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Key details

Award title
MA Journalism
Awarding body
Falmouth University
Level
7
Duration
2 years
Mode of study
Online, part-time
Total MA course fee
£10,900
3 start dates per year
January, May and September
Next welcome week
24 May 2021
Next start date
1 June 2021
Application deadline
10 May 2021

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Apply for MA

Introduction

In a rapidly evolving digital era, models of journalism production and distribution are constantly changing. Today’s journalists need to think radically, learn to adapt and exploit new forms of news media and be fluent with key creative tools used to produce compelling news content in various formats - text, video, photo + LIVE news. 

Throughout this programme you will critically engage with media ‘disruptors’, develop understanding of the changing relationship of journalist and audience and gain insight into the challenges posed by artificial intelligence, big data and ‘churnalism’. You should find yourself tested and asked to aim high as you become equipped to work independently from anywhere in the world.

Taught by leading journalists who are experienced in handling the benefits and challenges of working in an international context, this course gives you the opportunity to cultivate an innovative and entrepreneurial mindset. As you focus on data journalism, social media and impactful storytelling, this programme aims to facilitate innovators grounded in the best journalism standards. 

You will: 

  • Develop your skills as a creative and technically agile non-fiction storyteller in order to work independently as a journalist.
  • Learn how to create compelling news for dissemination across multiple content platforms with global audiences in mind.
  • Discover how to thrive and innovate in the international digital news and communications industries.
  • Exploit social media and data journalism tools, developing a critical understanding of the shifting political, social and industry environments in which journalists must operate around the world.

Why study with us?

This MA is built to promote the critical thinking, innovative storytelling, and forward-mindedness needed to succeed in a rapidly-shifting field.

Whether you’re looking to develop the expertise required to work on real-world projects or a mid-career journalist wanting to take your career to new heights, this course can help you learn how to succeed as a self-employed practitioner or a member of a media organisation.

You will learn to test new ideas, challenge traditional modes of journalism and critically assess the effectiveness of current media disruptors. You will develop an understanding of the processes involved in news journalism and gain the confidence and skills to work on cross-border news projects.

"I’ve found the course really helpful in giving me confidence to start pitching ideas and understanding what the newsroom wants." - Aimee Coelho, MA Journalism student

Read the full interview with Aimee >

Graduates of the MA can go on to work professionally as journalists in their field of expertise – current affairs, politics, climate and environment, sport and entertainment are just a few such areas. Your studies can also help you land other roles that call for similar capabilities, such as content creation, content production, research, editing, communications and PR. 

Careers and employability service

In addition to the guidance offered by our tutors, you can also access our RealWORKS, our careers and employability service throughout your studies, and for up to 5 years following graduation.

Our expert team will help you identify potential opportunities in the UK or internationally, prepare for job interviews, advise you on starting up your own business, and more.

Entry requirements

You should have:

An honours degree or Level 6 equivalent qualification.

If your first language is not English, you'll need to take one of the following tests to verify your proficiency:

  • IELTS - minimum overall score of IELTS 6.5 with at least 6.0 in Reading, Writing, Speaking and Listening
  • TOEFL iBT (online test) - minimum of 88 overall and at least 21 in all 4 components
  • LanguageCert (online test) - a High Pass from the ESOL B2 Communicator test in reading, writing, speaking and listening (2 parts)

We also accept a range of equivalent recognised English language qualifications. Candidates without a degree or formal qualification are still encouraged to apply.

For more information regarding equivalent international qualifications and Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL) please call us on +44 (0)1223 447713 or view our handy guide:

APL guide

Course details

During the course, you will acquire the skills to operate and thrive as a creative and technically agile journalist.

Course structure

MA

You will need to complete four 30-credit modules and one 60-credit project (180 credits in total). All modules on the course are compulsory and must be passed in order to complete the award.

Please note the module orders are subject to change.

Module one

Creative Professional Practice (30 credits)

In this module you will explore key political, regulatory and creative pressures currently affecting journalists to help orientate your practice.

Within this critical context, and drawing on analysis of best practice, you will develop your skills in news-gathering, verification and ideas generation (notably via basic data journalism), using current methods and applications.

Module two

The Mobile Journalist (30 credits)

This module requires you to critically examine the most effective digital news content produced by global news brands and cutting-edge news ‘disruptors’ to inform your own extensive engagement with key digital apps (focusing on advanced data journalism tools) to create compelling news video, audio and LIVE events stories.

You will also engage in critical discourse around the many impacts digital media have had on professional norms, methods and expectations.

Module three

Journalism Innovation and Enterprise (30 credits)

This module will challenge you to generate your own brand and distinctive product, service or platform.

Drawing on scholarship and business analysis, you will critically evaluate examples of innovation – in storytelling formats, production and distribution – across formats.

This will inform your own creative enterprise, supported by mentors, tested through a pitch process and underpinned by study of copyright, data protection and other relevant legal constraints.

Module four

Audiovisual Storytelling (30 credits)

This module focuses on developing your expertise in the content formats used by mobile multimedia journalists.

Individually and in groups, you will shoot and edit video, record and mix audio and combine media with graphics and text, creating our own multimedia toolbox, contextualising your practice through critical reflection.

A legal/regulatory strand focuses on the tension between privacy, defamation and free expression as it impacts practice.

Final major project (MA only)

Final Major Project (60 credits)

Your studies culminate in a major project, in which you will conceive, plan and execute a substantial journalistic artefact or product/service on a platform of your choice, supported by a reflective critical analysis.

You will be encouraged to follow ‘story beats’ you may be developing for future professional practice – this could include climate and environment, international affairs, big data, lifestyle and more.

The output can be journalism or enterprise activity, or a combination of both, guided in conception and development by lecturers and leading industry professionals.

Creative Professional Practice (30 credits)

In this module you will explore key political, regulatory and creative pressures currently affecting journalists to help orientate your practice.

Within this critical context, and drawing on analysis of best practice, you will develop your skills in news-gathering, verification and ideas generation (notably via basic data journalism), using current methods and applications.

The Mobile Journalist (30 credits)

This module requires you to critically examine the most effective digital news content produced by global news brands and cutting-edge news ‘disruptors’ to inform your own extensive engagement with key digital apps (focusing on advanced data journalism tools) to create compelling news video, audio and LIVE events stories.

You will also engage in critical discourse around the many impacts digital media have had on professional norms, methods and expectations.

Journalism Innovation and Enterprise (30 credits)

This module will challenge you to generate your own brand and distinctive product, service or platform.

Drawing on scholarship and business analysis, you will critically evaluate examples of innovation – in storytelling formats, production and distribution – across formats.

This will inform your own creative enterprise, supported by mentors, tested through a pitch process and underpinned by study of copyright, data protection and other relevant legal constraints.

Audiovisual Storytelling (30 credits)

This module focuses on developing your expertise in the content formats used by mobile multimedia journalists.

Individually and in groups, you will shoot and edit video, record and mix audio and combine media with graphics and text, creating our own multimedia toolbox, contextualising your practice through critical reflection.

A legal/regulatory strand focuses on the tension between privacy, defamation and free expression as it impacts practice.

Final Major Project (60 credits)

Your studies culminate in a major project, in which you will conceive, plan and execute a substantial journalistic artefact or product/service on a platform of your choice, supported by a reflective critical analysis.

You will be encouraged to follow ‘story beats’ you may be developing for future professional practice – this could include climate and environment, international affairs, big data, lifestyle and more.

The output can be journalism or enterprise activity, or a combination of both, guided in conception and development by lecturers and leading industry professionals.

How you'll learn

With Falmouth Flexible, you access your course content, interactions with other students and tutors, and learning resources, through Canvas, an easy-to-use online platform.  

You can access the course wherever you are in the world, and you can stop, pause and rewind lectures whenever you want. 

 

Learning activities 

Engaging learning activities will help you apply theory to practice. They could include: 

  • Concise online presentations to introduce key concepts 
  • Small group and class discussions and crits to facilitate interaction and dialogue 
  • Online critiques to test assumptions, ideas and to receive feedback from peers and tutors 
  • Individual and group tutorials throughout the course 
  • Independent study 
  • Self-evaluation and peer feedback. 

 

Assessments

All assessments are taken and submitted online.

Assessment methods for the MA in Journalism can typically include:

• Written assignments (no examinations)

• Portfolios of editorial work, presentations, projects, reflective journals, critical essays, reports and a final project.

 

Student support

Throughout your studies, you’ll be supported by a student advisor. Their job is to answer any non-academic queries you may have, and they can be contacted via email, phone, text or WhatsApp.  

They can show you around the online learning platform, guide you through enrolment, and give advice on managing your work/life balance.  

As a Falmouth student, you enjoy an equal status to students studying on campus: 

  • Your own student ID card 
  • Access to online software tutorials at lynda.com 
  • 24/7 online access to library resources 
  • Students’ Union community. 

Teaching team

 

Designed with compelling news stories, dissemination and learning at the core, our MA Journalism team works with international news organisations, staff and alumni to provide you with the breadth of experience and networks needed to accelerate your career.

"The course tutors, Kate and Yusof, are incredibly supportive and passionate about journalism, which is one of the reasons I signed up for the Master’s course – to be inspired to get myself out there."
Aimee Coelho, MA Journalism student

MA Journalism Guest Speaker Programme

Regular guest speakers provide online students with a unique opportunity to hear from high-profile journalists about their experiences working in the industry and reporting on events around the world.

Previous speakers have included:

  • Theodora Louloudis, Daily Telegraph Podcast Editor and finalist 2020 National Press Awards
  • Sarah Rainsford, a BBC Foreign Correspondent for over 20 years, reporting in Madrid, Istanbul and Havana, as well as two stints as Moscow Correspondent
  • Shira Pinson, a producer, film-maker and editor on a variety of content for NBC News including MSNBC, The Today Show, News Nightly and 11th hour
  • Andrew Harding, a BBC Foreign Correspondent since 1994, working in many conflict zones and covering international events including the Asian tsunami and west Africa's Ebola outbreak

"The best thing (about my job) is being somewhere where history is unfolding in front of you. The privilege of being in Cote d'Ivoire, as a war and a coup ends, and you can see the word spreading through a marketplace around you, and people literally going kind of crazy with delight." - Andrew Harding

Face-to-face events

Up to twice a year, you’ll have the optional opportunity to meet your classmates and tutors in person. Dates and location of the events will vary. Events usually incorporate a weekend to accommodate busy schedules.  

Events are devised by Falmouth Flexible’s academic team to allow exploration of topics related to your course content and offer a wider industry context for your learning.  

They are an exciting opportunity to engage in practical activities and discussions and to hear from academics and industry experts. The aim is to complement your online learning, help you to develop your personal skills and gain further insight into your chosen industry. 

Find out more about face-to-face events on our student experience page.

How to apply

 

Before you apply 

Before you submit your application, please contact one of our course advisors so they can guide you through the process and ensure you submit the best application possible for entry into the course. 

Call us on  +44 (0)1223 447713.

 

Application steps 

  • Submit an online application form
  • Submit a copy of your first degree certificate or Level 6 equivalent qualification and your IELTS certificate if English is not your first language 

Late applications may be considered if places are available. 

For free advice, please contact our friendly and knowledgeable course advisors on +44 (0)1223 447713.


 

Fees, costs & funding

Fees

Total course fee  

£10,900 (including £250 acceptance fee)

 

Payment options  

  • One-off payment 
  • Six equal instalments spread over a two-year period 

 

Payment methods  

Payments can be made online or by phone, using a credit or debit card, or by bank transfer. 

 

Please visit our fees and funding page for more information or call us on +44 (0)1223 447713 to speak to a course advisor.

 

Typical course costs

Required

A laptop, desktop computer or other similar device capable of running Adobe Premiere Pro – the minimum requirements for PC or Mac can be found here.

Adobe Creative Suite software for PC/laptop. Please note that Adobe offers student discounts on this and further offers may be available from Falmouth University.

An external drive is recommended, with a preference for a Solid State Drive (SSD) of a minimum 500Gb capacity.

A Smartphone - any iPhone from series 5 or later or a current Android phone running Android 10.

Desirable

It would also be useful to have access to a steadying gimble for film work and an external interview microphone via an iRig style interface.

If you have any questions on these requirements, please call our course advisor team on +44 (0)1223 447713.  

Funding options

Application offers

We offer a range of bursaries, early application offers, and alumni discounts.

Loans

You may be eligible for funding from the UK Government.

 

Please visit our fees and funding page for more information or call us on +44 (0)1223 447713 to speak to a course advisor.

 

Total course fee  

£10,900 (including £250 acceptance fee)

 

Payment options  

  • One-off payment 
  • Six equal instalments spread over a two-year period 

 

Payment methods  

Payments can be made online or by phone, using a credit or debit card, or by bank transfer. 

 

Please visit our fees and funding page for more information or call us on +44 (0)1223 447713 to speak to a course advisor.

 

Required

A laptop, desktop computer or other similar device capable of running Adobe Premiere Pro – the minimum requirements for PC or Mac can be found here.

Adobe Creative Suite software for PC/laptop. Please note that Adobe offers student discounts on this and further offers may be available from Falmouth University.

An external drive is recommended, with a preference for a Solid State Drive (SSD) of a minimum 500Gb capacity.

A Smartphone - any iPhone from series 5 or later or a current Android phone running Android 10.

Desirable

It would also be useful to have access to a steadying gimble for film work and an external interview microphone via an iRig style interface.

If you have any questions on these requirements, please call our course advisor team on +44 (0)1223 447713.  

Application offers

We offer a range of bursaries, early application offers, and alumni discounts.

Loans

You may be eligible for funding from the UK Government.

 

Please visit our fees and funding page for more information or call us on +44 (0)1223 447713 to speak to a course advisor.

 

Sustaining quality journalism

MA Journalism Podcast 

Want an insight into the type of issues you'll discuss on this course? Course Co-Leader Kate de Pury recorded a special podcast with Tom Kent, former Associated Press Standards Editor and Adjunct Associate Professor, Columbia University, USA. They took an in-depth look at how quality journalism can be sustained, the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on the industry, and the importance of all forms of diversity in the newsroom.

Listen here >

podcast-twitter

 

Falmouth sign
Contact us

If you have any questions about the programme, our experienced course advisors are here to help.

You can call our friendly and knowledgeable team on +44 (0)1223 447713. 

Get In Touch

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