Those who want the traditional, newspaper industry-validated qualification, the National Council for the Training of Journalists (NCTJ) Certificate should consider enrolment on the BA (Hons) Journalism course, or the Postgraduate Diploma in Newspaper Journalism.

Both are available in this University and provide the opportunity to study specifically for the NCTJ Certificate. The Combined Honours Journalism course, with its emphasis on clear thought and concise writing, is an excellent basis for postgraduate work.

Students can study journalism following a major, joint or minor route over three years. In the first two years you will learn journalism theory and practice.

The course content includes learning practical journalism skills, such as researching using the latest databases, developing a contacts book, writing clear and grammatical news copy and reporting facts accurately.

The theory element of the course includes study of the history and organisation of the UK and international newspaper and the philosophical and ethical issues facing journalists today.

Most students will follow the same theory-practice course in the third year but those who choose to make Journalism their minor subject have a third-year choice of theory or practice. The joint route provides most options.

Asessment
All the modules allow you to build up a substantial number of marks from coursework. For example, you will assemble portfolios, develop a project or make group presentations.

Some of the modules have end-of-semester examination. On the practical courses this usually consists of a realistic journalism exercise, covering a press conference, for example.

Extra and related information

Our print and broadcast courses are accredited by the The Broadcast Journalism Training Council and the National Council for the Training of Journalists. Our MA Magazine Journalism is accredited by the Periodicals Training Council.