MSc Applied Sport and Exercise Biomechanics
St Mary's University Twickenham, London, offers a highly regarded MSc Applied Sport...
MA Sports Journalism
Twickenham
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
St. Mary's University, Twickenham, London, offers a highly regarded MA Sports Journalism program, distinguished as the first postgraduate sports journalism degree to be accredited by the National Council for the Training of Journalists (NCTJ). This comprehensive program is designed for individuals with a passion for sport who aspire to become professional journalists in the digital age. Taught in partnership with award-winning journalists and broadcasters, the course provides extensive hands-on training in multimedia journalism, covering everything from traditional match reporting to podcasting, film production, and online content creation. The program places a strong emphasis on practical experience, guaranteeing every student a work placement and offering opportunities to write for the university's online publication, Sports Gazette. St. Mary's has also been recognized for training more women sports journalists than any other UK course.
Curriculum: The MA Sports Journalism curriculum at St. Mary's is a blend of practical skills development and theoretical understanding. Core modules typically include "Journalism Skills: Reporting and News Writing," "Digital Sports Journalism," "Media Law, Regulation and Ethics," "Critical Issues in Sports Journalism," "Sports Writing," "Working in Sports Media," and a "Sports Journalism Project." Optional modules may include "Public Affairs for Journalists," "Shorthand," "Data Journalism," and "Public Relations and Communications." Students learn to produce news stories, features, podcasts, films, and TV shows, working to strict deadlines and participating in live news days. The program prepares students for NCTJ Diploma Exams, crucial for industry recognition.
Research Focus: The MA Sports Journalism program is underpinned by the expertise of its academic staff, many of whom are award-winning journalists, broadcasters, and researchers. While specific research specializations of the faculty in Sports Journalism are not explicitly detailed as dedicated research centres, the curriculum demonstrates a focus on areas such as "Sport, Globalisation and the Media," "Digital Sports Journalism," and "Critical Issues in Sports Journalism." This indicates a research interest in the evolving media landscape, the global impact of sport, and the ethical and critical challenges faced by contemporary sports journalists. The program's "Advanced Research Methods" module further equips students to engage in independent research, culminating in a "Sports Journalism Project" that often involves applied research.
Industry Engagement: St. Mary's University boasts exceptional industry engagement within its MA Sports Journalism program. The course is taught by "expert industry-faculty," including current journalists and broadcasters, providing students with direct access to professional insights and networking opportunities. A key highlight is the guaranteed work placement for every student, offering invaluable hands-on experience. The university has strong connections with major media outlets such as BBC, Sky Sports News, BT Sport, CNN, and national newspapers, enabling students to gain real-world experience. Students regularly attend press conferences and live sporting events, network with industry professionals, and contribute to the Sports Gazette, a celebrated online magazine where they create and edit content alongside professionals.
Global Perspective: The MA Sports Journalism program inherently incorporates a strong global perspective, reflecting the international nature of modern sport. The curriculum includes modules like "Sport, Globalisation and the Media," which explores sport and communications in its international context. The program emphasizes the "internationalisation of sports communications," preparing students for careers in international broadcasting and online sports journalism. Graduates from St. Mary's Sports Journalism program are noted to work "all across the world of sport," highlighting the global applicability of the skills and knowledge gained. The diverse peer group and exposure to global sporting events further enhance students' understanding of the international dimensions of the sports media industry.
Location
Twickenham
Score
IELTS 7
Tuition Fee
£ 18750
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 60% 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 88.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 60.
- Some postgraduate programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
St. Mary’s University Twickenham offers a variety of scholarships to support international students in financing their education and rewarding academic achievement. These scholarships are designed to ease the financial burden and recognize the talents and hard work of students coming from all over the world.
International Student Scholarships: St. Mary’s provides International Student Scholarships for students from a range of countries. These scholarships are typically partial fee reductions, aimed at making education more affordable. Eligible students are selected based on academic merit, financial need, and their potential to contribute to the university community. The scholarships are open to both undergraduate and postgraduate international students.
Vice-Chancellor’s Scholarship: The Vice-Chancellor’s Scholarship is one of the most prestigious awards available to international students at St. Mary’s University. This scholarship offers a significant reduction in tuition fees for high-achieving students, with eligibility determined by academic performance and specific course requirements. Students from a variety of regions, including Africa, Asia, and Latin America, are encouraged to apply for this highly competitive scholarship.
Country-Specific Scholarships: In addition to general international scholarships, St. Mary’s offers country-specific scholarships for students from certain regions. These scholarships provide additional financial assistance and are designed to support students from areas where educational opportunities may be limited. International students from Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Americas are often eligible for these specialized scholarships.
Sports Scholarships: For students excelling in sports, St. Mary’s University provides Sports Scholarships. These awards are available to talented athletes who demonstrate the potential to represent the university in competitive sports. Sports scholars benefit from personalized coaching, access to state-of-the-art facilities, and financial support to help balance academic and athletic commitments.
An MA in Sports Journalism from St. Mary's University, Twickenham, London, provides a professionally accredited and highly practical pathway into the dynamic world of sports media. This NCTJ-accredited program, distinguished as one of the UK's top sports journalism courses, equips graduates with a comprehensive skill set for the digital age, including traditional reporting, multimedia content creation (podcasting, video, online articles), and social media engagement. Taught by award-winning journalists and broadcasters, the degree provides extensive hands-on training, a guaranteed work placement, and opportunities to write for the university's Sports Gazette. This immersive experience, combined with a strong industry network, prepares students to excel in a competitive global sports industry, which is increasingly driven by digital communication and high consumer demand.
Sports Journalist/Reporter: Working for newspapers (print and online), magazines, news websites, or broadcast media (TV, radio) to cover sporting events, write features, conduct interviews, and provide analysis.
Multimedia Sports Content Creator: Producing engaging multimedia content for digital platforms, including podcasts, video documentaries, short-form video for social media, and interactive online features for sports organizations, media houses, or independent platforms.
Sports Broadcast Journalist/Presenter: Working in television or radio to report live from events, present sports news, provide commentary, or host sports-related shows.
Digital Sports Editor/Producer: Managing and curating content for sports websites, apps, or social media channels, overseeing editorial strategy, publication schedules, and audience engagement.
Club/Team Content Producer: Working directly for professional sports clubs, leagues, or associations to create news, features, and multimedia content for their official websites, social media, and internal communications.
Sports PR and Communications Specialist: Managing the public image and media relations for athletes, sports teams, governing bodies, or sports-related businesses, drafting press releases, organizing media events, and handling public inquiries.
Sports Social Media Manager: Developing and executing social media strategies for sports organizations, athletes, or media outlets, managing content calendars, engaging with fans, and analyzing performance metrics.
Freelance Sports Journalist/Writer: Working independently, pitching and producing stories, features, or multimedia content for various publications and clients on a project basis, offering flexibility and the ability to specialize.
Sports Data Journalist/Analyst: Using data visualization and analytical skills to create compelling narratives and insights from sports statistics, enhancing reporting with in-depth analysis for media outlets or sports analytics firms.
Sports Events Communications Officer: Managing communications and media operations for major sporting events, tournaments, or organizations, liaising with journalists, managing press conferences, and ensuring smooth information flow during events.
