COURSE CURRICULUM

The journalism program offers a well-rounded education that equips students with both practical and theoretical skills essential for a successful career in the media industry. The module Newswriting and Newsgathering introduces students to the fundamentals of journalistic writing and story development. Through practical assignments and weekly workshops, students learn how to gather information from local sources, conduct interviews, and structure compelling news and feature stories for newspapers and digital platforms. The Journalism in Context module complements these skills by encouraging critical thinking about how journalism operates within broader social, economic, legal, and ethical frameworks. It helps students understand how media practices are shaped by external forces and how journalists can reflect on their responsibilities within society. Government and Public Affairs provides a detailed understanding of the political landscape in the UK, including the workings of local, national, and supranational institutions, which is crucial for accurate and informed political reporting. Multimedia Production and Presentation focuses on developing technical skills in print, radio, television, and digital presentation, preparing students to work across multiple platforms. These skills are put into action in Multimedia Newsdays, where students simulate real newsroom conditions, producing content under deadlines for print, broadcast, and online outlets.Legal knowledge is developed through the Scots Law for Journalists module, which covers media regulation, defamation, privacy, and the legal implications of modern information-gathering techniques. Digital Reporting builds on this by introducing students to mobile journalism, using the latest technology to create and share multimedia stories efficiently. The News Business explores the operational and commercial aspects of the industry, including business models, editorial standards, and the challenges posed by technological change. By combining rigorous practical training with an understanding of the media’s legal, ethical, and political environment, the program prepares students to navigate the complexities of contemporary journalism with confidence and integrity.