Comments about MA-PGDip Magazine Journalism - At the institution - Nottingham - Nottinghamshire
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Objectives
The MA/PGDip Magazine Journalism offers specialist training and preparation for entry-level journalism in a magazine editorial team. This postgraduate/post-experience course, comprises research and writing for magazines, providing practical and academic perspectives on national and international print media. The course also encourages the development of professional experience through an industry work placement. The course appeals to high-calibre graduates and professionals who would like to gain a well-regarded vocational qualification through a well-balanced course.
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Entry requirements
Entry 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 a written journalism test. Short-listed candidates may be asked to attend an informal interview. A telephone interview will be arranged for overseas students. All applicants are invited to visit the Centre for Broadcasting and Journalism before or during the admissions process and before enrolment takes place.
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Academic title
MA/PGDip Magazine Journalism
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Course description
Course content
Following induction, students take the following core modules:
* Magazine Journalism Skills
* Media Law
* Communication and Ethics
* Magazine Journalism Production
* Online Journalism
* Public Administration
Assessment
Students on the MA course are assessed according to their resultsin the core modules, their dissertation and a journalism project (topic chosen by the student). MA students are also 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 working in dedicated broadcast and newsroom facilities at the former newsroom and studios of BBC East Midlands at York House in the centre of Nottingham, now NTU’s Centre for Broadcasting and Journalism.
Study routes
MA full-time: 12 months (including a placement)
MA part-time: 24 months (including a placement)
PGDip full-time: 9 months
PGDip part-time: 21 months
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. Magazine 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 is seeking accreditation from the National Council for the Training of Journalists (NCTJ) in autumn 2008. Students on this course will be entered for the preliminary examinations of the NCTJ; the first stage in gaining this industry-recognised. Students also have the opportunity to hear visiting speakers from key media organisations during their course.
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 will be encouraged to make journalistic contributions to media such as the BBC and local magazines, as well as the University magazine, Platform. They may also become involved with the Centre's dedicated news website which broadcasts radio and television programming and publishes student journalism online.
