MA Migration Studies
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MA Journalism and Documentary Practice
Falmer
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The MA Journalism and Documentary Practice at the University of Sussex is a highly specialized postgraduate program designed for students interested in exploring the intersection of journalism, storytelling, and documentary filmmaking. This unique program is ideal for those aspiring to become journalists, documentary filmmakers, or multimedia storytellers who want to make an impact on both local and global issues. Students learn the core skills required for producing high-quality journalism and documentaries, including research, writing, interviewing, filming, editing, and ethical considerations. The program combines theoretical knowledge with hands-on experience, preparing students to work in a rapidly evolving media landscape. The University of Sussex’s commitment to providing practical training in a range of media formats ensures that graduates are ready to contribute to the field of journalism and documentary practice, whether through traditional media outlets or emerging digital platforms.
Curriculum: The MA Journalism and Documentary Practice curriculum is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the theory, ethics, and techniques involved in both journalism and documentary filmmaking. Core modules include topics such as storytelling, journalistic writing, ethical issues in media production, media law, and documentary filmmaking techniques. Students also engage in practical projects, where they develop their skills in video production, editing, and research. The program encourages students to explore different forms of storytelling, including long-form documentaries, investigative journalism, and multimedia content. In addition to core modules, students have the opportunity to take elective courses that allow them to tailor their studies to specific interests, such as global media, political reporting, or digital storytelling. The program also includes a significant practical component where students produce their own journalistic or documentary projects, culminating in a final dissertation or major project. This combination of theoretical foundations and practical application ensures that graduates are well-prepared to enter the competitive field of journalism and documentary production.
Research Focus: The MA Journalism and Documentary Practice program at Sussex is deeply rooted in the university’s research expertise. The program draws on Sussex’s strong tradition of research in media studies, cultural theory, and communication, allowing students to engage with cutting-edge scholarship on the role of media in society. Faculty members are active researchers in areas such as media ethics, digital media, political communication, and the representation of global issues in the media. Students are encouraged to explore the role of journalism and documentaries in shaping public opinion, influencing policy, and promoting social change. The university's research centers, such as the Centre for Journalism and Communication Research, provide a dynamic environment for students to engage with contemporary media debates and to develop their own research interests. The program's emphasis on both theory and practice ensures that students are equipped with a deep understanding of the cultural, political, and ethical implications of journalism and documentary production.
Industry Engagement: The MA Journalism and Documentary Practice program at Sussex emphasizes industry engagement, ensuring that students gain hands-on experience and access to professional networks. The university’s location in Brighton, a vibrant cultural hub, provides students with numerous opportunities to engage with media organizations, film festivals, and documentary production companies. Sussex maintains strong links with local and national media outlets, allowing students to gain practical experience through internships, work placements, and collaborative projects. The program also hosts industry professionals, including journalists, filmmakers, and media experts, who offer guest lectures, workshops, and networking events. These interactions with professionals in the field allow students to build valuable industry connections and gain insights into current trends and challenges in journalism and documentary production. Additionally, Sussex’s career services support students in finding employment opportunities within the media and documentary sectors, helping them transition from academic study to professional practice.
Global Perspective: The MA Journalism and Documentary Practice program at Sussex provides a global perspective on the role of journalism and documentary filmmaking in today’s interconnected world. The program encourages students to explore the ways in which media can shape public perceptions of global issues such as climate change, migration, conflict, and human rights. Students engage with diverse perspectives, studying the role of international media in framing news stories and creating global narratives. The university’s diverse student body, representing a range of countries and cultural backgrounds, further enriches the learning experience, allowing students to engage in cross-cultural dialogue and exchange ideas about the role of media in different parts of the world. Sussex’s commitment to social justice and global awareness is woven throughout the program, encouraging students to consider how journalism and documentary practice can contribute to positive social change and global understanding. Through case studies, international perspectives, and research into global media systems, students develop a well-rounded understanding of the media landscape, both locally and globally.
Location
Falmer
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
£ 21500
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution with a minimum overall score of 65% or equivalent.
English language proficiency:
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.5 or 7.0 with no individual component below 6.0.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 95.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 67.
- Some postgraduate programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
The University of Sussex offers a range of scholarships and financial support for international students to help make studying in the UK more accessible. These scholarships recognize academic excellence, support for underrepresented groups, and the ambition to help students thrive in their studies.
Sussex International Scholarships: The University offers a range of scholarships specifically for international students, including the Sussex Excellence Scholarships.These awards typically cover a portion of the tuition fees and are available for students pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate degrees.
Postgraduate Scholarships: International postgraduate students can benefit from the Sussex Graduate Scholarship, which provides a discount on tuition fees for eligible students with strong academic records.This scholarship is available for a variety of postgraduate programs and is aimed at supporting students who wish to advance their studies in the UK.
Chevening Scholarships: The University of Sussex is a partner in the Chevening Scholarship program, which is the UK government’s global scholarship program.Chevening Scholarships are awarded to outstanding individuals from around the world who wish to pursue postgraduate studies in the UK.
Erasmus Mundus Scholarships: The University of Sussex is involved in several Erasmus Mundus programs, offering scholarships for international students from EU and non-EU countries.These scholarships support students pursuing joint Master’s degrees across European universities.
Specific Country Scholarships: The University also offers country-specific scholarships for students from particular regions, such as Africa, India, and China.These awards are often designed to make studying at Sussex more accessible for students from those regions.
Graduates of the MA Journalism and Documentary Practice program at the University of Sussex are well-prepared to embark on diverse and exciting careers in the media, journalism, and documentary sectors. The program provides students with a robust blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills, enabling them to excel in an ever-evolving media landscape.
Journalist (Print, Broadcast, Digital): Graduates can pursue careers as journalists in various media formats, including print, radio, television, and digital platforms. Journalists are responsible for researching, writing, and reporting on current events, political issues, and social developments. The program's strong foundation in ethical journalism, research methods, and storytelling equips graduates to work in both traditional and emerging forms of media.
Documentary Filmmaker: Many graduates of this program go on to produce documentaries, creating compelling, informative, and engaging films on a wide range of topics, from social issues to environmental concerns. Documentary filmmakers typically work for production companies, television networks, or as freelancers, developing projects that aim to inform, entertain, and inspire change.
Multimedia Storyteller/Content Producer: With the increasing demand for digital content, graduates can work as multimedia storytellers, creating video, audio, and written content for websites, social media platforms, and digital publications. They might work for media companies, digital agencies, or as independent content creators, producing engaging material that resonates with online audiences.
Investigative Reporter: Graduates with a keen interest in uncovering the truth behind major stories can pursue careers as investigative reporters. These journalists specialize in researching and reporting on complex issues such as corruption, corporate wrongdoing, and social injustices. Investigative reporters often work for newspapers, magazines, television networks, or independent investigative outlets.
Broadcast Journalist: Broadcast journalists are responsible for presenting news stories on television, radio, or online platforms. They may specialize in delivering live reports, interviews, and features across various topics. Graduates can work for major broadcasters like the BBC, ITV, or digital media platforms, creating content that informs and engages viewers.
Media Producer/Editor: Graduates can work as media producers or editors, overseeing the production of news stories, documentaries, or multimedia content. They are involved in the planning, editing, and final production stages of media projects. This role can be based in broadcast studios, film production companies, or digital content agencies.
Content Director or Editor for Digital Platforms: As digital media continues to grow, graduates with strong editorial and managerial skills can work as content directors or editors, managing teams that produce articles, videos, and multimedia content. This role often involves overseeing the editorial direction of online publications, news sites, or corporate media channels.
Public Relations (PR) Specialist: Some graduates may move into public relations, working for PR agencies or in-house corporate communications teams. They are responsible for managing a company’s or individual’s public image, creating media campaigns, writing press releases, and building relationships with journalists and media outlets.
Social Media Manager or Strategist: As the digital landscape continues to evolve, graduates can pursue careers as social media managers or strategists, helping brands or organizations create and manage their social media presence. These professionals develop social media campaigns, engage with followers, and use analytics to refine strategies for maximum reach and impact.
Media Researcher/Analyst: Graduates may work as media researchers or analysts, studying trends in the media industry, audience behaviors, and content consumption patterns. Media researchers help organizations understand their audience and the effectiveness of media campaigns, contributing to the development of content strategies and production plans.
NGO Communications Specialist: Graduates passionate about social issues may work for non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in communications roles, helping to raise awareness about humanitarian causes. These roles involve producing content, media outreach, and storytelling that bring attention to social justice issues, development goals, and human rights initiatives.
Film and TV Production Assistant/Coordinator: Graduates can enter the world of film and television production as assistants or coordinators. These roles involve supporting the production team, managing schedules, coordinating logistics, and ensuring that projects stay on track. Over time, this experience can lead to higher-level positions in film or television production management.
Humanitarian Media Specialist: Graduates with a focus on global issues such as human rights, migration, and conflict can become humanitarian media specialists, working to document stories from the field and raise awareness about global crises. This could involve collaborating with NGOs, international organizations, or media outlets that focus on human rights and social justice.
Academia/Research in Journalism and Documentary: For graduates who wish to continue their academic journey, pursuing a PhD in media studies, journalism, or documentary filmmaking can lead to a career in academia. These professionals teach, publish research, and contribute to the academic study of journalism, media ethics, and documentary practice.
