Course Handbook MA in Magazine Journalism

2015-2016

Course Leader: Catherine Darby

School of Journalism Language and Culture

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Contents page

1. Introduction to the course

2. Structure of the course

3. Approaches to teaching and learning

4. Student support, guidance and conduct

5. Assessment

6. Course regulations

7. Student voice

8. Appendices

8.1 Approved programme specifications

8.2 Equipment loans and technical support

8.3 Digital Guidelines

8.4 Tuition Fee Information

1. Introduction to the course

1.1 Welcome to the course Welcome to the School of Journalism and Media at the University of Central Lancashire. We hope you will enjoy, and benefit from, this exciting and challenging programme in Magazine Journalism.

The MA Magazine Journalism is part of the winning line-up of MA programmes in newspapers, broadcasting and international journalism offered by the School. Launched in 2004 it was the first north of Cardiff to secure accreditation by the magazine industry’s prestigious Periodicals Training Council (now the Professional Publishers Association) which hailed the course as “outstanding”, and one of few in the UK to win accreditation additionally with media training body the National Council for the Training of Journalists.

You’re about to embark on one of the most exciting, challenging and rewarding courses available to you in 12 months of intensive study and work. There will be highs and lows; you’ll make new friends and will be asked to accomplish a lot in a short time. But if you organise your time wisely, work diligently and adopt the right attitude, the results could help shape the rest of your life.

Simply being on the course doesn’t guarantee success. The people who’ve been successful on the MA course have worked hard, shown enthusiasm and commitment and pursued their ambition with focus and determination. The course team will help you all they can but, in an industry with no established junior entry routes and a competitive freelance market, in the end it’s up to you.

The Masters course is designed to provide a vocational qualification with a sound theoretical underpinning. It will give you a more sophisticated understanding of magazines and important experience of operating independently. The media industry is continually developing as it comes to terms with hitherto untapped markets and new technology. This course will equip you with entry level skills as a member of a magazine editorial team and provide an opportunity for you to engage in creative research. This work could also lead to employment afterwards in a highly competitive market.

The School strongly believes in experiential learning – learning by doing. You will be expected to be a “self-starter”, to go out and gather stories and write them up in commanding fashion from day one. The practical and demanding nature of the coursework will emulate conditions in a fast-changing real world. Journalism also has a more introspective side and students are expected to read extensively for both study and pleasure.

The University has an unsurpassed reputation for its journalism courses. You’re forging the way on periodicals within an established framework of success since journalism courses began in 1962. You have come to the University of Central Lancashire to work but we also hope you will enjoy what you have chosen to do. Have fun and the best of luck.

Catherine Darby, Course Leader

1.2 Rationale, aims and learning outcomes of the course The MA in Magazine Journalism offers a rigorous and vigorous educational programme that will provide graduating students with the skills and knowledge to work, and continue to develop, within the editorial sector of the magazine industry. To achieve this the course sets out:

• To offer a flexible and rigorous programme of study that equips students with the

knowledge, skills and practical experience needed to operate as professional multi-platform journalists in a modern digitalised magazine newsroom.

• To develop in students a critical awareness of the role of the journalist in a changing media landscape and to enable students to respond to the challenges and opportunities this presents.

• To enable students to appreciate the ethical, legal and commercial considerations they will need to consider in order to function as accurate and responsible magazine journalists.

• To produce reflective practitioners who understand the roles and responsibilities of journalists in the democratic process.

• To promote within students the development of the transferable skills and business awareness that will enable students to operate in an international commercial environment.

• Successful completion of the Masters project should enable students to develop, produce and in principle continue to support a new publication; identify appropriate project management planning and manage a large-scale project independently in an effective manner; and demonstrate a more sophisticated understanding of the sector, the requirements of magazine launches and production informed by a critical review of current industry practice.

It’s important to be clear about what you will have learned by the end of the course. These learning outcomes are grouped below in two sections. The first is a list of outcomes we expect of our postgraduate diploma students. The second is a list of outcomes specific to the MA programme. By the end of your postgraduate diploma programme you will be able to demonstrate:

A. Knowledge and Understanding • Knowledge of the development, structures, changing nature and multi-platform operation of

the magazine industry. • Knowledge of how to find, source, write, edit and target stories for the appropriate market. • Knowledge of legal, economic, ethical and regulatory controls on news production. • Understanding of theoretical and conceptual issues which relate to journalism. Teaching and Learning methods: Lectures, workshop, industry speakers. Assessment methods: Practical work portfolios, packages, presentation, examinations, professional newsroom work eg websites, newspapers, magazines, reflective analysis, essays. B. Subject-specific skills • Research, writing, interviewing, editing. • Medium-related technical skills such as the use of page design software and web-related

packages. • Creating and maintaining an online presence. • Applying business principles to their own practice. Teaching and Learning methods: Lectures, workshops, newsrooms. Assessment methods: Practical work portfolios, packages, presentation, professional newsroom work eg websites, newspaper supplements and magazines. C. Thinking skills • Research skills

• Analytical skills • Organising ideas into a coherent argument • Evaluation of theoretical and professional approaches to the changing media landscape.

Teaching and Learning methods: Lectures, seminars, case studies. Assessment methods: Essays, dissertations, presentations, research exercises, logs.

D. Other skills relevant to employability and personal development. • Career planning and management. • Critical awareness. • Transferable written and verbal communication skills. • Presentational and promotional skills. Teaching and Learning methods: Lectures, seminars, presentations, newsroom work. Assessment methods: Reflective logs, presentations, practical work, essays.

In addition, students undertaking the MA project will be able to:

• Critically analyse and understand theoretical and conceptual issues which relate to journalism and apply this to professional practice through project work.

• Manage a large-scale project independently.

1.3 Course Team Catherine Darby, Course Leader & Sr Lecturer Tel: 01772 894751 Email: cmdarby@uclan.ac.uk Pat Brand, Sr Lecturer Tel: 01772 8947 Email: pabrand@uclan.ac.uk Amy Binns, Sr Lecturer Tel: 01772 895694 Email: abinns@uclan.ac.uk Clare Cook, Sr Lecturer Tel: 01772 894737 Email: cecook@uclan.ac.uk Andy Dickinson, Sr Lecturer Tel: 01772 894752 Email: asdickinson@uclan.ac.uk Wayne Noble, Associate Lecturer Tel: c/o 01772 895795 Email: wnoble1@uclan.ac.uk Julie Freer, Division Leader, Tel: 01772 894750 Email: jefreer@uclan.ac.uk Francois Nel Tel: 01772 894758 Email: fpnel@uclan.ac.uk

Caroline Hawtin, Sr Lecturer Tel: 01772 895692 Email: chawtin@uclan.ac.uk Delwyn Swingewood, Sr Lecturer Tell: 01772 894729 Email: dswingewood@uclan.ac.uk

1.4 Academic advisor Catherine Darby, Course Leader & Senior Lecturer Tel: 01772 894751 Email: cmdarby@uclan.ac.uk

1.5 Campus administration services Campus Admin Services provides academic administration support for students and staff and are located at CM235 (Computing and Technology building) on the Fylde Road opposite the Student Union. It is open from 8.45am until 5.15pm Monday to Thursday and until 4pm on Fridays. The hub can provide general assistance and advice regarding specific processes such as extenuating circumstances, extensions and appeals. Course specific information is also available via school Blackboard sites.

The hub telephone number is 01772 891994 or 01772 891995

The hub email contact is CandTHub@uclan.ac.uk

1.6 Communication The University expects you to use your UCLan email address and check regularly for messages from staff. If you send us email messages from other addresses they risk being filtered out as potential spam and discarded unread. Email is a useful communication tool but use your discretion and don’t bombard your tutors with unnecessary questions eg When’s the deadline? You’ll receive a lot of information during the course and it’s up to you to keep track of it. Never send abusive emails; there’s a difference between being rude and assertive. Use of the internet, blogs and social networking sites are a significant part of our practical journalism teaching, however, we expect you to act responsibly and adopt professional standards when contributing to the web. You must always adhere to the university’s Guide for Students on personal internet presence. You should not use your site to attack or abuse university staff or students. You should respect the privacy and feelings of others. You should not include contact details or pictures etc of other students without their prior permission. Remember that if you break the law on your site (for example by posting something defamatory) you will be personally responsible.

1.7 External Examiner The University has appointed an External Examiner to your course who helps to ensure that the standards of your course are comparable to those provided at other higher education institutions in the UK. The name of this person, their position and home institution is below. If you wish to make contact with your External Examiner, you should do this through your Course Leader and not directly.

The External Examiner for the MA in Magazine Journalism is Dr Amanda Geary Pate, programme leader for BA (Hons) Journalism at the University of the West of Scotland.

2. Structure of the course

2.1 Overall structure PGDiploma MAGAZINE JOURNALISM (exit award)

SEMESTERS ONE AND TWO JN 4070 Creating Content (semester one, single module, 20 credits) JN 4071 Newsroom Practice (semester two, double module, 40 credits) JN 4072 Digital Journalism (semester one, single module, 20 credits) JN 4200 Law for Journalists (semester one, single module, 20 credits) JN 4600 Public Affairs (semester one, single module, 20 credits) To successfully complete the PG Diploma you must pass all six modules (120 credits) over two semesters. To successfully complete the NCTJ-accredited PG Diploma you must pass all six modules over two semesters plus: JN1111/2 Shorthand (semester one and two, single module, 20 credits) to 100 words per minute.

MA MAGAZINE JOURNALISM SEMESTERS ONE AND TWO JN 4070 Creating Content (semester one, single module, 20 credits) JN 4071 Newsroom Practice (semester two, double module, 40 credits) JN 4072 Digital Journalism (semester one and two single module, 20 credits) JN 4200 Law for Journalists (semester one, single module, 20 credits) JN 4600 Public Affairs (semester one, single module, 20 credits) Plus optional modules: JN4076 Specialist Writing (semester one, single module, 20 credits) JN4140 Photojournalism (semester two, single module, 20 credits) SEMESTER THREE A compulsory project module. Either JN4073 Extended Journalism Project (triple module) Or JN4074 Standard Journalism Project (double module).

To successfully complete the MA you must pass nine modules (180 credits) over three semesters in the calendar year.

To successfully complete the NCTJ-accredited MA you must pass the following six modules (120 credits) over Semesters One and Two: JN 4070 Creating Content (semester one, single module, 20 credits) JN 4071 Newsroom Practice (semester one and two, double module, 40 credits) JN 4072 Digital Journalism (semester one and two single module, 20 credits) JN 4200 Law for Journalists (semester one, single module, 20 credits) JN 4600 Public Affairs (semester one, single module, 20 credits) plus three modules, and JN1111/2 Shorthand (semester one and two, single module, 20 credits) to 100 words per minute.

Modules available

JN4070 Creating Content

This is a single module that is designed to introduce you to the basics of practical journalism. You will be taught how to find, research and write a story. You will also be asked to reflect on what it means to be a journalist and what are the roles and responsibilities of a journalist in a democratic society. You will also be introduced to the ethical constraints journalists face. This module will be taught in semester one.

JN4071 Newsroom Practice

This is a double module that will enable you to experience life as a working journalist in a magazine newsroom which includes the business of magazines and practical production of original magazines and websites. This module also includes a compulsory industry placement. This module starts semester two and follows on from JN4070.

JN4072 Digital Journalism This is a single module that will enable you to develop strategies to exploit the changing media landscape. You will learn about technology and practice, storytelling for new mediums, blogging and journalism, design principles, content management and online publishing, writing for new mediums, multimedia - video, audio, photography, and image making, web technologies, communities, social networking and Web 2.0/3.0, Semantic web and what that means for journalists, tagging, geotagging, search engines and their impact on content creation ,law and ethical issues in digital journalism. This module will be taught in Semester One. JN4200 Law for Journalists This Semester One module introduces students to the legal and regulatory boundaries of what journalists can and cannot report. It follows the syllabus set out by the National Council for the Training of Journalists in its Essential Media Law and Court Reporting programmes of study and prepares students for NCTJ exams. It also aims to meet the accreditation requirements of the Broadcast Journalism Training Council and the Professional Publishers’ Association. The module is also designed to enable students to apply their knowledge of law and regulation in a newsroom environment in their practical journalism sessions.

JN4600 Public Affairs

This Semester One module introduces students to the constitutional framework, structures and institutions of central and local government and other public bodies in the UK. It follows the syllabus set out by the National Council for the Training of Journalists in its Essential PA programme of study and prepares students for NCTJ exams. Students will also learn how to access information from public bodies and how to write topical stories from public authority sources and how to present the material in a way that will engage their audience.

JN1111 Shorthand

This module introduces you to Teeline shorthand. By the end of the module you should be equipped to attempt the 80 wpm exam. JN1112 meets the requirements for the NCTJ’s 100wpm exam. PLEASE NOTE: JN1112 is compulsory for any student who wants to qualify for the NCTJ’s diploma on this accredited course.

JN4073 Extended Journalism Project

This is a triple module that allows you to develop a journalism-related project of your choice. It may involve producing a piece of journalism such as a documentary, a magazine, a website or a newspaper supplement or it may involve taking part in an extended placement or an industry-commissioned project.

JN4074 Standard Journalism Project

This is a double module that allows you to take an extra optional module in your programme. The project also allows you to develop a journalism-related project of your choice. Plus one optional module. See below for choice. JN4076 Specialist Writing A single module which introduces students to reader identification, targeting and marketing within specialist areas, developing contacts and equipping them with a critical understanding of the different demands of specialist journalism. JN4140 Photojournalism A single module designed to give you an introduction to some of the working practices, conventions, approaches and techniques of contemporary photojournalism.

2.3 Study Time The majority of teaching takes place in semester one and you are expected to attend every session. Minimum teaching hours for practical and digital journalism in semester one will be about 9 hours a week but students will be expected to work on their own initiative outside teaching time. There will be additional hours with the advent of the magazine newsroom in semester two. Shorthand is one and a half hours every day in semesters one and two. There are also two hours of law and two hours of public administration each week and up to five hours for any chosen optional modules. In semester two, the focus turns to practice with the

creation of original magazines and websites. You will be given a detailed timetable every week. Outside of your timetabled sessions you should recognise and embrace the opportunity to utilise the equipment and facilities to study and practise your skills as much as possible. Project-based modules will demand more private study and formal contact time with staff will be limited to tutorials and supervision sessions. The online timetable is available through your Student Lobby.

2.3.3 Attendance Requirements You are required to attend all timetabled learning activities for each module. Notification of illness or exceptional requests for leave of absence must be made to your course leader Catherine Darby (cmdarby@uclan.ac.uk). If you are not an EU student under the UK Border Agency (UKBA), Points Based System (PBS) - you MUST attend your course of study regularly; under PBS, UCLan is obliged to tell UKBA if you withdraw from a course, defer or suspend your studies, or if you fail to attend the course regularly. If you have not gained the required authorisation for leave of absence, do not respond to communications from the University and if you are absent for four weeks or more, you may be deemed to have withdrawn from the course. If this is the case, then the date of withdrawal will be recorded as the last day of attendance. Each time you are asked to enter your details on SAM you must remember that the University has a responsibility to keep information up to date and that you must only enter your own details on the system. To enter any other names would result in inaccurate records and be dishonest. Any student who is found to make false entries can be disciplined under the student guide to regulations.

2.4 Data Protection All of the personal information obtained from you and other sources in connection with your studies at the University will be held securely and will be used by the University both during your course and after you leave the University for a variety of purposes. These are all explained during the enrolment process at the commencement of your studies. If you would like a more detailed explanation of the University’s policy on the use and disclosure of personal information, please contact the Information Governance Officer, Clerk to the Board Service, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, PR1 2HE or email DPFOIA@uclan.ac.uk.

3. Approaches to teaching and learning

3.1 Expertise of staff Catherine Darby is a senior lecturer who joined the School full-time in August 2002. Before that she combined the roles of part-time print lecturer and news sub-editor on the Lancashire Evening Post. She has previously worked on the Daily Mail, the Financial Times, Country Life and women’s magazines. She set up the MA in Magazine Journalism in 2004. As course leader she is responsible for the planning and co-ordination of course delivery, the presentation of assessments to external examiners and the collation of marks for the assessment boards. Direct Line: 01772 894751, email cmdarby@uclan.ac.uk

Digital journalism lecturer Amy Binns is exploring the development of social media and magazine brands on which she delivered a paper at the Cardiff MtM:3 conference and to

industry experts at Haymarket publishing. Direct Line: 01772 895694, email abinns@uclan.ac.uk

Pat Brand, our shorthand tutor, does in-house training for newspapers. Direct Line: 01772 894735, email pabrand@uclan.ac.uk

Clare Cook joined the School from Express Magazines where she was celebrity chief sub-editor. Previously an award-wining journalist on the Lancashire Evening Telegraph, she is at the forefront of digital journalism research. Direct line: 01772 894737, email cecook@uclan.ac.uk

Andy Dickinson is Senior Lecturer with a leading knowledge of online journalism. He also offers a consultancy and design service for new media and internet projects. Direct Line: 01772 894752, email asdickinson@uclan.ac.uk

Wayne Noble is an associate lecturer on contract to the School to deliver the design elements of the course. Direct Line: via the Department on 01772 895795, email wnoble1@uclan.ac.uk

Julie Freer is division leader for Journalism in the School and as such is responsible for approving extensions and extenuating circumstances. She worked in the regional newspaper industry for 20 years before moving into teaching. Direct Line: 01772 894750, email jefreer@uclan.ac.uk

Delwyn Swingewood can call on three decades of experience in print, radio and television. Direct line: 01772 894729, email dswingewood@uclan.ac.uk

3.2 Learning and teaching methods Our postgraduate courses have built their reputations on “experiential learning”, which means providing students with a professional environment within the School where they can put into practice their emerging skills and knowledge. It also means, unlike in industry, enough time and structured opportunity is available for students, their fellows and the staff to analyse and critique performance.

There will be formal lectures to impart key information and concepts but much time will be spent in workshops, sometimes with people from the industry who visit the School to share their knowledge and experience. The Masters route will then be focused on independent study as students prepare and execute their projects.

Methods used on the course are:

• Lectures • Seminars/workshops to increase understanding and encourage analysis • Tutorials to review progress, give feedback and highlight areas for further work • Independent study • Work-based learning to acquire direct experience of the contemporary journalistic

environment.

One of your important resources will be the staff within the School of Journalism. Virtually all have come from the industry. Many continue to be active professionally, making programmes or writing. Among the staff there are specialists in online, television, radio and print journalism. Each has extensive industry contacts that are constantly used to benefit the School and its students.

You will have to attend every session and guest lecture to keep pace and get the maximum return from your endeavours. The Masters route is intensive as you will be climbing a steep learning curve rapidly.

In our experience the students who put the most in, and take responsibility for their own development, definitely get the most out. There will be regular lectures and workshops. But it is your independent study outside the timetabled sessions that will determine how far you progress.

We will encourage you to develop as independent learners by first giving you the basic skills and knowledge, then the facilities to experiment and develop with feedback and guidance, plus the stimulus of visiting lecturers from the industry and finally the support of individual tutors to monitor progress. But you must play your part fully.

Being a self-starter will be a key factor in successfully completing the Masters/Postgraduate Diploma and getting your first job. It will also be valuable preparation for those taking the Masters route, who will be embarking on a substantial piece of independent study under supervision.

A vital first step as an independent learner is to read this handbook and understand the course aims and outcomes and how the different modules contribute to your overall learning. Also, before each module starts you will receive a Module Information Pack (MIP). This is an important and very useful document that gives full details of:

• What you will learn and how you will learn. • When assessments will take place, what they are, additional advice and guidance and any

specific extra marking criteria. • Contact details for the module team. • Extra learning material (ie; online resources) that may be available. • The books and other material you need to buy. • A reading list that points you towards the main texts that may help in your studies.

This course is both practical and theoretical. Although some modules emphasise one of these elements more than the other you should constantly strive to establish linkages between them.

3.3 Study skills These services support students’ development of study skills: WISER https://portal.uclan.ac.uk/webapps/portal/frameset.jsp?tab_tab_group_id=_33_1 LIS https://portal.uclan.ac.uk/webapps/portal/frameset.jsp?tab_tab_group_id=_25_1

3.4 Learning resources

3.4.1 Learning Information Services (LIS) Extensive resources are available to support your studies provided by LIS – library and IT staff. Take advantage of the free training sessions designed to enable you to gain all the skills you need for your research and study. You can call LIS Customer Support on +44 (0) 1772 895355 or internal extension 5355.

3.4.2 Electronic Resources LIS provide access to a huge range of electronic resources – e-journals and databases, e-books, images and texts and industry research databases such as Lexis Nexis. To see the full range of electronic resources at your disposal, visit the Library Online webpage at:-

http://www.uclan.ac.uk/students/library/index.php

An international news area is in the lobby of the main library with TV newscasts from around the world on flat screens with personal headphones. 3.4.3 Journalism Resources You will be based with the rest of journalism in Greenbank Building. You will have access to dedicated multimedia PCs and Macs with appropriate production software such as QuarkXpress and InDesign. You will also use the School’s digital stills camera and CD-Rom recording equipment. See Appendix III for details of the School’s equipment loans and technical support.

3.5 Personal development planning Personal Development Planning (PDP) is an integral part of the programme, aimed at helping you progress into a chosen career. PDP is a supported and structured process to help you understand more about how you learn and what you learn. It encourages you to review, plan and take responsibility for your own learning to improve your personal, educational and career development.

Personal Development Planning provides you with opportunities to reflect on what you are learning on the course and during your time at university, identify your strengths and weaknesses and to develop your own strategies to further improve your performance. It gives you a framework to record your activities and actions and forms the basis for your career development by providing evidence of the development of a wide range of skills and experiences that are sought by employers and which will aid your advancement in the workplace.

Personal Development Planning is a process that only you can fully undertake as it calls upon you to constantly reflect on what you do and how you do it. It is a process that is similar to, and often linked with, your subject specific learning. On this course you are required to carry out practical journalism tasks and to reflect on how and why these are done, what the consequences are and ways they could be better done. Personal Development Planning is the same process, but in relation to yourself – you are required to carry out learning tasks and to reflect on what you learned and how, what the consequences are and ways they could be better done.

Reflections on your learning and experiences in practical activities are assessed components in JN4071, JN4073 and JN4074.

3.6 Preparing for your career Your future is important to us, so to make sure that you achieve your full potential whilst at university and beyond, your course has been designed with employability learning integrated into it at every level. This is not extra to your degree, but an important part of it which will help you to show future employers just how valuable your degree is. These “Employability Essentials” take you on a journey of development that will help you to write your own personal story of your time at university:

• To begin with, you will explore your identity, your likes and dislikes, the things that are important to you and what you want to get out of life.

• Later, you will investigate a range of options including jobs, work experience and self- employment,

• You will then be ready to learn how to successfully tackle the recruitment process.

You will be able to record your journey using Pebblepad, the university’s e-portfolio system, which will leave you with a permanent record of all the fantastic things you have achieved during your time at UCLan.

It’s your future: take charge of it!

Careers offers a range of support for you including:- • career and employability advice and guidance appointments • support to find work placements, internships, voluntary opportunities, part-time

employment and live projects • workshops, seminars, modules, certificates and events to develop your skills

Daily drop in service available from 10.30am-3pm for CV checks and initial careers information. For more information come along and visit the team (in Foster building near the main entrance) or access our careers and employability resources via the Student Portal. 3.6.1 Industry Accreditation

The MA Magazine Journalism programme is accredited by two accreditation organisations, the National Council for the Training of Journalists and the Professional Publishers Association.

Both organisations regularly carry out accreditation visits to ensure that our courses meet the latest industry and training council requirements. Accreditation is important because it indicates to potential employers that students on our courses have been trained to a high professional standard.

The National Council for the Training of Journalists also offers students the opportunity to take its own exams which lead to a Diploma relevant to you as trainee journalists. Many editors require students to have NCTJ qualifications in addition to a degree and we do encourage students to take these exams.

You will have the opportunity during your course to take the five mandatory subjects, one continuously assessed portfolio and four exams, and two specialist options, both exams, which make up the NCTJ’s Diploma.

The NCTJ’s exam fees are added on to your course fees. We offer students the opportunity to take papers at the close of Semester Two. For information on the latest fees, please see www.nctj.com.

3.6.2 Placements You are expected to have organised your module-assessed work placement/s as soon as you start the course. You should present your course leader with your completed learning agreement/s within four weeks of attending the course.

Occasionally, employers may require placement attendance at other times. This can only be arranged in exceptional circumstances and you must ask permission from your course leader before contacting employers. Do not make your own arrangements for placements outside the official placement weeks unless your course leader has agreed. Permission will only be given in circumstances that the course leader believes are exceptional. While the placement is a central part of the programme, it is also vital that you do not miss classes for other modules.

Tutors may be able to assist in arranging placements through their industry contacts. However it is your responsibility to make sure you have the required placements arranged and to complete the university’s Health and Safety training. It is also your responsibility to inform Colette Sanders in the Administrative Hub (see section 1.5 for contact details) of your placement details so that the necessary health and safety checks can be carried out. If these are not fulfilled the university will not allow students to take up that placement.

4. Student support, guidance and conduct The Administrative Hub (see section 1.5 for contact details) is in Greenbank 001 and they can help with general support and advice. Your module leaders can also offer support and guidance during posted hours and by appointment.

4.1 Academic advisors Your course leader Catherine Darby is your academic advisor and will be available during posted hours and by appointment to discuss your progress and any problems you may have encountered.

4.2 Student Support The 'i' is the central Student Information Centre and your first point of contact. You can obtain information on a wide range of topics including Council Tax Exemption Certificates, Bank and Confirmation of Study Letters, Portable Financial Credits, Printing and Printer Credit, UCLan Cards and the “i” shop.

4.3 Students with disabilities If you have a disability that may affect your studies, please either contact the Disability Advisory Service - disability@uclan.ac.uk - or let one of the course team know as soon as possible. With your agreement information will be passed on to the Disability Advisory Service. The University will make reasonable adjustments to accommodate your needs and to provide appropriate support for you to complete your study successfully. Where necessary, you will be asked for evidence to help identify appropriate adjustments.

Assessment arrangements for students with a disability Arrangements are made for students who have a disability/learning difficulty for which valid supporting evidence can be made available. Contact the Disability Adviser for advice and information, disability@uclan.ac.uk. The School administration team will advise you on your Disability lead and their contact details.

4.4 Health and Safety As a student of the University you are responsible for the safety of yourself and for that of others around you. You must understand and follow all the regulations and safety codes necessary for a safe campus environment. Please help to keep it safe by reporting any incidents, accidents or potentially unsafe situations to a member of staff as soon as possible. Safety assessments have been undertaken for each module of your course and you will be advised of all applicable safety codes and any specific safety issues during the induction to your course and modules. You must ensure that you understand and apply all necessary safety codes. These form an essential element of your personal development and contribute to the safety of others.

4.5 Conduct You will be expected to abide by the Regulations for the Conduct of Students in the University. UCLan expects you to behave in a respectful manner demonstrated by using appropriate language in class, and switching mobile phones / other devices off prior to attending classes. If your behaviour is considered to be unacceptable, any member of academic staff is able to issue an informal oral warning and the University will support staff by invoking formal procedures where necessary. You can read more about UCLan expectations in the regulations for the Conduct of Students. Your tutors will do their best to make your course stimulating, enjoyable and, above all, productive. We’ll treat you as trainee journalists and will endeavour to give you the highest quality training and advice, so that you can make the most of your learning experience. In return we expect you to behave in a professional manner at all times - especially when you are undertaking tasks which bring you into contact with the public. How you dress for normal classes is up to you. However, when we've an important visitor, or you're operating as a trainee journalist, you're expected to dress appropriately. This will usually mean a smart casual style. You should dress more formally for formal situations, such as court, and council meetings. Always, remember you're far more likely to be taken seriously if you look professional. You're encouraged to play a full part in your course. You're expected to show initiative and work as a member of a team. This means contributing to projects and discussions - and helping others, who may not share your knowledge or experience. Lectures and seminars are important and you should make every effort to attend them all. This means arriving punctually and staying until the end of the session. If something is likely to prevent you from attending, or from completing an assignment on time, you should tell your tutor right away.

We regard you as student journalists and expect you to behave in an appropriate professional manner when undertaking practical assignments and projects.

IPSO Code

We abide by the Independent Press Standards Organisation code of conduct, as well as a set of stricter rules drawn up by the School of Journalism. The interpretation of the IPSO code is something you will consider on your course. In practical situations you will abide by the letter of these guidelines and back off if you think you are in a ‘grey’ area. You must consult staff before further action.

NOTE: Breaches of the student code or the IPSO code will attract penalties or disciplinary action. In any module where assessment involves practical journalism, marks will be deducted for breaches and in serious cases students may be judged unsuitable to continue on a journalism course.

You are required by the School of Journalism to follow these guidelines whenever operating outside the School and dealing with members of the public:

Safety

You must do nothing to put yourself, or anyone else, in danger. Consider your safety when deciding on what areas and places to visit, the time of day, and the type of person you are dealing with. If in any doubt, consult a tutor and let someone know where you are going and whom you are meeting.

Grief

You will never undertake a story that involves intrusion into grief. Such activities are not acceptable for student journalists undertaking exercises. This is an absolute ban, regardless of guidance given in the PCC code to professional journalists.

Introductions

Always give your name and introduce yourself as a student journalist at the University of Central Lancashire. It is reasonable to explain that you are doing an exercise. It may be helpful to say that wider publication is not intended. But do not offer any assurance that the story will not be picked up by professional journalists and used in their publications and programmes. It is naive to believe that good stories published even in a classroom context will not interest journalists, some of whom are visiting lecturers.

Misrepresentation

If you have spoken to sources as a student journalist and later realise the story may be worth passing to the media, you must seek their consent before doing so. Failure to do so is

a clear breach of ethical guidelines and is likely to land you, the School and the organisation publishing your story in serious trouble.

Children and young people

Do not approach anyone under the age of 16, unless you have checked with your tutor and have then obtained permission from a parent or guardian of the child.

Harassment

Don’t even think about it. However, circumstances vary and no good reporter willingly accepts ‘no’ as an answer. Often, but not always, it will be appropriate to turn on the charm and try again from another tack. But don’t ever pester people who are unwilling to talk to you. The long-suffering people of Preston are generally very willing to give up their time to talk to students from the School. We don’t want to lose their goodwill. Some people in key positions get a lot of calls from students in the School. If they won’t talk to you, be prepared to back down with good grace. You are, after all, doing a student exercise that is of no importance to them.

Clothes and appearance

How you dress in everyday student life is entirely your concern. How you dress and present yourself when operating as a student journalist and representative of the School of Journalism and Digital Communication meeting members of the public deserves more consideration. The basic rule in these circumstances is this: you will always be smartly presented and dressed. How you interpret this is a matter for your common sense and the particular circumstances. You should certainly wear fairly formal clothing for formal situations – courts, public authority meetings etc.

The same sort of clothing will also be appropriate for most other occasions. This is because:

a) We expect you to operate like a professional journalist and media organisations demand that their staff dress conservatively.

b) You are far more likely to be taken seriously and given the information you require if you look professional.

c) You won’t frighten members of the public. Who do you think is more likely to get a response when canvassing public opinion in the street – someone smartly dressed or someone in scruffy army fatigues with multiple piercings?

Reputation

At all times consider the reputation of the School. For the sake of students who will follow you never prejudice the good name we have.

Never do anything to put yourself, or anyone else, in danger while you're on your course. Consider your safety when deciding what areas and places to visit, the time of day, and the type of person you are dealing with. If you're in any doubt, speak to a member of staff and let someone know where you are going and whom you are meeting.

4.6 Students’ Union The Students’ Union is the representative body for all UCLan students. The organisation exists separately from the University and is led by the elected officers of the Student Affairs Committee (SAC) as well as representatives on the Students’ Council. The Students’ Union building is located at the heart of the Preston campus, and is the hub for all student activities. Representation and campaigning for students’ rights is at the core of what we do and is encompassed by our tag line of, Making Life Better for Students. Should you wish to make a change to any aspect of your student experience, whether it be academically related or not, then the Union is where your voice can be heard, actions taken, or campaigns launched. Your Union is also the home to a fantastic range of student-led societies, sports teams and multitudes of volunteering opportunities. You can also receive help in finding part-time work, whilst you study. Not sure where to go? Pop into the Opportunities Centre on the ground floor of the Students’ Union building and someone will point you in the right direction. We hope your time at University is trouble free, but should you come into difficulties around anything from academic appeals, to issues with housing, benefits or debt, then our dedicated staff team in the Advice and Representation Centre are on hand to help. As we are independently run from the university, we can offer truly impartial advice. More information on all these things, as well as details about all our (not-for-profit) commercial services, including our student supermarket (Essentials) and student-bar (Source), can be found at http://www.uclansu.co.uk/.

5. Assessment Please note that all modules will be assessed. You are expected to attempt all required assessments for each module for which you are registered, and to do so at the times scheduled unless authorised extensions, special arrangements for disability, or extenuating circumstances allow you to defer your assessment.

5.1 Assessment Strategy You will undertake a range of assignments that use a variety of methods to assess your performance in different elements of your learning. Some of these assessment methods will be new to you, especially if you have not studied before in the UK. During your induction week there will be an important session explaining assessment requirements. The modules in semester one will also include detailed guidance on undertaking each of the assignments before you start on them. Usually, there is more than one assignment in each module. The early assignments are due about half way through the module. These will be marked promptly and you will receive written feedback on your work, which will indicate any weaknesses that you may need to address before doing the next assignment. Your reflections on your learning, how this was used to tackle assignments and issues raised by feedback from your tutor form a central part of your Personal Development Planning. After each round of assignments you should write an action plan which sets out how you plan to further improve your performance.

5.2 Notification of assignments and examination arrangements The module information packs (also available on Blackboard) contain precise details of the assessments and examinations for each module you will study. It is your responsibility to check this information and make precise notes in your diary.

5.3 Referencing When submitting academic essays, The Harvard referencing system must be used. Do not use footnotes or any other referencing system. The bibliography does not constitute part of the word count nor does the actual reference in text i.e. (Frost 2007 p10). WISER has plenty of online referencing advice at: http://www.uclan.ac.uk/facs/class/studyskills/index.htm

5.4 Dealing with difficulties in meeting assessment deadlines Meeting deadlines is central to being an effective journalist. So, unless you have mitigating circumstances which you’ve previously explained to the relevant member of staff you’ll be expected to meet every deadline set for your work. Assignments must be submitted no later than the date and time on your assignment instructions / brief. If you anticipate that you will have difficulty in meeting assessment deadlines or you have missed or are likely to miss in-semester tests you must report this at the earliest possible opportunity to your course leader Catherine Darby (cmdarby@uclan.ac.uk) or the division leader Julie Freer (jefreer@uclan.ac.uk). Authorisation of the late submission of work requires written permission. The School with responsibility for your module will be authorised to give permission for one extension period of between 1 and 10 working days where evidence of circumstances has been accepted and where submission within this timescale would be reasonable taking into account those circumstances (Academic Regulations). You should complete and submit an extension request form, with any supporting evidence, to your Administrative Hub (see section 1.5 for contact details) Further information is available on the Student Portal at: https://www.uclan.ac.uk/students/study/examinations_and_awards/extenuating_circumstances.php We aim to inform you of a decision about granting an extension within 1 working day of the receipt of the request. If you are unable to submit work within 10 working days after the submission date due to verifiable extenuating circumstances, you may submit a case for consideration in accordance with the University’s Extenuating Circumstances Procedure (Assessment Handbook).

5.5.1 Extenuating circumstances "Extenuating Circumstances" is a phrase which refers to exceptional factors outside of your control which have adversely affected your performance within your course. These factors may prevent you from attending examinations or other timed assessments or caused you to miss assessment submission dates. Examples are illness, accidents or serious family problems. Normally extenuating circumstances will relate to a change in your circumstances since you commenced your course, which have had a significant, adverse effect on your studies. Everyday occurrences such as colds or known conditions such as hay-fever will not qualify unless the effects are unusually severe and this is corroborated by a medical note. The

University does not look sympathetically on absences or delays caused by holiday commitments or by work commitments in the case of full-time students. The normal work commitments of part-time students would not constitute an extenuating circumstance. A disability or learning difficulty does not constitute an extenuating circumstance ( see Academic Regulations). You can apply for extenuating circumstances online via myUCLan. You must apply no later than 3 days after any examination or assessment submission date. Do not wait until you receive your assessment results to submit a claim. It is in your own interests to submit the claim as soon as possible. You will be expected to re-submit claims for extenuating circumstances for each semester. All evidence that is provided relating to extenuating circumstances will be treated in a sensitive and confidential manner. Supporting evidence will not be kept for longer than is necessary and will be destroyed shortly after the end of the current academic year. Further information about the submission process is available at: https://www.uclan.ac.uk/students/study/examinations_and_awards/extenuating_circumstance_submission.php In determining assessment recommendations, Assessment Boards will consider properly submitted claims from students who believe their performance has been adversely affected by extenuating circumstances. N.B. Assessment Boards are not permitted to alter individual assessment marks to take account of extenuating circumstances (Academic Regulations: G9 and Assessment Handbook).

5.5.2 Late submissions If you submit work late and unauthorised, a universal penalty will be applied in relation to your work:

• If you submit work within 5 working days following the published submission date you will obtain the minimum pass mark (ie 40% for levels 4, 5 and 6 work, 50% for level 7 work) for that element of assessment.

• Work submitted later than 5 working days after the published submission date will be awarded a mark of 0% for that element of assessment.

• Unauthorised late submission at resubmission will automatically be awarded a mark of 0% for that element of assessment.

5.6 Feedback Following Assessments UCLan is committed to giving you clear, legible and informative feedback for all your assessments (Academic Regulations: G2.4). You are expected to review and reflect on your feedback and learn from each experience to improve your performance as you progress though the course. You will be provided with generic feedback for in-module formative and summative elements of assessment which contribute to a module within 15 working days of the scheduled submission or examination date. Generic feedback on end of module assessment and dissertations will be made available within 15 days of publication of results. Feedback may be oral, written, posted on a website or other.

5.7 Cheating, plagiarism, collusion or re-presentation You are required to sign a declaration indicating that individual work submitted for an assessment is your own.

If you attempt to influence the standard of the award you obtain through cheating, plagiarism or collusion, it will be considered a serious academic and disciplinary offence as described within the Academic Regulations and the Assessment Handbook

• Cheating is any deliberate attempt to deceive and covers a range of offences described in the Assessment Handbook.

• Plagiarism describes copying from the works of another person without suitably attributing the published or unpublished works of others. This means that all quotes, ideas, opinions, music and images should be acknowledged and referenced within your assignments.

• Collusion is an attempt to deceive the examiners by disguising the true authorship of an assignment by copying, or imitating in close detail another student’s work - this includes with the other student’s consent and also when 2 or more students divide the elements of an assignment amongst themselves and copy one another’s answers. It does not include the normal situation in which you learn from your peers and share ideas, as this generates the knowledge and understanding necessary for each individual to independently undertake an assignment; nor should it be confused with group work on an assignment which is specifically authorised in the assignment brief.

• Re-presentation is an attempt to gain credit twice for the same piece of work.

The process of investigation and penalties which will be applied can be reviewed in the Assessment Handbook. If an allegation is found to be proven then the appropriate penalty will be implemented: In the case of a single offence of cheating, plagiarism, collusion or re-presentation:

• the penalty will be 0% for the element of assessment, and an overall fail for the module.

• the plagiarised element of assessment must be resubmitted to the required standard and the mark for the module following resubmission will be restricted to the minimum pass mark (ie 40% for levels 4, 5 and 6 work, 50% for level 7 work).

• when it is detected for the first time on a resubmission for an already failed module, no further resubmission for the module will be permitted, and the appropriate fail grade will be awarded.

In the event of a repeat offence of cheating, plagiarism, collusion or re-presentation (irrespective of whether the repeat offence involves the same form of unfair means) on the same or any other module within the course:

• the appropriate penalty will be 0% for the module with no opportunity for re-assessment. This penalty does not preclude you being able to retake the module in a subsequent year.

The penalties will apply if you transfer from one UCLan course to another during your period of study and module credits gained on the former course are transferred to the current course. Contact the Students’ Union Advice and Representation Centre by emailing: suadvice@uclan.ac.uk for support and guidance. 5.7.1 An additional warning on plagiarism It is unacceptable to turn in a story that uses quotations derived from Lexis-Nexis, internet sites or printed material without identifying them as such. This is plagiarism.

The penalties for plagiarism or other forms of cheating can be large. At the extreme they may endanger your future at this university and the award you might otherwise have been granted. At their lowest they will result in a demand that you resit the assignment for a total module score of 50% - and that may threaten your eventual classification.

5.7.2 A warning on originality Work previously submitted for courses at the University of Central Lancashire or other universities will not be accepted as original to the Masters in Magazine Journalism. 5.7.3 A warning on copyright Magazines produced as university coursework must comprise original text material, original images and artwork, or credit unless it is sourced from a categorically free or promotional library/archive. If clearance cannot be achieved, then copyright pictures may be used for internal consumption only (ie they would not be allowed in any competition entries). They must be clearly identified, by using a very low resolution image and/or a very clear label with the caption stating NO COPYRIGHT CLEARANCE. All externally supplied material must be credited to the copyright holder, whether cleared or not. 5.7.4 A warning on cyberspace The School takes a strong line on cyberspace bullying. Please abide by the Digital Guidelines in Appendix 8.3

5.8 Appeals against assessment board decisions If you consider that you have a reason to appeal against an assessment board decision, please bear in mind that your reasons must fall within the grounds specified in the University Academic Regulations: Section I. You cannot appeal simply because you disagree with the mark given. The specified grounds for appeal are:

1. that an Assessment Board has given insufficient weight to extenuating circumstances;

2. that the student’s academic performance has been adversely affected by extenuating circumstances which the student has, for good reason, been unable to make known to the Assessment Board;

3. that there has been a material administrative error at a stage of the examining process, or that some material irregularities have occurred;

4. that the assessment procedure and/or examinations have not been conducted in accordance with the approved regulations.

If you want to appeal, then you must do so within 7 days of your results being published. The onus is on you to find out your results and submit your appeal on time. Contact the Students' Union Advice Centre suadvice@uclan.ac.uk for support and advice. Dates for the publication of results are published on the UCLan academic calendar.

6. Course regulations

6.1 Course requirements This courses requires a pass mark on all modules or satisfactory on shorthand to achieve the NCTJ diploma.

6.2 Classification of Awards The University publishes the principles underpinning the way in which awards and results are decided in Academic Regulations. Decisions about the overall classification of awards are made by Assessment Boards through the application of the academic and relevant course regulations. H4.1 The classification of awards is based on the Average Percentage Mark (APM) - a calculation derived from the marks achieved in specified modules. Classifications are subject to other conditions as detailed below. H4.12 For taught Master’s degrees the following classifications apply: APM + Dissertation Module Award 70% or above + 70 - 100% Distinction 60% or above + 60 - 100% Merit H4.13 Postgraduate Awards Award APM Based on standard modules (credits shown in brackets): Postgraduate Certificate 3 (60) modules Postgraduate Diploma 6 (120) modules The classification of postgraduate awards will be based on an APM derived from Level 7 modules only. Any Level 6 modules must be passed but will be excluded from the calculation of the APM. In operating discretion for profiling Course Assessment Boards will use academic judgement and may refer to performance in core modules; the placement component, the dissertation/project or other factors which have been published to students.

7. Student voice You can play an important part in the process of improving the quality of this course through the feedback you give. In addition to the continuing discussion with the course team throughout the year, there are a range of mechanisms for you to feed back about your experience of teaching and learning. We aim to respond to your feedback and let you know of our plans for improvement. For example the assessment placement dates have been moved to August so there is no interruption to coursework and the shorthand and NCTJ exams in April and May. The Students’ Union can support you in voicing your opinion, provide continuing advice and support, and encourage your involvement in all feedback opportunities. They will be asking that you complete the National Student Survey (during semester 2 for students in their final year of study) or the UCLan Student Survey (all other students). The Students’ Union and University work closely together to ensure that the student voice is heard in all matters of student-life. We encourage students to provide constructive feedback throughout their time at university, through course reps, surveys and any other appropriate means, The Union’s Student Affairs Committee (SAC), members of Students’ Council and School Presidents each have particular representative responsibilities, and are involved with decision making committees as high as the University Board. Therefore it is very important students engage with the democratic processes of the Students’ Union and elect the students they see as most able to represent them.

7.1 Course representatives and School Presidents A course representative is a student who represents their fellow students’ views and opinions to the course team, school, university and students’ union. Course representatives work proactively and diplomatically to improve the academic and non-academic experiences of students. The role of a course representative is extremely beneficial to both students on your course and the university. It enables students to have ownership of their student experience and voice their opinions and share positive practice with the course team, primarily the Student Staff Liaison Committee Meetings (see below). Course representatives will be elected every year either in April or September. Alongside receiving recognition, support and respect being a course representative is a great opportunity to enhance your employability skills. If you are interested in becoming a course representative and wish to find out more about the role visit the Students’ Union website or by emailing: coursereps@uclan.ac.uk.

School Presidents meanwhile are annually elected representatives who voice the opinions of students within each school. They communicate and engage with students in their school to gain feedback and work in partnership with senior management to create positive change. They are also trained to support and signpost course representatives where needed. If you wish to find out who is your School President or more about the role visit the Students’ Union website or email: coursereps@uclan.ac.uk

7.2 Student Staff Liaison Committee Meetings (SSLC) The purpose of a SSLC meeting is to provide the opportunity for course representatives to feedback to staff about the course, the overall student experience and to inform developments which will improve future courses. These meetings are normally scheduled once per semester. Your Course Leader will facilitate the meetings using guidelines and provide a record of the meeting with any decisions and / or responses made and / or actions taken as a result of the discussions held. The meetings include discussion of items forwarded by course representatives, normally related to the following agenda items (dependent on time of year). The course team encourage student feedback in all areas and recognise that additional items for discussion may also be raised at the meeting • Update on actions completed since the last meeting • Feedback about the previous year – discussion of external examiner’s report; outcomes

of National /UCLan student surveys. • Review of enrolment / induction experience; • Course organisation and management (from each individual year group, and the course

overall); • Experience of modules - teaching, assessment, feedback; • Experience of academic support which may include e.g. Personal Development

Planning, academic advisor arrangements and The Card; • Other aspects of University life relevant to student experience e.g. learning resources,

IT, library; • Any other issues raised by students or staff.

7.3 Complaints The University recognises that there may be occasions when you have cause for complaint about the service you have received, when this happens, the complaints procedure is intended to provide an accessible, fair and straightforward system which ensures as effective, prompt and appropriate response. Click on this link for more information Complaints Procedure .

8. Appendices

8.1 Programme Specifications

UNIVERSITY OF CENTRAL LANCASHIRE

Programme Specification

This Programme Specification provides a concise summary of the main features of the programme and the learning outcomes that a typical student might reasonably be expected to achieve and demonstrate if he/she takes full advantage of the learning opportunities that are provided.

Sources of information on the programme can be found in Section 17

1. Awarding Institution / Body

University of Central Lancashire

2. Teaching Institution and Location of Delivery

University of Central Lancashire, main campus.

3. University School/Centre

Journalism & Media

4. External Accreditation

NCTJ and PPA

5. Title of Final Award

MA Magazine Journalism

6. Modes of Attendance offered

Full time

7. UCAS Code

Postgraduate course – no UCAS code.

8. Relevant Subject Benchmarking Group(s)

Communication, media, film and cultural studies

9. Other external influences

Skillset convergent journalism guidelines 2009.

10. Date of production/revision of this form

June 2015

11. Aims of the Programme

• To offer a flexible and rigorous programme of study that equips students with the knowledge, skills and practical experience needed to operate as professional multi-platform journalists in a modern digitalised magazine newsroom.

• To develop in students a critical awareness of the role of the journalist in a changing media landscape and to enable students to respond to the challenges and opportunities this presents.

• To enable students to appreciate the ethical, legal and commercial considerations they will need to consider in order to function as accurate and responsible magazine journalists.

• To produce reflective practitioners who understand the roles and responsibilities of journalists in the democratic process.

• To promote within students the development of the transferable skills and business awareness that will enable students to operate in an international commercial environment.

• Successful completion of the Masters project should enable students to develop, produce and in principle continue to support a new publication; identify appropriate project management planning and manage a large-scale project independently in an effective manner; and demonstrate a more sophisticated understanding of the sector, the requirements of magazine launches and production informed by a critical review of current industry practice.

12. Learning Outcomes, Teaching, Learning and Assessment Methods

A. Knowledge and Understanding

A1. Advanced knowledge of the development, structures, changing nature and multi-platform operation of the magazine industry.

A2. Demonstrate how to find, source, write, edit and target stories for the appropriate market.

A3. Knowledge of legal, economic, ethical and regulatory controls on news production.

A4. Critical analysis and understanding of theoretical and conceptual issues which relate to journalism and apply this to profession practice through project work.

Teaching and Learning Methods

Lecturers, workshops, industry speakers,

Assessment methods

Practical work portfolios, packages, presentation, examinations, professional newsroom work, eg websites, newspapers, magazines, reflective analysis, essays and a project..

B. Subject-specific skills

B1. Advanced research, writing, interviewing, editing which are of industry entry-level standard.

B2. Medium-related technical skills such as the use of page design software and web-related packages.

B3. Creating and maintaining an online presence.

B4. Applying business principles to their own practice.

Teaching and Learning Methods

Lecturers, workshops, newsrooms

Assessment methods

Practical work portfolios, packages, presentation, Professional newsroom work, eg websites, newspaper supplements and, magazines.

C. Thinking Skills

C1. Research skills

C2. Analytical skills

C3. Organising ideas into a coherent argument.

C4. Evaluation of theoretical and professional approaches to the changing media landscape.

Teaching and Learning Methods

Lectures, seminars, case studies.

Assessment methods

Essays, dissertations, presentations, research exercises, logs and a project.

D. Other skills relevant to employability and personal development

D1. Career planning and management

D2. Critical awareness

D3. Transferrable written and verbal communication skills.

D4 Presentational and promotional skills.

D5 Managing a large-scale project independently

Teaching and Learning Methods

Lectures, seminars, presentations, newsroom work.

Assessment methods

Reflective logs, presentations, practical work, essays.

13. Programme Structures*

14. Awards and Credits*

Level Module Code

Module Title Credit rating

Level 7

JN4070

JN4071

JN4072

JN4200

JN4600

JN4073

JN4074

JN4075

JN4100

JN4110

JN4140

Compulsory Modules

Creating Content

Newsroom Practice

Digital Journalism

Law for Journalists

Public Administration

Plus:

Extended Journalism Project

OR

Standard Journalism Project

AND (20 credits from the optional modules below)

OR

Journalism Project

AND (40 credits from the optional modules below):

Optional Modules

The Modern Journalist

Fundamentals of Business for Media Entrepreneurs

Introduction to Photojournalism

20

40

20

20

20

60

40

20

20

20

20

20

Masters Degree

Requires 180 credits at Level 6 or above with a minimum of 160 credits at Level 7

Exit award

Post Graduate Diploma

Requires 120 credits at level 6 or above, with a minimum of 100 credits at level 7

Exit award

Post Graduate Certificate Requires 60 credits at level 6 or above with a minimum of 40 at level 7.

JN4076

JN4043

JN4090

PV4015

JN4401

JN4077

PR4013

PR4014

Specialist Writing

International News and Media

Journalism Theory

Enterprise and Professional Practice

Digital Publishing

Public affairs and lobbying in context

Fundraising and Sponsorship

20

20

20

20

20

10

10

Level 4

JN1111 Shorthand for Journalists 20 This optional 10th module has to be taken by students wanting industry accreditation.

15. Personal Development Planning

Personal development planning is at the heart of the course development. The modular programme allows for the development of transferrable skills in addition to subject-specific skills.

Students will be encouraged to reflect on their own practice. They will also develop a critical awareness of the changing media landscape and develop their own skills portfolio with the aim of exploiting the opportunities available.

16. Admissions criteria

Students will normally be expected to have an Upper Second or above classification for an honours degree from a British higher education institution, or an equivalent overseas qualification.

Mature students and candidates with non-standard qualifications are also considered, if they have substantial professional or other relevant experience.

International students are required to have an ILETS score of 8

17. Key sources of information about the programme

• University and School website www.uclan.ac.uk • University prospectus • External advertising. • Postgraduate advice events.

18. Curriculum Skills Map

Please tick in the relevant boxes where individual Programme Learning Outcomes are being assessed

Level Module Code Module Title

Core (C), Compulsory (COMP) or Option (O)

Programme Learning Outcomes

Knowledge and understanding

Subject-specific Skills Thinking Skills

Other skills relevant to employability and

personal development

A1 A2 A3 A4 B1 B2 B3 B4 C1 C2 C3 C4 D1 D2 D3 D4 D5

Leve

l 7

JN4070 Creating Content Comp

JN4071 Newsroom Practice Comp

JN4072 Digital Journalism Comp

JN4200 Law for Journalists Comp

JN4073 Extended Journalism Project O

JN4074 Standard Journalism Project O

JN4075 Journalism Project O

JN4100 The Modern Journalist O

JN4110

Fundamentals of Business for Media Entrepreneurs O

JN4076 Specialist Writing O

JN4077 Videojournalism O

JN4043 International News and Media O

JN4090 Journalism Theory O

PV4015

Enterprise and Professional Practice O

JN4401 Digital Publishing O

JN4140

Introduction to Photojournalism O

JN4600 Public Administration Comp

Ll 4

JN1112 Shorthand for Journalists 2 O

Note: Mapping to other external frameworks, e.g. professional/statutory bodies, will be included within Student Course Handbooks

Tuition Fee Information

Tuition fees:

Your tuition fees include:

• Scheduled course tuition, academic, technical and administrative support, use of course equipment and facilities.

• Course related induction activities. • Placement year academic support (where the course includes a placement year). • Course assessment and awards. • Access to the university’s library and online resources, including on-campus wifi,

networked and remote access to the university’s virtual learning environment, • Use of the university’s estate and resources for scheduled activities and learning

support • Dissertation, project and/or thesis printing and binding where the submission of

printed and bound documents is a requirement for assessment of the module. • Use of the university’s technical equipment and materials identified by the course

teaching team as essential for the completion of the course. • The extra items listed against your course in Table One below.

Table One Course

Additional items included in the tuition fees for your course

MA Broadcast Journalism Placement costs SD camera card Headphones for editing/studio work.

MA International Journalism Printing costs for newspaper/magazine projects. SD camera card Headphones for editing/studio work. Dissertation printing/binding costs

MA Photography

Project - Printing of images/binding costs Final Show - Exhibition Costs

MA Magazine Journalism NCTJ diploma examinations. Shorthand workbook. Placement costs. Printing costs for magazine projects.

The items listed in Table Two are optional and the costs are not included in your tuition fees.

Table Two Course

Optional items which may be offered and which are NOT included in the tuition fees for your course. Places may be limited

Estimated costs

MA Broadcast Journalism Students are expected to cover real stories, on location. Travel costs/expenses may be incurred..eg fuel, public transport, parking etc

£30

MA International Journalism

Study visit £300

MA Film Production MA Scriptwriting

Attendance at events / film festivals

£100

Living costs:

Living costs are not included in your tuition fees. You will need to budget for these separately. Below is an indication of some typical living costs, but everyone is different and you are strongly advised to plan your own budget.

Typical items Estimated weekly costs lower range

Estimated weekly costs higher range

Accommodation: University Halls of Residence based on a 42 week contract. Private Halls of Residence (Living at home may reduce your accommodation costs)

£79.03 £70 (£0)

£107.83 £110

Food £20 £30 Internet connection (free wifi on campus, in university halls of residence and in some private accommodation)

£0 £12

Toiletries/Laundry £5 £15 Gas/electricity/water (included within university halls of residence costs and some private accommodation – check your contract)

£0 £20

Printing, copying, stationery. £2.50 £10 Travel expenses (varies by method & distance travelled e.g. on foot, bicycle, bus, train or car. If using bus or train check travel card / season ticket rates for savings). University halls of residence and a good selection of private accommodation are situated on campus or a short walk from campus.

£0 £40

Mobile phone or landline £2.50 £10 Books £5 £10 Leisure £5 £25 Total per week £110 £282 Total for 42 weeks (typical halls of residence contract)

£4,620 £11,844

Total for 52 weeks £5,720 £14,664

You will also need to budget for ‘one off’ or irregular costs

Typical items Notes Bedding From £20 Clothes Costs vary depending on your needs TV licence £145.50 per year Insurances Costs vary depending on your needs.

Computer/laptop/telephone You will have access to University computers or laptops for your studies or you may have your own you wish to bring. If you are acquiring one to come to university the cost varies depending on model and whether it is new or refurbished.

Furniture, crockery etc. Furnished accommodation may include all your needs. Check your accommodation to see what is included.

Additional costs.

The costs below are incurred by some but not all students and are not included within the Tuition Fees.

Optional items – all courses Estimated costs Travel to course related work placements, work experience, voluntary work, or site visits (for example costs of petrol, business level motor insurance cover, taxis, train fares, bus fares etc.).

Variable depending on the distance travelled and the method of transport chosen.

Library fines & charges Avoid these by returning on time or renewing books!

On time £0.00 0-8 days overdue £0.10-0.50 per day 9+ days overdue £0.50-£1.00 per day 40+ days replacement cost and administrative charges/account suspension

Costs of obtaining medical or other evidence to support applications for extenuating circumstance applications relating to assessments.

For example a medical certificate may cost from £10.

Fees for arranging and invigilating course examination(s) off campus are payable by the student (Note this only applies where permitted by course regulations and approved by course leaders)

£300

Printing of electronic books, journals etc. You are strongly recommended to access these electronically.

Estimated £0.10 per copy sheet

Printing of reports, course materials and other course documents, which have been supplied or are available electronically or in hard copy in the library.

Estimated £0.10 per copy sheet