Leeds Beckett University - City Campus,
Woodhouse Lane,
LS1 3HE
Bachelor of Science with Honours Broadcast Media Technologies , Level 6, 2023/24 - Course Handbook
Welcome to the Course
This handbook aims to give you information that may enable you to succeed on our course.
You should find it helpful when you first arrive at the University. I also hope that returning students will continue to find it a useful resource.
This Course Handbook will be handy for general information such as contacts and academic calendar dates when you are preparing for assessment, and at any time that you need help or advice in connection with your studies. A module guide/handbook for each module you study on your course will also be made available to you.
This is the first year of our transition to working in the new Leeds School of Arts building at City Campus and this move will mean big changes for staff and students on the course. We hope you enjoy the new opportunities and spaces this change of location provides.
The course team is looking forward to working with you this year and we hope that your studies with us at Leeds Beckett University is both enjoyable and successful. As well as Tim Blackwell (the BMT Course Leader) and myself, this year's tutors will include Ashley Dean & Jamie Broadbent. You will also meet other tutors, and guest lecturers from industry. We all want to help you achieve as much as possible while you are with us.
All our staff will try and assist you. However, it is you the students who make this a great course. Please try to work with and get to know your peers, help new students settle in and generate work and ideas that inspire you, your group, your level and the whole course to do better and better in all we attempt. Together we are making BMT a course that inspires others and builds towards a national reputation for producing creative, hard-working and employable graduates.
On behalf of our University and the whole course team I would like to wish you well in your studies this year. If you are happy here, share that happiness with us and your peers. If you find things difficult - either on the course or in your wider life - we are here to listen and we will try to help you. Just come and find me or your other tutors. We will do what we can to support you throughout your time with us.
Things may continue to be more difficult this year than they used to be after the covid-19 public health emergency of recent years and the cost of living crisis. We may require more flexibility from you and more importantly, you may need more and/or different kinds of support from us.
So, if you are experiencing difficulties, or have questions about any aspect of your studies please get in touch with your Academic Advisor or come to me in-person, message me on Teams, or via email. No matter the difficulty or issue we will make every effort to make your student experience as good as possible. We are a community of practice. We are the BMT family: students and tutors. And we care about one another. Let's pull together, create great content and support one another towards great learning and a really enjoyable year.
Have a great academic year in 2023/24.
Hugo Smith
Course Director, Creative & Media Technologies Group of Courses (Broadcast Media Technologies, Creative Media Technology).
Welcome to The Leeds School of Arts.
With a history that spans over 170 years, Leeds School of Arts is united by a common goal: to encourage individuality, to inspire creativity, and to create impact. Arts at Leeds Beckett University is an inspired laboratory where ideas are piloted, risks are taken, and equal emphasis is placed on the navigation of nourishing creative journeys and the realisation of formidable art works. There are around 3000 students in the Leeds School of the Arts, spread across over 40 courses, in subjects ranging from Architecture and Landscape, Creative Technology, Art, Design and Fashion, through to Film, Music and Performing Arts. Our aim is to instil in you the confidence, curiosity and commitment to thrive at University and beyond, and to give you the freedom and independence to both think, and to make.
We have an exciting and experimental approach to contemporary, creative practice - set in the heart of a culturally energised city. We draw artistic inspiration from the innumerable sources of university culture, including the research of our extraordinary academics and the energy, open-mindedness and intellect of our students. This is more than a School, it is a community of creators and collaborators; a united, artistic family, pushing boundaries with a variety of courses.
Our School's principle of learning through theory and practice is enabled by deep and meaningful links with industry, community and the professions. We have Leeds based, national and international partnerships to enable students learning to be enriched by industry collaboration. Our new Leeds School of Arts £80m building, state-of-the-art technical equipment, workshop support and studio spaces will allow you to immerse yourself in live design and development projects, supported by a team of experienced staff on hand to challenge, listen and encourage.
I wish you well and hope you have a rewarding, enjoyable and highly creative year with us.
Dr Lisa Stansbie, Dean of School
Leeds Beckett Students' Union (LBSU) is led by students for students! Their mission is to make your uni life better! Your Student Officer Team is elected by you to lead the Students' Union into the academic year. They represent all Leeds Beckett students and campaign for the changes you want to see in the university and beyond. They do this by representing your interests, giving you the chance to socialise and meet new people, hosting CV-boosting opportunities, and providing advice and support when you need it most. Shape your own experience by submitting your thoughts through your Course Rep, or if you'd like to influence the Students' Union's policy stance on particular issues or share ideas for improving the student experience across the University, submit your ideas on the Have Your Say platform, which is designed to make change happen! Below you'll find information on a few of their services but if you've any questions, please feel free to get in touch.
Silas Ozoya, your Academic Experience Officer, also wanted to say a few words to introduce himself: "Hey There! I'm Silas, your Academic Experience Officer. It's my job to ensure your academic experience at Leeds Beckett is the best it can be! We're a friendly and open-minded bunch at LBSU, so don't hesitate to get in touch with us! I'm looking forward to meeting you very soon!"
Contact LBSU at:
Email: lbsu-welcome@leedsbeckett.ac.uk
Phone: 0113 812 8400
Website: www.leedsbeckettsu.co.uk
- Following the lifting of all pandemic restrictions and advice from the Department for Education, we currently anticipate that no social distancing measures will be in place on campus during the 2023/24 academic year, enabling a normal on-campus experience. Our aim is to ensure that our students experience Leeds Beckett University, our courses, campuses, facilities and services to the fullest extent possible, while maintaining an environment where students and staff feel safe.
- In all cases, the health and safety of students and staff is our priority and we will continue to follow guidance from the UK Health Security Agency, the Department for Education and all other recognised government agencies (such as the Office for Students) in full and keep matters under close review at all times. The advice and restrictions may change before and/or during the academic year, either nationally or in response to local conditions and rates of infection and include the need for social distancing measures and other restrictions. Our flexible delivery model allows us to revert to a blended and/or remote delivery model if this becomes necessary. In a worst case scenario it is possible our campuses may need to close.
- In the event that delivery is restricted as a consequence of pandemic restrictions, we will keep you informed of planned changes as they arise, to ensure you are provided with accurate information.
Key Contacts & Keeping in Touch
An academic advisor drawn from the Course Team will be allocated to you at induction. In recent years Academic Advisors have been Ashley Dean for L4 students, Hugo Smith for L5 students and Tim Blackwell for L6 students but this structure may be altered to allow for better service to students.
Elections to select course representatives will be held in Semester 1.
Enquiries about course representation can be taken at any time to the Course Director (Hugo Smith)
Course reps are an important part of helping the course improve over time through listening to student feedback and proposals for change. We would welcome your contribution. Get involved if you think you might be interested. Course Representatives can really help with co-creation of modules and their content and to shape the future of the course and we want you to be engaged with this, wherever possible.
The Academic Librarians for this course are Karen Fisher, Catherine Parkin, Jennifer Winterburn, Maria Simoes and Ellie Clement.
Please contact them at: lsalibrary@leedsbeckett.ac.uk
Or complete their online Get Help form for help with academic and research skills.
The contact details of other key services, such as the Student Experience Team, Student Wellbeing, Disability Advice, Student Money, Library and Students' Union Advice can be found on the Students web page:
https://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/student-information/
Hugo Smith (Course Director) is always ready to help direct you to the service you need (email via: H.U.Smith@leedsbeckett.ac.uk) as is Course Leader, Tim Blackwell (email via: T.Blackwell@leedsbeckett.ac.uk)
The contact details of other key services, such as Student Advice, Disability Advice, Student Wellbeing, the Library, Student Money, Careers, Students' Union Advice Service and Students' Union Student Voice Team can be found on the Students web page.
Academic and administrative staff at our University use your student email address to contact you. It is important that you check this account regularly. You can forward emails from your student email address to a preferred personal email address, however, quarantine and spam filters needed by our University mean that emails sent from external email addresses may be delayed, blocked or deleted. It is therefore important that your student email address is the only email address that you use to contact University staff. Information on how to access your student email address can be found on the Library Student IT Support page (http://libguides.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/it_support/office365/outlook)
Please make sure that you inform your Course Administration team whenever you change your address and contact details. It is important that you also update your records yourself. You can do this via the My Account/Update my Data tab on MyBeckett. This will ensure we can always contact you in an emergency, and that you receive any important University communications that we may need to send you.
We will inform you of class activities and course notifications, including any cancellations. This will normally be done via email to your student email address or via a VLE announcement, but staff will often use a text message to notify you of late-notice alterations to classes. So, please keep your contact details up to date
For each module, the Module Handbook will include the preferred method of communicating general information about that module to you.
MS Teams is part of the Office 365 suite used by staff and students for communication and collaboration:
- Access via MyBeckett on University devices as well as on personal mobiles via a free downloadable app.
- Participate in online meetings and video conferencing in groups or one-to-one.
- Work on shared content, ideas, projects and online learning.
- Utilise breakout rooms to create more dynamic sessions
Further information is available on the Library's MS Teams FAQ web page.
Your course team will advise how Microsoft Teams will be used on your course and make guidance available as required.
Timetable Information
The University’s standard term dates are available on our Academic Calendars web page.
Taught sessions, both mandatory and optional, will be scheduled and included in your online timetable. Depending on your course, this may also include scheduled online teaching and learning sessions where student engagement is required at a specified time or tutor pre-recorded lectures.
Normally, timetables will be made available to continuing students on 31st July and during induction week for new students via:
- The Student Portal (MyBeckett)
- The Leeds Beckett app
You should discuss any difficulties relating to your engagement with timetabled sessions with your Course Administrator.
Course Overview
The course prepares students for a career in industries related to Broadcast Media. Students may graduate to full-time work with media companies or digital agencies, choose to work as freelancers or start their own media production companies. With equal emphasis on the technical and aesthetic aspects of Broadcast Media, the course takes students through the process of developing, researching, shooting, directing, capturing, editing, adding post-production and motion graphics effects and publishing digital media to different platforms.
Advanced digital production techniques are employed and students learn the theory behind their practice. This course is largely practical; however, the theories support the practical elements and help students develop research skills required in the broadcast industries. Students will develop a rich portfolio of media work, showing a broad range of technical and creative skills including pitching, writing/developing content for a media/target group, studio management, health and safety in the studio production on location and a wide range of post-production techniques. Students will have opportunities to do extra activities that would help them develop their portfolio and further their studies, including International Volunteering, working on projects in a number of countries. Students may also wish to Volunteer for the Beckett Student Media roles and/or join some of the 40 student societies, playing in sports teams and/or being a student academic representative.
Staff and Students form the course are engaged in production of TV/Audio/streamed coverage of events that have included Varsity sports and Student Union Elections as well as work for external voluntary or private client bodies. These events may offer work experience and the opportunity to extend skillsets outside the classroom.
The course aims to produce versatile graduates who have the theoretical understanding and practical, hands-on experience in all elements of technical and creative audio and video production from development of ideas and formats, through pitching and pre-production, production, post-production special effects and programme administration.
Graduates should develop an understanding of industry practice in the UK and be able to apply their skills professionally. For example, as BMT graduates, students will have the skills to:
- research
- shoot
- edit
- produce title sequences
- design motion graphics
- work on location
- work in studio
- start a production company
- work as a freelance broadcast technician in independent production
- understand the content and technical requirements to go into web broadcasting
At the end of the course, students will be able to:
1 To develop a systematic understanding of key aspects of pre-production, production, and post-production in the area of broadcast media and associated technologies.
2 To develop and research original ideas, then communicate and manage production workflow and responsibilities to format these creative concepts into broadcast content.
3 To critically review established techniques of analysis and design that encompass internationally recognised standards to add value to broadcast content.
4 To encourage professional development and personal growth through regular engagement with critical reflection on professional practice, including the contributions and performance of self and others when team-working.
5 To independently undertake research and critically evaluate arguments, assumptions, abstract concepts and data (that may be incomplete) and to frame appropriate questions to achieve a solution, or identify a range of solutions, to problems.
6 To construct a portfolio of practical work demonstrating practical broadcast-related skills and employability that facilitates appropriate transition between academic study and the industrial workplace.
Level 6:
1. Demonstrate a systematic and critical understanding of the theories, principles and practices of Broadcast Media Technologies
2. Critically review the role of a "professional creative technology practitioner" with particular regard to an understanding of business context and commercial issues
3. Critically evaluate, select and apply a range of research methods whilst appreciating the limits of applicability within the domain of interactive media
4. Creatively apply contemporary theories, processes and tools in the development and evaluation of solutions to problems and product design
5. Produce a significant broadcast media related product as a final major project
Assessment & Feedback
Level 4 is assessed predominantly by coursework with some practical assessments.
Level 5 is assessed predominantly by coursework with some practical assessments.
Level 6 is assessed by 50% coursework and 50% practical assessments.
Please note the exam/assessment periods in the academic calendar and make sure that you are available during those periods. Further details of your schedule of assessment can be found on your timetable. Even though the course does not have exams there may be timed periods when you must attend for live and/or practical assessment. Coursework submission deadlines can normally be found on MyBeckett, on course noticeboards or in individual Module Handbooks/other module guides.
Disabled students requiring adjustments to assessments/examinations should contact Disability Advice as soon as possible. We can only guarantee that adjustments can be put in place if students have contacted us by the following deadlines:
Semester 1 - 10th November 2023
Semester 2 - 8th March 2024
Contact us:
Email: disabilityadvice@leedsbeckett.ac.uk
Tel: 0113 812 5831
Website: https://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/student-information/disability-advice/
It is important for your progression and achievement that you submit all work for all assignments in a timely manner. It is also important that you keep copies of all work submitted until after you have graduated. You should also keep any receipts confirming the submission of assignments. In the event of your submitted work being lost you may be required to produce a copy of the work and submission receipt. If you are unable to do so, your work will not be marked.
It is important to note that submitting all assignments is a requirement of your course. Should you experience extenuating circumstances which prevent you from submitting on time please make yourself aware of the Mitigation and Extenuating Circumstances process. Without any form of extenuating circumstances, standard penalties apply for late submission of assessed work. Full details of the penalties for late submission of course work are available in section 3 of the Academic Regulations at https://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/our-university/public-information/academic-regulations/. Please check the penalties that apply to this course as some Professional, Statutory and Regulatory Body requirements may mean that different penalties apply.
If you have been recommended 'flexibility around deadlines' as a reasonable adjustment in a Reasonable Adjustment Plan, your Course Administrator will be able to advise you of the process.
You may be required to submit your written work via Turnitin; further information on Turnitin is available here: http://libguides.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/mybeckett/turnitin
Assessed work will normally be returned with appropriate feedback within four weeks of your submission. Each Module Handbook will provide you with specific guidelines on how and when you will receive feedback on your assessments. Some feedback will be offered as written and some as a recorded feedback monologue or dialogue, which students are expected to participate in. Feedback will sometimes be withheld until all marking is complete or students are available to engage with it (in the case of dialogues) and this can result in some delay between submission of work and receipt of summative feedback. It is hoped students can understand the reasons for this delay when staff have many pieces of work to mark before releasing marks and feedback.
Formative feedback is often available in class or in meetings with tutors outside of class. Tutors report that students who seek formative feedback on work before final submission are more successful than those who do not ask for this formative feedback. Please discuss and show your work while it is in-progress. Tutors are supportive of requests for formative feedback. If a tutor will not offer formative feedback on work prior to deadline please seek out the Course Director, Hugo Smith, who will take up your issue and find out why this is not possible, help to access formative feedback.
Feedback is a two-way process. Students who engage with and reflect upon feedback, then use the feedback to feed forward into their future work are more successful on the course and in employment.
Results from module assessments and decisions on progression to the next level of study (e.g., from Level 4 to Level 5 of an undergraduate degree) or awards (if you are in the final level) are available on the Results Online system: https://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/student-information/exams-assessments-and-awards/results-online/.
Results will appear in Results Online within five working days of the date of the Progression and Award Board meeting (the meeting where your end of level outcome will be decided) or the Module Board meeting (the meeting where modular outcomes are decided).
If you are unsure about when you might receive your results or have queries relating to your results, you should contact your Course Administrator.
The University recognises that, from time to time, students may encounter issues which may prevent them from being able to submit or take assessment. Where this is the case, students may be able to submit their 'extenuating circumstances' for consideration. Please see the Mitigation and Extenuating Circumstances web page for further information.
If you have not passed a module at the first attempt you will be eligible for re-assessment. See your Module Handbook for details of the relevant re-assessment process (e.g., whether it is coursework, an examination, a presentation or other form of assessment/when it will take place/what the deadline is). You will be advised via Results Online of your options for re-assessment. You are advised to contact your Course Director, Course Administrator or Academic Advisor for any necessary clarification.
Details about our Appeals process can be found on the appeals web page.
Academic integrity means intellectual honesty and is part of good academic practice. Further information can be found on our academic integrity web page.
Teaching & Learning
Each week students will normally receive a programme of lectures covering the core areas of teaching for the week followed by tutorials/ practical studio and/or lab-based session(s). These are supplemented with a programme of guest speakers and industry-led seminars. This structure is preferred within such a vocational award where students are learning specialised skills for a specific career. This award is a hands-on subject area where theory alone would be unlikely to allow a student to achieve successful employment in broadcasting. Practical exercises allow for students to implement their theoretical learning and see how it relates to tutors and guest lecturers experience of industry. Integrated assignments drive the learning in this award. Students engage in formative discussion on their practical creative assignments and ask for the knowledge they wish to develop, to be able to complete the assignments.
Assessment is seen as an integral part of the teaching process across the award with each assessment point providing clear indicators (via feedback) on how student performance can improve. In this way, the course provides a clear, robust framework for assessment which will enhance the learning process.
The use of a group project at level 5 allows students to develop communicative skills with their peers. This will include peer assessment and where possible mixing with another cultures/a global outlook. Individuals often work with peers they may not have originally chosen to work with. Roles are allocated following interview presentations on the quality of interview/presentation.
The end of level 5 allows for work placement opportunities, either through a sandwich year or through shorter periods of work-based learning. The sandwich year will normally be 30-48 weeks in duration.
Level 6 assessments can be understood to be part of a year-long process. Assessment points allow students to choose a main context specialism, while maintaining a broad expertise across the year.
The overall scheme of assessment from level 4, through level 5 to level 6 is designed in such a way as to maximise the opportunity for progression. This approach provides a strong context for learning. In addition, the student role in assessment is more likely to be participatory especially by level 6. Students are encouraged to develop their own goals in consultation with tutors at level 6 and this allows them to aspire to high quality, professional and personalised levels of attainment.
Level 4 Core Modules
Level 4 |
|
|
|
Semester 1 | Core (Y/N) | Semester 2 | Core (Y/N) |
Academic and Broadcast Research Skills (20 credits) | y | Television Production (40 credits) | Y |
Camera and Audio Technologies (20 credits) | Y | Podcasting (20 credits) | Y |
Broadcast Graphics (20 credits) | Y |
|
|
Level 5 Core Modules
Level 5 |
|
|
|
Semester 1 | Core (Y/N) | Semester 2 | Core (Y/N) |
Broadcast Animation (20 credits) | Y | Documentary Production (40 credits) | Y |
Broadcast Post-Production (20 credits) | Y | Broadcast Live (20 credits) | Y |
Broadcast Writing (20 credits) | Y |
|
|
Level 6 Core Modules
Level 6 | |||
Semester 1 | Core (Y/N) | Semester 2 | Core (Y/N) |
Production Project (40 credits)
| Y | ||
Advanced Graphics for Broadcast (20 credits) | N | Outside Broadcast (20 credits) | Y |
Advanced Radio & Podcasting (20 credits) | N | Business & Enterprise in Media (20 credits | Y |
Creative Technology in Education (20 credits) | N |
|
|
Portraiture, Representation & Identity (20 credits) | N |
|
|
Experiments in Video (20 credits) | N | ||
Broadcast Industry Practice (20 credits) | N | ||
Data Visualisation for Journalists (20 credits) | N |
Overall Workload | Level 4 | Level 5 | Level 6 |
Teaching, Learning and Assessment | 336 hours | 252 hours | 252 hours |
Independent Study | 864 hours | 948 hours | 948 hours |
Placement | - | - | - |
Details of School academic staff can be found on the Leeds School of Arts Website.
Attendance & Absence
The University expects you to attend and contribute fully to all mandatory sessions on your timetable as set out in your student contract. Engagement in your lectures, seminars and practicals is an important part of your learning - contributing both to the University community and the learning experience of your fellow students on the course. This includes engagement in scheduled virtual learning and activities and meetings in online environments related to your studies.
We monitor your engagement at the University as regular attendance and academic achievement are closely linked. Moreover, by monitoring your engagement and attendance we can identify students who may need our guidance or support at an early stage to help them progress in their studies. This is part of our commitment to ensuring an excellent education and experience and supporting your success at Leeds Beckett.
The University does understand that from time to time there is good reason why you cannot attend a class, and in this instance you must contact your School office to let them know. This may then be recorded as an 'authorised absence'.
Please note that any attendance reports can be shared with you and your Course team. You might be asked to contact your School office so that appropriate academic or pastoral support can be offered, should your attendance record give cause for concern.
Our most important aim is to support your studies, but we are also required to report attendance to various external bodies such as the Student Loan Company and the Home Office. There are measures in place for students who seek to falsely register either their own or fellow students' attendance.
Our Academic Engagement Policy is available under 'Student Contract' on the Student Regulations web page.
Please note that if your course carries professional accreditation or recognition, there may be additional course-specific attendance requirements detailed elsewhere in this handbook.
You must notify your Course Administrator if you are absent (for example for an interview, emergency unforeseen circumstances, or for compassionate leave). If you are going to apply for mitigation you will need to provide written evidence of the reason for your absence.
Please note that if your course carries professional accreditation or recognition, there may be additional course-specific absence reporting requirements detailed elsewhere in this handbook.
If you are unable to study due to Covid-19 (coronavirus) symptoms, please see the guidance available on our Covid-19 web page.
If you are unable to study because of another illness for more than 14 consecutive days (including weekends), you must provide us with a Fit Note.
You can send a digital copy of your Fit Note to your Course Administrator, and then send the original by post.
If you are absent through illness on the day of an examination or assignment deadline and you intend to apply for mitigation, you must also provide us with details as possible. Your submission for mitigation may be made online and the circumstances surrounding it may be self-certified unless your period of absence is prolonged. Generally, all absences of 2 weeks or more will require the submission of verifiable documentary evidence.
For more information on 'fit to sit' and mitigation please visit our Mitigation web page.
Please note that if your course carries professional accreditation or recognition, there may be additional course-specific absence reporting requirements detailed elsewhere in this handbook.
Any Leeds Beckett student who suspects they may have, or have been diagnosed as having a serious infectious disease such as coronavirus, Mumps, TB, measles, meningitis or chicken pox should not attend campus. For notifiable diseases, students should notify their Course Director or Course Administrator as soon as possible giving information regarding which groups of students (and/or colleagues and clients on placements) you have been in contact with and when. For some diseases, such as TB and meningitis, your doctor and our Student Wellbeing Team have a responsibility to notify the West Yorkshire Public Health Protection Team who may also wish to speak to you (or your family) to determine if others require screening or medication. You should follow advice given by the hospital or your GP about when it is safe to return to University. Further information is available on the Student Wellbeing web page.
For guidance on what to do if you have symptoms of Covid-19 (coronavirus), please visit our Covid-19 web page.
If you are thinking about changing course or withdrawing from your course, further information can be found on our Student web pages.
International Students
Please be aware that our University fully complies with United Kingdom Visas and Immigration (UKVI) policy at all times. There are legal reporting requirements for all students in the UK on a Student visa, and full attendance is mandatory for all students who have a Student visa. Failure to meet UKVI attendance and engagement requirements could lead to your academic sponsorship being withdrawn and your visa being revoked.Students who hold a Student visa need to be aware of their responsibilities whilst in the UK, please see www.ukcisa.org.uk or our Student Immigration Advice and Compliance web page for full information.
For up-to-date information about visas, immigration issues and other matters relating to international students, please visit the International Students' web pages on the Students website or email the Student Immigration Advice and Compliance Team on siac@leedsbeckett.ac.uk.
You should have been enrolled on the International Student's Academic Introduction module in MyBeckett when you began your studies - if you missed this you can self-enrol and explore the content which introduces you to making the academic transition to a UK university. Please refer to Library page supporting international students
Professional Accreditation or Recognition Associated with the Course
Sandwich Placement Information
Leeds Beckett is dedicated to improving the employability of our students and one of the ways in which we do this is to support our students to gain valuable work experience through work based placements. Our placement teams have developed strong links with companies, many of whom repeatedly recruit our students into excellent placement roles. Our teams are dedicated to supporting students through every stage of the placement process. For further information, contact our placement teams via our Placement Information web page.
Min 30 weeks, undertaken between year 2 and year 3 (level 5 and Level 6) undertaken with an employer. There may also be the opportunity for students to engage in a CEPS (Creative Entrepreneur Placement Scheme) or similar 'Freelance' placement during the same period by negotiation with the Course Team, though this can only be via prior negotiation/approval.
Students are responsible for obtaining their own placement, with assistance from the University. The locations will vary, dependant on the opportunity.
'In Year' Work Placement Information
There is not at present a formal 'work placement' programme on the Broadcast Media Technologies award but at all levels students are encouraged to take up volunteer and paid work placements outside their coursework and this experience can be fed into some modules to gain academic credit. Tutors find and alert students to opportunities wherever possible and students are encouraged to find their own clients and opportunities in addition to this work found/sourced by tutors.
No formal length or activity is required at L4 or L5 outside of assessed activity. All practical work experience in the field of Broadcast Media Technologies is supported, wherever possible.
At L6/third year, students on the Broadcast Industry Practice elective module (when running) are expected to work shadow an industry professional but the time this may take is flexible and can be agreed individually between tutors, student and the media professional/company involved. All students will have the opportunity to work with outside clients/employers as part of the core module Business & Enterprise in Medias at L6.
Students should discuss any specialist requirements of any work placement with their employer and can call upon the Course Director for consultation about any aspect of work placement/experience, if required
Skills, Employability & Graduate Opportunities
The course is designed to produce versatile graduates who have the theoretical understanding and practical, hands-on experience in all elements of technical and creative audio and video production from ideas development, through pitching and pre-production, production and post-production special effects.
Graduates should understand industry practice in the UK and be able to apply their skills professionally. For example, as a BMT graduate, you should have the skills to:
- Research
- Shoot
- Edit
- Produce title sequences
- Design motion graphics
- Work on location
- Work in studio
- Start a production company/work as a freelance technician
- Work as a freelance broadcast technician in independent production
- Understand the content and technical requirements to go into web broadcasting.
You will have opportunities to gain recognition during your time at Leeds Beckett University for the extra activities you do in addition to your studies, including volunteering, student societies, playing in our University sports teams and being a Course Representative.
By joining a society with Leeds Beckett Students' Union, you can make new friends, have fun, try something new and enhance your CV - societies provide a great opportunity to learn new skills and improve your existing ones. It can be difficult to get to know new people at university but don't worry, everyone is in the same boat! Our Leeds Beckett Students' Union believe that joining a student-led society is the best way to meet new people and make lifelong friends. There are so many societies out there - from course-based to hobby-based to religious to political and campaigning. Whether you're just starting out at Leeds Beckett or working on your last year of study, it is never too late to find the right society for you - or start one yourself!
Course-based societies are a great way to meet people on your course, expand your networks and celebrate your achievements together such as end of year Society Balls. If you have a great idea for a society, we can help you get it up and running. There are resources and support available for all societies - including funding to help make your society goals a reality. For more information on starting your own society, visit: leedsbeckettsu.co.uk/societies/create.
There are three Graduate Attributes for Leeds Beckett University and these are tailored to suit your course. The three attributes you should achieve by the end of the course are for you to be digitally literate, have a global outlook and for you to be enterprising. Learning about these attributes and being assessed on them as part of your modules will provide you with capabilities which are essential for your future career and wider life as you move on from your studies here. You will be formally assessed on all the attributes in some of your modules at each academic level in each year of your course. For more information on graduate attributes please visit https://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/student-information/academic-skills-and-advice/graduate-attributes/. Information on your assessment is included in your Module Handbooks.
Enterprise
To be enterprising as a personal trait is something that is expected from all students throughout the journey through levels 4-6. Creative thinking and a social, economic and political awareness is a necessary skill for those interested in a career in the Broadcast Media Technologies industries.
Students will develop confidence by pitching, presenting, collaborating and researching; these skill areas are all embedded deeply into the course. Students will develop production management, networking and business skills to further enable enterprising behaviour as undergraduates and once they are graduates.
Students will be specifically supported in the development of these skills in order to prepare themselves for the various assessments that require students to be entrepreneurial in preparation for the outside world. Students are encouraged to find outside clients for briefs at all levels and to incorporate their voluntary/external professional work into portfolio modules at L6 to further embed the value of enterprise into the award.
Digital Literacy
Graduates of the course display a high level of Digital literacy. They have strong general ICT skills including in management of data and communication and their work within the field of Broadcast Media Technologies is entirely digital technology-based and designed to exploit the creative potential of the high-end industry standard hardware and software.
From day one, guided by staff, students will be exposed to various high-end software packages that allow them to exploit its creative potential in the solution for a problem; and in also identifying its limitations. As the student progresses, they will be expected to show a growing level of independence in this area. It is also important for students to leave the course with evidence that they are digitally literate so it is appropriate that they retain the relevant assessments to evidence this. (digital portfolios, showreel, etc.)
Global Outlook
The course engages students with Broadcast Media in its social, historical, cultural and political contexts thus encouraging students to consider contemporary global issues and to further research areas such as diversity and ethics as well as variance in media content and production style across the world: taking an online approach to the delivery of creative products; actively seeking development critique and feedback on a global platform and marketing them via an online presence.
All activities on the course are designed to embed solid professional practice and skills that will enhance your employability. Assessment and feedback practice mirror industry and students will be encouraged to engage in extra-curricular and assessed activities that will promote their skills and understanding of media employability and best practice in the UK media workplace.
For those who wish to further their education through postgraduate study the course will provide a solid foundation on which graduates may continue to study. Previous graduates have gone on to Masters study in film and TV around the UK or studied for the Creative Technologies MSc here at Leeds Beckett. Other postgraduate study (MRes, PhD etc) would also be appropriate.
Most students go on direct into the graduate workplace and students have worked for major broadcasters (BBC, ITV, Sky), for Independent Production Companies, Corporate A/V and streaming providers and non-broadcast media producers, as well as working in Radio, Games production and across the creative industries.
Learning Support
If you have a question or a problem relating to your course, your Course Administrator is there to help you. Course Administrators work closely with academic staff and can make referrals to teaching staff or to specialist professional services as appropriate. They can give you a confirmation of attendance letter, and a transcript. You may also like to contact your Course Rep or the Students' Union Advice team for additional support with course-related questions.
Your Academic Advisor will be an academic member of staff who teaches you on your course. Your Course Director will make sure that you are given the contact details of your Academic Advisor at the beginning of each year, usually in your course induction. Further details on the role of your Academic Advisor are available on the Academic Advisor web page.
If you need support, but you're not sure where to go, your Student Advice Team are here to help. The team are an essential part of your Student Support Network and are dedicated to ensuring you can access the advice and support you need, when you need it most.
Student Advice can also help in the practical elements of university. The team will produce your first campus card and assist you in replacing your campus card if needed throughout your time at Leeds Beckett. They can provide Confirmation of Enrolment and Bank Letters for our current students and full or partial transcripts for our graduates and fully enrolled students.
If you need help with more complex queries or concerns, our trained Student Life Advisers offer 1-1 appointments, providing a safe, confidential, and non-judgemental space to talk about your circumstances and identify support that you can access both within and outside of the university.
To contact the team, or to arrange an appointment, visit The Student Advice webpage for full details.
The Student Voice & Insight team at LBSU works alongside the elected Academic Experience Officer to effectively represent students' academic interests.
We provide support, training and ongoing development to over 1,000 Course Representatives, Postgraduate Research Reps, Student Community Leaders and Global Majority Student Ambassadors who represent you whilst you study at Leeds Beckett; and facilitate the collection of student feedback on your academic experience.
Unsure who your Course Rep is? Maybe you're interested in becoming a Course Rep or have feedback about your academic experience? Get in touch at:
- Email: studentvoice@leedsbeckett.ac.uk
- Telephone: 0113 812 8400
- Website: leedsbeckettsu.co.uk/your-voice
You can find information and resources online through the Support and Opportunities tabs in MyBeckett. In the Support tab, you can find details of a range of services that provide academic and personal support. These include Student Advice, Library Services, the Students' Union, Student Money, Disability Advice, Student Wellbeing, Student Immigration Advice and Compliance and Accommodation. There is also an A-Z of Support Services, and access to online appointments/registration.
In the Opportunities tab, you can explore the options you have for jobs, work placements, volunteering, and a wide range of other opportunities. For example, you can find out here how to get help with your CV, prepare for an interview, get a part-time job or a voluntary role, take part in an international project, or join societies closer to home.
If you have a disability, long-term physical or mental health condition, or a specific learning difference, we believe this should never be a barrier to studying at our University.
Please get in touch with us as soon as possible so we can ensure everything is in place before your course starts.
What should I do next?
- We will ask you to provide evidence of your disability, usually from a health professional or educational psychologist. Don't worry if you haven't got any, we can support you with this.
- Usually, we will arrange an appointment with your Disability Adviser to discuss any adjustments you might need and support you in applying for Disabled Students' Allowances (DSA).
- We will work with you to ensure any adjustments you need are available so you can fully participate on your course.
Please watch this short video about how the Disability Advice Team can work with you.
Disabled students can also access the Disability Resource Areas in each library and the support provided by the Library Learning Support Officer. More information is available on the Library website.
What is Disabled Students' Allowance (DSA)?
DSA is government funding to help with the cost of any additional support you might need while studying, such as: one-to-one support, specialist equipment (including useful software) and travel. For more information visit our website.
Contact Us:
Email: disabilityadvice@leedsbeckett.ac.uk
Tel: 0113 812 5831
Website: https://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/student-information/disability-advice/
The Library
The Library offers 24/7 support for your studies. You can access thousands of resources via MyBeckett or the Library website which also provides full details of all our services.
Library Academic Support
The Library Academic Support Team can help you develop your academic skills such as critical thinking, academic writing and analysing data, and research skills such as how to find, use and evaluate information for your studies. The team liaises with your lecturers to provide the information resources you need for your subject and to arrange academic skills sessions to support you in your studies.
The team maintains a number of websites and modules to support your learning:
- In your Subject guide, you'll find a variety of information resources which have been selected as a good starting point for research in that area. These are available on the Skills and Subject Support web page or via My Beckett.
- On the Skills for Learning website, you'll find online resources covering topics such as essay writing, research and time management, English Language and academic English plus information to help you reference and avoid plagiarism, alongside details of workshops that are designed to help you succeed in your assessments. The Skills for Learning website can be found on the Library website or via My Beckett.
- LBU Study Smart is a module in MyBeckett which introduces you to the key skills and services you'll need to study successfully at Leeds Beckett. There are also additional modules you can take as you move through your course to help you transition between study levels. The Academic Integrity Tutorial is a module in MyBeckett which introduces you to academic integrity at LBU and will help you develop the skills you need to attain good academic practice, including avoiding plagiarism and academic referencing.
- The Academic Integrity Tutorial is a module in MyBeckett which introduces you to academic integrity at LBU and will help you develop the skills you need to attain good academic practice, including avoiding plagiarism and academic referencing.
Library and Student IT Advice Service
The Library and Student IT Advice Service team can answer your queries on borrowing, finding information, passwords, multi-factor authentication (MFA) ,Office 365, online meetings, saving your work, MyBeckett and more:
- online (including 24/7 chat) via the Contact Us web page
- by phone - 0113 812 1000 (24/7 IT support)
- face-to-face in either of our Libraries, check Library opening times for details of when staff are available
They also have a wide range of short tutorials available on the Library's YouTube channel.
Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi on the University campus is provided by eduroam, a secure wireless network, which also allows you Wi-Fi access if you visit other universities. To connect:
- Select eduroam from available Wi-Fi
- Your login details are:
Username followed by @leedsbeckett: e.g. c1234567@leedsbeckett.ac.uk
Password: your normal university password
*Android Users: Select under Phase 2 Authentication - MS-CHAPv2
Help is available on the Library's Wi-Fi web page.
Microsoft Office 365
You are provided with free access to Office 365 and the latest version of Office can be downloaded from the IT tab in MyBeckett or from office.com. All students who are registered for a qualification at Leeds Beckett University are eligible and you can use the subscription for the duration of your course. For instructions and more information, please see the Office 365 support page.
OneDrive
OneDrive Leeds Beckett is your individual file storage with 1TB of storage space. With OneDrive you can access and share your files across your devices. This is accessible on University PCs and off-campus through Office 365 portal. See the Saving your Work pages on the Library website for more information.
Leeds Beckett RemoteApp
The Leeds Beckett RemoteApp gives you access to a range of specialist software for your course on your personal devices. See the RemoteApp page on the Library website for more information.
Media Equipment - free loans
You can borrow high-end Media Equipment for free. Browse, reserve and collect equipment ranging from GoPros to Remote Presenters from the ground floor of the Shelia Silver and Headingley Libraries. Further information is available on the Media Equipment web page.
University life can have its ups and downs, and occasionally you may find yourself in need of advice. That's where we come in. Here at the SU we have a free advice service that is here just for you, the students at Leeds Beckett University.
The Advice Service at LBSU is a confidential, non-judgmental service run by professional advisers.
The service is independent from the University, so if you are having any problems with your course you can talk confidentially with us - although we do work with the University to find the best solutions, we would only contact them with your permission. We can advise on a range of topics including all aspects of the University Regulations and Procedures, housing issues and finance issues. We can guide you through any processes or procedures.
We're here to help you with any questions or problems you might have while you are studying at Leeds Beckett.
Get more information at www.leedsbeckettsu.co.uk/advice.
Resources
MyBeckett, the portal and virtual learning environment provides:
- access to your modules and timetables;
- your reading lists and email account;
- your personal storage area on our University IT servers;
- information on where to look for academic or personal support (Support tab);
- information on opportunities such as jobs, careers, part-time work, placements and volunteering (Opportunities tab)
- access to Library and student IT advice
Further information and support for using MyBeckett can be found on the MyBeckett Support Pages.
In order to facilitate student choice and accessibility the School adopts the policy of making available specialised software to a wide range of laboratories through the use of facilities such as the virtual learning environment/portal, university wide computing labs and other Information Technical Services (IMTS) resources. This includes Adobe's Creative Suite and should also include the software Cinema 4D, as well as other specialist software.
Computer labs (Mac and PC) are normally open outside timetabled class use and will usually have open access into the evening. The University may retain a Digital Access Fund (TBC) to support students with connectivity/hardware/software issues and details of this will be made available to students as they are known, and students should check whether the Hardship Fund arrangements may also be used to provide them with specialist equipment where necessary.
A wide variety of filming equipment and other hardware to support your course learning activities is available to loan for free from the Helpdesk teams. This equipment can be booked online in advance and loaned for specific time periods on completion of an appropriate risk assessment document.
Go and meet the Learning Officers at the 4th Floor CTS Helpdesk in the LSA Building and ask them about the kit and any questions you have about how to make best use of facilities and equipment for any shoot. They are friendly and will support you.
Student Voice
We are committed to working in partnership with you and the Students' Union to provide you with an inclusive, safe and engaging learning environment which is conducive to study for all our students and our staff. An important element of your time studying with us is your engagement in developing your learning. Your engagement and attendance on your course enables you to further your learning and supports your achievement, course completion and aspirations for the future. There is an expectation that students will attend, engage in their learning and submit on time for assessment. We provide support for you to maximise your time studying with us and to develop your learning, skills and abilities to support you in your chosen career path.
We seek active participation by all our students in the continuous enhancement of our courses and through our monitoring, annual review and enhancement processes. These are formal processes used by our University for assuring the academic standards and quality of your course and its continuous improvement. These processes utilise your feedback, External Examiners' reports, feedback from staff and others, data relating to student outcomes on the course and student surveys to reflect on areas of good practice and areas for further enhancement. We invite all students to participate in a range of opportunities to provide us with feedback on your course and modules. This may include discussions with staff, focus groups, and meetings (e.g. with Course Representatives or with staff) and formalised student surveys e.g. mid module reviews, end of module evaluations and specific course or other surveys such as the Student Barometer, National Student Survey and Graduate Outcomes Survey. We utilise the outcomes of these surveys to benchmark our courses nationally and to inform annual course enhancements.
Informal feedback is also welcome at any time either via your Academic Advisor or module tutor or via your Course Representative. Our partnership with you enables us together to make the most of your learning experience with us and to enhance the quality and reputation of your course. You can find out what actions have been taken in response to your feedback through your Course Representative, the Students' Union, your tutors or through the Library.
Course Representatives (Reps) at undergraduate and postgraduate taught levels are student volunteers who represent you in formal and informal meetings with the University, and follow up on actions that have occurred because of student feedback. You can become a Course Rep, volunteering to represent the views of your peers in order to improve students' academic experience.
In the first few weeks of your time at Leeds Beckett, your Course Director will facilitate an opportunity to appoint Course Reps on your course.
LBSU provides support, training and ongoing development for Course Reps and supports their engagement in enhancement activities throughout the academic year.
Being a Course Rep provides you with an opportunity to enhance your own learning and the development of relevant professional and employability skills alongside your studies. As a Course Rep you would play an important role in:
- Acting as a point of contact and advocate for students on your course and in supporting their active engagement.
- Gathering feedback from students on your course to inform enhancements to the quality of your course and the student experience.
- Facilitating good communication between students and staff on the course.
- Working with the Course Director, members of the course team and the Students' Union to enhance your course.
- Facilitating and engaging in meetings about your course; and
- Being an ambassador for your course.
Further information about being a Course Representative is available at:
We invite all students to participate in a range of opportunities to provide us with feedback on your course and modules. This may include discussions with staff, focus groups, and meetings (e.g. with Course Representatives or with staff) and formalised student surveys e.g. mid module reviews, end of module evaluations and specific course or other surveys such as the Student Barometer, National Student Survey and the Graduate Outcomes Survey.
We are committed to providing a high quality experience for all our students. We welcome comments and compliments from students, and find them valuable for on-going improvements to our provision. Comments and compliments about your course can be raised with your Course Representative or directly with your Course Director or Academic Advisor.
If you have a specific complaint about an act or omission of our University, you may be able to make a complaint under the Student Complaints Procedure. In the first instance, you should raise the matter as soon as possible with the member of staff most directly concerned, or with the person who can best resolve it. If this does not resolve the matter, or if the complaint is too serious to be addressed in this way, then you should make a formal complaint in writing. Information about how to make a complaint, including the student complaints procedure and a complaints form, is available on the Students web pages.
General Information
Certificate of Higher Education in Broadcast Media Technologies
Diploma of Higher Education in Broadcast Media Technologies
Bachelor of Science in Broadcast Media Technologies
Leeds Beckett University
Course fees and additional course costs are confirmed in your offer letter. Course fees are presented to you annually through the online enrolment process. Please visit our Course and Tuition Fees Payment web pages for further information. Ongoing queries relating to additional course costs may be discussed with your Course Administrator.
Alternatively, you can contact any of the following teams:
For Student Finance related fee queries: studentfunding@leedsbeckett.ac.uk
Other fee related queries: fees@leedsbeckett.ac.uk
Payments: incomes@leedsbeckett.ac.uk
Policies, Standards & Regulations
Key University regulations and policies can be accessed on the following web pages:
- Academic Regulations (including assessment regulations) are available on our Academic Regulations web page
- The Student Contract is available on our Student Regulations web page
- The Student Charter is available on our Academic Regulations web page (Section 20)
Other Student regulations and University policies, including Safety, Health and Wellbeing policies, are available on our Student Regulations web page
You should also familiarise yourself with Support Report Respect where students and colleagues who are victims of any form of bullying, harassment or sexual misconduct, can access support, advice and guidance.
For advice on University regulations and policies, students should contact the Students' Union Advice Service.
There are no additional or non-standard regulations which relate to your course
The External Examiner assures that you are assessed fairly in relation to other students on the same course and also that the standard of your own award is comparable to similar courses taken by students in other higher education institutions within the UK. The External Examiner(s) provide an annual report for your course. External Examiner reports are available on our External Examiner Reports web page, which is accessible via the Course Information link on the Students home page.
The details of the External Examiner for this course are as follows:
- Mr Wez Nolan
- Senior Lecturer
- Liverpool John Moore's University
Appendices
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