the ongoing restrictions relating to COVID-19, some facilities (including some teaching and learning spaces) and some non-academic offerings (particularly in relation to international experiences), may vary from those advertised and may have reduced availability or restrictions on their use.

    Placements and study abroad opportunities

    Please note that we are unable to guarantee any placement or study abroad opportunities and that all such opportunities may be subject to additional costs (e.g. travel, visas and accommodation etc.), competitive application, availability and/or meeting any applicable visa requirements. To ensure that you fully understand the requirements in this regard, please contact the International Office for further details if you are an EU or International student.

    Additional costs

    This course may incur additional costs associated with any field trips, placements or work experience, study abroad opportunities or any other opportunity (whether required or optional), which could include (but is not limited to), equipment, materials, bench fees, studio or facilities hire, travel, accommodation and visas).