Publishing, media, and information management

Courses range from being quite theoretical, to others that offer a more vocational focus on particular careers – such as degree courses in journalism and publishing.

Study Journalism at the University of Derby

Graduate destinations

38,230 students were studying this subject in 2014/15.

80.3% of graduates went directly into employment.

Top five graduate destinations:

  1. IT
  2. Wholesale and retail trade
  3. Professional, scientific, and technical
  4. Accommodation and food service
  5. Education

 

What courses are available?

Universities and colleges in the UK are offering courses in the following subject areas:

Many universities offer combined courses, with subjects such as English, history, business and law being popular additions.

Subject combinations and available course options include:

  • single, joint, and multiple subject combinations
  • full-time, part-time, and flexible study options as well as a few courses with a placement (sandwich courses)
  • qualifications ranging from BA and BSc (Hons) degrees, through to a small number of HND, HNC and Foundation Certificates

Are you considering an accelerated degree? Click here to read more about the possibility of completing your undergraduate course in two years rather than three. 

Entry requirements

A levels – To get on to a degree in this subject area you will usually require a minimum of two A levels, with three A levels and A/B grades required for the most popular courses. Entry requirements range from CDD to ABB, with the universities and colleges most commonly asking for BBC. Most courses have no specific subject requirements, although an English related A level may be useful for some e.g. journalism. The exception is for courses that have a more ‘creative/art related focus which may require a subject from a relevant discipline, i.e. A level media production, art.

In addition to A levels or equivalent, you will also need five GCSEs (A-C) including science, English, and maths.

Scottish Highers – Entry requirements for Highers (the most common qualification) range from BBBB to AABBB, with universities or colleges most frequently requiring AABBB. Occasionally, universities ask for Advanced Highers to supplement Highers. If Advanced Highers are requested, universities or colleges typically ask for ABB.

Selection

Courses with a more practical and creative related focus may ask you to bring a portfolio of your work to discuss at interview. This might include, for example, photographs and video you have taken, essays or scripts you have written, art work you have produced, or a website you have designed.

Personal statement

Universities are looking for:

  • a rationale for your particular choice of course
  • evidence that you have a passion for the subject, which could be demonstrated by:
    • relevant work experience/shadowing or voluntary work (important If you are planning to take a more vocational degree i.e. journalism)
    • additional reading and research
    • membership of related societies/clubs – e.g. drama and music groups
  • a range of interests outside of academic study – e.g. Duke of Edinburgh’s award scheme, Young Enterprise Scheme
  • a well written statement that demonstrates good communication skills
  • the ability to work individually and in teams

How to write your personal statement

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Apprenticeships

If you want to combine work and study while earning a salary, you could consider an apprenticeship. Which apprenticeships are available, and how you apply, depends on where you live.

Find out more about apprenticeships across the UK.

Each apprenticeship sets out occupational standards for specific job roles, designed by employers. The standards outline the skills, knowledge, and behaviours required to demonstrate that an apprentice is fully competent in the job role.

Higher apprenticeships (Level 4)

Degree apprenticeships (Levels 5 – 7)

Discover more about apprenticeships in media, publishing and information services

Our guide has all the info you need to know about doing an apprenticeship in this industry. Find out what it's really like from current apprentices and decide if it's the right route for you.

Media, publishing and information services industry guide

Key areas of employment

The key areas of employment include:

  • advertising and marketing
  • public relations
  • print and publishing
  • broadcast
  • radio and newspaper journalism
  • digital media
  • archiving
  • libraries and other information services

 

Related careers

Examples of related careers include the following job titles:

Where can I find out more?

Listen: THIS IS HOW podcast

From Depop to Facebook, THIS IS HOW is the podcast that breaks down the digital creative jobs which matter now, to show how they could be part of your future. Listen, take the careers quiz and access free resources and learning content recommended by expert guests here.

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