Journalism and Communications - BA (Hons)

The study of journalism and communication is the study of storytelling and those who tell our stories. Every day we’re surrounded by stories that shape how we understand the world, express our cultures and engage with social and political life. Journalists play a vital role in democratic societies by informing publics, shaping debate, and giving voice to marginalised perspectives. Yet this role is increasingly contested and transformed by political, economic, and technological change. Never has it been more important to understand the factors shaping our news media. By studying our BA in Journalism and Communications, you’ll immerse yourself in questions of trust, fairness and power. During your studies, you’ll explore how journalism and communications operate in a global, digital, and increasingly data-driven media environment. We’ll focus on key questions about trust, power, fairness, and accountability, examining the relationship between journalism, democracy, politics, and public life. You’ll consider how news and communications shape public understanding of major issues such as conflict, climate change, health, and social justice, and how these processes are influenced by evolving technologies, platforms, and business models. You’ll examine different forms and practices of journalism and communications, including storytelling opportunities created by data and AI, as well as the role of specialised media, public relations, and strategic communications. While this degree is academic and analytical in focus and doesn’t provide professional accreditation or technical training in journalism or media production, you’ll have opportunities to develop practical skills through employability-focused assessments. You’ll produce content and portfolios across online, broadcast, print, and multi-media platforms, pitch ideas for new content or ventures, and use digital tools to support storytelling and analysis. By the end of the programme, you’ll have developed a strong understanding of the forces shaping journalism and communication today, alongside a broad set of transferable skills in research, analysis, communications, and critical thinking. You’ll be well prepared for careers across journalism, media, communications, and related sectors, or for progression to postgraduate study, including practical and accredited journalism, public relations and communications programmes. Distinctive features of the programme Future-focused Explore how journalism and communication are being transformed by digital platforms, data, AI, and emerging media technologies, preparing you for a rapidly evolving media landscape. Become a journalism and communications expert Develop critical thinking, analytical, and research skills to understand how news and communication shape society, influence politics, and impact public debate. Expert led Learn from internationally recognised scholars and practitioners in journalism and communication studies, engaging with research, ethics, and debates that underpin contemporary media. Industry-facing Cardiff is a media city -benefit from our close location and connections to BBC Wales, S4C and Media Wales with guest lectures, masterclasses, and workshops delivered by journalists, communicators, and industry professionals, giving insight into current practices and trends. Prioritising employability Build professional networks, tackle real-world journalism and communication challenges, and develop transferable skills in research, writing, presenting, and digital storytelling.