English and Journalism

English and journalism is a combination that pairs one of the most rigorous traditions of literary and textual analysis with one of the most practically oriented professions in the media world. English literature and language study trains you to read carefully, argue from evidence, understand how texts are constructed and interpret the cultural significance of what you encounter. Journalism takes those skills and applies them under pressure, developing your ability to investigate, verify, structure and communicate information to audiences who depend on what you tell them being accurate and compelling.

At Birmingham City University you will develop your literary analysis and research skills alongside practical training in journalism, working on live stories in media environments that reflect the realities of professional newsrooms. You will learn to craft stories that engage audiences across different formats and platforms, developing the editorial judgement and ethical awareness that professional journalism demands. The programme runs over three years full time and includes a sandwich year in industry and work placement opportunities, giving you direct professional experience that most employers in media value highly.

Graduates of English and journalism move into careers across print, digital, broadcast and specialist media, in roles including reporter, editor, features writer, digital content producer and multimedia journalist. The analytical depth that English study provides is also valued beyond journalism itself, in public relations, communications, content strategy, publishing, education and policy research. The placement year gives Birmingham City graduates a practical head start and an established professional network.

Postgraduate study in journalism, creative writing or media is a route for those who wish to specialise further or develop their research and editorial skills.