BA (Hons) Sports Journalism

Stoke-on-Trent campus

 

INTAKE: September

Program Overview

The BA (Hons) Sports Journalism program at Staffordshire University, UK, offers students a comprehensive education in sports reporting, broadcasting, and multimedia journalism. This program is designed to prepare students for careers in sports journalism across various media platforms, including print, broadcast, online, and social media. Through a combination of theoretical study, practical training, and hands-on experience, students develop skills in sports writing, interviewing, digital content production, and sports broadcasting. The program emphasizes journalistic ethics, storytelling techniques, and multimedia storytelling, preparing students to cover a wide range of sports events and stories with accuracy, fairness, and professionalism.

Curriculum: The curriculum of the BA (Hons) Sports Journalism program covers a broad range of topics relevant to sports reporting and multimedia journalism. Students study subjects such as journalism principles, sports media law and ethics, sports writing, sports broadcasting, digital journalism, and multimedia storytelling. They learn about the role of sports journalists in shaping public discourse, providing analysis and commentary, and holding sports organizations and athletes accountable. Practical modules allow students to develop their skills in news gathering, sports commentary, live reporting, and sports production, working on assignments ranging from match reports to feature stories to podcasts and video packages. The curriculum also includes coursework in media law, media ethics, and digital storytelling, essential for navigating the challenges and opportunities of contemporary sports journalism.

Research Focus: Staffordshire University emphasizes research within its BA (Hons) Sports Journalism program, encouraging students to engage with current issues, trends, and innovations in sports journalism and media studies. Faculty members are actively involved in research projects related to sports media representation, audience engagement, and media technology. Students have the opportunity to participate in research initiatives, conduct independent research projects, and explore emerging areas of interest in sports journalism. Research-focused modules may explore topics such as sports media coverage of gender, race, and identity, the impact of social media on sports journalism, and the future of sports broadcasting.

Industry Engagement: The university maintains strong connections with sports media organizations, news outlets, broadcasters, and industry professionals to provide students with valuable industry engagement opportunities. Guest lectures, workshops, and masterclasses expose students to real-world journalism practices, trends, and challenges. Industry partnerships also offer students access to internships, work placements, and freelance opportunities, allowing them to gain practical experience, build professional relationships, and develop their portfolios. Additionally, the university may organize journalism conferences, media seminars, and networking events to facilitate students' engagement with journalism professionals and potential employers.

Global Perspective: Staffordshire University promotes a global perspective within its BA (Hons) Sports Journalism program, recognizing the international nature of sports and the interconnectedness of global sports media. The curriculum integrates global case studies, cross-cultural perspectives, and international best practices in sports journalism and media ethics. Students may have the opportunity to study sports media coverage in different countries, explore cultural influences on sports journalism practices, and examine the role of sports media in shaping public opinion and discourse worldwide. By embracing global perspectives, students develop a broader understanding of sports journalism principles and practices, preparing them for careers in a multicultural and globalized media landscape.

Pollster Education

Location

Stoke-on-Trent campus

Pollster Education

Score

IELTS 6

Pollster Education

Tuition Fee

£ 16750

Undergraduate Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: International students applying for undergraduate programs are typically expected to have completed their secondary education with a minimum of 65% or above in their final exams.

English Language Proficiency: 

  • IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.0 or 6.5 with no individual component below 5.5.
  • TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 72, with at least 17 in Listening, Reading,  Speaking, and Writing.
  • PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 59 with no individual score below 59.
  • It is important to note that the English language requirements may vary slightly depending on the chosen program.

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 meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as availability of places and competition for the program. Additionally, some courses may have higher entry requirements or additional selection criteria, such as interviews or portfolio submissions.

Staffordshire University values diversity and aims to support international students in their academic journey. To make education more accessible and affordable, the university offers a range of scholarships specifically designed for international students. These scholarships recognize academic excellence, promote diversity, and provide financial assistance to deserving students.

Vice-Chancellor's International Scholarship: This prestigious scholarship is awarded to exceptional international students who demonstrate academic excellence and outstanding achievements. The scholarship covers a significant portion of the tuition fees and is available for both undergraduate and postgraduate students.

International Merit Scholarship: Staffordshire University offers the International Merit Scholarship to high-achieving international students. The scholarship provides a reduction in tuition fees and is available for both undergraduate and postgraduate programs. Eligibility criteria are based on academic performance and other achievements.

GREAT Scholarships: Staffordshire University is part of the GREAT Scholarships program, which is funded by the UK government's GREAT Britain Campaign. The program offers scholarships to students from selected countries, supporting them in pursuing their studies at UK universities. The scholarships cover a portion of the tuition fees for specific programs.

International Sports Scholarship: Staffordshire University recognizes the talent and achievements of international students in sports. The International Sports Scholarship is awarded to outstanding student-athletes who have represented their country at the national or international level. The scholarship provides financial support and other benefits to help students balance their academic and sporting commitments.

Country-Specific Scholarships: Staffordshire University also offers scholarships specifically tailored to students from certain countries. These scholarships aim to promote cultural diversity and strengthen ties with partner institutions. Eligibility criteria, application procedures, and scholarship amounts may vary depending on the country-specific scholarships available.

It is important to note that scholarship availability, eligibility criteria, and application deadlines may vary each year. 

Graduates of Staffordshire University's BA (Hons) Sports Journalism program possess a diverse set of skills and knowledge that prepare them for a wide range of exciting career opportunities within the sports media industry. With their expertise in sports reporting, multimedia journalism, and digital content production, graduates can pursue careers across various media platforms, including print, broadcast, online, and social media. 

Sports Journalist/Reporter: One of the primary career paths for graduates is to work as sports journalists or reporters for newspapers, magazines, online publications, or news websites. Sports journalists cover a wide range of sports events, matches, and tournaments, writing match reports, feature stories, interviews, and opinion pieces. They conduct interviews with athletes, coaches, and sports personalities, provide analysis and commentary on sports events, and engage with audiences through social media platforms. Sports journalists may specialize in specific sports or cover multiple sports, working in newsrooms, press boxes, or sports stadiums.

Sports Broadcaster/Commentator: Graduates may pursue careers as sports broadcasters or commentators for radio, television, or online streaming platforms. Sports broadcasters provide live commentary and analysis of sports events, matches, and competitions, delivering play-by-play coverage and expert insights to audiences. They work in broadcast studios, commentary booths, or sports arenas, collaborating with production teams, directors, and fellow commentators to provide engaging and informative coverage. Sports broadcasters may specialize in specific sports or leagues, developing a loyal following among fans and viewers.

Digital Content Producer: With the rise of digital media and online platforms, graduates may choose careers as digital content producers for sports websites, blogs, podcasts, or social media channels. Digital content producers create and curate multimedia content, including articles, videos, podcasts, infographics, and interactive features, to engage audiences and drive traffic to online platforms. They use content management systems (CMS), video editing software, and social media analytics tools to produce and distribute content across various digital channels. Digital content producers may cover breaking news, conduct interviews, and create original content tailored to specific audience demographics and interests.

Sports Editor/Producer: Graduates interested in editorial or production roles may pursue careers as sports editors, producers, or content managers for media organizations, newsrooms, or sports networks. Sports editors oversee the editorial direction, content strategy, and production workflow of sports sections or programs, assigning stories, editing articles, and managing editorial teams. Sports producers coordinate the production of sports broadcasts, podcasts, or digital content, working with reporters, presenters, and technical staff to plan and execute compelling sports coverage. Sports editors and producers may also liaise with advertisers, sponsors, and content partners to monetize content and drive revenue.

Freelance Journalist/Contributor: Some graduates may choose to work as freelance journalists, contributors, or content creators, selling their articles, features, or multimedia content to various media outlets, publications, or platforms on a freelance basis. Freelance journalists have the flexibility to work on multiple projects for different clients, covering diverse sports events and topics. They pitch story ideas, negotiate contracts, and manage their own schedules, building a portfolio of published work and establishing themselves as experts in their chosen sports niches.


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