Journalism BA (Hons)
- Level(s) of Study: Undergraduate
- Typical Offer: 104 - 112 UCAS tariff points
- UCAS Code(s): P502
- Start Date(s): September 2024
- Duration: Three years full-time
- Study Mode(s): Full-time
- Campus: City Campus
Introduction:
Get ready to embark on an exciting journalist journey. The BA Journalism course is all about sparking your curiosity and empowering you to be a storyteller.
We'll teach you how to gather news, write, produce videos and audio, and adapt your stories for various platforms like online, social media, and print. It's not just about journalism – it's a pathway to careers in PR, campaigning, marketing, and more.
You'll dive into media law, government workings, ethics, and global issues. Plus, you’ll sit NCTJ exams, meaning you'll earn the industry's gold standard qualification alongside your journalism degree. Fees for the first attempt at these exams are included in your course costs.
It's a unique opportunity to make your mark in the world of journalism!
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NTU is in the UK’s Top 30 for Journalism in the Guardian University Guide 2024
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Specialise with optional modules including, sports, news, fashion, photography, podcasting or celebrity journalism
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You'll be training in our industry standard facilities within the Centre for Broadcasting and Journalism.
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50% practical, 50% theory - you'll back up your practical skills with theory and knowledge of best practice, media law and shorthand.
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
All Journalism courses at NTU are recognised by the European Journalism Training Association
This course is accredited by the National Council for the Training of Journalists (NCTJ).
Why take a NCTJ-accredited course?
Courses accredited by the NCTJ teach the Diploma in Journalism, a key qualification in the industry which editors look for when hiring trainee journalists.
Having the diploma qualification under your belt sets you apart from the rest and shows you have the knowledge, skills and aptitude to succeed in the newsroom. Some editors may not even consider an applicant if they haven’t achieved the diploma, so why close off those opportunities? The diploma will equip you with up-to-date skills in digital developments, social media, video, media law, ethics and much more.
Practical training in journalism is at the heart of all NCTJ-accredited courses and students are expected to report on patch, undertake work experience and take part in dedicated news production days.
Current patron of the NCTJ is Alex Crawford, Special Correspondent for Sky News. She started her career at the Wokingham Times where she completed her NCTJ training.
Find out more about the NCTJ on their website.
NCTJ website 2020
Interested in Journalism?
Get involved with a summer course specially designed for 15 - 17 year olds.
Browse courses for 15-17 year oldsWhat you’ll study
As well as the traditional skills of writing for newspapers and magazines, interviewing, media law, politics and shorthand, you’ll be given digital skills including writing for online, the use of social media in journalism, and creating and using video content. You’ll also gain a range of transferable skills that can be used in a range of media industries from public relations to communication officers.
Journalism and Society (20 credits)
Explore newspapers, radio, television, and online media with a critical eye. We'll unravel the intricate relationship between media and society while delving into their role in shaping norms and challenging conventions.
Introduction to Journalism Practice (40 credits)
This module equips you with essential skills, from sourcing stories and interviews to online writing, mobile journalism, and content creation. Assessment includes professional practice standards: punctuality, engagement, equality, and more. Explore news values, writing, and multimedia journalism.
Introduction to Media Law (20 credits)
This fascinating module invites you to master legal concepts, courtroom reporting, and ethical content creation. It aligns with industry standards and includes court visits and insights from experts, to give you a working insight into court protocols, and ensure your content is legally safe and ethically sound.
Public Affairs (20 credits)
You'll explore both local and central government in our country, understand how they work, and uncover intriguing political stories. This adventure blends politics and journalism, making you a skilled and informed journalist ready to tackle real-world issues. From the Prime Minister's role to field trips, it's a dynamic experience. Expect real-world engagement, expert insights, and a path to navigating the world of government and journalism.
Introduction to Journalism Studies (20 credits)
This module is your key to understanding journalism's core, its global impact, and the skills essential for success. We'll investigate journalism's significance, emphasizing safety, confidence, accuracy, and cross-cultural communication. Meet real journalists, dive into practical insights, and build a captivating portfolio.
Core modules
Journalism Practice 1 (20 credits)
This module bridges your foundational journalism skills ready for Journalism Practice 2. It focuses on practical skills vital for the media world. Be prepared for hands-on learning, continuous assessment of professional conduct, and skill development in digital storytelling and editing software.
Essential Media Law (20 credits)
Expand on your Year One foundation skills by exploring media-related law and regulation. You'll gain insight into the legal aspects that impact daily journalistic work and learn to critically evaluate their effectiveness. It's a crucial step in your journalism education.
Data-driven Investigative Journalism (20 credits)
Explore how to conduct investigative projects using data in journalism. You'll learn new digital research methods, tools for storytelling, and how to analyse and present data. We'll also delve into open data and examine data journalism's impact on the industry and society.
Journalism Practice 2 (20 credits)
Building on Journalism Practice 1 skills, Journalism Practice 2 delves into practical industry-specific abilities. You'll also prepare for the NCTJ Editing Skills for Journalists exam. Professionalism is key, including punctuality, appearance, and mastering shorthand. Get ready for hands-on experience and skill development.
Shorthand (NCTJ Diploma)
This module is taken as part of the NCTJ Diploma. You'll learn to write shorthand and how to write certain phrases as word groups and recognise these for accurate transcription.
Semester Two
Pathway 1: An international exchange
Travel the world, meet new friends, and have experiences you will remember for the rest of your life.
Our flexible curriculum has been designed to allow some amazing opportunities for you. Your second year of study is divided into two semesters, giving you the opportunity to take part in an international exchange. You could study with one of international exchange partners in Australia, Europe, USA, Canada, Thailand and many, many more.
Our dedicated team will support you in finding and arranging a suitable exchange. And don't worry about the cost, they will help you apply for any grants or loans you may need, as no one should miss out on the chance to broaden their horizons.
Pathway 2: optional modules
You will choose two optional modules for the following:
Ethics and Representation (20 credits)
This module explores the principles guiding ethical journalism in various media forms. You'll learn to dissect the impact of journalism, discuss ethical dilemmas, and craft your personal ethical compass for sensitive reporting. Dive into media's role in addressing social divisions while honing vital skills for academic success and beyond.
Sports Journalism (20 credits)
Develop your theoretical and critical understanding of the role and coverage of sport in contemporary society, and build the skills needed to work as a sports reporter. You'll study the links between national, regional, and local identity and sport, reflecting on how the media shapes that identity. Alongside lectures and student presentations, expert guest speakers will explain the logistics of reporting on sport and provide a greater understanding of the practical aspects of sports reporting.
Photojournalism (20 credits)
This module enables you to demonstrate skills, knowledge and understanding of the theory and practice of stills photography. You'll gain practical skills in image capture on still digital formats and the transmission of stills You'll be competent in producing stills for publication and demonstrate the ability to write clear and accurate captions and news stories. You'll understand photographic practice and media law and ethics relating to the publication of images from both professional photographers, citizen journalists and other external sources in newspapers, magazines and on related websites and social media.
Fashion Journalism (20 credits)
An introduction to the world of fashion and how it is covered by journalists online, in print and on TV/radio. You’ll study key trends in the industry, explore fashion design and manufacture, dissect brands and influencers, and learn how to analyse fashion from a journalist’s perspective.
Political Journalism (20 credits)
Learn to report on global and UK issues effectively. Explore the journalist-politician relationship, tackle ethical challenges, and grasp the power of journalism in democracy. Dive into contemporary topics, honing skills to effect change. It's a toolkit for your future, applicable beyond journalism.
Advanced Journalism Practice (40 credits)
After your professional placement, immerse yourself in news days, creating content for a dynamic news brand across web, print, and social media. Embrace equality through the BBC 50/50 project. Assessments consider professional conduct and prepare you for a diverse journalism career. Your work here serves as a portfolio for future employers, helping you shine as a versatile journalist.
The Journalism Project (40 credits)
This exciting module allows you to showcase your journalistic skills. Drawing from what you've learned in previous levels, this opportunity allows you to merge practical, intellectual, and research abilities. Under the guidance of a supervisor, you'll choose between online and print platforms to craft an independent journalism piece. Select a topic that aligns with your strengths and aspirations, and explore innovative ways to present it at industry standards. Your project includes a pitch, critical commentary, and a practical feature, offering a chance to impress future employers with your creative journalism prowess.
You will then choose two of the following options - one per semester:
Semester One
Challenge and Conflict (20 credit points)
Welcome to a dynamic module exploring the world of journalism. We'll dissect the challenges journalists face and how to overcome them. Using real-world examples, we bridge theory and practice, examining freedom of expression in the UK and global contexts.
Magazine Journalism (20 credits)
This module introduces you to the essential skills required to be a magazine journalist in digital and print formats and the key qualities and behaviours sought by editors. You'll develop an understanding of how to write for specialist and segmented audiences and how to identify, research and produce content ideas. You will practise these skills on a series of magazine production days.
Stars, Stigma and Societies (20 credits)
We'll dive into contemporary journalism, focusing on how public personalities are portrayed. From music to sports, we'll explore social dynamics and media's influence. Discover the journalist's role in shaping perceptions in our celebrity-driven world.
Introduction to PR and Communications (20 credits)
Explore the world of public relations and communications in this engaging module. Gain essential skills for a career in PR, including crafting campaigns, writing news releases, and leveraging social media. Understand the unique role of PR across various sectors, and delve into legal and ethical considerations. Get ready to sit the NCTJ Introduction to PR for Journalists exam upon completion.
Semester Two
Global Journalism (20 credit)
Go beyond borders, exploring journalism's worldwide impact, drawing from diverse perspectives. You'll tackle theories from politics, economics, sociology, and more, evaluating how global forces shape journalism. Get ready to research and write a compelling essay on the theory and practice of global journalism.
The Specialist Reporter (20 credits)
This module introduces various journalism genres, from environment to entertainment. Hear from expert journalists in these fields, discover career paths, and delve into current practices. By the end, you'll critically assess specialist journalism and gain practical experience in one area of expertise.
Podcasting (20 credit points)
Learn the practical skills needed to compile and produce successful podcasts, while developing an understanding of the role of podcasting in the contemporary media landscape. Guest speakers who are experts in the field will explain the logistics and monetisation of podcasting to provide a better understanding of the economic framework within which podcasting sits.
NottsTV Pathway
We also offer this alternative route of study to selected third year students. This involves being attached to NottsTV, one of a number of hyper-local television stations licensed by Ofcom across the UK, and working as an intern within the station’s professional newsroom throughout your final year.
Journalism at Work (40 credits)
Prepare for a taste of the real newsroom. You'll spend five days every two weeks working alongside seasoned journalists, contributing to news programs and web content. You'll create two portfolios showcasing your work, receive guidance from staff, and learn the ins and outs of multiplatform journalism, deadlines, and audience-focused content. Gain invaluable experience and enhance your journalism skills.
Notts TV Journalism Project (40 credits)
This exciting, hands-on module lets you collaborate with third-year peers at Notts TV. You'll work together to create compelling multiplatform journalism content. The assessments include a group project, a critical essay, and a reflective essay. With guidance from NTU staff, you'll gain practical insights into teamwork, research, and journalism skills, making you a versatile journalist ready for the industry.
Don’t just take our word for it, hear from our students themselves
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How you’re taught
How will I learn?
Because this is a highly vocational course, half of your time will be spent carrying out practical tasks including news days, presentations and live team projects. The other half of your time will be spent in academic study, including lectures and briefings, seminars and tutorials. You’ll also be involved in independent project work where you’ll have the support of NOW, or virtual learning environment.
How will I be assessed?
Each module is assessed separately and involves practical assessments such as essays, project work, competency portfolios, placements, presentations and skills assessments. You’ll also be assessed through formal examinations and class tests.
Over the three years, you’ll gradually increase your study skills, production and presentation techniques. The marks that count towards the degree also increase year-by-year, so that assessment is matched fairly with the expected rate of your learning throughout the three year course.
You’ll receive feedback throughout the module so you know what level you are working at.
Learn from expert staff
Our journalism team is made up of expert academic and technical staff that have extensive experience in education and industry. These, together with visiting professionals, provide a rounded, up-to-date education, informed by current practice and industry developments.
Visiting lecturers
You’ll also benefit from the extensive knowledge and experience brought to us by prestigious visiting lecturers, who have included:
- Natalie Fahy – Editor Nottingham Post/Nott Live, Reach PLC
- Abby McHale – Senior Stylist and Fashion Writer at Fabulous Magazine (the Sun)
- Shingi Maraike - Reporter, Sky News (formerly Sunday Times)
- Tim Robinson - Publisher, Daily Press Division, National World
- Mike Bushell - BBC Breakfast Sports Presenter
- Rizwana Hamid - BB Journalist, Director for Centre for Media Monitoring
- Shamaan Freeman-Powell - Reporter, Sky News
- Andy Trendell - News Editor, NME
- Marisa Cashill - Picture Editor, Yorkshire Post
- Robbie Nichol - , Social Media Editor, The Telegraph
- Alison Brinkworth - Journalist, Birmingham Mail
- Stefania Cardenas Ibanez - Podcaster and Videographer, The Linney Group
- James Hill - Journalist, The Spectator
- Nadia Whittome MP - Labour, Nottingham East
- Rachel Loos - Feature Writer, Grazia Magazine
- Nancy Froston - EFL Writer, The Athletic
- John Acres - BBC Match of the Day, BBC Devon, 5Live
Excellent placement opportunities
All students are expected to take part in three weeks of work placement with a media platform of your choice. This could be a newspaper, magazine, news website or a PR agency.
Recent students have secured placements with the Nottingham Post, Vogue magazine, The Times, Fabulous at The Sun, NME magazine, The Athletic, and PR companies.
Contact hours
- Year 1 lectures/seminars/workshops (33%), independent study (67%)
- Year 2 lectures/seminars/workshops (29%), independent study (71%)
- Year 3 lectures/seminars/workshops (27%), independent study (73%)
All Arts and Humanities students will complete a minimum of 240 hours of work like experience over the three years of the course
How you’re assessed
- Year 1 coursework (34%), written (33%) and practical (33%)
- Year 2 coursework (33%), written (17%) and practical (50%)
- Year 3 coursework (30%) and practical (70%)
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 your 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:
- magazine journalist
- newspaper journalist
- production journalist
- researcher
- public relations
- communications officer.
Recent graduates from this course have gone on to work for companies and organisations including:
- BBC
- The Sun
- Real Homes Magazine
- Notts Live
- Derbys Live
- Plymouth Live, Reporter
- Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Press Office
- NHS Hospitals Trust, Comms Officer
- Archant lifestyle magazines, Editorial Assistant
- National World
- NSPCC Press Office
- Motive PR, PR Executive
- Vapouround Magazine, Junior Journalist
- News Team News Agency
- Banbury Guardian
- West Briton
- Avon and Somerset Police Press Office.
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 enterprises to undertake journalism, creative or media related activities.
93% of BA (Hons) Journalism graduates were in work and/or further study 15 months after completing their studies (Graduate Outcomes Survey, 2020/21)
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 ...
Here are some of the free services, student discount and benefits you'll get studying at NTU
We've carefully considered what benefits and services you need for your studies, so when you join NTU you'll get free printing and materials credits, access to our free WiFi, a copy of Microsoft Office, and even borrow a laptop if yours is out of commission.
For life outside your lectures, you'll enjoy access to over 60 sports clubs and 130 student societies, discounted travel and bike hire, free language learning, award-winning student support and an entertainment programme which is second to none.
See all the benefits and free services you will enjoy as an NTU student.
Books and library resources
In our library you’ll have access to an extensive and diverse range of books including those on your reading list.
The library's online resources and NTU Online Workspace (NOW) also provides digital access to the core resources for your modules and a wide range of specialist collections, texts, and databases
Nottingham Trent University has its own Blackwell’s Bookshop which stocks relevant academic texts plus a wide range of bestselling novels.
IT Resources
Our IT resource rooms and PC clusters are distributed across the campus, with PCs providing access to: Microsoft Office, email, web browsing, networked file storage and high-speed online printing services (with a free printing allowance for each student). Resource rooms are available 24 hours a day.
Societies
Current students run societies in a range of Humanities and Arts subjects including History, Medieval, Film, Filmmaking, Philosophy, Politics and International Relations, and the Book society.
There are also a number of media channels which our students get involved in such as the NTU radio station FlyLive, our student magazine Platform, and TV station TrentTV.
Find out more about student societies at the Student Union website.
Entry requirements
- Standard offer: 112 UCAS Tariff points from up to four qualifications
- Contextual offer: 104 UCAS Tariff points from up to four qualifications.
Contextual offers
A lower offer may be made based on a range of factors, including your background (such as where you live and the school or college you attended), your experiences and individual circumstances (you may have been in care, for example). This is called a contextual offer and we get data from UCAS to make these decisions. NTU offers a student experience like no other and this approach helps us to find students who have the potential to succeed here but who may have faced barriers that make it more difficult to access university. Find out how we assess your application.
Other qualifications and experience
We may also consider credits achieved at other universities and your work/life experience through an assessment of prior learning. This may be for year one entry, or beyond the beginning of a course where applicable, for example, into year 2. Our Recognition of Prior Learning and Credit Transfer Policy outlines the process and options available for this route.
Meeting our entry requirements
Hundreds of qualifications in the UK have UCAS tariff points attached to specific grades, including A levels, BTECs, T Levels and many more. You can use your grades and points from up to four different qualifications to meet our criteria. Enter your predicted or achieved grades into our tariff calculator to find out how many points your qualifications are worth.
Getting in touch
If you need more help or information, get in touch through our enquiry form
You will need the equivalent to:
- 112 UCAS tariff points from four A-levels or equivalent qualifications
International qualifications
We accept qualifications from all over the world – check yours here:
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:
Undergraduate preparation courses (Foundation)
If you don’t yet meet our entry requirements, we offer Foundation courses through our partner Nottingham Trent International College (NTIC), based on our City Campus:
Advanced standing (starting your undergraduate degree in year 2 or 3)
You may be able to start your undergraduate course in year 2 or 3 based on what you have studied before. This decision would be made in accordance with our Recognition of Prior Learning and Credit Transfer Policy.
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
Preparing for the financial side of student life is important, but there’s no need to feel anxious and confused about it. We hope that our fees and funding pages will answer all your questions.
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.
Additional Costs
Your course fees cover the cost of studies, and include loads of great benefits, such as the use of our library, support from our expert Employability team, and free use of the IT equipment across our campuses.
Library books
Most study modules will recommend one or more core text books, which most students choose to purchase. Book costs vary and further information is available in the University’s bookshop. Our libraries provide a good supply of essential text books, journals and materials (many of which you can access online) – meaning you may not need to purchase as many books as you might think! There may also be a supply of second-hand books available for purchase from previous year students.
Field trips
All essential field trip costs will be included in your course fees. There may be the opportunity to take part in optional field trips, which do incur additional costs.
Placements
If you're undertaking a placement year, you'll need to budget for accommodation and any travel costs you may incur whilst on placement. Many of our placement students do earn a salary whilst on placement which can help to cover these living costs.
Print and copy costs
The University allocates an annual printing and copying allowance of £20 depending on the course you are studying. For more details about costs for additional print and copying required over and above the annual allowance please see the Printing, photocopying and scanning information on the Library website.
Please see our fees page for more information.
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 undergraduate 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.
Help and support
There is lots of advice and guidance about how to apply, fees and scholarships, qualifications, and student life on our dedicated International students website.
How to apply
Ready to join us? Then apply as soon as you can.
For the full-time route just click the Apply button at the top of the page and follow our step-by-step guide.
If you're applying for the part-time route please apply online using the NTU Applicant Portal.
Make sure you check the entry requirements above carefully before you do.
Writing your application and personal statement
Be honest, thorough and persuasive in your application. Remember, we can only make a decision based on what you tell us. So include all of your qualifications and grades, including resits or predicted grades.
Your personal statement is a really important part of your application. It’s your chance to convince us why we should offer you a place! You've got 4,000 characters to impress us. Make sure you use them to show how your skills and qualities are relevant to the course(s) you’re applying for. For more hints and tips, take a look at our page on how to write a good 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 on our Your Application page. Good luck with your application!
Need help with your application?
For admissions related enquiries please contact us:
Tel: +44 (0)115 848 4200
You can apply for this course through UCAS. If you are not applying to any other UK universities, you can apply directly to us on 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.