In the twenty years since the invention of the world wide web, the media landscape has transformed. As websites now rival old media as a source of news and information, a skills shortage has emerged for journalists with the ability to work across radio, television and the Internet. This course provides you with the practical skills necessary to operate effectively as a journalist in the digital age, using the latest technology in purpose-built facilities. You’ll become familiar with the tools of the digital journalism trade – generating and uploading content to websites, producing audio and video, writing and taking documentary style photographs. You will also learn about media politics, media policy and media law.

UoH introduces you to the rules of writing and techniques of subediting. You’ll also learn how to communicate your views clearly and concisely through the production of well-researched and well-presented material in a range of writing styles.

Facilities

The 2009 £¾ million upgrade of our digital broadcast facilities affirms our commitment to lead the field in journalism and media education in the United Kingdom. These new facilities reflect the constantly changing demands of the industry, incorporating equipment that enables us to be ready for the digital, HD environment which is current in professional broadcasting. Panasonic HD ready cameras for studio and location work and Avid software for TV editing are housed in a state-of-the-art, working TV studio. The Burli Newsroom System and digital editing equipment installed can be found in BBC and independent radio stations across the country, which makes us one of the best equipped university media departments in the country for radio journalism. Industry layout software InDesign is used to produce replica newspapers and magazines in print and on-line media. You can expect a bespoke research and training package relating to your chosen specialism, which might include one to one tutorials in the use of AVID editing or InDesign software, or journalism masterclasses with staff currently working in the profession.

In the region of 240 points and two 4 or 6-unit awards one of which should be an A level or equivalent in English, Communication Studies, Media Studies or Sociology, Business Studies, Theatre Studies, Performing Arts, or Art and Design.

• Recent relevant experience of academic study that can include the successful completion of an Access course and relevant work or life experience. Candidates who successfully complete the 14-19 diploma in a relevant area are particularly welcome to apply.

Year 1

• Journalistic Writing
• Media Technologies
• Media Perspectives
• Introduction to Radio
• Introduction to Video Production
• Politics, Law and Regulation

Year 2

• Media Sociology and Culture
• Digital Radio Production
• Video Journalism and Production
• Websites and Online Content Production
• Journalism: Writing Techniques
• Magazine Design and Production

Year 3

• Media Professional Case Study
• Digital Cultures and Contemporary Identities
• Media Laws, Regulations and Ethics
• Practical Project
• Careers and Professional Development