Year 1

Compulsory modules

Writing and Developing Content (30 credits)

This module is your gateway to dissecting readerships and markets, channelling this insight into crafting shareable content that meets the demands of contemporary creative realms. Explore the art of crafting written content that resonates across diverse creative industries by bridging the gap between imaginative writing, content shaping, and the cultivation of user-generated creativity.

By the end of this module, you’ll elevate your proficiency in proofreading, editing, and moulding content to harmonise with market requirements and industry standards across publishing and the broader creative spectrum. Additionally, you’ll delve into editorial processes and marketing dynamics to gain a holistic perspective on the intricate world of publishing within creative industries. Moreover, engaging in immersive writing workshops will hone practical skills and deepen your grasp of the intricate dynamics between authors, publishers, and industry demands.

Understanding Contexts: The History and Culture of Media (15 credits)

Delve into the heart of journalism and publishing media through key concepts, theories, and themes. In this module, you’ll grasp the intricate dance between media and society, exploring identity, representation, mass media, culture, gender, technology, and more. Additionally, you’ll investigate media's evolution within a historical context, analysing its impact on individuals and the larger societal landscape.

By the end of this module, you’ll acquire a robust foundation in media's historical and contextual underpinnings, fostering critical insight crucial for practical modules and research pursuits. You’ll dissect major theories while deciphering the socio-economic, regulatory, and cultural influences on media production, circulation, and consumption.

The Creative Industries (15 credits)

Immerse yourself in the vibrant realm of the creative industries, with a specific focus on the intricate domains of books, magazines, and newspaper publishing. Uncover the driving forces behind the creative industries, which serve as catalysts for growth and innovation not just in the UK, but across global economies. Additionally, you’ll gain profound insights into the dynamics, characteristics, and future trajectories of this ever-evolving sector.

By the end of this module, you’ll develop a comprehensive understanding of the multifaceted creative industries, enriched by in-depth explorations of book, magazine, and newspaper publishing. Furthermore, you’ll engage in thought-provoking discussions about the ongoing shifts within media markets, staying abreast of current trends. Ultimately, you’ll grasp the pivotal role these industries play within advanced economies, appreciating their transformative impact.

Design and Technology

Throughout this module, you will acquire a diverse skill set and knowledge to excel in the world of design. Guided by industry-standard software, you will confidently tackle visual design challenges across print and digital platforms. By delving into design theory, engaging in class critiques, and developing a keen visual perception, you will enhance your own designs and provide valuable feedback to others.

By the end of this module, you will develop proficiency in creating and manipulating graphics, images, audio, and video using professional-standard software, enabling you to build a solid foundation for future creative design work and unlock your creative potential.

Storytelling as Experience (15 credits)

In this module, explore how narratives become commodities that intricately interweave with our mediated reality. You’ll analyse the convergence of storytelling and marketing in the contemporary cultural landscape. Additionally, you’ll delve into diverse narrative forms, from customer magazines to social media, dissecting their impact on audiences. Furthermore, you’ll understand the symbiotic relationship between demographics, business models, and storytelling strategies.

By the end of this module, you’ll gain an insightful grasp of storytelling's transformation into a potent business model. This module’s multifaceted delivery will help you master the art of crafting content that resonates across platforms, enhancing your proficiency in engaging diverse demographics.

Media Law and Ethics (15 credits)

In this module, you’ll explore a wide spectrum of subjects, from intellectual property and copyright law to pressing ethical dilemmas faced by industry professionals. Moreover, you’ll investigate historical and contemporary issues that challenge the ethical boundaries within media contexts.

By the end of this module, you’ll acquire a nuanced understanding of the legal intricacies underpinning media landscapes, intellectual property and copyright law, which are vital for safeguarding creative works. Additionally, you’ll develop adeptness in dissecting both theoretical analyses and practical applications of media law. Group presentations will help enhance your presentation and collaborative skills, essential for the journalism industry.

Year 2

Compulsory modules

Essential Journalism

This module aims to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the scientific principles underpinning the impacts of the Built Environment on society, the environment, and climate change. Through this module, you will delve into the complexities of climate change, exploring both mitigation and adaptation approaches. Additionally, you will examine various issues within the Built Environment, such as water, land, air, sound, and light quality, and their connections to contemporary development practices across economic and social domains.

By the end of the module, you will have a solid grasp of the scientific, political, and social contexts surrounding climate change agendas. Moreover, you will be equipped to comprehend the issues and status of critical resources like water, land, and air, and their implications for both development practices and climate change.

The Book Publishing Industry (15 credits)

Delve into the intricate world of the book publishing industry, gaining profound insights into its multifaceted structure and the forces shaping its trajectory. You’ll uncover the nuances of various industry sectors and players, and grasp the profound impact on both industry professionals and the products they create.

By the end of this module, you’ll elevate your analytical prowess through a deep dive into the book publishing industry. Through exercises, you’ll apply theoretical frameworks to real-world commercial scenarios, fostering practical insights. Additionally, you’ll attain a keen understanding of the industry's dynamic nature and the transformative trends shaping its course. Finally, you’ll hone your research skills, enabling you to navigate and contribute effectively within the evolving landscape of book publishing.

Digital Design and Typography (15 credits)

This module is your gateway to comprehending the intricate interplay of text and visuals in a two-dimensional space. You’ll cover core skills needed to curate your own content, seamlessly transitioning between digital and print formats, all while maintaining a polished and captivating visual narrative.

By the end of this module you’ll gain a deep understanding of typography's power. Cultivate a discerning eye for typographic style and composition, critical for crafting compelling layouts across digital and print platforms. Additionally, you’ll elevate your design prowess by meticulously arranging type and imagery, ensuring an impactful visual experience.

Video Journalism for Digital Platforms (15 credits)

This module delves deep into the art of crafting impactful, authentic, and captivating narratives through video. You’ll cover practical skills and analytical acumen needed to master the art of visual storytelling. From planning to recording, production, and distribution, you'll learn how to create compelling video news packages and features for online platforms and social media, all while considering audience targeting and optimization strategies.

By the end of this module, you’ll develop expertise in tailoring news reports to online audiences, thriving within the fast-paced world of digital journalism. Through critical analysis, you’ll explore the intersection of technology, society, and content creation, gaining insights into the broader media landscape. By mastering the art of video journalism for digital audiences, you'll emerge as a skilled content creator ready to thrive in the ever-evolving digital storytelling landscape.

Research and Data Analysis (15 credits)

This module offers a comprehensive exploration of research methodologies, data interpretation, and their effective application in diverse sectors. You'll unravel the intricacies of research construction in publishing, media, and journalism, gaining insights into various approaches, methodologies, and resources.

By the end of this module, you’ll develop a versatile understanding of research methods applicable across publishing, journalism, and media domains. You’ll learn to critically evaluate different research methodologies and choose the most suitable ones for your own research endeavours. Additionally, you’ll uncover the process of proposing, planning, and executing media-related research projects, all while harnessing data analysis to guide your strategies.

Media Marketing and Business (15 credits)

This module is a comprehensive exploration of the practical realities of media industries, equipping you with the tools and insights to analyse real-world media enterprises and develop effective marketing plans.

By the end of this module, you’ll develop a profound grasp of intellectual property's significance in the media landscape, and learn to nurture, safeguard, and leverage it. Apply marketing theories and tools to real-world scenarios, enhancing your strategic thinking and problem-solving skills. Additionally, you’ll gain financial literacy and an understanding of financial reports' significance, allowing you to comprehend the financial dynamics that underpin successful media ventures. Through the analysis of actual media business cases, you'll learn to make informed decisions in complex industry scenarios.

Optional modules

Optional Modules

Print Media and Society (15 credits)

This module delves into the transformative journey of print media, from its emergence during the eighteenth-century novel era to the interwar paperback revolution of the twentieth century. Additionally, explore the multi-dimensional impact of print media, encompassing books, magazines, newspapers, and ephemera, as agents of both societal conformity and radical change.

By the end of this module, you’ll acquire comprehensive knowledge of the socio-legal structures that shaped print media's production, circulation, and consumption in historical contexts. Additionally, you’ll engage in critical analysis of print media artefacts spanning these eras, decoding their origins, production techniques, target audiences, and potential influence. Moreover, cultivate a critical approach to studying print media history, refining your vocabulary and terminology to articulate insightful analyses.

Chinese Language and Culture

Experience the vibrant world of Chinese language and culture through this dynamic module. Immerse yourself in the language, achieving fundamental proficiency in both spoken and listening skills, while exploring the richness and diversity of Chinese culture. You'll have the opportunity to learn traditional techniques, such as calligraphy, as well as analyse contemporary developments in China's dynamic publishing industry. Additionally, you'll gain insights into the nuances of business customs and cultural etiquette, preparing you for success in the global marketplace.

By the module's end, you'll have developed a foundation of proficiency in Chinese language, which will equip you for intercultural communication and understanding. Furthermore, through engagement with cultural traditions and critical analysis of China's publishing industry, you'll develop valuable research skills and gain a deeper appreciation of cultural diversity.

International Publishing (15 credits)

In this module, you’ll immerse yourself in the dynamic realm of international publishing with a unique cross-university collaboration involving students from Amsterdam and Stuttgart. Moreover, you’ll engage in a hands-on project that transcends borders, fostering expertise in global teamwork and intercultural collaboration.

By the end of this module, you’ll harness your creativity and leadership by shaping an international publishing project from inception to execution. This module’s collaborative approach will help you cultivate effective teamwork skills. Additionally, you’ll develop a solid grasp of copyright laws and intellectual property regulations, key components in the modern publishing landscape.

Sports Journalism (15 credits)

This module extends the principles learned in previous modules to cover the entire spectrum of sports reporting, addressing the demands of today's converged newsrooms that operate across various publishing platforms. You’ll explore ethical dilemmas prevalent in sports journalism, equipping yourself to navigate complex issues.

By the end of this module, you’ll develop your skills in reporting on sports politics, public affairs, and events, spanning from grassroots to professional levels. Additionally, you’ll gain insights into the intersection of sports with broader societal issues such as identity politics, gender debates, and human rights concerns. Moreover, you’ll enhance your editing, publishing, and multimedia storytelling abilities, crafting content suitable for diverse audiences.

Fashion Journalism

From contemporary fashion text to editorial storytelling and commercial communications, you will gain an in-depth understanding of creating targeted content for diverse audiences and media platforms. Through analysing fashion criticism and communication, you'll develop the skills to produce professional-standard content, tailored to specific readerships, markets, and brands. Emphasising production, editing, and proofing skills, you'll learn to craft compelling fashion features, trend reports, reviews, and more, while considering the broader impact of fashion on societies, sustainability, and innovation.

By the end of this module, you will have a critical understanding of fashion criticism and communication for commercial publishers and brands. You'll develop the expertise to edit, proofread, and publish content to professional standards, ensuring suitability for publication.

Year 3 (placement year)

Optional modules

Career Development Placement

Career Development Placement The aim of this module is to develop the professional profile and professional confidence of a student through experiential learning opportunities and engagement with external organisations by undergoing work placements, internships and industry experiences. It aims to enable students to manage their own learning and self-direction through identifying opportunities that align to their disciplinary ambitions, situating their practice in a professional context. It offers a range of options including an Enterprise Residency where students can operate as freelancers and develop ideas for a start-up business with the full support of Brookes Enterprise Support.

Year 4 (or year 3 if no placement)

Compulsory modules

Major Project or Dissertation (30 credits)

The Major Project or Dissertation is the pinnacle of your BA journey in Media, Publishing, and Journalism. It's an opportunity to deeply explore a subject, issue, or theme significant to your specialisation. Through original research and practical application, you'll create a defining piece of work that showcases your ability to synthesise information, apply theories, critically evaluate, and present coherent arguments.

This module equips you with the essential skills to undertake a major research project. In the dynamic fields of media, publishing, and journalism, research methods span a wide spectrum, from historical and literary analysis to social science inquiry and business investigations. This module covers the breadth of research approaches, including conducting interviews, surveys, project planning, and data analysis.

Creative Entrepreneurship

In this module, you will learn the ins and outs of creative entrepreneurship in the context of the social media age. Whether you plan to start your own business, work for a creative agency, or build a personal brand as an influencer, this module will help you develop the skills and knowledge you need to succeed in the creative industries. You will explore industry trends, expectations, and best practices, and learn how to create innovative content that will stand out in the crowded digital landscape.

By the end of this module, you will be able to formulate a personal "market positioning" strategy, establish appropriate branding objectives, and build an effective online presence that showcases your skills and portfolio. You will also gain hands-on experience with content creation and curation while developing a dynamic and authentic personal brand that reflects your unique voice and style.

Optional modules

Fiction and Non-Fiction

This module provides an in-depth exploration of the consumer publishing environment, covering cultural context, product development, and various roles within the trade publishing organisation. You will gain a comprehensive understanding of the book commissioning and acquisitions process and will actively participate in a simulated real-life context, pitching original material to an existing publisher.

By the end of this module, you will be able to critically evaluate the consumer book commissioning and acquisitions process, identifying appropriate target audiences for books in this sector. You will have the ability to conceptualise, plan, and schedule content for the consumer market, and create an outward-facing portfolio piece showcasing your skills. Furthermore, you will develop strong communication skills that are transferable and applicable to the publishing industry

Digital and Data Journalism

In this module, you will explore the intersection of journalism and technology, gaining insights into the impact of digital media on the industry. You will learn essential skills to navigate the digital landscape, including creating engaging content for various platforms, utilising data analytics to shape editorial strategies, and critically analysing the evolving media landscape. Through hands-on practice and theoretical exploration, you will develop expertise in digital storytelling, audience engagement, and content creation.

By engaging in this module, you will acquire practical knowledge in producing digital articles, social media posts, and other digital content, enabling you to adapt to the changing demands of the digital age. The module's focus on digital journalism and data analytics will enhance your employability and equip you with the skills necessary to thrive in the evolving media industry, where digital expertise is increasingly valued.

Death of the Author and the Birth of the Citizen Writer

From the professional writer in the 18th century to the citizen journalist of the 21st century, the idea of an author has been in constant flux. This module explores the changing nature of authorship and writing, starting with Barthes' declaration of the "death of the author" and Foucault's question "what is an author?" Through examining these changes and incarnations, this module aims to explore questions such as whether we still need authors and who the authors are now.

By the end of this module, you will be able to apply a critical approach to the analysis of the author, and develop a vocabulary and terminology to articulate that approach. You will also produce a piece of writing aimed at a specific audience with a clear sense of the author in this transaction.

Work Placement (15 credits)

This module offers a unique opportunity to blend academic reflection with real-world practice. Explore the themes and practices encountered during your work experience, dissecting their relevance within the broader creative industries. As you independently reflect on your placement's alignment with the media landscape, you'll develop professional autonomy and integrity.

By combining practical insights with scholarly communication, this module equips you with the ability to articulate your experiences and observations within an academic framework. This real-world experience not only enhances your critical thinking and communication skills but also bridges the gap between classroom learning and hands-on professional engagement.

Popular Culture & the Media (15 credits)

This module is your gateway to understanding how popular culture weaves its influence into every facet of society. Drawing from Strinati and Wagg's insights, explore the profound impact of popular media culture on modern life, including its role in shaping identities, perceptions of time and place, and even personal definitions of existence.

By the end of this module, you’ll gain the ability to evaluate and appraise the multifaceted role of popular culture in shaping society. Additionally, you’ll develop the prowess to critically assess issues arising from popular culture's interaction with media and its profound influence on the world around us.

Media and Propaganda (15 credits)

This module delves into the controversial narratives woven within media ecosystems, encompassing newspapers, current affairs magazines, social media, and broadcast news. Trace the historical trajectory of propaganda from the tumultuous twentieth-century wars, such as the First and Second World Wars, to its contemporary manifestations in the digital age. You’ll also explore how media and propaganda have been harnessed to shape public opinion, rally support, and challenge power structures.

By the end of this module, you’ll gain the ability to critically analyse the dual nature of social media and broadcast news as both agents of control and catalysts for social change. Alongside that, you’ll acquire the tools to dissect historical and contemporary instances of propaganda in media, building a nuanced vocabulary to articulate your insights.

Children’s Publishing

In this module, you will engage with the cultural and industry debates surrounding children’s publishing. You will learn to critically evaluate the children’s book commissioning and acquisitions process and identify appropriate audiences and products for books in this sector. Additionally, you will develop the skills to research and evaluate the production and design of children’s publishing. Collaboration is an essential component of this module and will enhance your communication skills and build your ability to work effectively as part of a team.

By the end of the module, you will have gained an in-depth understanding of the components and impact of the children’s publishing environment and its current shape and business practices. The critical thinking and analytical skills you develop throughout the module will be useful in a range of careers, including publishing, education, and media.


Digital Product

In this module, you will learn the practical skills required to develop and deliver interactive publishing products in the digital realm. The module will cover the fundamentals of creating responsive content for screen delivery, focusing on effective communication and digital asset management. You will explore the construction of digital products, examine the state of digital publishing, and gain hands-on experience in creating enhanced eBooks and app prototypes for different platforms.

By completing this module, you will benefit from valuable technical expertise in digital product development, equipping you with the skills necessary to thrive in the digital media industry. You will gain proficiency in software tools and digital asset management, allowing you to create engaging and visually compelling digital content.

Magazine Journalism (15 credits)

Through lectures, workshops, and simulated newsroom settings, this practical module hones your skills as a magazine journalist, preparing you for the challenges of real-world editorial environments. You’ll explore diverse formats including narrative features, interviews, opinion pieces, videos, and more, catering to the ever-evolving preferences of dedicated and casual readers.

This hands-on module moulds you into a competent journalist and a prospective magazine industry professional. From crafting engaging multiplatform content to understanding the strategies of pitching and commissioning within broader publishing frameworks, you'll gain insights into both the creative and business aspects of magazine journalism.