Sports Journalism BA (Hons)

University of Chester

Discover the power and reach of digital, written and broadcast media as you gain an introduction into the theories, contexts and practices of modern journalism with an emphasis on sports reporting.

Course overview

This course will introduce you to the key theories, contexts and practices within the sports journalism industry. The course examines sports journalism in depth, and will have a strong focus on digital media to reflect current and emergent industry trends. You will have the chance to develop a range of essential skills, including writing and broadcasting in multiplatform environments to help enhance versatility to work in a range of areas within the expanding sports media industries.

Why study this course with us?

With its unique location, the Parkgate Campus in Chester provides a fantastic opportunity to study Sports Journalism. A host of football's Premier League giants are based in the region, for racing enthusiasts there is the famous Chester ‘Roodee’ Racecourse, and the course boasts strong links with Chester Football Club and Tranmere Rovers, where students regularly gain vital matchday experience and see their work published.

There are also exclusive opportunities to get involved with Super League heavyweights Warrington Wolves, who are based at our Warrington Campus.

We have newsrooms dedicated to journalism, and you will be expected to pursue stories and develop contacts away from the classroom to assist with content for assignments and your professional portfolio.

Following the opportunity to undertake a five week placement in year 2 of the course, year 3 sees students work closely with a designated sports club to produce live and exclusive content throughout the year.

Active sports journalists/lecturers are involved in teaching the course, and together have a vast range of industry experience and contacts.

Teaching methods

The course will be delivered via a range of methods, including lectures, seminars, workshops and field trips. Sessions will take place within journalism labs with an emphasis on both practical and academic elements.

Assessment

Assessment involves a mixture of practical and written coursework, seminar presentations, essays and reflective evaluations, a major project and a dissertation. The range of assessments will be individual or group based.

Job prospects

We are immensely proud of our graduates who have found employment in the sports media sector including for the likes of FC Barcelona, LFCTV, Widnes Vikings, Press Association,The National League, Wakefield Wildcats, Chester FC and The Anfield Wrap, to name a few. Some of these positions were secured after successful placements facilitated by course tutors.

Careers service

The University has an award winning Careers and Employability service which provides a variety of employability-enhancing experiences; through the curriculum; through employer contact and through tailored group sessions and individual information, advice and guidance.

Careers and Employability - Student Futures aims to deliver a service which is inclusive, impartial, welcoming, informed and tailored to your personal goals and aspirations, to enable you to develop as an individual and contribute to the business and community in which you will live and work.