MA Migration Studies
The MA in Migration and Refugee Studies at Sussex is a one-year full-time or two-year p...
BA (Hons) Media and Journalism
Falmer
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The BA (Hons) Media and Journalism program at the University of Sussex combines theoretical insights with practical experience, preparing students for dynamic careers in media and journalism. This interdisciplinary program equips students with the essential skills to critically analyze media, produce high-quality journalism, and understand the ethical, legal, and political contexts in which the media operates. Students will explore various forms of journalism, including print, broadcast, and digital, while gaining hands-on experience in writing, editing, multimedia production, and reporting. With a focus on the changing landscape of media in the digital age, the program ensures that graduates are well-prepared for an evolving media industry.
Curriculum: The curriculum for the BA (Hons) Media and Journalism program offers a blend of core journalism training and broader media studies, allowing students to develop both specialized skills and a deep understanding of media theory. In the early stages, students cover foundational subjects such as media history, journalism ethics, and the role of the media in society. As they progress, students engage in practical journalism modules, including news reporting, multimedia journalism, and digital storytelling. The program also includes modules on media law, public relations, and media politics, ensuring that students have a well-rounded understanding of the media landscape. Throughout the course, students have the opportunity to develop professional skills through real-world projects, journalism workshops, and internships. The program also places a strong emphasis on digital media, ensuring that students are proficient in the latest technologies used in modern journalism, including content management systems, social media, and video production tools.
Research Focus: The University of Sussex is known for its strong research in media and communication studies, and the BA (Hons) Media and Journalism program is underpinned by this academic excellence. The university's research focuses on the evolving nature of journalism, media policy, and digital transformation. Students benefit from the expertise of faculty members who conduct research on topics such as media ethics, media law, digital journalism, the impact of social media on news consumption, and the changing role of traditional news outlets. This research-led approach ensures that students are exposed to the latest developments and theories in media and journalism, and they are encouraged to engage with contemporary issues through their own research projects. Sussex’s research also examines the intersection of media, politics, and society, providing students with a critical understanding of the media’s role in shaping public opinion and policy.
Industry Engagement: The University of Sussex has strong ties with the media and journalism industries, offering students valuable opportunities to gain real-world experience through internships, placements, and collaborative projects with leading media organizations. The university’s industry links include national and international news outlets, broadcasters, digital media companies, and PR agencies, providing students with exposure to a wide range of career opportunities. Media professionals frequently contribute to the program through guest lectures, workshops, and mentoring, giving students insight into current industry practices. Students also have access to dedicated media facilities and resources, such as a newsroom environment and state-of-the-art digital equipment, allowing them to develop hands-on experience in journalism. These industry connections enhance students' employability and give them a competitive edge in the media job market.
Global Perspective: The BA (Hons) Media and Journalism program at the University of Sussex offers a global perspective on media and journalism, recognizing the importance of understanding media systems and practices across different cultures and regions. The program incorporates global media studies and explores how international media landscapes are shaped by political, social, and technological factors. Students are encouraged to engage with global media trends, such as the rise of digital journalism, the role of social media in news dissemination, and the influence of global news agencies. The university’s diverse, international student body also enriches the learning experience by offering different perspectives on media and journalism. Additionally, Sussex offers opportunities for international study exchanges, allowing students to experience media practices in different countries and gain a broader understanding of the global media environment. This international outlook ensures that graduates are prepared to work in global media markets and understand the interconnectedness of media industries worldwide.
Location
Falmer
Score
IELTS 6
Tuition Fee
£ 23175
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed their secondary education with a minimum overall score of 80% or equivalent in their respective country's grading system.
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 80.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 59.
- Some 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.
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 BA (Hons) Media and Journalism program at the University of Sussex are equipped with a diverse set of skills that open up a wide range of career opportunities in the media, journalism, and communications industries. With a strong foundation in both the theory and practice of media production, journalism, and communication, students are well-prepared for roles in traditional media as well as emerging digital platforms.
Journalist/Reporter: A natural career path for graduates is journalism, where they can work as reporters or news writers across various media platforms, including print, digital, and broadcast. Journalists are responsible for researching, writing, and presenting news stories on local, national, or international issues. Graduates can work for newspapers, magazines, television channels, radio stations, or online media outlets. Specializations include investigative reporting, political journalism, and entertainment reporting.
Broadcast Journalist: Broadcast journalists work in television or radio, creating and presenting news, current affairs, or entertainment programs. Graduates can specialize in producing, editing, or presenting news broadcasts. This role often involves gathering information, conducting interviews, writing scripts, and working under tight deadlines to produce live or recorded segments for radio and TV.
Digital Journalist/Content Creator: With the growing importance of online and social media platforms, digital journalism has become a key career option. Graduates can work as digital journalists, writing and producing content for online platforms, blogs, websites, or social media channels. They may focus on multimedia content, including videos, podcasts, and social media posts, engaging with digital audiences and driving online interactions.
Social Media Manager/Content Strategist: As social media has become an integral part of modern media, graduates can pursue roles as social media managers or content strategists. They create and manage social media content, develop online strategies, engage with audiences, and monitor analytics to ensure that social media platforms are used effectively to communicate a brand's message. These roles are in high demand across industries, including journalism, public relations, marketing, and entertainment.
Public Relations (PR) Specialist: PR specialists manage the public image of individuals, organizations, or brands. Graduates with a background in media and journalism can work in PR agencies or in-house corporate communications teams. They write press releases, organize media events, and maintain relationships with journalists and media outlets to ensure that their clients’ messages are communicated effectively to the public.
Editor: Graduates can pursue careers as editors, working in various sectors such as publishing, digital media, or broadcasting. Editors are responsible for reviewing, rewriting, and improving content, ensuring that it meets editorial standards and aligns with the publication's goals. They may also oversee a team of writers or journalists to produce high-quality content.
Broadcast Producer: Broadcast producers oversee the creation and production of television or radio programs. They manage the logistics, resources, and teams involved in producing live or pre-recorded media content. Graduates can work as producers in news programs, documentaries, reality TV, or entertainment shows, ensuring that all elements come together to create a successful broadcast.
Media Researcher: Media researchers play a crucial role in the media industry by analyzing audience behavior, media consumption patterns, and content effectiveness. Graduates with a focus on research can work as media researchers for broadcasting companies, advertising agencies, or market research firms, providing valuable insights that inform content strategy and advertising campaigns.
Magazine/Newspaper Editor or Writer: Graduates with a passion for writing can pursue roles in magazine or newspaper editorial teams. As writers, they can cover a variety of topics, including news, lifestyle, culture, politics, and more. Editors work closely with writers to ensure that articles meet publication standards, and they may be responsible for shaping the editorial direction of a publication.
Multimedia Producer: With the increasing demand for multimedia content, graduates can work as multimedia producers, creating content that integrates text, video, audio, and graphics. This could include producing documentaries, online videos, podcasts, or interactive web content. Graduates with strong digital and technical skills are in high demand for producing engaging multimedia journalism for various platforms.
Corporate Communications Manager: Corporate communications managers oversee internal and external communications for organizations, including media relations, crisis management, and branding. Graduates can apply their journalism training to manage public relations strategies, write press releases, and interact with media representatives on behalf of companies or institutions.
Freelance Journalist: For those who prefer flexibility, freelance journalism is a viable career option. Freelance journalists pitch stories to media outlets and work independently, often covering niche topics, writing feature articles, or contributing to magazines, blogs, and online publications. Freelancers have the freedom to work on various projects and often have more control over their work schedule.
Media Entrepreneur: Some graduates may decide to start their own media or journalism-related businesses, such as independent digital publications, production companies, or content creation agencies. As entrepreneurs, they can develop unique media platforms, offer consultancy services, or create original content that attracts a global audience.
