The course has two main themes:

• Learning journalism skills through producing news in realistic exercises and assignments.
• Studying journalism through research and analysis of news production in a range of international and national settings.

The development of practical skills is supported by study, research and critical analysis of journalism and the news media in a range of national and international contexts.

Key Facts

Entry Requirements

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

Entry requirements for postgraduate courses vary and you are advised to check for any specific requirements with Enquiry Management and on our website. Normally the following general entry requirements apply:

Postgraduate Diplomas, Certificates and Conversion Courses:
A recognised British first degree or its equivalent, or a BTEC Higher Diploma/Certificate.

Taught Masters Courses:
A recognised British honours degree to a good standard, or its equivalent. Applications from all candidates will be considered on their merits and in the light of the nature and scope of the programme or work proposed. Informal enquiries are welcomed and will normally be followed by an initial advisory interview.

UK applicants will be expected to hold a first degree at a classification of 2:1 or above. Additionally, they should be able to demonstrate a strong interest in journalism and have an international outlook. Overseas applicants should have equivalent academic levels and interests as outlined in the UK requirements. Additionally they must have an English standard of IELTS 6.5 (or equivalent). Applications from individuals with non standard qualifications, relevant work or life experience and who can demonstrate the ability to cope with, and benefit from, masters-level studies are welcome.

Course Content

Practical journalism is related to the international arenas through an emphasis on understanding the fundamental principles that underpin news production. This enables students to develop an adaptable approach to journalism and the abilities to apply their knowledge in a range of different media settings.
Students studying journalism for the first time will gain core news skills in newspaper reporting. More advanced practical learning continues to focus on newspaper production, although broadcasting and online journalism skills are introduced.

The development of practical skills is supported by study, research and critical analysis of journalism and the news media in a range of national and international contexts.

The final part of the course enables students to further develop their skills and knowledge by choosing to undertake either a major practical journalism project involving international reporting or through a substantial research study.

Students from non-English speaking countries will have the chance to improve their language skills through a programme of English learning.

The course has two main themes:

Learning journalism skills through producing news in realistic exercises and assignments.

Studying journalism through research and analysis of news production in a range of international and national settings.

The development of practical skills is supported by study, research and critical analysis of journalism and the news media in a range of national and international contexts.

Course at a Glance

Assessment:

Assessment methods include practical reporting projects, reflective accounts, essays and research projects.

Careers:

This course will enhance the career prospects of students entering a variety of journalism fields.  This includes international news media & agencies or as journalists in a variety of national media.  The course is also suitable for those wishing to gain a greater understanding of international news and use this knowledge in other fields of media employment.

Money Matters

Most graduates of this University are entitled to a 20% reduction on tuition fees for our postgraduate courses, if self-funding.

Details of current fees are available from Enquiry Management,
University of Central Lancashire,
Preston,
PR1 2HE,
United Kingdom,
01772 892400.

Gilbertson Excellence Scholarships
These scholarships are awarded to UCLan undergraduates in their final year of study in 2009-10 who want to continue their studies at postgraduate level, either on a full time or part time taught programme eg MA or MSc, or on a research programme such as an MPhil in the 2010-11 academic year. These awards worth £3,390 towards tuition fees are available to Home/EU students achieving a first class honours degree at UCLan in 2009-10 and are subject to specific terms and conditions.