UNIVERSITY OF CENTRAL LANCASHIRE
Programme Specification
1. Awarding Institution / Body University of Central Lancashire
2. Teaching Institution and Location of Delivery Main Campus - Preston
3. University School/Centre Journalism, Language and Communication
4. External Accreditation
5. Title of Final Award Journalism (Foundation Entry Year) BA Hons
6. Modes of Attendance offered Full-Time
7. UCAS Code P503
8. Relevant Subject Communication, media, film and cultural studies- Benchmarking Group(s) no foundation benchmarking statements.
9. Other external influences
10. Date of production/revision of this form July 2015
11. Aims of the Programme To provide students who do not have standard entry qualifications the opportunity to prepare for and progress on to an undergraduate programme in journalism
To enable students to usefully apply the basic journalism and academic study skills that are essential to a student wishing to progress onto the first year of an undergraduate degree in journalism.
To give students insight into the practice of journalism and a grounding in the skills and knowledge required by journalists.
To develop the basic intellectual skills and creative insights necessary to initiate reflective practitioners
To promote engagement in debate about the definition, nature and purpose of journalism
12. Learning Outcomes, Teaching, Learning and Assessment Methods
A. Knowledge and Understanding
A1. Knowledge and understanding of concepts and perspectives relevant to the practice of journalism including an understanding of the roles and responsibilities of journalists and the structure of the journalism industry. A2. Knowledge and understanding of concepts and practices relating to academic study skills at undergraduate level. A3. Understanding of news gathering, writing and basic broadcast and online production skills A4. Acquire transferable skills, including critical thinking and reasoning skills; ability to think conceptually and to work independently and with a team. A5. Demonstrate effective communication skills and the ability to learn from own experience and that of others.
Teaching and Learning Methods
Lectures, seminars and workshops will be used to introduce key topics, case studies and skills. Students will engage in discussions and debates as well as practising basic skills required within journalism and academia. Students will further develop their learning through independent study and practice.
Assessment methods
Practical multi-disciplined journalism production/portfolios – Theoretical and Reflective essays – Group presentations – Academic skills test
B. Subject-specific skills
B1. Writing and originating journalism for broadcast, print and online formats B2. Understanding and recognising target audiences for successful story-telling B3. Basic broadcast skills including writing, recording, editing and composition B4. Origination and development of digital platforms. Teaching and Learning Methods
Lectures and workshops will be used to initiate basic skills and concepts which will be furthered through independent study and practice. Industry visits, talks and case-studies.
Assessment methods
Practical multi-disciplined journalism production/portfolios – Theoretical and Reflective essays – Group presentations
C. Thinking Skills
C1.Analysis of broadcast material. Review and reflection. Research and independent study C2.Ethics and Regulations Moral ideologies. Development of Codes of Practice. Debate and Discussion C3.Critical and personal reflection.. Structured Reading C4.Experiential learning activities Teaching and Learning Methods
Lectures and workshops will be used to initiate basic skills and concepts which will be furthered through independent study and practice and reflection.
Assessment methods
Theoretical and Reflective essays – Group presentations
D. Other skills relevant to employability and personal development
D1.Self-management D2.Critical awareness D3.Communication and presentation skills D4.PDP D5.Interpersonal skills Teaching and Learning Methods
The rigour of deadlines and self-management through the process of assessment and learning in a supportive and challenging setting will enable students to engage and develop their personal, creative and academic skills.
Assessment methods
Practical assessment and presentations will test the student’s personal and practical management skills. Appropriate critical and personal reflection will consolidate their learning.
13. Programme Structures* 14. Awards and Credits*
Level Module Module Title Credit Code rating
Level 3 JNC001 Journalism Matters 20 BA (Hons) Journalism Level 3 JNC002 Making News 20 (Foundation Entry Year) Requires 120 credits to proceed to BA (Hons) Level 3 Journalism JNC003 Introduction to 40 Broadcasting Exit Award: Level 3 JNC004 Introduction to Digital 20 Communication Certificate of Achievement
Level 3 JNC007 Communication Matters: 20 Practical Writing Skills
15. Personal Development Planning
The nature of this course is designed to encourage students to put their own personal development at the heart of their learning. Students will be encouraged through assessment and through tutorial and group activity to constantly reflect and apply their learning and experiences on the course to their own personal, creative and academic goals.
16. Admissions criteria
Programme Specifications include minimum entry requirements, including academic qualifications, together with appropriate experience and skills required for entry to study. These criteria may be expressed as a range rather than a specific grade. Amendments to entry requirements may have been made after these documents were published and you should consult the University’s website for the most up to date information.
Students will be informed of their personal minimum entry criteria in their offer letter.
This programme is aimed at students with non-standard entry qualifications.
However, entry requirements at A2 level would be in the range of DDE at A2 level and BTEC: MPP. For international applications, an IELTS score of 6.5 is required.
Mature students and candidates with non-standard qualifications may also considered, especially if they have professional or other relevant experience.
17. Key sources of information about the programme University, School and course specific websites www.uclan.ac.uk University prospectus External advertising Industry contacts Undergraduate advice events