MA Online Journalism
Is the MA in Online Journalism for me?
If you have experience in the news or web industries, are a journalism graduate - or have done some exciting experiments that prove you are passionate about the possibilities of journalism and new media, then: yes.
What does the MA in Online Journalism involve?
The MA in Online Journalism offers the chance to explore the different shapes that journalism is taking online, with an emphasis on enterprise, community, and experimentation alongside core skills in newsgathering and production.
The MA in Online Journalism involves shaping the future of news. That means exploring the great - and awful - things that have been done with news online; it means experimenting yourself - and being prepared to fail spectacularly; and it means working with major news organisations to identify and address some of the central issues facing journalism today, such as:
- How do we engage audiences online?
- How can we use the power of networks to make better journalism?
- And how do we fund great journalism online?
You will have excellent access to resources and close personal contact with tutors, all of whom are experienced industry professionals. The course is led by Paul Bradshaw, an international authority on online journalism and publisher of the Online Journalism Blog, and learning will include contact with experts in a range of news organisations and startups.
The course offers tuition in all practical areas of online journalism, including:
- Writing for the web and using Content Management Systems
- Blogging and microblogging
- Podcasting
- Online video production
- Mapping
- Flash interactivity
- Computer Assisted Reporting (CAR) and using social media for newsgathering
- Creating data mashups
- Building content management systems
- Social networking and online distribution strategies
You will also be taught UK media law and ethics.
Teaching is in small groups and you will run a live news website, blogs, Twitter and other networked elements throughout your course. The taught postgraduate phase of the course will comprise modules in enterprise; newsgathering and production; and experimentation. The Masters component entails a substantial piece of independent production and study. You are not required to write a Dissertation.
Will I do placements as part of the MA in Online Journalism?
You will undertake an ongoing 'consultancy-style' relationship with a news organisation amounting to at least 15 days of work. A number of major broadcasters, national and regional news organisations in the UK and internationally have already expressed an interest in working with you.
Can I study part-time or online?
Part-time study is available. Much of the course material will be available online too, although not as part of a formal distance learning package. The Enterprise element of the course requires you to be in Birmingham. As the course progresses into the second Diploma stage there are fewer formal classes and more opportunity for pursuing your studies from abroad (for example, with a client organisation). Obviously there are advantages to studying here in Birmingham, such as access to facilities and expertise across the MA suite, not to mention social contact with other students.
What are the modules?
The course consists of five modules. These are:
- Online and mobile newsgathering, production and distribution (30 credits)
- Media enterprise (30 credits)
- Multimedia newsgathering, production and distribution (30 credits)
- Online Journalism Labs (30 credits)
- MA by Production (60 credits)
What will I be able to do when I've finished the MA in Online Journalism?
Upon successfully completing the MA in Online Journalism you will have the skills not only to be an online journalist, but to be able to take the craft of journalism forward - whether you are working within a print, broadcast or online organisation.
You will be able to find stories from alternative sources, stand them up and tell them using a range of platforms, and with the involvement of the community. You will be good at making contacts and keeping them. You'll understand where journalism online is – and where it's heading.
You will have made a number of valuable contacts whilst on the course – not least through the consultancy experience – and be ready to take your skills into the workplace, either in a strategic capacity or establishing a news startup of your own.
We have close ties with the regional and national press, and broadcast media.
What are the entry requirements?
Applicants must have proven experience in journalism or media production (for example, programmers who wish to apply their skills to journalism). Good spoken and written English are vital. IELTS level 6.5 is a minimum. You should have evidence of your passion for new forms of journalism, along with a strong and inquiring mind and a tendency not to take no for an answer!
For more information on what the course entails, see this blog post by Paul Bradshaw
How do I apply?
For information on applications or to apply now visit the Applications page.
