Bournemouth University

What you'll study

This programme combines practical skills, editorial judgement and industry-aware theory so you can work across print, broadcast and online platforms. Teaching emphasises newsroom practice, storytelling, technical production and professional standards.

• Foundations of Journalism – news values, source handling, accuracy and shorthand writing for news and features.
• Multimedia Reporting – producing stories for web, social, video packages and radio, including mobile journalism techniques.
• Broadcast and Video Production – camera work, editing, presenting, and producing bulletins and packages for broadcast and online video.
• Audio and Podcasting – recording, editing and producing narrative and news-led audio content.
• Digital Journalism and Audience Engagement – CMS, analytics, SEO, social strategy and building audiences for multiplatform stories.
• Investigative and Data Journalism – research methods, data sourcing, FOI, verification and visualising data for stories.
• Media Law, Ethics and Regulation – libel, contempt, privacy, copyright and ethical decision-making in journalistic practice.
• Feature and Long-form Writing – narrative techniques, interviewing and developing in-depth pieces.
• Professional Practice and Work Placement – industry-mentored projects, simulated newsrooms and a supported placement to build portfolio experience.
• Final Major Project – an extended multimedia journalism project that demonstrates your editorial vision and production skills.

Modules are delivered through workshops, newsroom simulations, briefs from industry partners, individual and group projects and assessed practical work. Technical training in industry-standard editing and publishing tools is embedded throughout.

Entry requirements

Admissions take a rounded view of applicants' qualifications, experience and potential. Typical applicants hold A-levels, BTEC or equivalent qualifications; mature students with relevant work or volunteering experience are also welcome.

• Academic qualifications: an offer is usually based on a combination of diploma, A-level or equivalent vocational qualifications.
• English language: proficiency in English is required; international students will need to meet the university's English language requirements.
• Portfolio and interview: applicants may be asked to submit a short portfolio of writing or multimedia work and attend an interview or audition to demonstrate practical skills and aptitude for journalism.
• GCSEs: employers and the programme typically expect competence in English; many applicants have a GCSE (or equivalent) in English Language.

If you have professional experience in media, volunteering or alternative qualifications, the admissions team can advise on suitability and any additional requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a wide range of journalism and media roles. The programme prepares you for fast-changing industry needs by focusing on versatile, portfolio-based skills.

• Multimedia reporter or correspondent for regional and national newspapers, online news titles and wire services.
• Broadcast journalist, newsreader, video journalist or producer in television and radio.
• Digital content producer, social media editor or audience development roles in newsrooms and media organisations.
• Investigative researcher, data journalist or specialist reporter working with datasets and long-form investigations.
• Podcast producer, audio storyteller or multiplatform feature writer.
• Communications, PR and content roles in public, commercial and third-sector organisations where strong editorial and storytelling skills are valued.

Industry-facing assessments, placements and employer links help build contacts and a professional portfolio that supports entry to internships and graduate roles.

Why study at Bournemouth University

Bournemouth University is known for its strong media and communications provision, with a practical, career-focused approach and close links to regional and national media employers. Teaching is delivered by staff with professional journalism experience and specialist technical tutors.

• Practical learning in simulated newsrooms and access to industry-standard studios and production equipment.
• Industry engagement through guest lectures, live briefs and placement opportunities with local and national media organisations.
• Support for building a professional portfolio including broadcast showreels, podcasts, video packages and published writing.
• Opportunities to participate in student media outlets and collaborative projects across related subjects, enhancing employability and real-world experience.