Leeds Beckett University - City Campus,
Woodhouse Lane,
LS1 3HE
Undergraduate BA (Hons)
Journalism
Report on world-changing events as they unfold on TV, radio, print or online with a career in journalism.
Course Overview
-
P500 -
L27 -
City Campus -
Full-Time -
3 Years -
19 Sep 2022
This professionally accredited course will develop the skills you’ll need for a rewarding career in this dynamic, growing sector.
As part of your course you’ll:
- Gain newsgathering skills and experience in modern journalism
- Understand the practice and principles of contemporary journalism including fairness and accuracy
- Create multimedia news content for print, digital and broadcast platforms
- Have access to purpose-built facilities including computer suites, TV and radio studios, and a dedicated newsroom
You'll have the opportunity to use our facilities to create multimedia news content for print, digital and broadcast platforms by combining the best of the past with an eye on the future.
Industry links
Gaining experience will be an important part of your course. Placement opportunities will give you the chance to encounter real-life journalism. We have links that can help you find work in organisations such as the BBC, Sky Sports and with a variety of local and national media companies. Our students have completed placements with The Independent, The One Show, local radio and newspapers.
Professional accreditation
This course is also accredited by the Professional Publishers Association, equipping you with the theoretical and practical skills to hit the ground after graduating
Guest lecture series
You will have access to the guest lecture programme. Past speakers include the CEO of the London Stock Exchange, Shadow Chief Secretary to the Treasury, past Chair and President of the Academy of Marketing, Chief Executive of the British Bankers Association, the Chief Economist of Yorkshire Bank and the Editor of Cosmopolitan. To view and register for any upcoming guest lectures, visit our university events webpage.
Why study Journalism at Leeds Beckett University...
- Professionally accredited
- 100% of BA (Hons) Journalism students said they were able to apply what they learnt*
- Study and work in a city with a fast-rising reputation as a media hub
- Specialist facilities to create multimedia news content
- Open the doors to working in a practical environment at the BBC, Sky Sports and a variety of local and national media companies
- Take in unique insights from leaders from across the business world in Leeds Business School's guest lecture series
* National Student Survey 2021
BA (Hons) Journalism | Student view Student Katie talks about her experience at Leeds Beckett University.
Everything you need to know
Discover all there is to know about the course, from entry requirements and fees to exploring the school you’ll be joining - we’ve got it covered.
Entry requirements
112
points required
If you're applying via UCAS, find out more about how your qualifications fit into the UCAS tariff.
We have now welcomed students from over 140 countries across the globe. If you are interested in studying with us you can find your country and get all the information you'll need about entry requirements and how to apply.
Entry requirements
112
points required
UCAS Tariff Points: 112 points required.
(Minimum 72 from two A Levels or equivalent, excluding General Studies).
If you're applying via UCAS, find out more about how your qualifications fit into the UCAS tariff.
GCSEs:
GCSE English Language Grade B or above and GCSE Maths Grade C or above (Grade 6 and Grade 4 respectively, for those sitting their GCSE from 2017 onwards) or equivalent. Key Skills/Functional Skills Level 3 are accepted in place of GCSE Grade B English Language. Key Skills/Functional Skills Level 2 and the Certificate in Adult Numeracy are accepted in place of GCSE Grade C Maths.Access to HE Diploma:
Pass overall with a minimum of 112 UCAS tariff points.Scottish Awards:
Minimum of 5 subjects at Grade B at Higher Level.Irish Leaving Certificate:
Minimum of 5 subjects at Grade C1 or above at Higher Level of which at least 3 must be at B2.Selection Criteria
We may use selection criteria based on your personal attributes; experience and/or commitment to the area of study. This information will be derived from your personal statement and reference and will only be used if you have met the general entry requirements.
Personal Statement & Artefact:
We will also be looking at students who demonstrate an active engagement in journalism in their UCAS statements and we are likely to require the submission of an artefact.International baccalaureate
25 Points
IELTS
IELTS 6.5 with no skills below 5.5, or an equivalent qualification. The University provides excellent support for any applicant who may be required to undertake additional English language courses.
Our commitment to help every student succeed:
Leeds Beckett University is committed to ensuring that every student with the potential to succeed at our University is able to do so regardless of their background. For this reason we operate a contextual admissions policy, which means we take into account a range of additional factors when we assess a student’s application. Applicants who meet at least one of our contextual admissions criteria will be offered a place on this course with lower (predicted or achieved) UCAS Tariff Points than our published tariff (above).
Our contextual admissions criteria are:
- Home postcode is in an area where few people go to University (POLAR4 quintile 1 or 2 area. This can be checked on the Office for Students website)
- Declared disability on the UCAS application form (or direct application for part time applicants)
- Over the age of 21 on the 1st of September before the course starts
- Declared as a care leaver on the UCAS application form (or direct application for part time applicants)
Our place as an Anchor Institution:
Leeds Beckett University is in the top 10 universities nationwide for being representative of our local community. To further strengthen our position as a key provider of education and training for West Yorkshire we apply an Anchor Institution Policy in our admissions process. Students who apply to us from any of the five Local Authority areas in West Yorkshire (BD, HD, HX, LS, WF) will be offered a place on this course with lower (predicted or achieved) UCAS Tariff Points.
Mature applicants:
Our university welcomes applications from mature applicants who demonstrate academic potential. All students will be considered through the contextual admissions policy described above. If you do not meet the requirements through the contextual admissions policy, we may still be able to make you an offer if you have recent relevant work experience through our ‘Recognition of Prior Learning’ policy. Please ensure that you list both your qualifications and any relevant work experience in your application so that we can consider you under both schemes where applicable..
All applicants should meet our standard entry requirements of GCSE grade C in English language and, where specified, Maths. Alternative qualifications such as functional skills are accepted in lieu of GCSEs for most courses.
We have now welcomed students from over 140 countries across the globe. If you are interested in studying with us you can find your country and get all the information you'll need about entry requirements and how to apply.
If you're applying via UCAS, find out more about how your qualifications fit into the UCAS tariff.
Selection Criteria
We may use selection criteria based on your personal attributes; experience and/or commitment to the area of study. This information will be derived from your personal statement and reference and will only be used if you have met the general entry requirements.
Personal Statement & Artefact:
We will also be looking at students who demonstrate an active engagement in journalism in their UCAS statements and we are likely to require the submission of an artefact.International baccalaureate
25 Points
IELTS
IELTS 6.5 with no skills below 5.5, or an equivalent qualification. The University provides excellent support for any applicant who may be required to undertake additional English language courses.
Additional entry requirements:
Verify your qualifications
If you are an international student, we can help you to compare and verify your qualifications. Please contact our International Office on +44 (0)113 812 1111 09.00 to 17.00 Mon-Thurs / 09.00 to 16.30 Fri GMT or email internationaloffice@leedsbeckett.ac.uk.Need to improve your English Language skills?
Don't worry if you don't have the level of English required for your chosen course. We offer a wide range of courses which have been designed to help you to improve your qualifications and English language ability, most of which are accredited by the British Council. Check your English and find out more about our English courses.More questions?
No matter what your questions, we are here to answer them, visit our International website to get more information and find out about our online open days.Independent study is a crucial part of learning at university and you will be required to undertake many hours of self-directed research and reading, and preparation and writing of assessments. Your course is delivered through a number of modules, which will help you to plan your time and establish a study routine. Outside of your lectures, workshops and tutorials, a range of support is available to assist with your independent study. Our subject-specific librarians will be on hand to direct you to the specialist learning and study-skill resources. You’ll also be assigned an academic advisor to give you tailored feedback and support.
Our silver status in the latest Teaching Excellence Framework, reflects our commitment to deliver high-quality teaching, learning and outcomes for our students.
Teaching & Learning
The tabs below detail what and how you will study in each year of your course. The balance of assessments and overall workload will be informed by your core modules and the option modules you choose to study – the information provided is an indication of what you can expect and may be subject to change. The option modules listed are also an indication of what will be available to you. Their availability is subject to demand and you will be advised which option modules you can choose at the beginning of each year of study.
What you'll learn
Study the historical, cultural and social contexts of journalism while focusing on practical, hands-on tasks that will enable you to become proficient journalistic writer.
Gain the foundation knowledge required for journalists and media practitioners to understand their rights and responsibilities in relation to the public. You will examine the legal and regulatory systems which govern the print and broadcast media in England.
Explore essential themes in news production and journalism focusing on three central areas: industry, text and audience. You will examine concepts such as the public sphere, ethics, audience reception models, media effects, culture, professionalism, blogging and citizen journalism.
Study the the history of journalism. You will explore topics including how and why newspapers were first produced, the emergence of the professional reporter, the forces propelling the growth of news media and the origins and development of broadcast news.
Develop essential journalism skills in areas including court reporting, shorthand, voice work and presentations.
Learn the journalism skills you will need for radio and TV production including technical, studio and newsgathering.
Begin to study the journalism production, research and dissemination techniques used in online and digital contexts.
What you'll learn
Develop the knowledge of current affairs required by professional journalists. You will look systems of public administration at central and local level in the UK, within the EU and at a global level. Your studies will include looking at the institutions, agencies and organisations at each level of government. You will put your knowledge into practice in a portfolio of journalistic work.
Learn essential skills in council reporting, shorthand, voice work and presentations.
This module explores the rapidly changing circumstances and environment of global media. You will look at the rise of network and digital technologies and how they impact on more traditional forms of media and provide critical awareness of changes in the production of the media. You will complete a practical element that will enable you to put your studies into practice.
You will build on the knowledge you acquired in the Introduction to Media Law module to develop the professional knowledge required for journalists and media practitioners to understand their rights and responsibilities in relation to their work in the public domain. You will examine the legal and regulatory systems which govern the broadcast and print media in England in relation to confidentiality, privacy, journalistic sources, data protection and copyright.
This practical module will encourage you to build on the skills you learned in the Reporting 1 module. You will learn how to source material to produce features, conduct in-depth interviews and write in a detailed, descriptive manner with specific publications in mind.
Examine the role of journalism in the development and advancement of democracy from a number of theoretical, historical and ethical perspectives. You will develop an understanding of how democracy is formed, the role of the media in policing its development and how it might be undermined.
Build on the digital newsgathering and production skills developed in the Digital Publishing module. You will create content in a newsroom environment during a series of production newsdays and workshops will help introduce you to contemporary techniques in data, newsgathering and distribution.
Refresh and build upon your knowledge and skills in radio and television reporting. You will have the opportunity to take part in industry-style broadcast radio, TV and live streaming newsdays.
What you'll learn
Learn the practical skills required for magazine production including layout, aesthetics and design, flow, flat planning and content optimisation. Your tools will be digital, though the product you produce will be a magazine suitable for both print and digital contexts.
Pull together the skills you developed in the Reporting, Digital Publishing and Writing Features modules by producing a business magazine serving the region. You will gain professional experience that will enhance your employment prospects while you gain new perspectives on the publishing process and business scene.
If you choose to research and write a dissertation, you'll produce a major piece of independent research. If you choose to complete the project, you'll create a long-form piece of journalism for TV, radio, print or online equivalent to a dissertation.
Focus on your employability in preparation for the world of work. You will look at how to increase your attractiveness to employers through voice training and delivering professional-level presentations.
Develop the skills you will need for the real working environment of a multimedia journalist, including the need to work on the move, in the newsroom and in media studios.
Option modules may include
Learn to apply the traditional and digital techniques and skills you have acquired in the earlier levels of the course to the specialist area of fashion journalism.
Examine a range of theoretical approaches to the critical study of celebrity and its relation to media products. You'll focus on celebrity as a cultural fabrication and on mass media representation as one of the key principles in the formation of celebrity culture.
Study digital camera techniques through the process of researching and developing a substantial piece of photographic journalism. A series of photographic assignments will enable you to acquire technical and practical skills in digital photography and combine them with digital publishing and journalism skills.
Develop your understanding of key concepts in political thought in terms of how the role of the media impacts on and is impacted by government and business environments. In particular, you will examine the way public relations experts operate in a challenging international arena.
Through a mix of theory and practice, you will explore the relationship between sport and the media, and the role of the sports journalist. You will develop the skills of sports reporting across different media but will also examine the professional, ethical, cultural, sociological and financial background of the modern world of sport.
Fees & Funding
The tuition fees for the 2022/23 academic year are not yet confirmed.
The tuition fees for the 2022/23 academic year are not yet confirmed.
Fees & Funding
The tuition fees for the 2022/23 academic year are not yet confirmed.Professional body subscription fees - For courses with professional body subscriptions, you will need to pay any necessary fees directly to the professional body.
Additional course costs
Tuition Fees
Your tuition fees cover the cost of registration, tuition, academic supervision, assessments and examinations.
The following are also included in the cost of your course:
- 24/7 Library and student IT support
- Free wifi via eduroam
- Skills workshops and resources
- Library membership, giving access to more than 500,000 printed, multimedia and digital resources
- Access to software, including five free copies of Microsoft Office 365 to install on your PC,laptop and MAC, and access to free high-end software via the Leeds Beckett remote app
- Loan of high-end media equipment to support your studies
Other study-related expenses to consider: materials that you will need to complete your course such as books (whilst the library provides access to readings recommended for your modules, you may wish to purchase your own copies of some books); you can also make suggestions for books to be added to Library stock; placement costs (these may include travel expenses and living costs); student visas (international students only); printing, photocopying and stationery (you may need to pay for multiple copies of your dissertation or final project to be printed and bound); events associated with your course such as field trips; study abroad opportunities (travel costs and accommodation, visas and immunisations). Other costs could include academic conferences (travel costs) and professional-body membership (where applicable). The costs you will need to cover for graduation will include gown hire and guest tickets, and optional extras such as professional photography.
As well as your mobile phone, you will also need access to a desktop computer and/or laptop to complete assignments and access university online services such as MyBeckett, your virtual learning environment. You can book and borrow AV equipment through the media equipment service accessed online via the student hub and located in the library at each campus. Equipment includes: 360 Cameras, iPads, GoPros, MacBooks, portable data projectors, portable projection screens, flipchart stands, remote presenters, digital cameras and camcorders, SLR cameras, speakers, microphones, headphones, headsets, tripods, digital audio recorders and PC/laptops (a laptop loans service is provided on campus in the library on both campuses). Student laptops are also available from the laptop lockers located in the libraries.
This list is not exhaustive, costs are approximate and will vary depending on the choices you make during your course. Any rental, travel or living costs are also in addition to your course fees. If you choose to study via distance learning, you may not be able to access all of the facilities listed if you are not able to visit us on campus.
Additional information
For further information on financing your studies or information about whether you may qualify for one of our bursaries and scholarships, follow the links below:
The tuition fees for the 2022/23 academic year are not yet confirmed.Professional body subscription fees - For courses with professional body subscriptions, you will need to pay any necessary fees directly to the professional body.
Additional course costs
Tuition Fees
Your tuition fees cover the cost of registration, tuition, academic supervision, assessments and examinations.
The following are also included in the cost of your course:
- 24/7 Library and student IT support
- Free wifi via eduroam
- Skills workshops and resources
- Library membership, giving access to more than 500,000 printed, multimedia and digital resources
- Access to software, including five free copies of Microsoft Office 365 to install on your PC,laptop and MAC, and access to free high-end software via the Leeds Beckett remote app
- Loan of high-end media equipment to support your studies
In many cases, costs associated with your course will be included in your course fee. However, in some cases there are ‘essential’ additional costs (those that you will be required to meet in addition to your course fee), and/or ‘optional’ additional costs (costs that are not required, but that you might choose to pay). We have included those essential or optional additional costs that relate to your course, below.
Other study-related expenses to consider: materials that you will need to complete your course such as books (whilst the library provides access to readings recommended for your modules, you may wish to purchase your own copies of some books); you can also make suggestions for books to be added to Library stock; placement costs (these may include travel expenses and living costs); student visas (international students only); printing, photocopying and stationery (you may need to pay for multiple copies of your dissertation or final project to be printed and bound); events associated with your course such as field trips; study abroad opportunities (travel costs and accommodation, visas and immunisations). Other costs could include academic conferences (travel costs) and professional-body membership (where applicable). The costs you will need to cover for graduation will include gown hire and guest tickets, and optional extras such as professional photography.
As well as your mobile phone, you will also need access to a desktop computer and/or laptop to complete assignments and access university online services such as MyBeckett, your virtual learning environment. You can book and borrow AV equipment through the media equipment service accessed online via the student hub and located in the library at each campus. Equipment includes: 360 Cameras, iPads, GoPros, MacBooks, portable data projectors, portable projection screens, flipchart stands, remote presenters, digital cameras and camcorders, SLR cameras, speakers, microphones, headphones, headsets, tripods, digital audio recorders and PC/laptops (a laptop loans service is provided on campus in the library on both campuses). Student laptops are also available from the laptop lockers located in the libraries.
This list is not exhaustive, costs are approximate and will vary depending on the choices you make during your course. Any rental, travel or living costs are also in addition to your course fees. If you choose to study via distance learning, you may not be able to access all of the facilities listed if you are not able to visit us on campus.
Additional information
For further information on financing your studies or information about whether you may qualify for one of our bursaries and scholarships, follow the links below:
100%
of BA (Hons) Journalism students said they were able to apply what they learnt.
Your future in our hands
There’s a lot to consider when choosing a course. Take a look at the team you’ll be working with, employability statistics and career prospects to help make up your mind.
In today's news gathering operations, you need to be able to work both in print and digitally. Having undertaken the news and feature writing modules on my course, I know exactly how to write a feature when I need to and I am just as comfortable when I have to sub-edit some news copy.
Hannah Robinson
Content editor, Hull Daily Mail
Career Prospects
You will be primed with the strong practical and multimedia skills demanded in today’s newsrooms and exciting opportunities in news, digital content creation and digital agencies will be open to you. You will also benefit from our staff’s close links to regional and national broadcasting, print and online media industries. In the past, our students have completed placements with the BBC, ITV, magazines and national newspapers and have gone on to work for media organisations across the world.
- Journalist
- Copywriter
- Researcher
- News Editor
We prepare students in traditional journalism methods, focusing on digital, radio, TV, print and online, from the perspective of a team who have worked in the industry.
Karl Hodge
Course Director
Scholarships and bursaries
We are committed to ensuring that the opportunity to experience an education here at Leeds Beckett University is open to all. If you're thinking of joining us to study for your undergraduate degree, you may be eligible for a scholarship or bursary.
Bursaries are usually awarded depending on household income, whilst scholarships are available for a number of areas, and are based on sporting or academic excellence. For more information visit our scholarships and bursaries page.
Beckett Careers Team
Our Beckett Careers Team will support you with all aspects of your career planning, throughout university and beyond. Whether you’re looking for a part-time job or want to gain experience alongside your studies, need help preparing an application or exploring graduate job options, we can provide expert support every step of the way!
Throughout your university journey and up to five years after you graduate you'll have access to a broad range of support and tools to help you with:
- Getting ready to apply for jobs
- Working on your CV
- Preparing for an interview
- Applying for a graduate vacancies or placements
- Connecting with employers and organisations
Your Beckett experience
At Leeds Beckett your experience is important to us, find out more about what to expect from your time on this course and life at uni.
A day in the life of Molly and Katie | Student vlog Molly and Katie who study Journalism show us what a day is like for them - including their time at university, work experience and more.
Cathy Newman visits Leeds Beckett University Cathy Newman, Channel 4 news presenter, delivered her guest lecture 'Bloody Brilliant Woman', talking about her first book and why she's excited for the move to Leeds.
Experience Leeds Beckett
Our state-of-the-art facilities and learning environments give you everything you need to succeed.
Life in Leeds
Leeds is an exciting and vibrant student city, find out what it has to offer!
Still thinking about your uni choices? Discover Uni has official information to help you decide. They provide statistics for courses taken from national surveys and data collected from universities about their students.
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