Journalism and Communications

Introduction to Journalism and Communications at Falmouth University

Our Journalism and Communications program at Falmouth University offers a comprehensive education designed to prepare students for dynamic careers in media, journalism, public relations, and related fields. The course combines theoretical foundations with practical skills development, enabling students to understand the evolving landscape of media and communication industries. Throughout the program, students will explore various forms of media production, including print, broadcast, digital, and social media, providing them with a versatile skill set that meets the demands of contemporary journalism and communication roles.

Students will engage with core modules that cover media theory, ethics, and history, ensuring a solid understanding of the societal impacts and responsibilities associated with media practice. Practical modules emphasize journalism skills such as reporting, editing, storytelling, and multimedia production, allowing students to create compelling, accurate, and engaging content across different platforms. Additionally, the program encourages critical thinking and analytical skills, enabling students to evaluate media messages effectively and understand their influence on society.

The program also offers opportunities for hands-on experience through industry placements, live projects, and collaborations with media organizations, giving students real-world insights and professional connections. Our state-of-the-art facilities include dedicated newsroom spaces, editing suites, and media labs, providing students with an authentic media environment. The curriculum is regularly updated to reflect current trends, technological advancements, and the ethical considerations of modern journalism and communication practices.

Graduates of the program will be equipped with strong communicative abilities, digital literacy, and an ethical approach to journalism, preparing them to pursue careers in newsrooms, public relations firms, media agencies, and more. Whether aiming to become investigative journalists, media analysts, content creators, or communication specialists, students will graduate ready to make an impactful contribution to their chosen field. Join Falmouth University’s Journalism and Communications program and develop your passion for storytelling, media production, and effective communication in a supportive, innovative learning environment.

Year 1

The first year is foundational. You will be eased into what is recognised as a challenging transition to trainee journalist/communicator. You will be taught all the fundamentals of critical thinking in both these closely related spheres. Crucially, you will acquire a multimedia toolkit.

Note - the following modules are subject to approval

• Power & Persuasion
• Multimedia Methods
• Journalism & Communications in Context
• Writing to Inform & Influence
• Media & Communications Law
• Journalism & Communications Ethics

Year 2

Your second year allows you to start specialising in areas such as crime, culture, or the political sphere plus extend your multimedia skills into broadcasting. At this stage you will also have a lot of creative fun by focusing on the production of multimedia magazines and news sites. You will continue to engage with the contextual issues that affect journalists and communicators today.

Note - the following modules are subject to approval

• Crime & Communications
• Magazine Content & Creation
• Cultural Communications
• Strategic Communications in the Social Media Age
• Advanced Multimedia Methods
• Journalism & Communications Research

Year 3

Having been intensively trained in the previous two years, the final year allows you to refine your skills and specialise further. On the journalism front we finish with a flourish at Falmouth, giving you the opportunity to specialise in everything from crime to culture, fashion to foreign news. You can also go global by studying strategic communications for development and intercultural communications. Gaining real experience in newsrooms and public communications departments - at local, national and international levels - will prepare you to compete for employment and freelance commissions. Valuable industry insight and contacts can also be developed by completing a dissertation.

Note - the following modules are subject to approval

• Dissertation
• Multimedia Storytelling
• Communications for Development
• Travel & Tourism Communications
• Public Health Communications
• Specialist Correspondent
  (Students pick two specialisms from: Culture; Crime & Courts; Foreign; Fashion; Science & Technology; Environment; Heath & Social care)

Requirements

• The UCAS Tariff is changing. A typical offer will be between 104 and 120 UCAS points for entry to undergraduate courses, primarily from Level 3 equivalent qualifications such as A levels, a BTEC Extended Diploma or a Foundation Diploma. You can check how many points your qualifications are worth using the UCAS Tariff Calculator
• Due to the creative nature of our courses, you will be considered on your own individual merit and potential to succeed. We encourage you to get in touch if you are predicted points below this range, thinking about transferring from another institution, or if you have other qualifications or professional experience as we may be able to consider you.
• You must have a minimum of Grade 4 (or C) or above in GCSE English Language, or equivalent, for entry to our undergraduate courses.
• If English is not your first language, we accept a range of recognised language qualifications that are equivalent to the IELTS Academic minimum score of 6.0 overall, with a minimum of 5.5 in Reading, Writing, Speaking and Listening. If you require a Tier 4 student visa to study in the UK, you must take an approved Secure English Language Test (SELT) to fulfil government visa requirements. 

Scholarships

Scholarships for International Students

Through the award of scholarships we aim to support academic enrichment by encouraging diversity and excellence at Falmouth. In 2016 Falmouth University awarded £70,000 worth of international scholarships.

International Scholarships for 2017 will be announced on this page in November 2016. 

Parental Contribution

For students whose household income is over £25,000 and are therefore receiving less than the maximum support from Student Finance, it is expected that they will also receive some support from parents or partners with whom they usually permanently reside. It is a good idea to chat this through when planning your finances before coming to University.

Part-time work

Some students work part time in jobs at local bars, hotels and restaurants, usually paid at the minimum wage. We recommend that you do no more than 15 hours part-time work each week during term time to ensure that you are able to concentrate on your studies. Some students find work with chain stores at home before coming to University and then ask for a transfer to branches in Falmouth at the start of term. There is also work available over the summer months if you choose to stay in the area. Please visit the Creative Futures page for further details.

University Bursaries and Other Awards

Falmouth University offers a programme of bursary support to students who are assessed by Student Finance as having a qualifying income, and others with specific needs. Different arrangements are in place for different cohorts - please see the information opposite that relates to you as either a 'Pre-2016 Starter' or 'New Entrant in September 2016'.

The BA (Hons) Journalism and Communications programme at Falmouth University is designed to equip students with essential skills and knowledge for a successful career in the fast-paced world of media, journalism, and communication industries. The program offers a comprehensive curriculum that combines practical skills development with theoretical understanding, enabling students to adapt to the changing media landscape. Students are introduced to various aspects of journalism, including news writing, reportage, digital storytelling, multimedia production, and investigative journalism. Additionally, the programme covers key areas of communications such as public relations, media management, branding, and strategic communication, providing a well-rounded education that prepares graduates for diverse roles within the industry. The course emphasizes hands-on learning through workshops, live projects, and collaboration with industry partners, giving students real-world experience and networking opportunities.

The programme is delivered by experienced faculty members who are professionals in their fields, ensuring that content remains relevant and current. Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities, including radio and television studios, editing suites, and digital production labs. The course also explores ethical considerations, media law, and the social impact of journalism and communication, fostering responsible and ethically-minded practitioners. Falmouth University’s focus on employability means students receive career support, mentoring, and opportunities for work placements, internships, and industry engagement. Graduates of the programme have gone on to work in journalism, broadcasting, public relations, digital content creation, media management, and more. The university’s strong industry links and focus on innovative storytelling prepare students to excel in a competitive job market. Overall, the BA (Hons) Journalism and Communications at Falmouth University offers a dynamic and engaging learning environment that balances creative practice with critical thinking, preparing students for lifelong careers in media and communication sectors.