University of Leicester

What you'll study

The programme combines practical training with theoretical study to prepare you for contemporary newsrooms and media roles. Core areas typically covered include reporting and news writing, multimedia and digital journalism (video, audio, social and web publishing), journalism law and ethics, data journalism and investigative techniques. You will also study audience-focused storytelling, editing and newsroom workflow, and reflect on the social and political contexts of journalism.

• Reporting and Writing — techniques for news gathering, interviewing, source development and clear, accurate writing across print and online formats.
• Multimedia Production — practical skills in audio and video production, social media content, and online publishing tools used by modern newsrooms.
• Journalism Law and Ethics — the legal framework and ethical considerations that constrain and guide professional practice.
• Data and Investigative Methods — basic data-handling, freedom of information practice, and methods for longer-form investigative projects.
• Editing and Newsroom Practice — editorial decision-making, sub-editing, commissioning and working to deadlines in a simulated newsroom environment.
• Major Project or Dissertation — a substantial practical project or research dissertation that demonstrates your ability to apply skills to an extended piece of journalism or a research question.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold an undergraduate degree in any discipline from a recognised university, with a strong academic record. Candidates with a relevant lower-class degree plus significant professional experience in journalism, media or communications may also be considered. You will usually need to provide a personal statement, academic references and a portfolio of recent work or examples of journalistic output where available. International applicants must meet the University's English language requirement (for example, an equivalent standard to IELTS) before enrolment.

Career prospects

Graduates go on to work across news organisations, broadcasters, digital publishers and communications roles. Typical career destinations include reporter, multimedia journalist, sub-editor, producer (radio/online/video), data journalist, investigative researcher, content producer and newsroom editor. The skills developed — research, clear writing, digital production and legal/ethical awareness — are also valued in PR, corporate communications, non-governmental organisations and freelance journalism.

Why study at University of Leicester

The University of Leicester offers a concentrated, practice-led journalism programme within a university known for strong humanities and social science provision. You will benefit from hands-on training with multimedia facilities, opportunities to work on student-led publications and broadcast projects, and teaching from staff with industry experience. The city location supports access to regional news organisations and a diverse range of stories, while the university's careers and employability services help you prepare for placements and graduate roles. Research-informed teaching ensures the course reflects current debates about media regulation, ethics and the digital transformation of news.