ObjectivesThe MA/PGDip Newspaper Journalism offers specialist training which will equip students with skills required for entry-level work as a journalist in a newspaper editorial team. A postgraduate/post-experience course, it comprises research and writing for newspapers, providing practical and academic perspectives on national and international print media. It also allows time for additional professional activity through a relevant media work placement. The course will appeal to high-caliber graduates and professionals who would like to gain a well-regarded vocational qualification through a balanced course.
Entry requirementsEntry requirements Applicants should have a good undergraduate degree and/or experience of journalism. For applicants whose first language is not English, an IELTS profile to level 8 or 650 TOEFL (280 TOEFL computer-based test) is required. Selection is made initially from an application form, two references, and the journalism test which candidates are required to complete in writing. Short-listed candidates may be asked to attend an informal interview. A telephone interview will be arranged with overseas students. All applicants will be invited to visit the Centre for Broadcasting and Journalism at some time before or during the admissions process before enrolment takes place.
Academic titleMA/PGDip Newspaper Journalism
Course descriptionCourse content
Following an induction, students take the following core modules:
* Newspaper Journalism Skills
* Media Law
* Communication and Ethics
* Newspaper Journalism Production
* Online Journalism
* Public Administration
Assessment
Students on the MA course are assessed on the core modules, a dissertation and a journalism project on a topic chosen by the student. Additionally MA students are required to take a placement as part of the course. PGDip students study the core modules and must also successfully complete a placement in a professional environment. Applicants should be aware that each module involves a considerable amount of independent learning.
Resources and facilities
Students benefit from working with dedicated facilities at the former newsroom and studios of BBC East Midlands at York House in the centre of Nottingham, which are now the home of the Centre for Broadcasting and Journalism.
Study routes
MA full-time: 12 months (including a placement)
MA part-time: 24 months (including a placement)
The full-time Masters degree and diploma courses are likely to involve students attending the Centre for some part of each weekday (Monday to Friday) during standard teaching weeks of the term. Newspaper Journalism students may also follow an optional shorthand module, requiring attendance for an additional hour each weekday. Attendance patterns for part-time study should be confirmed by contacting the course administrator.
Special benefits
The course has been awarded accreditation from the National Council for the Training of Journalists (NCTJ). Students on this course will be entered for the preliminary examinations of the NCTJ; the first stage in gaining a professional qualification recognised by the industry. Students also have the opportunity to hear visiting speakers from key media organisations as part of their course of study.
Accreditation
This course was developed in consultation with a consortium of major industry employers which currently includes broadcasting representatives from the BBC, Carlton Television, 96 Trent FM, SAGA 106.6fm, Heart 106fm and Sky News as well as the regional newspaper, The Lincolnshire Echo.
Professional development
Students are encouraged to contribute journalism to media such as the BBC and the Nottingham Evening Post, as well as the university's Union of Students' newspaper, Platform. They may also become involved with the Centre's dedicated news website which broadcasts radio and television programming and publishes student journalism online.