University of Derby United Kingdom

BA (Hons) Football Journalism with Foundation Year

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree With Integrated Foundation Year
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

The BA (Hons) Football Journalism with Foundation Year at the University of Derby is designed for aspiring journalists passionate about the world of football. You will explore the dynamic intersection of sports reporting, media law, and digital content creation, preparing you for a career in an industry that demands both deep subject knowledge and versatile multimedia skills. This programme is ideal if you are eager to understand the cultural significance of football and its complex media landscape, while developing the critical thinking and practical abilities essential for impactful storytelling in contemporary sports journalism.

This full-time, four-year undergraduate degree is studied on campus, beginning with a foundation year to build essential academic and creative skills. You will engage with core modules covering video, multimedia reporting, social media, and newswriting, alongside optional units exploring contemporary issues in sport and football club communications. Through practical projects, news days, and potentially a final year journalism project, you will develop a professional portfolio. You will graduate with the ability to research, write, and produce compelling football content across various platforms, ready for roles in sports media, broadcasting, or digital content creation.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This BA (Hons) Football Journalism with Foundation Year program offers a comprehensive exploration of the media landscape, beginning with foundational skills in literature, study techniques, and creative projects. Students will progress to mastering multimedia football reporting, newswriting, and social media practices, alongside essential media law. The curriculum further delves into advanced topics such as videography, sports newsroom operations, contemporary sports issues, e-sports, and feature writing, culminating in a journalism project, data journalism, advanced online content production, and professional development.

1 Foundation Year

Literature
Study Skills
Creative Project
Law

2 Year One

Introduction to Video Skills
Journalism in Society
Media Law
Multimedia Football Reporting
Newswriting in Football and Sport
Social Media Practice in Football

3 Year Two

Videography
The Sports Newsroom
Contemporary Issues in Sport
E-Sports
Fashion Journalism
Feature Writing
Football Club Communications
Football: Past, Present and Future
Future Trends in Journalism
Print Design and Production
Multi-platform Journalism News Days
Applied Sport Business Management

4 Year Three

Journalism Project
Data Science and Data Journalism
Advanced Online Content Production
Commentary and Punditry
Data Analysis and Visualisation In Football
Podcasting and Live Radio
Professional Development
Social Media Management In Football
Start Up Journalism
Video Newsdays

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

13% off
First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 18,268.00 USD 20,951.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 20,951.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 20,951.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 20,951.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 81,122.00 USD 83,805.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Food & Groceries USD 3,222.00 - USD 8,200.00
Transport USD 903.00 - USD 935.00
Utilities & Bills USD 2,093.00 - USD 2,616.00
Estimated Total USD 6,218.00 - USD 11,228.00

Living cost estimates are based on Derby Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

96%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Advertising & Media SalesAmusement & Recreation ServicesAnimation & Visual EffectsGaming & Interactive MediaJournalism & ReportingMedia Production & EditingMedia Research & AnalyticsMusic & Performing ArtsPhotojournalism & Visual MediaSports & Athletics

Top Employers Hiring for this course

British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC)

Derby Football Club

Derby Theatre

Football Association

Why Study BA (Hons) Football Journalism with Foundation Year at University of Derby

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Life at University of Derby in United Kingdom

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about BA (Hons) Football Journalism with Foundation Year at University of Derby

Can I work while studying?

As a degree student, you can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks. No separate work permit is necessary for international students.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To meet English test requirements, you need an overall IELTS score of 7.0, with a minimum score of 6.5 in listening, reading, speaking, and writing. Make sure to prepare adequately to achieve these scores.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Potential job titles include Sports Journalist, Content Writer, Broadcast Journalist, and Football Editor.

What will I actually study in this course?

The Football Journalism with Foundation Year BA (Hons) program emphasizes practical experience in producing multimedia football stories and explores the culture and history of the football industry. This unique course combines journalism skills with a passion for football, preparing students for a successful career in sports media.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The intake for the BA (Hons) Football Journalism with Foundation Year is in September. Make sure to prepare your application well in advance to meet all requirements.
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