COURSE CURRICULUM

The MA in News Journalism features a carefully structured curriculum of core and optional modules that provide students with comprehensive training in practical journalism, media law, ethical reporting, and multimedia storytelling. The core modules, totaling 160 credits, are designed to build the foundational skills necessary for professional success in today’s fast-paced media environment. "News Reporting and Production" (MCT549) and "News Journalism" (MCT600) are intensive 40-credit modules that train students in story gathering, writing, and editing, with a strong emphasis on accuracy, fairness, and speed. "Media Law and Ethics" (MCT553) explores legal responsibilities and ethical standards in journalism, while "Data Journalism" (MCT559) introduces students to using data to find and tell compelling stories. "Public Administration" (MCT508) gives insight into public sector operations, vital for covering local government and civic issues. "Reporters and the Reported" (MCT509) encourages reflection on the journalist’s role in society and the impact of reporting on individuals and communities. "Professional Development" (MCT560) supports students in building their career portfolios and preparing for entry into the industry. The program culminates in a 30-credit "Major Project" (MCT561), where students independently produce a substantial piece of original journalism, demonstrating their acquired skills and knowledge.In addition to core modules, students can personalise their learning with optional 10-credit modules tailored to specific interests. Options include "Lifestyle and Consumer Journalism" (MCT556), which focuses on writing for lifestyle, fashion, food, and consumer culture; "Political Reporting" (MCT557), for those interested in covering government and elections; "Sports Journalism" (MCT558), which teaches how to report on sports events with accuracy and flair; and "Investigative Journalism" (MCT570), which delves into techniques for uncovering in-depth stories and holding power to account. This well-rounded structure ensures that graduates are versatile, newsroom-ready, and capable of excelling across a wide range of media platforms.