Course summary
Want to work as a Film, Music, Fashion or Sports Journalist? The MA Specialist Journalism at Cardiff Metropolitan University is a master's degree with a practical focus. Designed and delivered by academic staff who are both industry professionals and researchers, the course aims to create practicing Specialist Journalists and prepare them to be industry ready for employment in journalism. Written in collaboration with practicing journalists from the BBC to ensure we teach contemporary journalism for the digital, new media age, this distinctive degree is aimed to support students while they develop their journalistic skills and techniques within a particular specialism, such as: film, music, fashion or sports journalism. Students at Cardiff Met will not only develop their print and online journalism, but also a wide range of multimedia production skills, learning to self-shoot and edit, record and produce audio, create digital content while sharpening their journalistic instinct, news values and editorial judgment. Students will also study elements of media law, and analyse how ethics, a sense of fairness, impartiality, accuracy and a robust knowledge of regulations and rights play a crucial part in operating within the modern journalistic landscape. The course has a strong employability focus allowing students to combine journalistic techniques and perspectives with practical vocational skills, which are reinforced by work placements. Whether for professional development purposes, to enhance your freelance career, or as your first step into the world of journalism, the MA will help you gain the knowledge and confidence to be a specialist journalist. We have expertise across a number of fields and our academic community is vibrant and dynamic with strong industry links and guest speakers giving real-world insight to this fast-changing industry. One of the great strengths of the programme is its flexibility. MA Specialist Journalism can be studied either full or part time allowing you to control the pace and depth of your postgraduate study. Programme delivery is also enhanced by the University's commitment to e-learning. Possible exit points - MA/PgD/PgC
Modules
MA Specialist Journalism offers a modular framework, which provides the fundamental knowledge, skills and understanding to be able to gain employment as a journalist. You will develop strong communication and writing skills while focusing on your specific specialism and gain confidence in writing various forms of journalism. These skills are combined with multimedia production, allowing you to design, film and edit your own work. Content Writing This module will provide students with the key skills required to write as journalists and then focus those skills on their chosen specialism, consolidating the skills necessary to write clear, vigorous, interesting and balanced journalistic articles for print and digital platforms. Collaborative Project This module will apply the skills developed by exploring the language, content, style and structure of magazine, newspaper and online features, and extend digital production skills. Multiplatform Journalism This module will provide students with the key essential skills to become multimedia journalists and adapt those skills to their specialist field. Critical Perspectives in Journalism This module will provide students with an understanding of the changing landscape of contemporary journalism, the reflective skills necessary to function as a successful journalist, exploring the processes and skills necessary for undertaking rigorous, credible, ethical and worthwhile research. Journalism, Ethics and Law This module will develop in-depth knowledge and understanding of journalistic law and ethics. Professional Practice in Journalism As well as a work placement in a relevant media organisation, students will also develop essential skills and knowledge needed for making a successful living in the new media landscape. Final Major Project This module allows students to create a journalistic portfolio from their chosen specialism. The extended practical or theoretical project provides students with an opportunity for a substantial piece of independent, professional standard, practical journalism work, or an academic study that addresses a specific area of journalism.
Assessment method
We're committed to innovative assessment practices that match identified learning outcomes for your module and degree. This means assessment, wherever possible, is linked to enhancing not only your subject knowledge but skills vital in developing your employment opportunities. Examples of assessment include research portfolios, group work, practical portfolios, critical and reflective practice and reviews. We have a variety of approaches to assessment across the degree depending upon the module. Practical modules are assessed through portfolios and accompanying critical essays in which you are required to reflect upon and contextualise your work. These modules also include class-based formative peer-assessment in the form of practical workshops. These do not count towards your final grade but the sessions do help you grow and reflect as a media practitioner. Modules also make use of Virtual Learning Environments for assessments and you may be asked to view material online and then to respond to it. You will receive tutor support in class and through our VLE in order to prepare you for each assessment point. We also have library facilities online and at campus.
Qualified teacher status (QTS)
To work as a teacher at a state school in England or Wales, you will need to achieve qualified teacher status (QTS). This is offered on this course for the following level:
- Course does not award QTS
Entry requirements
Each applicant is considered on their academic merits and their ability to demonstrate an interest and ability in the subject area. Applicants should usually have a first or upper second-class honours degree, in a relevant subject. Students that meet the criteria will be invited for interview. International Applicants: Students whose first language is not English will need to provide evidence of fluency to at least an IELTS 6.5 standard or equivalent. For full details about how to apply and English Language qualifications please visit the International pages on the Cardiff Met website. Selection Procedure: Application form, CV, and an example of writing (for instance, this can be a piece of journalism, a blog or an essay).
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
| Republic of Ireland | £1225 | Module |
| England | £1225 | Module |
| Northern Ireland | £1225 | Module |
| Scotland | £1225 | Module |
| Wales | £1225 | Module |
Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website .
Additional fee information
No additional fees or cost information has been supplied for this course, please contact the provider directly.
Provider information
Cardiff Metropolitan University
Student Recruitment & Admissions
Western Avenue
Cardiff
CF5 2YB