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

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

Year 1

Journalism
- Making News
- Journalism Skills
- Broadcast Media
- Introduction to Digital Communication

Study Skills
- Personal development
- Introduction to Study
- Introduction to IT
- Writing Skills

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.

Fees and Finance

The standard fee for this course will be: £9,000 per year

For further information including the availability of bursaries/scholarships or student financial support please view our Fees and Finance pages.