MA Journalism (Sport)

Program Overview

The MA Journalism program at the University of Sunderland equips students with practical skills in interviewing, reporting, and digital content creation. Through hands-on experience in the University's multimedia newsroom, students gain real-world experience and guidance from industry professionals. Graduates have secured jobs at renowned organizations like BBC News and Sky Sports News, demonstrating the program's success in preparing students for careers in journalism.

Program Outline

MA Journalism / MA Journalism (Sport) - University of Sunderland

Degree Overview:

This program equips students with the necessary skills to become a journalist in the ever-evolving media landscape. Through a practical approach, students gain experience working on actual websites and social media platforms alongside experienced professionals from BBC, national, and regional media. The program covers various skills like interviewing, reporting, digital content creation, investigative journalism, and video and audio production. Graduates have secured jobs at renowned organizations like BBC News, BBC Sport, Sky Sports News, national newspapers, and magazines.

Outline:

• The program starts with two stages of core modules: Practical Journalism (30 credits), Essential Media Law (30 credits), covering interview skills, writing news articles, understanding legal and ethical frameworks in journalism.
These stages focus on building foundational skills.
• Stage 3 offers two pathways:
• MA Journalism: Students delve deeper into various areas like features, politics, technology, and business journalism to specialize in their areas of interest.
• MA Journalism (Sport): Students learn about sports reporting, writing, and digital content creation within the sports journalism world.
• Additional optional modules can be pursued on top of the core curriculum, like video journalism, sports journalism, production, public affairs, and practical magazine journalism.
These electives provide deeper insights into specific areas of interest.
• Throughout the program, students gain hands-on experience working on the University's multimedia newsroom, mediaHUB, publishing content on websites and social media platforms.
They receive guidance from professional journalists with expertise in the field.

Assessment:

• This program uses a variety of assessment methods throughout the course of study, including:
• Essays: Students will write various essay assignments on specific topics related to Journalism, Media Law, and chosen specialization pathways.
• Projects: Individual and group projects will require students to apply their theoretical knowledge gained from lectures and seminars to develop real-world content, such as articles, videos, and multimedia presentations.
• Presentations: Presenting research findings, project outcomes, and analysis will form another important component of assessment.
• Major project: The final stage involves completing a significant project on a topic of individual choice within Journalism or Sports Journalism, showcasing advanced knowledge and research skills.

Teaching:

• The program employs a diverse range of teaching strategies:
• Newsroom workshops: Conducting these workshops in a real-life newsroom setting simulates the professional environment journalists encounter, providing valuable practical experience.
• Seminars: Engaging in interactive discussions on theoretical concepts and contemporary issues in journalism will allow for in-depth analysis and critical thinking.
• Tutorials: Individualized guidance and feedback on assignments, essays, and project development will be provided throughout the course.
• Guest speakers: Industry professionals and experts will be invited to share their insights and offer practical advice on working in the journalism field.

Careers:

• Graduating from this program opens doors to various career paths:
• MA Journalism graduates can pursue careers in traditional print, online, and broadcast media outlets like newspapers, magazines, websites, radio, and television stations.
• MA Journalism (Sport) graduates can specialize in covering the sports industry through various avenues like sports websites, magazines, newspapers, social media platforms, television channels, and sports organizations.
• Both programs equip graduates with essential skills for communication, research, media analysis, problem-solving, and teamwork, valuable in a wide range of career settings.
The program aims to produce highly skilled and employable graduates ready to succeed in the competitive world of journalism.

Other:

• In addition to the information listed above, here are some other points regarding the program:
• The program requires students to possess an undergraduate degree from a recognized institution, with relevant work experience viewed favorably.
• The curriculum is continuously revised and updated to reflect the dynamic nature of the journalism industry, ensuring that graduates possess the skills necessary for success in an evolving landscape.
• University of Sunderland enjoys strong industry links with prominent figures from the journalism world, enabling students to learn from experienced professionals with extensive knowledge and networks.

2024/25 fees are: £7,500 if you are from the UK/Europe £16,500 if you are an international student £445 per 10 credits for part-time study Please note that part-time courses are not available to international students who require a Student visa to study in the UK.

• European Union (EU), EEA (European Economic Area), and Swiss nationals who do not qualify for the EU Settlement Scheme are classed as international, however, for 24/25 admission you will receive a European student fee scholarship and will pay the home tuition fee rate for the duration of your studies.
The discounted fee will be reflected in your offer letter. Learn more in our Help and Advice article.