Studying journalism degree guide

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Journalists research and write news stories that can be reported or published in several ways. As a journalist, you can work on a freelance basis or find work at various types of publications. It’s an important role, as you’ll help provide information to the public. On a journalism course you’ll also learn all sorts of transferable skills, should you wish to pursue a different route once you’ve finished your studies.

Find journalism courses.

What do you need to apply for a journalism degree?

The ranges of entry requirements for journalism are as follows:

UCAS points: 136– 04
A-levels: AAB–BCC
Scottish Highers: AABB–BBBB
BTEC Nationals: DDD–DMM
International Baccalaureate: 35–28

Some unis will ask that you have an A-level (or equivalent) in a subject like English, English literature, creative writing, media studies or history.

Find out how to apply to uni through UCAS.

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What are your study options for journalism?

Undergraduate degrees in journalism include:

BA Journalism
BA Journalism and Communications
BA Journalism, Media and Culture

Learn about the different types of undergraduate courses.

What topics will you study on a journalism degree?

Common modules for journalism include:

Digital media and culture
Photojournalism
News and ethics
Media law
Reporting
Smartphone journalism

What skills will you learn studying a journalism degree?

Studying a journalism degree will help you gain industry-specific skills like:

Writing
Communication
Research
Editing
Proofreading
Content creation and design
Interviewing

More general, transferable skills you’ll pick up include:

Critical thinking
Working individually as well as part of a team
Interpretation
Research
Flexibility
Investigating
Reporting

What professional accreditations can you get with a journalism degree?

Many journalism courses are accredited by the National Council for the Training of Journalists (NCTJ).

What jobs can you get with a journalism degree?

There are loads of different types of organisations that journalism graduates can apply for jobs at. For example, news outlets, broadcast companies, radio stations, magazines, newspapers and websites. Here are some jobs that journalism graduates go into:

Reporter
Broadcast journalist
Writer
Social media editor
Public relations
Digital marketing executive
Publishing editor
Travel writer
Social media journalist

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How long does a journalism course last?

Most undergraduate journalism courses last for three years. Some will include a foundation year before the first year or a year abroad or a placement year, making the degree last four years.