International Journalism MA

Do you want to report on news from the most interesting and important parts of the world? Are you committed to a career in journalism but need the professional skills? If so, this one-year journalism postgraduate course provides excellent preparation for working across all platforms.

From the moment you start Brunel’s International Journalism degree, you will learn to deliver high-quality video, audio, online and print journalism geared towards global audiences.

Course content is designed to equip you with digital, multi-platform journalism skills and advanced understanding of the context of journalism in the fast-changing world of news media.

You will study a synthesis of practical and theoretical skills modules contextualising different forms of journalistic practice, within a framework of technological, political and cultural change. This is challenging, employment-orientated study on a leading journalism course at a London university that focusses on international reporting.

You will benefit greatly from our academic’s research strengths and excellent links with the journalism, broadcasting and publishing industries, with the option to seek a work placement during your time on the course.

Additionally, alumni and industry guest speakers will bring further insight and inspiration about what it means to work within global media.  

You will also get plenty of hands-on training and practice in the University’s well-equipped media suite that mimics the recording and broadcast facilities used within the industry.

International Journalism MA will appeal to a broad range of candidates with an interest in journalism across all sectors, including print journalism, online journalism, radio journalism, TV journalism and especially in areas of convergence.

This strongly vocational programme will allow you to develop your journalistic skills as you learn about the impact of technological change, cultural developments and political issues on different forms of global journalism.

Particular attention will be paid to the global versus the local, which will be examined through practical assignments as well as media ownership, the legal context, issues pertaining to journalistic ethics, and the role of journalism in the international political process.

When you graduate you’ll be equipped to enter a variety of roles within international and national journalism, or ready to undertake a PhD.

This course can be studied 1 year full-time or 2 years part-time, starting in September.

As a graduate of International Journalism MA your skills will be well suited to a variety of roles within journalism, particularly those with an international context, such as:

• Reporters for international news agencies 
• War and foreign correspondents
• Online journalists
• Magazine journalists
• Investigative journalists
• Content producers for mobile platforms
• Communication officer in non-government and private sector organisations

International Journalism MA is also excellent preparation for further postgraduate level research such as an MRES or Doctoral Degree

You’ll have a set of media skills that are easily transferred to fields like public relations, marketing, advertising, as well as non-governmental organisations and the public sector.

Previous graduates of this course are working in a variety of organisations, including the BBC World Service, Norway’s DTK TV News, Italy’s Il Mattino and London’s China Weekly.

• A 2:2 UK Honours degree, or equivalent internationally recognised qualification and evidence of commitment to journalism as a career such as student journalism or work experience. Candidates with other qualifications will be considered on an individual basis.

Applicants will be required to attend an interview.

• IELTS: 6.5 (min 6 in all areas)
• Pearson: 59 (59 in all subscores)
• BrunELT: 63% (min 58% in all areas)
• TOEFL: 90 (min 20 in all) 

Your progress on the course will be assessed in a variety of ways including practical projects and tasks, essays, exams, case studies, presentations, reflexive reports and dissertations.

In particular, your burgeoning knowledge and understanding of theoretical debates, practical skills and understanding of the historical and institutional context of different international journalism practices will be assessed through your written assignments.

You will research and write a journalism dissertation under the guidance of a dissertation supervisor. Many students value this unique experience and the opportunity to become, for a period of time, authorities on a particular area of journalism.