MA Sports Journalism

Program Overview

The Sports Journalism MA program equips graduates with the skills and knowledge to succeed in all media environments. Through a combination of theoretical and practical learning, students develop expertise in creating content for various sports, understanding journalism ethics and regulations, and applying their skills in real-world projects. The program prepares individuals for a wide range of careers in sports journalism, including writing, broadcasting, content creation, and public relations.

Program Outline

Sports Journalism MA

Degree Overview:

This MA program aims to produce graduates equipped for success in all media environments. The core of the program involves creating content for various sports, including cricket, rugby, football, golf, tennis, cycling, boxing, MMA, and global sports of your choosing. This content will be assessed within modules and tailored for maximum impact through portfolios, showreels, and future job applications. Students will develop a deep understanding of essential theory, best practice, law, regulation, and ethics in journalism. The program strives to offer:

- Focused training

to become precisely what modern sports journalism requires, including skills to create news, features, and next-generation creative content for all platforms.

- Practical application

of law and regulation in journalism, as well as ethics and best practices.

- Potential access

to major sports industry events and live reporting opportunities.

Outline:

Modules:

• Sport Audio, Video and Broadcast Programmes (40 Credits): Develop knowledge and technical skills relating to audio and video journalism, create engaging content for multi-media platforms, explore the legal, ethical, and regulatory frameworks governing journalistic work.
• Reporting on Sport, Celebrity and Health (40 Credits): Analyze the relationship between sport and celebrity, the role of social media, and the changing role of sports people.
Analyze the influence of PR and brands on athletes and the sports industry.
• Audio/Video Production (20 Credits): Develop advanced knowledge and skills in audio and video journalism, create engaging content for social media, online platforms, radio, and television.
• Specialist Practice in Journalism and PR (20 Credits): Acquire and develop specialist knowledge and skills in your chosen field, expand the depth of the content you create, explore professional, ethical, and reflective skills within your chosen discipline.
• Magazine Production (10 Credits): Acquire knowledge and skills relating to the production of magazines and online content, revise fundamental skills, work in groups to develop planning, scheduling, and project management skills, acquire proficiency in key production software and hardware.
• Sports Governance and Covering Global Events (40 Credits): Explore the role of sport in modern UK society and its impact globally, analyze the role of governance and governing bodies within sport, evaluate the role of sport in driving and defining social and political opinion.
• Creative Futures and Social Change (10 Credits): Explore the changing world of work Arts and Humanities students enter after study, develop tools to become changemakers and thrive in a changing world of work, participate in creating a better future for society.

Assessment:

The course utilizes a variety of assessment methods depending on the module:

• Formal examinations
• Essays
• Group work
• Presentations
• Reports
• Projects
• Coursework
• Individual assignments

Teaching:

The MA program aims to deliver high-quality theoretical and practical learning experiences. The balance between lectures, tutorials, group work, and self-directed study aims to foster independent learners with strong critical analysis and problem-solving skills. Additionally, the program prioritizes practical application through real-world projects and assignments. The course aims to produce graduates ready to excel in all media environments. Instead of spending hours in lecture theatres, the program emphasizes testing theory in live sports environments with support and guidance provided by tutors. This approach ensures students gain practical experience alongside theoretical knowledge.

Careers:

The Sports Journalism MA equips individuals for a variety of career paths within the field, including:

• Sports Writer
• Broadcast Journalist
• Content Creator
• Public Relations Specialist
• Social Media Manager
• Communications Officer
• Sports Editor
• Sports Reporter
• Digital Media Producer
• Sports Marketing Specialist

Other:

The course actively encourages exploration of international stories and coverage opportunities and will assist in developing international connections. Additionally, students will have access to sector-leading facilities like the Media Loan Shop, equipped with professional photography, audio, and filmmaking equipment. The program also offers potential access to major sports industry events and live reporting opportunities. Students will also have access to the university's TV studio, The Tank, with its specialist equipment, including studio cameras, autocues, green screen, a multi-screen display, mixing facilities, and fibre-optic wiring. Finally, the program encourages diverse storytelling and emphasizes the importance of diversity and inclusion in its approach to journalistic practice.

Tuition Fees and Payment Information:

• UK, Ireland , Channel Islands or Isle of Man: £11,200
• £18,600 per year without EU support bursary
• International: £18,600