This is a unique course run by the University in conjunction with the BBC. We are looking for applicants from a diverse range of backgrounds taking a less traditional path into higher education and journalism. Life experience is as important for this course as academic qualifications. But applicants must demonstrate a keen interest in news and current affairs. Taught at UCLan's Preston campus and BBC Radio Lancashire in Blackburn, students will receive grounding in all aspects of journalistic practice and study methods from experienced practitioners and lecturers. In addition they will have the opportunity to work alongside BBC journalists.

Key Facts

Entry Requirements

For 2011 entry please contact our course enquiries team for entry requirements as these may differ from 2010.

There may be competition for places on the course, so early application is advised.
As part of the selection process you may be required to produce a piece of written work to help us assess your ability to benefit from the programme. You may also be offered a one-to-one interview during which the course can be explained in more detail and all relevant options for study discussed.

No formal entry qualifications are required but students will be individually assessed at an interview.

Course Content

Students will study all areas of journalism from print and the web, to Broadcast TV and Radio; they will learn the basic skills in writing for different outlets, put together pieces for radio and television, source, research and develop news stories whilst understanding their ethical and legal responsibilities as journalists. They will produce programme content for BBC Lancashire and become familiar with newsroom systems, and using all broadcast equipment. In addition they will learn the academic skills vital to entering a degree course.

The foundation entry course is a unique course run by the University in conjunction with the BBC. We are looking for applicants from a diverse range of backgrounds taking a less traditional path into higher education and journalism.

Newsrooms up and down the country are realising the need for diversity. The Journalism industry recognises the necessity of having a workforce made up of people from all different backgrounds and age ranges to be able to reflect the society we live in.  Now they need the talent that has so far remained untapped.

The course is open to anyone with an interest in journalism regardless of age or academic qualifications.

In addition, at UCLan’s modern campus in Preston you will acquire the academic skills required for study at degree level, If you successfully complete the course you will be granted entry onto one of UCLan’s prestigious journalism degree courses, regarded as among the best in the country.

Learning is largely based on practical journalism work and case studies, supported by programmes of lectures and seminars. Study of the work of journalists emphasises the need to relate theoretical perspectives to news products and practices. Most of your work will be assessed through coursework and practical projects, with examinations in some subjects.

Course at a Glance

Assessment:

The course is assessed through written assignments, the production of broadcast pieces, portfolios and presentations and classroom exercises.

Learning Environment:

Students will be taught in lectures and practical workshops at BBC Lancashire with guest lectures by practising journalists. They have their own edit suite and broadcast equipment. Academic study skills will be taught at UCLan’s Preston campus in a series of lectures and seminars.

The Library and Learning Resource Service (LLRS) provides a library of books, journals, and other media as well as study facilities, including bookable rooms for group use. The LLRS also provides access to electronic journals and electronic information services, via the University's PC network, while document delivery services make it possible to get hold of published texts which are not in our collections.

Careers:

Past UCLan Journalism graduates have gone on to head Granada’s News, and become senior correspondents for the BBC, Sky, ITN and National newspapers.

Other Opportunities:

On successful completion of the course you will be granted entry on one of UCLan’s prestigious journalism degree courses, recognised within the industry for turning out well rounded practitioners.

Money Matters

For guidance, in 2010 the University's tuition fees for full-time undergraduate courses are £3290, but are subject to increase in line with inflation. You can choose to take out a loan and pay after graduation when you are earning over a certain amount, currently £15,000 per year.

In addition, for 2010 entry UCLan is offering bursaries worth £500 to all UK full time first year undergraduate students, where the principal earner's gross salary is less than £60,000 a year. Where students qualify for the maximum maintenance grant, this will be £319. There will also be Excellence scholarships available in some specialist areas, Achievement Grants and funding available via UCLan Plus to support a wide range of curriculum activities.

For further information on UCLan scholarships and bursaries, visit our website www.uclan.ac.uk/fees or Telephone: 01772 892400. For general information about university tuition fees and scholarships visit www.dfes.gov.uk/studentsupport and www.aimhigher.ac.uk/student_finance/index

Special fees apply for non-EU overseas students.

Details of current fees are available from
Enquiry Management,
University of Central Lancashire,
Preston,
PR1 2HE,
United Kingdom,
Email: uadmissions@uclan.ac.uk or Telephone: 01772 892400