Digital Journalism | BSc (Hons) at Leeds Beckett University

Course Details

In the age of mobile technology, anyone can use their phone to take pictures and video and send their stories across the globe as soon as they happen, but it is the quality of the material that matters. You will develop the skills and confidence to spot a story and think about the different ways it could be told, whether using photography, sound or the written word.

You will learn the art of taking a striking picture, the techniques for writing editorial content and how to use industry-standard editing software. You will gain the ability to work in a collaborative environment through group projects, including an online magazine. For each edition you will take on a new role, learning the varied skills involved in producing a publication. We will encourage you to keep the audience for your stories at the forefront of your mind and teach you how to tailor your content for a particular readership.

We will keep you up to date with advances in digital journalism to ensure your learning is current and fully prepares you for the future. You will learn about how media has shifted from print to online and assess the impact this is having on journalism, giving you the knowledge and ability to adapt to these changes.

This course offers the opportunity to take a ‘sandwich’ year – a year of paid employment in industry which will build your skills and experience. This is usually taken between the second and third year of your degree, typically making your course four years in total. Students who choose the sandwich route find it helps with both their studies and getting a job after graduation. It can build your confidence, contacts, and of course your CV. Leeds Beckett advertise lots of placement opportunities and provide support in helping you find the right placement for you.

Course Benefits

Your learning is grounded in real-world experiences such as work placements and internships. You could work with a local newspaper or pitch your ideas to an online publication and get your stories in the path of professionals.

You can also practise your skills with Be Media, our Students' Union's student-led media project. They provide support and industry links for budding writers, designers, presenters, producers, editors and photographers.

You will have the opportunity to meet journalists, publishers and Disney animator Aaron Blaise from industry through guest lectures and workshops. Previous speakers have included Rob Orchard, a journalist and publishing director. Our teaching team also boasts expertise from across media and journalism, so you will learn from tutors who have had their work published globally in print and online.