Journalism MA
About this course
Embark on an exciting journey with the MA Journalism course. This immersive course offers a perfect blend of hands-on training and academic depth, ensuring you're well-prepared for a thriving career in journalism.
Led by seasoned media professionals, our curriculum covers the entire spectrum of modern journalism, from newsgathering to video editing and harnessing the power of social media. You'll also delve into crucial subjects like media law and politics while having the freedom to personalize your learning journey.
One standout feature of the course is its strong emphasis on social justice journalism, where you'll tackle pressing issues on a public-facing platform, making a real impact locally and globally.
Through real-world placements, Newsdays, and collaborative editorial work, you'll gain invaluable industry experience, allowing you to follow in the footsteps of our successful journalism graduates.
-
100% of NTU's research submitted to the 'Communication, Cultural & Media Studies, Library & Information Management' Unit of Assessment was rated world-leading or internationally excellent in terms of research impact - REF 2021. -
Study in the industry standard Centre for Broadcasting and Journalism facility set in the heart of the city centre.
Industry recognition
We are proud to be part of the BAFTA Albert education partnership
This course is accredited by the National Council for the Training of Journalists (NCTJ)
All Journalism courses at NTU are recognised by the European Journalism Training Association
NCTJ Diploma
Students on this course also work towards their NCTJ Diploma.
You will study the diploma’s mandatory elements as part of your core modules. You will also study 35 credits worth of elective elements, which will vary depending on your core and optional modules, but may include:
- Shorthand for journalist
- Videojournalism for digital platforms
- Media law court reporting
- Journalism for a digital audience
- Data journalism
Interested in Journalism?
Dip your toe in the water with our Journalism short course programme for professionals that runs throughout the year.
What you’ll study
-
Being a Journalist (40 credit points)
Embark on a journey where you will acquire the indispensable skills needed to thrive in the field of journalism. Discover the art of persuasive copywriting and seamless editing. Learn to capture exceptional photographs, videos, and audio. Uncover the secrets of crafting engaging stories and promoting them through the power of social media. Delve into specialized areas such as court reporting and explore the ethical and regulatory challenges faced by journalists.
Media Law & Ethics (20 credit points)
Enter the world of media law to grasp its impact and scope. You will acquire the essential professional compliance skills and practical know-how to allow you to navigate areas like defamation, privacy, and copyright. Develop critical understanding of key legal principles for various journalistic platforms and gain practical skills in recognising publication risks and amending content. Explore the effects of reporting restrictions on journalism to elevate your legal awareness and excel in the media landscape.
Social Media and Audience Analytics (20 credit points)
Explore social media's impact on journalism and society through critical discourse, drawing from journalism research, media studies, and ethics. Uncover practical tools to craft compelling social media content, backed by audience analytics to elevate your critical thinking, questioning, and creative prowess.
Data-driven Investigations (20 credit points)
Discover data-led investigative projects in journalism. Explore the fusion of industry practice and theoretical discourse to gauge the impact of data journalism on society. Uncover new digital methods to power your research and enhance your multiplatform storytelling abilities. Delve into the world of open data and alternative sources of information. Gain the skills to analyse, understand, and interpret statistical data for your news audience. Create compelling journalistic content from data-driven insights.
Journalism Major Project (60 credit points)
Unleash your creativity and expertise in a captivating capstone module. Show off your planning, design, and production skills by creating a compelling piece of masters-level journalism or research. Take your pick from alternative assessment options: the Negotiated Dissertation, Individual Negotiated Project, Group Negotiated Project, or Negotiated Work-Based Learning Project. Delve into in-depth research, employ advanced data collection or journalistic techniques, and bring forth an inspiring creation.
Choose one
Public Affairs for Journalists (20 credit points)
This module immerses you in the inner workings of local and central government. Uncover political dynamics, master journalism skills, and navigate interviews with officials, while getting hands-on experience crafting news features on government topics. From power divisions to EU post-Brexit dynamics, you'll dissect it all. Elevate your reporting with practical insights and lingo mastery, all while gaining a fresh perspective on political landscapes.
Sport: Challenges and Controversy (20 credit points)
From ancient civilizations to today, delve into sports' cultural, social, and political contexts. Unearth the origins of global sports, witness their transformation, and discover how societal values impact their development. With iconic figures like Pierre de Coubertin and Jackie Robinson, you will uncover the economic, political, and cultural impact of sports on society. Join us to unravel the profound significance and captivating stories woven into the tapestry of sports history.
Podcasting Production (20 credit points)
Develop a critical understanding of podcasting's role in contemporary media. Learn practical skills for professional podcast production. Analyze the link between traditional audio production and podcasting's place in journalism and media. Explore content, context, and the commissioning process. Gain insights on logistics and monetization from expert guest speakers. Appreciate, understand, critique, and contribute to podcasting in journalism.
We regularly review and update our course content based on student and employer feedback, ensuring that all of our courses remain current and relevant. This may result in changes to module content or module availability in future years.
Don’t just take our word for it, hear from our students themselves
How you're taught
Study methods and assessment
There are a range of study modes including lectures, seminars and tutorials. You will carry out independent research to produce stories, features, columns and reviews. You will be taught how to record and edit audio and video for use online using professional standard equipment and mobile devices. And you will explore different ways to maximise your audience using social media.
We have a partnership with the Nottingham Post, where you will have the opportunity to undertake work experience and cover major news stories
You will be assessed by a mixture of portfolio work, essays, exams and presentations. MA students are required to complete the Journalism Major Project, which includes conducting primary research into a contemporary issue and producing a range of content.
Work experience
We have placement partnerships with various organisations including Nottingham Post; Derby Telegraph; Stoke Sentinel; Lincolnshire Echo; and Birmingham Evening Mail.
Placements are an excellent means of skill-development enhancement of the knowledge and understanding you will acquire while studying here. Every newsroom is unique and it is important that students experience as many different environments as possible in order to adapt and grow as journalists.
Learn a new language
Alongside your study, you also have the opportunity to learn a new language. The University Language Programme (ULP) is available to all students and gives you the option of learning a totally new language or improving the skills you already have. Find out more about the University Language Programme.
Careers and employability
Your career development
Previous journalism students have gone on to work as journalists in regional, national and international journalism publishers. They also move into other areas of the media, including digital marketing and PR, and work as freelances.
Graduates of similar courses have progressed to roles in organisations including:
- Assistant News Editor - Daily Star
- Head of Audience - National World
- Junior News Editor - The Athletic
- Content Editor - Reachplc Google Showcase Team
- Facebook Community Reporter - Facebook
- Head of News and Features - Nursing Standard
- Health Correspondent - Press Association
- Commissioning Editor, Health - Mail on Sunday
- Senior Reporter/SEO writer for Nottinghamshire Live, Derbyshire Live and Lincolnshire Live
- News Reporter - NottinghamshireLive
- Life Writer - NottinghamshireLive
- Social Media Producer - NottinghamshireLive
- News Reporter - DerbyshireLive
- Senior Lecturer in Journalism - Nottingham Trent University
- Sports Writer - The Athletic
- Digital Sports Journalist - Sky Sports
- News Reporter - PlymouthLive
- Digital Development Editor - BirminghamLive
- Editor - The Shetland Times Ltd
- Media Officer - British Red Cross
- Senior Media Relations Officer - South Yorkshire Police
- PR Manager - Slimming World
- Senior Editor - The Wall Street Journal
- PR and Marketing Manager - The Parks Trust
- Senior News Reporter – NME
- Public Relations Officer - University of Derby
- Digital Sports Journalist - Sky Sports
- Senior Media Officer - The Terrence Higgins Trust
- Reporter/Sub Editor - Press Association
- PR Consultant - Eden Public Relations
- Senior Reporter - Johnson Press PLC
- Digital Journalist - The Sun's dreamteamfc.com
- Sports Writer - Leicester Mercury
- Content Producer - BBC
- Broadcast Journalist - BBC News Online
- Communications Officer - East Midlands Ambulance Service
- Social Media Editor - Derby Telegraph
- Production Editor - Future PLC
- Freelance Digital/Video Sports Journalist - The Times, Guardian, Independent
- Freelance Contributor/Features Writer - Bristol Post, BBC Radio Five Live, TalkSport Radio
Campus and facilities
Our award-winning range of journalism courses are based in the Centre for Broadcasting & Journalism, centrally placed on our City Campus. This multi-million pound development includes one of the largest student newsrooms in the UK, a fully functioning TV studio with production facilities and three radio studios. Find out more ...
Entry requirements
- A 2.1 honours UK honours degree and enthusiasm for, or experience of journalism.
- Applicants with a 2.2 and substantial experience will be considered.
- A written test.
Applications from candidates with non-standard entry qualifications will be considered on an individual basis if they can demonstrate relevant professional experience.
Written journalism test
All journalism applicants will be asked to submit a written piece as part of their application. View written test. This will be judged against clear criteria. When assessing sample writing manuscripts we are looking for work of at least a satisfactory (pass) standard in terms of language, content, observation, structure and voice.
Recognition of Prior Learning
NTU may admit a student with advanced standing beyond the beginning of a course, through an assessment of that student's prior learning, whether it is certificated or uncertificated. Our Recognition of Prior Learning and Credit Transfer Policy outlines the process and options available to these prospective students, such as recognising experiential learning or transferring to a similar course at another institution, otherwise known as credit transfer.
All prospective students who wish to apply via Recognition of Prior Learning should initially contact the central Admissions and Enquiries Team who will be able to support you through the process.
Getting in touch
If you need more help or information, get in touch through our enquiry form
- The UK honours 2.1 honours degree and enthusiasm for or experience of journalism.
- Applicants with a 2.2 and substantial experience will be considered.
- A written test will be required.
International qualifications
We accept qualifications from all over the world – check yours here:
Postgraduate preparation courses (Pre-Masters)
If you don’t yet meet our entry requirements, we offer Pre-Masters courses through our partner Nottingham Trent International College (NTIC), based on our City Campus:
English language entry requirements
You can meet our language requirements by successfully completing our pre-sessional English course for an agreed length of time, or by submitting the required grade in one of our accepted English language tests, such as IELTS:
Written journalism test
All journalism applicants will be asked to submit a written piece as part of their application. View written test. This will be judged against clear criteria. When assessing sample writing manuscripts we are looking for work of at least a satisfactory (pass) standard in terms of language, content, observation, structure and voice.
Would you like some advice on your study plans?
Our international teams are highly experienced in answering queries from students all over the world. We also have members of staff based in Vietnam, China, India and Nigeria and work with a worldwide network of education counsellors.
- Complete this simple form to keep in touch with the International Office.
Fees and funding
Course fees for 2025 entry:
Course | Full-time Home (UK) tuition | Part-time Home (UK) tuition* |
|---|---|---|
MA Journalism | £9,900 | £4,950 |
* Please note that if you are considering a course that runs over more than one year, the tuition fee stated is for the first year of study. The course fee for the second year may be subject to annual review.
Alumni Discount
We’re happy to be able to offer a 20% alumni discount to most current NTU students and recent NTU alumni. This discount is currently available for those starting an eligible postgraduate taught, postgraduate research or professional course.
Journalism Diversity Fund
Please visit the Journalism Diversity Fund website to view what funding opportunities are available.
Getting in touch
For more advice and guidance, you can contact our Student Financial Support Service on +44 (0)115 848 2494.
Course fees for 2025 entry:
Course | Full time International and EU tuition | Part time International and EU tuition* |
|---|---|---|
MA Journalism | £17,850 | £8,925 |
* Please note that if you are considering a course that runs over more than one year, the tuition fee stated is for the first year of study. The course fee for the second year may be subject to annual review.
Scholarships
We offer scholarships of up to 50% of your tuition fee. You can apply for your scholarship when you have an offer to study at NTU.
Living costs
Get advice on the cost of living as an international student in Nottingham and how to budget:
Paying fees
Find out about advanced payments, instalment plan options and how to make payments securely to the University:
Would you like some advice on your study plans?
Our international teams are highly experienced in answering queries from students all over the world. We also have members of staff based in Vietnam, China, India and Nigeria and work with a worldwide network of education counsellors.
- Complete this simple form to keep in touch with the International Office.
How to apply
If you are interested in joining us in September 2025, this course will open for applications through the applicant portal from September 2024. Courses starting in January 2026 will be open for applications from July 2025.
Ready to join us?
Just click the Apply button at the top of the page and follow our step-by-step guide. You can apply for this course throughout the year. Most of our postgraduate and professional courses are popular and fill up quickly though, so apply as soon as you can.
Writing your application
Be honest, thorough and persuasive in your application. Remember, we can only make a decision based on what you tell us. Make sure you include as much information as possible, including uploading evidence of results already achieved, as well as a personal statement.
Keeping up to date
After you’ve applied, we’ll be sending you important emails throughout the application process - so check your emails regularly, including your junk mail folder.
You can get more information and advice about applying to NTU in our postgraduates’ guide. Here you’ll find advice about how to write a good personal statement and much more. Good luck with your application!
Getting in touch
If you need any more help or information, please contact us at Ask NTU or call on +44 (0)115 848 4200.
If you are interested in joining us in September 2025, this course will open for applications through the applicant portal from September 2024. Courses starting in January 2026 will be open for applications from July 2025.
Apply online through our NTU applicant portal.
Application advice
Apply early so that you have enough time to prepare – processing times for Student visas can vary, for example. After you've applied, we'll be sending you important emails throughout the application process – so check your emails regularly, including your junk mail folder.
Writing your personal statement
Be honest, thorough, and persuasive – we can only make a decision about your application based on what you tell us:
Would you like some advice on your study plans?
Our international teams are highly experienced in answering queries from students all over the world. We also have members of staff based in Vietnam, China, India and Nigeria and work with a worldwide network of education counsellors.
- Complete this simple form to keep in touch with the International Office.
