BA (Hons) International Studies with Journalism

Course outline

International Studies with Journalism is a new degree programme which is designed to build on the established strengths of the University of Buckingham in these different areas and to allow students to study modules at the interface between the two. A strong background in political theory and in practical politics and a study of modern history will give students the foundations for the study and practice of their journalistic talents.

Modules such as Media Studies, Press Journalism and Broadcast Journalism will allow students of International Studies with Journalism to hone their skills before embarking on a wide range of possible careers, including those in the media, whether in print, in broadcasting or in online journalism.

Teaching methods

The Department employs a variety of teaching methods in different modules. Lectures and small group tutorials form the backbone of the teaching. Personal contact with members of the academic staff is considered to be essential if each student’s personal enthusiasm for their studies is to be stimulated. A range of activities is pursued within the tutorial groups depending upon the module. Some modules emphasise problem solving as a means of reinforcing and cementing the important ideas – for example the module in Microeconomic Theory. Occasionally we use game playing to encourage discussion and understanding – for example when competing groups of students try to control a computer model of the economy in Principles of Macroeconomics. Other modules place greater emphasis on writing short and accurate technical pieces (Welfare Economics) or longer more discursive papers.

The Media minor programmes at the University of Buckingham offer students small student: tutor ratios (8:1) with a dedicated media lab at their disposal. The work is production-based, allowing students to graduate from the programme with a portfolio to present to potential employers.