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University of the West of Scotland


Courses

MA Broadcast Journalism

Accredited by the Broadcast Journalism Training Council, this practical, vocational programme is designed to produce graduates with the skills and knowledge employers would expect of professional journalists starting their careers.

Taught primarily in the University’s purpose-built studios, students take six modules – news reporting, advanced news reporting, law, public affairs, television reporting and feature production.

After an initial foundation period in which you are introduced to journalistic skills such as news gathering, interviewing, writing and
presenting, you will spend two days a week in preparing and presenting news bulletins in line with practice at both the BBC and local radio stations.

Professional input is vital; full-time staff have extensive experience of both BBC and commercial broadcasting. Professional voice coaching is an important part of the course. In addition, visits are arranged to the BBC and several commercial stations. There is a programme of guest lectures and talks from current working, broadcast journalists. Special guest edits are also held where current news editors spend a day at the campus simulating a news day.

Work placement is an integral part of the course. Each student is sent on placement, usually with local radio stations, which actively recruit from the course. Visits are also made to criminal courts, local councils and the Scottish Parliament.

Staff are continually monitoring developments in the industry to ensure the course reflects professional requirements. This means that online is becoming an integrated element within traditional TV and radio modules.

Funding

Funding for full-time study of this programme is offered on a competitive basis by SAAS (Student Awards Agency for Scotland). You should apply for a place on the programme using the University’s postgraduate & post-experience application form (downloadable at www.uws.ac.uk/apply). Based on your qualifications, experience and your eligibility, you may be nominated by the University for SAAS funding for study and a SAAS funding application form will be sent out to you.

Career Prospects

The course has an excellent employment record. Recent graduates have been employed by the BBC, GMTV, Real Radio, Radio Clyde, Northsound, Moray Firth Radio and other commercial stations across Scotland.

Professional Recognition

The programme is accredited by the Broadcast Journalism Training Council.

CAMPUS

  • Hamilton

QUALIFICATION & DURATION

  • MA - (FT) 32 weeks

LINKS

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

  • University degree in any discipline or an equivalent qualification. Mature applicants with other qualifications and experience within the broadcast industry may be considered at the discretion of the Programme Leader. Applicants will also be expected to take a writing and voice test, as well as an interview.

CONTACT

FURTHER INFORMATION