Journalism / Iriseoireacht DT582
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Qualification awarded: BA (Journalism) Level 8 / BA (Iriseoireacht) Leibhéal 8
Duration of programme:
4 years
Type of programme:
Honours Degree
Number of places:
27 approx.
Programme Description
The BA Journalism offers a comprehensive programme of study to anyone who wishes to pursue a career as a journalist. Those applying should have a keen interest in news and current affairs, a facility with language and the ability to work to deadlines. The programme develops skills in the practice of newspaper, broadcast and web-based journalism. Students also gain a critical understanding of the role of journalism in democratic society and knowledge of subjects such as politics, law and business. The School of Media publishes and broadcasts student’s work during the academic year through DIT FM and a community newspaper, The Liberty.
What are my career opportunities?
Journalists may work as reporters, commentators or editors across all media, locally, nationally and internationally. Many journalists work across numerous areas while others specialise in, for example, business, sports, arts or technology. Journalistic work is pressurised with tight deadlines but it provides an exciting and rewarding career for those who chose to follow it. A journalism education will also open up opportunities in fields like public relations and education.
What other options do I have after completion?
Students who successfully complete the programme may have access to further academic, research or professional study at postgraduate level in DIT or elsewhere in Higher Education.
What will I study on this programme?
The overall structure is based around two areas of study: Journalism Practice and Critical Studies.
Journalism Practice: Journalism practice provides a full and thorough grounding in news production. Students gain skills in reporting, analysis and commentary through the production of print, radio, television and web-based news. Classes simulate a professional working environment and incorporate visits to courts, government buildings, galleries and so on. By reporting on such events students gain valuable experience and knowledge.
Critical Studies: Critical studies provide an overview of journalism in its social, political and historical context. Through this aspect of the programme students also develop an appreciation of subjects such as politics, economics and law. The aim here is to develop a critical academic approach to journalism, which will facilitate rigorous analysis of journalism practice. Academic and practical aspects of the progamme are integrated throughout the four years.
Module listing
Year One
During the first year, students will be introduced to the basics of journalism with a core module on news reporting. There are also introductory modules in grammar, shorthand, basic computer skills, photo-journalism & sports, crime & science reporting.
Year Two
In year two, the main focus is on news production for print, broadcast & web-based media. Students will be introduced to layout & design, broadcast journalism & web journalism. Towards the end of the year, the students will produce The Liberty & news for DIT FM. In year two, students may also select from various media modules or one-off, stand-alone language modules.
Year Three
In the third year students will continue to produce The Liberty & further develop their competence in radio & television journalism. A more in-depth approach to reporting & commentary will be taken with a course in journalism research & investigative reporting. Critical studies modules will examine globalised journalism & more advanced aspects of media law. Elective modules in media & languages will also be available.
Year Four
Most of year four is given to self-directed learning with the students working independently on projects, under the supervision of designated tutors. Students will complete two major pieces of work, a journalistic project for a selected medium & a journalism related dissertation on a topic of their choice.
Entry Requirements
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Minimum no of |
Minimum Grade in |
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|
Subjects |
Honours |
Maths |
English/Irish |
|
6 |
2 |
HC3 |
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Further information
School of Media
T: 01 402 3098 (Secretary)
F: 01 402 3003
E: media@dit.ie
W: www.dit.ie/schoolofmedia
