Birmingham City University United Kingdom

Journalism with a Foundation Year - BA (Hons)

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) Journalism with a Foundation Year at Birmingham City University is designed for aspiring journalists who are passionate about uncovering stories and informing the public but may need additional foundational study. You will explore the dynamic world of media, developing essential skills in news gathering, digital reporting, and professional ethics. This undergraduate degree prepares you for a career in broadcast, print, or digital journalism by providing a comprehensive understanding of media concepts, industries, and audiences, grounded in practical application.

This full-time, four-year programme, studied on campus, begins with a foundation year to build your academic and professional skills before progressing to core journalism modules. You will engage in hands-on learning through workshops, live reporting sessions, and collaborative projects, potentially including work placements or live briefs with industry partners. You will develop critical abilities in media law, practical reporting, and advanced journalism techniques, culminating in a major project. Upon graduation, you will be equipped with a versatile skillset to pursue diverse career opportunities within the media landscape.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This BA (Hons) Journalism program, with a foundational year, equips students with essential media production, professional, and academic skills. Across subsequent years, the curriculum delves into understanding and investigating media texts, industries, and audiences, alongside developing core journalism techniques, digital reporting, and storytelling abilities. The program culminates in advanced reporting, a major project, and a range of optional modules exploring diverse areas within media and communication.

1 Foundation Year

Media Audiences Compulsory
Professional and Academic Skills Compulsory
Media Production Practice Compulsory
Collaborative Media Production Compulsory
Media Concepts and Investigation Compulsory
Media Project Compulsory

2 First Year

Understanding Media Texts, Industries and Audiences Compulsory
Investigating Media Texts, Industries and Audiences Compulsory
Telling Stories with Journalism Compulsory
Digital Reporting Compulsory
Journalism Techniques Compulsory
Community and Industry Collaboration Compulsory

3 Second Year

Journalism in Context Compulsory
Media Law in Practice Compulsory
Practical Reporting Compulsory
Work Placement Compulsory
Live Project Compulsory
Collaborative Practice Compulsory
Bi-Media Drama Optional
Comedy in the Media and Popular Culture Optional
Fandoms and Subcultures Optional
Photojournalism Optional
Television Studio Optional
Creating Compelling Content Optional
Digital Storytelling Optional
Radio Documentary and Podcast Production Optional
Commercial Photography Optional
Emotion, Media and Culture Optional
Media and Environment Optional
Television From Small Screens to Smart Screens Optional
Graphic Design Optional
PR Campaign Planning Optional
Disruptive Publishing Optional
Exploring PR, social media and influencers Optional
Live Music and Media Optional
Live Radio Production Optional

4 Final Year

Advanced Reporting Compulsory
Major Project Preparation Compulsory
Major Project - Dissertation Core-Optional
Major Project - Hybrid Core-Optional
Major Project - Production Core-Optional
Media Activism Optional
Understanding Social Media: Practices, Cultures and Debates Optional
Digital Futures Optional
Creative Camera Optional
Radio Station Optional
Audio Drama and Podcast Writing Optional
Audience and User Experience Optional
Gender, Sexuality and the Body Optional
Race, Media and Culture Optional
Popular Music Narratives Optional
Media Production Company Optional
Communication in Action Optional
Feature Writing for News Media Optional

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 25,101.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 25,101.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 25,101.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 25,101.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 100,404.00

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

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 607.00 - USD 1,191.00
Food & Groceries USD 3,222.00 - USD 4,028.00
Transport USD 806.00 - USD 3,222.00
Utilities & Bills USD 4,028.00 - USD 5,034.00
Estimated Total USD 8,056.00 - USD 11,278.00

Living cost estimates are based on Birmingham City Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

97%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Advertising & Media SalesAdvertising Finance & OperationsAnimation & Visual EffectsBrand ManagementBroadcasting & TelevisionCreative Production & Project ManagementDigital Media & Online PublishingMuseums & Cultural HeritageMusic & Performing ArtsTalent & Artist Management

Top Employers Hiring for this course

British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC)

Sky Group

YouTube

Why Study Journalism with a Foundation Year - BA (Hons) at Birmingham City University

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Moderate Application response time

Birmingham City University typically responds to applications within 1 - 2 weeks, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Life at Birmingham City University 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 Journalism with a Foundation Year - BA (Hons) at Birmingham City University

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 needed, but part-time students cannot work.

Is this qualification recognised internationally?

Yes. This course is accredited by Athena Swan Bronze Award.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To be eligible, international students must meet specific English language requirements: TOEFL overall score of 80, IELTS overall score of 6.0, or PTE overall score of 59. Ensure your scores meet or exceed these requirements for admission.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as journalists, reporters, editors, or media analysts.

What will I actually study in this course?

This foundation year allows students to meet the requirements for a three-year degree while offering training in areas such as creative storytelling and practical journalism skills. You'll also have opportunities for placements and activities like workshops and live reporting.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The Journalism with a Foundation Year - BA (Hons) program has an intake every September. Ensure you apply on time to secure your spot in this four-year course.
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