Broadcast Journalism MA / PGDip
- Level(s) of Study: Postgraduate taught
- Start Date(s): September 2023
- Duration: One year full-time / two years part-time
- Study Mode(s): Full-time / Part-time (day)
- Campus: City Campus
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Entry Requirements:
More information
Introduction:
This course prepares you to work in radio and television newsrooms and factual programming. You will be taught how to research and write your own stories, conduct effective interviews and record and edit for audio and video using the latest digital technology.
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Study in the industry standard Centre for Broadcasting and Journalism facility set in the heart of the city centre. -
This course is accredited by the Broadcast Journalism Training Council. -
You could be joining course alumni at BBC, ITN, Sky News, Channel 5 News and BAFTA. -
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.
Find out what it's like to be a postgraduate journalism student at NTU
What you’ll study
This course will provide you with a solid grounding in media law, public administration and ethics and regulation. You will become familiar with studios, be given professional voice training to help your presentation skills, and gain a solid grounding in media law, public administration, ethics and regulation.
You will also work with other students on regular news days that replicate industry practice, producing news packages for radio, television and our online news blog.
By the end of the course, you will be ready to take your place in the multi-platform world of broadcasting.
Core modules
Broadcast Journalism Skills and Digital Production (60 credit points)
You will develop the skills required to work as a journalist in a radio television or online newsroom. You will develop journalistic skills including writing online, news judgement, interviewing, and news reading. You will be introduced to the technical skills needed by a broadcast journalist including, recording, editing, and operating a radio studio and television gallery.
You will learn the different ways stories can be dealt with, and identify the most suitable editorial and production options in a range of differing situations. You'll have an understanding of audiences, and are able to research and prepare items for radio, online and television. You'll experience simulated news days, aimed at working within a collaborative team to produce radio and television bulletins, online web pages and news magazine programmes within the constraints of daily deadlines.
Media Law and Ethics (20 credit points)
You will acquire a full understanding of the scope and effect of media law. You will be taught to recognise the danger areas in publication, evaluate risk and amend or eliminate content. You will gain an appreciation of the impact of reporting restrictions on the work of journalists.
Public Affairs for Journalists (20 credit points)
UK students will study this module which gives them the opportunity to develop a sound understanding of the basic features, structures and operations of both the local and central UK government. You will learn about where to find information and interviewees on political stories as you continue to develop journalistic skills and gain an understanding of dealing with press officers and spin doctors.
Multi-platform Project (MA route only) (60 credit points)
You will produce a short documentary for either radio or TV, plus an online version of this feature to showcase the wide range of skills you have developed during the course. You will also complete a research essay on your chosen subject.
Optional modules
Journalism, Ethics and Society (20 credit points)
Provides you with an insight into key concepts and theories regarding the production and practice of contemporary journalism. You will be encouraged to develop a critical awareness of discourses pertaining to the changing form and functions of contemporary journalism within society. Upon this basis, the module invites you to explore a range of ethical dilemmas with a view to facilitating a responsible awareness of the role of the journalist in society.
OR
Social Media (20 credit points)
This module will provide you with an insight into the key concepts, theories and practices of social media as it is deployed in contemporary journalism. It combines practical exploration with consideration of theory and academic discourse to equip you with a deep understanding of social media, both as a journalistic tool and as an influence on wider society.
Don’t just take our word for it, hear from our students themselves
How you’re taught
Study methods and assessments
Study methods on this course include practical sessions, project work and independent learning, as well as tutorials, lectures and seminars.
This practical course enables you to develop story ideas and contacts, gathering your own material for journalistic work. Online production is integral with a focus on multimedia skills development required by the industry.
Placements give you the chance to work in radio, television and online news organisations including Notts TV.
You will be assessed by a mixture of portfolio work, essays, exams and presentations. MA students are required to complete the multi-platform project which includes a radio or TV documentary, an online feature and a research essay.
Notts TV
Journalism students will have the chance to contribute to Notts TV news programmes and its website, as well as volunteer on weekends and take part in work placements.
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. Learning a new language can enhance your communication skills, enrich your experience when travelling abroad; and boost your career prospects. Find out more about the University Language Programme.
Further information
Expert teaching staff
Our staff all have experience in broadcasting, and many of our news days are led by guest broadcasters from the BBC and commercial stations.
Dr Emma Hemmingway is the Course Leader for the MA in Broadcast Journalism. She worked as a TV and radio news and TV documentary producer for the BBC at both regional and national levels for 12 years, before joining NTU as a senior lecturer. She is the author of the book Into the Newsroom, published by Routledge in 2008. She has also co-authored several book chapters and conference papers. She is also currently writing a book on Social Media and Actor Network theory.
Careers and employability
Your career development
Employability is a key focus of this course, with many of the compulsory modules including initiatives to help enhance you future career in journalism. This course also has established links with its former students, through which we receive employment opportunities for graduating students. After studying this course you could go into a variety of roles including:
- producer (radio, TV, online);
- editor, sub-editor;
- journalist;
- presenter, reporter, news commentator;
- camera operators;
- production manager, floor manager;
- sound engineer, lighting engineer, technician, technical assistant; and
- researcher.
Recent graduates from this course have gone on to work for companies including:
- BBC;
- ITN;
- Sky News;
- Channel 5 News;
- BBC Five Live;
- BBC Asian Network;
- BAFTA;
- Gem 106;
- BBC Radio Nottingham;
- Free Radio Birmingham; and
- BBC Midlands Today.
As well as careers in journalism, graduates have also gone on to work in PR, marketing and advertising. Many graduates have joined or started local small and medium enterprises to undertake journalism, creative or media related activities. Students are expected to undertake a minimum of three weeks of placements normally in the UK but potentially anywhere in the world. They are usually undertaken during vacation periods.
Placements allow you to use, in front of professionals, many of the skills and much of the knowledge and understanding you will acquire while studying at the Centre for Broadcasting and Journalism (CBJ). Every newsroom has its own distinctive way of working and it's important that students experience these different ways.
We do not guarantee to find placements for students but have placement partnerships with various organisations including Sky; BBC East Midlands; ITV Central (East and West); Independent Local Radio and BBC 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. We have a team of six full-time engineers who work in conjunction with lecturers to train you on the industry standard. Find out more ...
Entry requirements
- You will need a good honours degree (minimum 2.1) 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.
- You will need a good honours degree (minimum 2.1) and enthusiasm for, or experience of journalism.
- Applicants with a 2.2 and substantial experience will be considered.
- A written test is 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
Tuition fees for September 2023:
| Course | Full-time Home (UK) tuition | Part-time Home (UK) tuition* |
|---|---|---|
| MA Broadcast Journalism | £9,300 | £4,650 |
| PGDip Broadcast Journalism | £6,200 | £3,100 |
* Please note that if you are considering a part-time route that runs over more than one year, the tuition fee stated is for Year One of study. The course fee for Year Two is subject to annual review.
Fees may be subject to change.
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.
Scholarships are available for students who have been offered a place on this course for September 2023
Home (UK) students funding
Preparing for the financial side of student life is important, but there’s no need to feel anxious and confused about it. Please take a look at our postgraduates’ guide funding page for information about sourcing grants, bursaries and scholarships, and much more.
Getting in touch
For more advice and guidance, you can contact our Student Financial Support Service on +44 (0)115 848 2494.
BAFTA Scholarship Programme
This course is eligible for the BAFTA Scholarship programme for UK students. Successful applicants will receive up to £12,000 towards tuition fees, mentoring by an industry professional and free access to BAFTA events. Find out more and apply here.
Tuition fees for September 2023:
| Course | Full time International and EU tuition | Part time International and EU tuition* |
|---|---|---|
| MA Broadcast Journalism | £16,800 | £8,400 |
| PGDip Broadcast Journalism | £11,200 | £5,600 |
Tuition fees are payable for each year that you are at the University. The level of tuition fees for the second and subsequent years of your postgraduate course may increase in line with inflation and as specified by the UK government.
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
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.
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.
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