BA (Hons) Broadcast and Multimedia Journalism

Key details

BA (HONS) BROADCAST AND MULTIMEDIA JOURNALISM

Start Year

2023

Attendance

Full Time

Award

Degree of Bachelor of Arts

UCAS course code

P500

Entry Requirements

ABB

Duration (years)

Truth-seekers and storytellers apply here. If want to make a difference in the world, hold power to account, and find out what’s really going on, then this is the course for you. On this broadcast and multimedia journalism degree you’ll learn the skills you need to become a professional journalist who can work across TV, radio, print, social media and online platforms in the UK and beyond.

You’ll learn research, storytelling and production skills for the digital age. You’ll be taught investigative skills and how to use data in your journalism. You’ll understand the political structures that deliver the public services we all rely on, and you’ll practice inclusive journalism, working with diverse communities to help them tell their stories. We’re based in the Department of Politics at UEA, so we have a strong focus on asking the tough questions of those who make, and sometimes break, the law.

About

On this degree, you’ll be taught by lecturers with extensive and recent experience of journalism and broadcasting. You will learn core journalistic skills such as story finding, researching, writing, audio and video recording and editing, presentation skills, interviewing, news package production, court reporting, longer programme making, data and investigative journalism and website production. You’ll develop an understanding of media regulation and law including court reporting, defamation, privacy, copyright and other legal constraints.

Some of your modules will be taught on campus, but much of your teaching will take place at our dedicated media centre in the heart of Norwich, ‘Broadcast House.’ We are based in the former studios of Radio Broadland and Heart Radio in the centre of this attractive and newsworthy city. The building was refitted by UEA in 2021 and is home to three purpose built soundproofed studios, equipped with a radio studio, a TV studio, and a flexible space. We also have a 24-seat newsroom with Adobe Audition, Premier Pro and Burli workstations, and modern TV gallery. The best journalistic work by students will be published on the course website www.ueajournalism.com.

You’ll complete 15 days of assessed industry placement (or an industry engagement portfolio) as an essential part of your course. You will also participate in at least 15 newsdays in both years 2 and 3, which will prepare you for life as a working journalist, closely mirroring practice within professional broadcast or online newsrooms.

From the moment you enter the UEA newsroom, your tutors will work alongside and encourage you to maximise your potential.

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Broadcast House

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UEAJournalism.com

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Important Information

Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the courses listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the regular review of course programmes. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes, there will normally be prior consultation of students and others. Changes may for example consist of variations to the content and method of delivery of programmes, courses and other services, to discontinue programmes, courses and other services and to merge or combine programmes or courses. The University will endeavour to keep such changes to a minimum, and will inform students.

Assessment for Year 1

In the first year, you’ll produce an online portfolio of journalistic work which you will populate with text, audio and video news stories. Other assessment will follow traditional academic norms, such as essays and presentations. There will be a law and regulation exam which you must pass to proceed to Year 2 of the degree.

Compulsory Modules

INTRODUCTION TO JOURNALISM

Code PPLM4002Y

Credits 40

This module will begin your journey to becoming a journalist in a modern multimedia news industry. You will study traditional news bulletins and learn about the styles and formats used. You will learn practical skills such as writing for television, radio and online. You will come up with your own ideas for stories, researching them and turning those ideas into published material. Mock exercises will enable you to practice interview techniques and you will find, research and publish real stories. You will create your own website which you will populate with text, audio and video stories. This module also includes mandatory voice coaching sessions and will be taught at Broadcast House in Norwich city centre.

INTRODUCTION TO AUDIO VISUAL SKILLS

Code PPLM4003A

Credits 20

The modern broadcast journalist is multi-skilled and is expected to be able to record, shoot and edit their material for radio, TV or online. In this module you will learn the practical and technical skills which will be further developed in years two and three of the degree.

MEDIA INDUSTRIES

Code AMAM4028A

Credits 20

As knowledgeable as you may be about certain media products – like your favourite TV programmes, films, songs, video games or websites – how much do you know about the functioning of the industrial contexts from which these typically emerge? It is easy to forget that standing between us and our favourite media products is a complex structure of interpenetrating cultural sectors and organisations. This module will introduce you to some of the core characteristics of the media industries, providing you with a better understanding of how and why they operate in the ways they do. Throughout the module you will come to appreciate the distinctiveness of the media industries and their products, the implications this has for producers and the broader effects implied for the overall structure of these industries. In addition, you’ll learn about the economic and political organisation of the media industries, the policies and regulations to which they are subject, as well as the divisions of labour determined by their modes of organisation. You’ll begin with a consideration of the particular characteristics of media goods and the challenges involved in commodifying and deriving revenues from them. Following this, you will explore issues of ownership, integration and concentration, before we consider such matters as policy and regulation, creative work, digitalisation, convergence and media systems. Having considered examples of specific media organisations, franchises, texts and sectors, you’ll put your new knowledge into practice by developing your own case study project, aimed at explaining the functioning of one aspect of the media landscape. Across the module you will also gain experience in communicating your ideas in seminars as well as through workshop tasks and written work.

LAW AND THE JOURNALIST

Code PPLM4004B

Credits 20

Journalists need to understand the legal and regulatory framework of the UK in order to do their job effectively and without causing harm. This module introduces you to the key principles involved and prepares you for more detailed study of the topic in year 2 of your course. This is a core module which means all elements must be passed for students to progress to year 2 of the course. One resit is allowed.

INTRODUCTION TO AUDIO VISUAL SKILLS

Code PPLM4003B

Credits 20

This module continues the learning from semester one, allowing you to further develop your audio, visual and online skills. You will learn contemporary modes of audio and video production and practise these in groups.

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Important Information

Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring and review of modules. Where this activity leads to significant change to a programme and modules, the University will endeavour to consult with affected students. The University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. Availability of optional modules may be restricted owing to timetabling, lack of demand, or limited places. Where this is the case, you will be asked to make alternative module choices and you will be supported during this process.

Assessment for Year 2

You will produce more in-depth news stories in text, video and audio formats. You’ll be assessed on your practical reporting skills over the course of 15 newsdays. There will be some traditional academic work such as essays and presentations. There will be an examination testing your understanding of law and regulation which you mass pass to proceed to Year 3 of the course.

Compulsory Modules

JOURNALISM PRACTICE AND ETHICS

Code PPLM5007Y

Credits 30

In this module you will further develop your professional practice skills particularly with reference to research, written and data journalism. You will reflect on the notion of journalistic responsibility and what it means to act ethically as a journalist in an age of 'fake news' and misinformation. You will explore some of the challenges facing the news media today in preparation for your career.

NEWSROOM PRACTICE 1

Code PPLM5008Y

Credits 40

This module will help you to develop the skills you need to work as part of a team in a modern newsroom. It will involve a number of practical workshops, as well as 15 news days where you will carry out editorial, newsgathering and production roles, working as a team to create works of journalism using text, photographs, audio and video and publishing them either in programme (TV, radio) or online formats. This module will be taught at Broadcast House in Norwich city centre and will involve all day sessions from 9am-5pm. Some of the newsdays will take place in the study plus weeks and assessment periods. Voice Coaching Sessions will be arranged in association with this module and these will take place outside of the scheduled newsdays.

ESSENTIAL PUBLIC AFFAIRS AND LAW

Code PPLM5006Y

Credits 30

On this module you will learn the essential elements of media law and regulation building on on the study undertaken in the ‘Law and the Journalist’ module. This module explores the law in more detail with specific consideration of the consequences of relevant legislation for the practice of journalism. You will also learn about public affairs, which explores the functioning of government at both local and national level and is essential core knowledge for the practising journalist. This is a core module of which you must pass all assessed elements without condonement to be able to proceed to the final year of the course. One resit of each element will be allowed if necessary.

JOURNALISM PLACEMENT PREPARATION

Code PPLM5009Y

Credits 0

This module will help you to prepare and secure your journalism industry placements during Year Two. You will be assisted to build up your journalism contacts, develop engagement, and learn about placement opportunities. You will develop your CV, learn job interview techniques and attend guest speaker sessions. All students should undertake 15 days of placement towards the end of the second year. This module is non-credit in Year Two as your placement project report is assessed in Year Three. In addition to the weekly taught sessions, this module will involve attending guest lectures at Broadcast House in Norwich city centre.

Optional A Modules

(20 credits)

MEDIA, GLOBALISATION AND CULTURE

Code PPLM5003B

Credits 20

What role do media and communication play in processes of globalisation? How is an ever more global media creating cultural change? In this module you will explore the cultural implications of global media and culture by investigating audience practices and media representations. It begins by introducing the main theoretical approaches to mediated globalisation, before examining how these work in practice. Indicative topics include the power of global branding, global celebrity culture, global publics and local audiences, transnational cultures, and representations of migration.

LIES, ALGORITHMS AND CONCERTOS: UNDERSTANDING MEDIA AND CULTURAL POLICY

Code PPLM5005B

Credits 20

How should we deal with the dissemination of 'fake news'? What role do algorithms play in the media we consume, and is it concerning? What kind of government intervention is there in media markets and in cultural life and how does this get decided? This module will enable you to understand the dynamics and issues of media and cultural policy and how various levels of governance are involved in regulating media cultural sectors. The module will start by introducing you to public policy and policy making processes, covering multi-level governance, multi-stakeholderism, and the policy cycle. It will then enhance your understanding though deep dives into current issues in media and cultural policy, such as audiovisual media policy, arts institutions, net neutrality, harmful content on platforms, sports and premium content rights, urban regeneration through culture, evolving models of (self/co-)regulation. The module will draw on examples from across the globe and at various level including local, regional, national and supra-national policy making, with special efforts made to integrate ones from non-Western contexts. You will have the opportunity to work on real policy issues and practice professional skills in simulations and assessment activities. This module is for anyone interested in media and culture or in public policy in general. It covers topics that touch our daily lives so would be useful to anyone concerned about the shape of our society.

DIGITAL MEDIA AND SOCIETY

Code PPLM5053A

Credits 20

For better or worse, digital technologies are hyped at having revolutionised society. This module will provide you with an introduction to the ways in which the internet and other digital technologies are (and are not) affecting society from theoretical and empirical perspectives, and how society shapes technology. Topics covered include: the evolution of the internet; the network society ; regulating new media; the radical internet and terrorism; social networking, blogs and interactivity; culture and identity in the digital age; and how the internet affects politics and the media.

TECHNOLOGICAL TOOLS FOR MEDIA ACCESSIBILITY (LEVEL 5)

Code PPLT5176A

Credits 20

What tools are used for audiences with sensory impairments, both visual and/or hearing to help them access films, documentaries, TV series, etc? This module provides first-hand experience of the technical tools used to create this type of audio-visual text. You will learn the specific requirements and theoretical characteristics and become aware of the grammatical and syntactical features of the language used for subtitling for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (SDH) and audio description (AD). You’ll explore and become skilled in the use of software used for media accessibility: professional subtitling software is used for pre-recorded subtitles as well as software for live subtitles (voice recognition). You’ll develop subtitling and audio description skills in a variety of registers and styles, translating programs from various sources (films, corporate videos, documentaries) and covering a broad range of specialised genres and media issues. The module is taught and all activities as part of the module are carried out in English. In addition, reflection on the practice of media accessibility in other languages will be encouraged and used as a key element for discussion in the module. The study of this module will provide you with the necessary skills for the creation of subtitles at professional level. Taught together with Level 6. Assessment commensurate with level.

POWER AND SOCIETY

Code PPLX5159B

Credits 20

This module introduces students to key perspectives in 19th & 20th century social and political theory. Central to this module is an interest in the relationship between economic, social and cultural structures and individual agency and identity. Areas explored include the following: social conflict and consensus; conceptions of power and domination; Marxism and neo-Marxism; critical theory; structuralism; poststructuralism; ideology and discourse; postmodernity; the self and consumer society.

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Important Information

Assessment for Year 3

You’ll be assessed on your journalistic performance during a further 15 newsdays, you will produce, and be assessed on a documentary which you will create in either video or audio format. Your option module may following more traditional academic norms with assesments such as essays and/or presentations.

Compulsory Modules

JOURNALISM PLACEMENT

Code PPLM6001Y

Credits 20

Relevant work experience is important for students wishing to pursue a career in journalism, and for this module you must complete at least 15 days of work placement over the course of the degree. At least one placement must be at least 5 days in duration. You will write a reflective report, commenting on your experience and what you learned from it. You will also submit a dossier detailing a range of work preparing for your placement. This will include evidence of contacts with industry, research, CV, risk assessments, feedback, placement supervisor reports and a video reflection. Note: The University will support students in applying for placement(s) and will endeavour to introduce them to suitable placement providers whenever possible. However, it will remain the responsibility of the student to ensure that suitable placements are obtained and satisfactorily completed.

NEWSROOM PRACTICE 2

Code PPLM6002Y

Credits 30

This module will allow you to further develop the skills you will need to work as part of a team in a modern newsroom. It will consist of 15 news days, some of which will take place during the assessment period. You will work as a team to create journalism using text, photographs, audio and video and publish those works of journalism either in a programme or online.

EXTENDED JOURNALISM PROJECT

Code PPLM6005Y

Credits 30

This project allows you to produce an extended work of journalism – for TV, radio or an online multimedia project. You will research, record, edit and create your own substantial work to a good standard. You will produce your piece in accordance with professional standards, UK law and regulations and health and safety guidelines. The module will include refresher sessions covering law, inclusivity, regulation and ethics. Voice coaching sessions will be associated with this module. Some sessions on module may be taught at Broadcast House in Norwich City Centre.

ACCESSING ALL AREAS: DIVERSITY, GENDER AND INCLUSION POLITICS IN TODAY'S MEDIA

Code PPLM6103A

Credits 20

The need for equality, diversity and inclusivity has never been greater in the media. This module is aimed at students heading towards a career in the news media who will be expected to pitch, plan and pursue stories which are inclusive. This module will uncover ways to put equality, diversity and inclusivity at the heart of storytelling and a newsroom. This is a priority module for Broadcast Journalism students. Students on other courses may take this module only if spaces are available

Optional A Modules

(20 credits)

MEDIA PRODUCTION FOR DEVELOPMENT

Code DEV-6013A

Credits 20

The aim of this practical module is to provide an introduction to practical production techniques for storytelling relevant to the field of international development. The module will teach you the basic skills required to make a short film/documentary. Skills taught will include pre-planning a production, working in a team, selecting appropriate equipment, interview techniques, camera work, lighting, sound recording and editing. The module is delivered over an intensive two-week period after the end of the 2nd Year exam period, but counts as 20 credits towards the 3rd Year. The course is taught in collaboration with Duckrabbit who specialise in media training for the third sector.

POLITICAL JOURNALISM

Code PPLM6004B

Credits 20

This module introduces students to the complex world of political journalism. Drawing on examples, both historical and recent it will explore how politics has been reported across all media. You will learn more about the practicalities of covering UK politics and making it informative and interesting for the audience. This module will prepare you for roles as a political reporter within established news organisations, or new media start-ups. It may also be of interest to students who wish to establish a career in politics, public relations or lobbying. This is a priority module for Broadcast Journalism students. Students on other courses may take this module only if spaces are available.

POLITICS AND POPULAR CULTURE

Code PPLM6038A

Credits 20

Popular Culture links to politics in a variety of ways, some obvious, some not. It can provide a platform for politicians who want to become celebrities and celebrities who want to become politicians. It can also be a way in which different social, political and economic groups compete to tell the stories, share the myths and circulate the images they want the rest of us to see, hear and believe in. On this module we will begin by exploring ideas and arguments about what culture and popular are. We will then study the institutions that create and share it. We will also learn some ways of understanding the images, myths and ideologies created and shared in popular culture, and think about how communication technologies are changing who makes popular culture and how it is experienced. Throughout, we will look in depth at some case-studies. There will be scope for the class to choose what to focus on out of topics such as: music and protest; quiz /gameshows; horror movies; YouTube and other online platforms; gaming; Party/NGO/Charity broadcasts/advertisements; comedy - and more.

DIGITAL POLITICS

Code PPLM6078A

Credits 20

Today's political world is more than ever influenced by digital technologies, from innovative social movements to 'fake news' and digital election campaigns. We will explore how the technologies influence political processes and how political processes in turn influence technology. We will examine the impact of digital media on electoral politics, examining key election campaigns (including recent UK and US elections) and the impact of social media, big data, and targeted advertising on their results. We will investigate how social movements (from Black Lives Matter to the Alt-Right) have been transformed through their use of digital networks. We will navigate the world of online politics, with a particular focus on the new culture wars being fought out in online environments. Finally we will explore the politics of the everyday, and the political effects of the technology platforms on which we live our online lives.

ACTIVIST CAMPAIGNING

Code PPLM6079B

Credits 20

How do grassroots and third sector organisations campaign for social and political change? Rather than pose this as an abstract question, you will partner with existing organisations to conduct campaigns on specific issues such as climate change, tax avoidance or gender inequality. You will receive a brief from a partner organisation and be supported in planning, devising, and carrying out activities that will achieve the aims of the brief. Taught content will include strategies for both online and offline activism, analysing power relations at different scales, and ways of assessing the effectiveness of your campaigns, but the bulk of this module will be the experience of a “live” campaign. You will combine applied research skills with professional practice in the form of a “reverse internship.” As the partner organisations are embedded in the module, you will build valuable skills for employability as well as an opportunity for being supported in the exercise of engaged citizenship. You will be assessed by presentation and critical reflection. In the year 2017-2018 the partner organisation was Greenpeace, but partners may change each year.

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Entry Requirements

A Levels

ABB If you are taking an EPQ and three A-levels, we may offer you a one grade reduction on our advertised typical offer, if you achieve an A in the EPQ.

T Levels

Not accepted

BTEC

DDM excluding BTEC Public Services, Uniformed Services and Business Administration.

Scottish highers

AAABB

Scottish highers advanced

BBC

Irish leaving certificate

3 subjects at H2, 3 subjects at H3

Access course

Pass Access to HE Diploma with Distinction in 30 credits at Level 3 and Merit in 15 credits at Level 3

European Baccalaureate

75%

International Baccalaureate

32 points

GCSE offer

You are required to have Mathematics and English Language at a minimum of Grade C or Grade 4 or above at GCSE.

Additional entry requirements

UEA are committed to ensuring that Higher Education is accessible to all, regardless of their background or experiences. One of the ways we do this is through our contextual admissions schemes

If you do not meet the academic requirements for direct entry, you may be interested in one of our Foundation Year programmes

ALTERNATIVE QUALIFICATIONS

We welcome and value a wide range of alternative qualifications. If you have a qualification which is not listed here, please contact us via Admissions Enquiries.

INTERNATIONAL REQUIREMENTS

We accept many international qualifications for entry to this course. View our International Students pages for specific information about your country.

Important note

Once enrolled onto your course at UEA, your progression and continuation (which may include your eligibility for study abroad, overseas experience, placement or year in industry opportunities) is contingent on meeting the assessment requirements which are relevant to the course on which you are enrolled.

Students for whom english is a foreign language

Applications from students whose first language is not English are welcome. We require evidence of proficiency in English (including writing, speaking, listening and reading): 

IELTS: 7.5 overall (minimum 7.5 in all components)

We also accept a number of other English language tests. Review our English Language Equivalencies for a list of example qualifications that we may accept to meet this requirement.

If you do not yet meet the English language requirements for this course, INTO UEA offer a variety of English language programmes which are designed to help you develop the English skills necessary for successful undergraduate study: 

Interviews

If your application tells us that you're passionate about your chosen course, we will invite you to a one-to-one online interview with one of our experienced journalists. This is a chance to meet us, discuss the course and tell us about your interest in Journalism, giving you a taste of what it would be like to study it here at UEA. You'll be asked to talk about your favourite news programme, for example, and what kind of articles you'd enjoy writing, and you'll also have the chance to talk about your current studies, extra-curricular interests and what excites you about being a journalist.

Gap year

We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year.  We believe that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry on your UCAS application. 