BA Journalism and Criminology

Colchester Campus

 

INTAKE: October

Program Overview

The BA Journalism and Criminology program at the University of Essex offers students a unique opportunity to explore the intersection between media and crime, providing them with a comprehensive understanding of journalistic practices and criminological theories. Through a combination of practical journalism training and theoretical criminology modules, students gain insight into the role of media in shaping perceptions of crime and criminal justice, as well as the ethical and legal considerations involved in reporting on crime-related issues. This interdisciplinary program prepares students for careers in journalism, media, criminal justice, and related fields, equipping them with the skills and knowledge needed to critically analyze and report on crime and justice issues in society.  

  1. Multifaceted Curriculum: The program offers a diverse curriculum that covers a wide range of topics, including news reporting, feature writing, digital journalism, media law, criminal behavior, policing, and criminal justice policy. Students learn to critically evaluate media representations of crime and explore the social, cultural, and political factors that influence crime reporting.

  2. Practical Training: Students receive hands-on training in journalistic skills, such as news writing, interviewing techniques, multimedia storytelling, and investigative reporting. They have access to state-of-the-art media facilities, including newsrooms, studios, and editing suites, where they can develop their reporting skills under the guidance of experienced journalists and academics.

  3. Criminological Perspectives: The program integrates criminological perspectives into journalism practice, encouraging students to analyze crime and justice issues from multiple viewpoints. They examine theories of crime causation, the criminal justice system, and the role of media in shaping public perceptions of crime, allowing them to critically reflect on the ethical and moral responsibilities of journalists reporting on sensitive topics.

  4. Industry Connections: Students benefit from the University of Essex's strong links with media organizations, law enforcement agencies, and criminal justice institutions. They have opportunities to engage with industry professionals through guest lectures, workshops, and work placements, gaining valuable insights into the realities of working in journalism and related fields.

  5. Career Opportunities: Graduates of the BA Journalism and Criminology program are well-equipped for a variety of career paths in journalism, broadcasting, public relations, criminal justice agencies, advocacy groups, and more. They may work as reporters, editors, producers, researchers, press officers, or media consultants, applying their skills to inform, educate, and engage audiences on crime and justice issues in the contemporary world.

Pollster Education

Location

Colchester Campus

Pollster Education

Score

IELTS: 6

Pollster Education

Tuition Fee

£ 17700

Undergraduate Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed their secondary education with a minimum overall score of 70 to 75% or equivalent in their respective country's grading system.

English language proficiency:

  • IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.0 with no individual component below 5.5.
  • TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 75.
  • PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 51.

Students must provide:

  • academic marksheets & transcripts
  • letters of recommendation
  • a personal statement - SOP
  • passport
  • other supporting documents as required by the university.

It is important to note that entry requirements may vary across different programs and courses. Additionally, meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as the number of available places and competition for certain courses.

The University of Essex offers a range of scholarships and financial support options to assist students in their academic journey. These scholarships are designed to recognize and reward academic excellence, promote diversity and inclusion, and provide assistance to those facing financial challenges.  

Academic Excellence Scholarships: The university offers scholarships to outstanding students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievements. These scholarships are typically merit-based and provide financial support towards tuition fees or living expenses.

International Scholarships: The University of Essex provides scholarships specifically designed for international students. These scholarships aim to attract and support talented students from around the world. Eligibility criteria and award amounts may vary, and they may cover a portion of tuition fees or provide assistance with living expenses.

Subject-specific Scholarships: Some departments and schools within the university offer scholarships tailored to specific academic disciplines. These scholarships are often awarded to students with exceptional academic records or those who demonstrate a strong commitment to their field of study.

Access and Participation Scholarships: The university is committed to promoting diversity and inclusion. It offers scholarships and financial support to students from underrepresented backgrounds, including those from low-income families or individuals who are the first in their family to attend university.

Government-funded Scholarships: In addition to internal scholarships, the University of Essex provides information and guidance on scholarships and funding opportunities offered by external organizations and government agencies. These scholarships may be available to students based on factors such as nationality, field of study, or research interests.

Sports Scholarships: The university recognizes the importance of sports and offers scholarships to talented athletes who demonstrate exceptional sporting abilities. These scholarships provide financial support along with access to sports facilities, training programs, and dedicated support services.

It is important to note that scholarship availability, eligibility criteria, and application processes may change over time. 

The BA Journalism and Criminology program at the University of Essex equips graduates with a diverse skill set that opens up various career pathways in journalism, media, criminal justice, and related fields. This interdisciplinary degree program provides students with a unique blend of practical journalism training and criminological knowledge, preparing them for roles that require critical thinking, communication skills, and an understanding of crime and justice issues.  

  1. Journalism: Graduates can pursue careers in journalism across different platforms, including print, broadcast, online media, and digital journalism. They can work as reporters, correspondents, editors, producers, or multimedia journalists for newspapers, magazines, television channels, radio stations, and online news outlets. The program's emphasis on journalistic skills, ethical reporting, and critical analysis of crime-related topics prepares graduates for the fast-paced and evolving field of journalism.

  2. Investigative Reporting: With their training in investigative journalism and understanding of criminological concepts, graduates can specialize in investigative reporting. They may work on in-depth stories, documentaries, or exposés that uncover corruption, fraud, and other criminal activities. Investigative journalists play a crucial role in exposing social injustices and holding powerful institutions accountable.

  3. Crime and Justice Reporting: Graduates can specialize in crime and justice reporting, covering criminal trials, law enforcement activities, and legal developments. They may work as court reporters, crime correspondents, or legal analysts, providing accurate and balanced coverage of crime-related issues to inform and educate the public.

  4. Media Relations: Graduates can pursue careers in media relations and public relations (PR) for law enforcement agencies, government departments, nonprofit organizations, or advocacy groups. They may work as press officers, communications specialists, or PR managers, handling media inquiries, drafting press releases, and managing public perception of crime and justice initiatives.

  5. Policy Analysis and Research: Graduates can apply their criminological knowledge to roles in policy analysis, research, and advocacy. They may work for think tanks, research institutes, or governmental agencies, conducting research on crime prevention strategies, criminal justice policies, and social justice issues. Their analytical skills and understanding of criminological theories enable them to contribute to evidence-based policy-making and program development.

  6. Academic and Educational Roles: Graduates interested in academia can pursue further studies and careers in higher education. They may work as lecturers, researchers, or academic advisors, specializing in journalism studies, criminology, media law, or related disciplines. They contribute to advancing knowledge and educating future generations of journalists, criminologists, and scholars.

  7. Freelance Opportunities: Some graduates may choose to work as freelance journalists, writers, or content creators, pitching stories to various media outlets or producing independent projects. Freelancing offers flexibility and autonomy, allowing individuals to explore different topics and formats while building a portfolio of published work.


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