Journalism and Media Communications

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The MA in Journalism & Media Communication aims to bridge theory and practice in a dynamic interplay; the programme works to develop a wide ranging portfolio of skill-sets. Staff teaching on the modules will be drawing synergies between various Media subjects. There will also be a focus on current media practice and the technologies of convergence exploring the impact of digital environments on the communications industries.

The course aims to develop professional and academic skills in the area of Journalism and Media Communications by combining theory and practice. Therefore, the programme will explore how to make communication more effective in professional settings by looking at magazine journalism and its associated business models, internal and external corporate communications, the impact of technology on the communications industries, and developing an understanding of ethical responsibilities and current legislation for media professionals.

During the course you will develop the theoretical knowledge as well as the practical writing and technical skills necessary for operating effectively in a professional media environment. This programme will enable you to work in a variety of occupations from Marketing Communications and PR to magazines and web publications. Employability is a key characteristic of the programme, so you are given choice of taking an optional work placement instead of a dissertation.

NEW in 2013/14: To offer more flexibility and to allow particularly international students to explore journalism and media production on a global scale, we now offer a new module Trends in International Journalism, which gives students the opportunity to develop a deeper insight into the theoretical and cultural framework of media and journalism.

Structure of the programme

Modules may change year by year. In 2013-14 we will be offering:

* Option 1: Trends in International Journalism
* Option 2: Writing for Magazines & Understanding the Magazine Business
* Corporate Communications, PR and Advertising Practice
* Communications Technologies
* Media Research Methods 1: Critical and Theoretical Debates
* Media Research Methods 2: Advanced Research Skills

You will also have the opportunity to choose one of the following final projects:

Researching and writing a 14,000 word dissertation on a topic of your choice

OR

Working on an extended project with a portfolio of work and a 2000 word report

OR

A 20-25 day work placement in a media-based environment + discussing the outcome in a presentation and a reflective report.

For all of the above, you will be supported by regular one-to-one supervision with an appropriate member of staff.

Whilst this programme has a strong professional orientation, you are also expected to engage in academic activities to extend your skills in critical thinking and problem solving; interpersonal and mediated communication; writing processes and styles as well as collaborative working practices and research methods in this area.

We require at least 2:2 (or equivalent) degree in Humanities or a Business subject. Graduates with an Honours Degree in any discipline who have otherwise demonstrated potential to succeed at postgraduate level Journalism and Media Communications will also be considered. International students should have an English Language assessment of IELTS 7, or equivalent as determined by the School of Humanities.If you have IELTS of 6.0 ( with no less than 5 in any band) we run a short 11 week course, PSA2F Advanced. This course is designed to reach equivalent of IELTS 7. ORIf you have IELTS of 6.5 ( with no less than 5 in any band) we run a short 6 week course, PSA3F Advanced. This course is designed to reach equivalent of IELTS 7. English Language Requirements IELTS band: 7 IMPORTANT NOTE: Since April 2014 the ETS tests (including TOEFL and TOEIC) are no longer accepted for Tier 4 visa applications to the United Kingdom. The university might still accept these tests to admit you to the university, but if you require a Tier 4 visa to enter the UK and begin your degree programme, these tests will not be sufficient to obtain your Visa. The IELTS test is most widely accepted by universities and is also accepted for Tier 4 visas to the UK- learn more.

Accreditation

The Mass Media Communications group is made up of academics who have professional experience of print, web design, journalism and PR and this will lend the programme a currency and employability edge that will attract students. In addition, the MA will seek professional recognition with the Periodicals Training Council (PTC), the lead body for best practice in training and development and people management for the magazine and business media industry.