Bachelor of Arts (Honours) - Journalism (with Foundation Year)

This course is offered as a degree with foundation year -  a four-year programme which provides an additional foundation year at the beginning of the degree, that will give students academic and practical experience, as well as the skills they need to ensure they are equipped to successfully complete their chosen degree.

During the foundation year, students will take modules in English and Maths which will develop their core academic and study skills. The syllabus includes a year-long module relevant to their chosen degree subject, such as Communication and Representation Essentials. This will provide students with a subject specific knowledge in Journalism which is essential for success in their degree.

Whether students want to work as a journalist, learn about the world of media or become an effective communicator in another industry, the University of Roehampton's all-encompassing BA Journalism will provide students with a springboard to success as a storyteller and content producer.

The University of Roehampton programme is tailored to prepare students for the modern media industry. From the basics of news reporting and the emergence of new media to the production of magazines and multimedia packages, this degree offers hands-on, practical modules that focus on the skills employers want.

Students will study the British media industry, examine the history of leading newspapers, and analyse the differences between broadsheets and tabloids. In doing so, students will determine how journalism helps shape public opinion and popular culture, and will learn about the political, economic and legal context in which journalists produce their work.

As students learn how to research, report and develop a story, they will also be trained in how to present it in the most compelling way, using industry-standard digital tools. As students progress, they will be able to specialise and focus on subjects and formats that interest them and develop their own multimedia projects, such as podcasts or investigative reports, allowing them to develop their writing, reporting and multimedia production skills to a professional level.

Students will have the opportunity to choose from a range of modules covering a number of subjects, including radio and podcasting, politics, travel and lifestyle journalism, as well as the ethical dilemmas journalists face, such as where to draw the line when covering celebrities’ private lives, and learn how to report on crime. In the final year, students can explore multimedia journalism by building an audio-visual portfolio, or focus on the academic aspect of journalism by writing a dissertation on a subject of their choice.

Students will be taught by established academics from around the world, who have extensive experience of the industry, having worked for the BBC, Reuters, the Financial Times and numerous other media companies. The University of Roehampton also brings professional journalists and newsmakers to the campus to participate in workshops and advise students on their projects and career options.

Students looking to begin a career in journalism and communications can get a head start with modules that teach them how to prepare a CV and make contacts in the industry. Additionally, students have the opportunity to apply for year-long work placements at established media companies.

On the stunning parkland campus, students can take advantage of the state-of-the-art media facilities, just a stone throw’s away from the centre of London, one of the world’s leading media hubs, where students will find multiple opportunities for practice, internships and employment.

Students will join a vibrant and diverse community formed by students from around the world, living and studying together in a collaborative environment.

The BA Journalism will provide students with the practical skills and theoretical grounding they need to excel in an ever-changing and dynamic media industry.