Journalism with Foundation Year

Journalism is the discipline of gathering, verifying, and communicating information in the public interest, across print, broadcast, and digital platforms. At its best, it holds power to account, gives voice to underrepresented communities, and provides the factual foundation that democratic society depends on. The journalism landscape has been transformed by digital technology, but the fundamental skills, finding stories, verifying facts, constructing clear and compelling accounts, and understanding the ethical responsibilities of the role, remain as important as ever.

At Birmingham City University, this four-year, full-time programme includes a foundation year that builds the academic and practical foundations needed before progressing to degree-level journalism training. You will develop the skills of an agile, independent reporter who can work across multiple platforms, from text and audio to video and social media, adapting your approach to different formats and audiences. The programme gives you a deep understanding of the democratic role journalism plays in society, preparing you to tell a diversity of stories and to understand the legal, ethical, and commercial contexts in which journalism is practised.

Practical training is central to the programme, and you will build a real portfolio of work as part of your studies.

A typical entry tariff of 120 points reflects an accessible admissions profile. Graduates from journalism programmes go on to careers in print, broadcast, digital, and data journalism, as well as in communications, public relations, content production, and media management. Birmingham's position as the UK's second city gives you access to a significant regional media scene alongside national and international outlets.

Many graduates continue to postgraduate study in specialist areas such as investigative journalism, data journalism, or broadcast, while others move directly into the wide range of careers that draw on the skills journalism develops.