Good, accurate reporting is at the heart of quality journalism. It is a fundamental skill without which the social purposes of free speech and publication cannot be served. Students learn where facts come from and how quotes are obtained. They learn the language of news and begin to appreciate the ingredients necessary for fair, comprehensive and balanced reporting.

Our belief is that the best way to learn journalism is to go out and be a journalist. And for that you're going to need to enhance your developing reporting skills with the essential production techniques to publish your work in print and online, or broadcast it as video or audio. You'll learn all of these things while doing real stories, using state-of-the-art HD cameras, digital audio recorders, editing software and studio facilities.

An introduction to British politics describing the design and operation of Britain’s key local and national political institutions. Teaching examines the extent to which they provide for accountable and representative government and examines the crucial role played by media reporting of politics.

This module explores the relationship between the media and the law, and tackles the vital area of journalism ethics. What are the restrictions placed on freedom of expression and why are they there? Students critically examine different facets of media law to ask if these restrictions are justified and who should decide when restrictions apply.

Conveys a clear understanding of the working of the courts in England and Wales and enhances appreciation of the laws governing reporting. Students learn about contempt, defamation and copyright law. They learn how individuals, institutions and government use the law to obstruct the work of journalists and consider the ethical constraints on journalism. Who makes decisions about what we read, hear and watch? Who should make such decisions?

Builds on the skills taught in Reporting and Writing 1, blending instruction in the craft and intellectual substance of journalism through teaching of skills including feature writing and investigative journalism. The module includes tuition on law concerning crime reporting and court reporting.

Media power and media consumption in Britain since 1945. Students gain a critical appreciation of the changing structure of press and broadcasting power. Issues considered include: ownership and influence, where people get their news, fragmentation and the rise of citizen journalism.

Lectures supported by seminars and workshops help students to build on their skills in audio, visual and online journalism. They record interviews, discussions and debates, learn to make news and current affairs packages for broadcast and acquire skils in live broadcasting.