Course summary

Journalists are creative, curious, and multi-skilled professionals. They are brilliant writers, sharp thinkers, and confident communicators who know how to tell great stories, whether that is through words, video, or sound. They also know their way around the law and stay ahead of the game with the latest technology. If you have a passion for storytelling and want to develop these skills, this course is here to help you become the journalist you want to be. At the start of the course, you’ll learn how to spot a great story and develop the skills to share it with an audience. We will teach you how to use a TV camera, edit videos like a pro, hone your online articles, and work in studios with the same equipment as that used by big mainstream broadcasters and publishers. You will practise these skills in hands-on “News Days”, where you will work as part of a team to produce TV programmes, podcasts, and online content – just like in a real newsroom. Alongside this, you will learn where to find stories and how to chase them, improve your writing, and build confidence in front of the camera with voice and on-screen coaching. We will also teach you the basics of media law – essential knowledge whether you plan to work for a big-name organisation or start your own online news platform. As you progress, we will help you develop advanced skills in areas like podcasting, news filmmaking, and digital storytelling. You also get a chance to experiment with exciting new tools and technologies, like those used in interactive media and immersive journalism. Later in the course, we will focus on helping you find work – whether it’s landing a job with a media company or setting up your own brand as a freelancer. You will also work on real-world projects and placements, gaining experience and making connections in the industry. Throughout the course, you will create a portfolio of work that showcases your talent – something you can take to job interviews or display on your own website. Alongside all the practical skills, we also explore the big ideas and debates about journalism’s role in society, so you’ll graduate as a thoughtful, well-rounded professional ready to make an impact. Our course empowers you to critically examine media representation by combining theoretical insights with practical newsroom experience. You’ll explore how racial bias and power dynamics shape news production through engaging case studies and interactive seminars. By analysing both historical and contemporary examples, you will learn to challenge established narratives and develop ethical strategies for your journalism. Hands‐on workshops and guest lectures from industry professionals will equip you with the skills to produce work that not only informs but also transforms, preparing you for a dynamic career where theory meets practice in the pursuit of more equitable media. This course is designed to support you every step of the way. We will make sure you’re ready for the exciting challenges of a career in journalism, whether you want to work for a major news outlet, create your own content, or do something completely new.