• Undergraduate

Journalism with Content Creation with Foundation Year BA (Hons)

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Overview

Overview

Why study at the University of West London?
  • Ranked 30th university in the UK - The Guardian University Guide 2025
  • Number 1 London university for overall student satisfaction - National Student Survey 2024**
  • Best university for Student Experience and Teaching Quality in the UK - The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2024
Why study this course?

This is a one-year foundation course after which you will study for a three-year degree. You will be able to choose any of the BA courses that we run in the London School of Film, Media and Design.

After a year spent building your skills in good academic practices and research while experiencing all the aspects of student life, you will be ready to progress seamlessly to your chosen degree.

Our foundation year course is particularly suited to you if:

  • you do not have the relevant qualifications in a media or design subject
  • you are returning to study
  • if English is not your first language and could benefit from a year of practising your verbal and writing skills
  • if you are still deciding on which field of media and design you would like to specialise in.

Please note that a £2000 Path to Success bursary is available to all UK foundation year students, which is non-repayable.

Select your desired study option, then pick a start date to see relevant course information:

Study options:
We support flexible study by offering some of our courses part-time or via distance learning. To give you real world experience before you graduate, we also offer some courses with a placement or internship. All available options are listed here. Your choices may affect some details of your course, such as the duration and cost per year. Please re-check the details on this page if you change your selection.
Without Foundation Year
Duration: 3 years

Start date:

If your desired start date is not available, try selecting a different study option.

Why study Journalism with Content Creation with Foundation Year with us?

Why study Journalism with Content Creation with Foundation Year with us?

A collage of students
A collage of students
A collage of students

What our students say…

The Foundation Course at UWL gave me the confidence to believe in myself.

Joe Bowring, Broadcast and Digital Journalism

The Foundation Year has been extremely challenging but definitely worth it.

Samantha Cleary-Giegold, Broadcast and Digital Journalism

My Foundation Year at UWL has been such an amazing experience. I learned how to grow my confidence and push myself to achieve. If I could go back I would choose to do a Foundation Year again! 

Andrea Vega Demuru, Advertising and PR
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Why study a Foundation year
Why study a Foundation year 2
Why study a Foundation year 3
Audio student practices in one of UWL's radio studios
Course detail & modules

Course detail & modules

Why study a Foundation Year? 
A Foundation Year prepares you for study at undergraduate level, it s the first step on your university journey.  The skills and knowledge you acquire will stand you in good stead for your degree studies as well as your entry into the world of work. Over the course of an academic year, you will explore a range of subjects that will underpin your future studies, as well as enjoy full access to university facilities.

What will I study during the Foundation Year? 
You will be supported to help you make the most of the foundation year through:

  • independent study (Personalised Learning module)
  • an introduction to the  various areas of the media and design industry (Creative Sectors module)
  • an understanding of how media and design fit with wider society (Contextual Studies module)
  • introduction to the software used within the industry (Creative Research module)
  • learning good academic practice and discipline (Academic Performance module)
  • creation of a media artefact which reflects your chosen path of study (Major Project module). 

Further details about the modules can be found on the right-hand side of this page.

Through these modules, you come to have a better understanding of the areas within media and design. You will become familiar with techniques that help you to:

  • manage your time and study effectively
  • learn academic, research and presentation skills.

Any other benefits? 
You will have full access to the University of West London's facilities as well as being fully integrated into university life.

This well-established course is taught by an experienced team of lecturers committed to enabling and supporting you to develop your skills and creativity.

Compulsory modules

Compulsory modules

  • Digital Media Lab

    The primary aim of this module is to develop the fundamental building blocks of story skills necessary for a career in journalism. This module seeks to introduce you to digital storytelling techniques and tools, ensuring you are well-versed in contemporary methods of news dissemination.

  • Broadcast Production

    This module aims to introduce you to the practical foundations of video and radio broadcast production. The primary objectives are to equip you with essential technical skills, foster an understanding of production processes, and develop your ability to create professional-quality broadcast content in line with industry standards and regulations.

  • Principles of Journalism

    On this module you will be introduced to the institutions and practices of journalism and broadcast journalism in the UK, and the analysis of journalistic output across a range of formats, including newspapers, TV, radio programming, and social media.

  • Media Presentation Skills

    During this module, you will develop your speaking and storytelling skills, with the aim of enhancing your understanding of how journalists work across various platforms.

  • Podcasting

    Dive into the world of audio production and storytelling through podcasts. Enhance your voiceover skills, audio recording, sound design and web design/publishing skills.

Compulsory modules

  • The Story Studio

    This module equips you with practical skills for producing journalism content across radio, TV/video channels, and social media platforms. It aims to foster critical thinking and problem-solving skills through real-world journalism scenarios and challenges, through weekly news days.

  • Government and Politics Journalism

    On this module you will be introduced to the systems and main players in local, regional, national and European/international government as it applies in the UK. You will also have an opportunity to visit a number of political meetings during this module.

  • Law for Journalists

    The module will cover and enable discussion on a range of legal topics and how they relate to journalism. These include freedom of speech and its caveats, defamation, official secrets, obscenity, the law of contempt, children in the news, privacy, copyright, freedom of information and the role of regulatory authorities.

  • Industry Experience (Content Creation)

    In this module, you will participate in work experience in a media sector organisation. This may include Print or Online publishing, TV, Video, Audio, Online, PR, production/publishing companies or channels. 

  • Global Media Systems

    In this module, you will be introduced to foundational theories and concepts related to international news. You will become well-acquainted with a variety of transnational news networks and the influences on their news agendas. You will explore how news operates in diverse social, cultural, economic, and political contexts, and examine the role of news in different societies across the globe.

  • Content Production

    This module equips you with the skills required for creating diverse types of journalistic content for various digital media platforms. The module is designed to develop your abilities to communicate complex information clearly and engagingly across various digital platforms. 

Compulsory modules

  • Live Content Creation

    This module allows you to operate in the dynamic and fast-paced environment of a professional newsroom, through weekly news days. The module will instil a strong understanding of ethical journalism practices and professional standards specific to radio, TV, online and social media news production, and allow you to develop strategies for engaging diverse audiences across different media platforms. 

  • Representation and Diversity in the Media

    This module explores key theories and debates on how diversity is constructed, represented, and understood across global media. It focuses on news media portrayals of race, ethnicity, gender, culture, and disability. You will gain a strong conceptual foundation to practice inclusive, culturally aware, and responsible journalism.

  • Data Journalism

    This module will allow you to maximise the use of IT tools and data to support digital storytelling. You will learn the basics of a discipline that is growing in strength and importance; data journalism. This includes learning where to find data, how to critically analyse it, and how to maximise chances for shareability and interactivity. At the end of the module, you will have a solid understanding of the opportunities provided by data journalism in the digital age.

  • Project (Journalism) OR Dissertation (Media)

    Choose from:

    Project (Journalism): The project is a significant endeavour that integrates the practical and theoretical skills and concepts you have acquired across all your modules. You will have the opportunity to choose from a variety of individually produced journalistic artefacts, ensuring that your work is both original and distinct from any previous submissions. The primary aim of this module is to challenge you to push your skills to their utmost limits, ultimately producing a piece of work that meets professional standards. This work will serve as a pivotal showcase of your abilities, acting as a calling card for your future career.

    OR

    Dissertation (Media): During the course of the first semester's classes and workshops, you will develop a research question, consider different research methods, explore how to structure an effective argument, and reflect upon the content of your proposal. This will help you to decide upon the topic of your dissertation and will support you to develop the research skills you need to successfully pursue a research project moving forward.

  • Photo Stories

    This module allows you to develop creative skills in photography, including composition, lighting, and editing. It will also equip you with the ability to produce compelling visual stories that adhere to journalistic standards and ethics. Finally, you will produce photographic assignments and projects relevant to the evolving news media landscape. 

Entry requirements

Entry requirements

72 UCAS points required from level 3 qualifications

These can include:

  • A-Levels at grades B and C (if you have two A-Levels) or grades D, D and D (if you have three), or above
  • BTEC Extended Diploma with Merit, Merit, Pass
  • Access to HE Diploma
  • T-Levels

You also need GCSE English and Maths (grade 9 – 4 / A* - C) or Level 2 equivalents.

Looking for BA (Hons) Journalism with Content Creation without Foundation Year?

View course
Whether you are changing career or don't have the exact subjects and grades required for this course, you might want to choose this course with a foundation year. This will give you an extra year's study to prepare you for the standard degree programme, where you can go on to graduate with a full Honours degree. Follow the link to see full details of the course with foundation year.

You may be eligible for a student loan to cover the cost of tuition fees, or a maintenance loan. Additional funding is available to some types of students, such as those with dependants and disabled students.

Looking for BA (Hons) Journalism with Content Creation without Foundation Year?

View course
Whether you are changing career or don't have the exact subjects and grades required for this course, you might want to choose this course with a foundation year. This will give you an extra year's study to prepare you for the standard degree programme, where you can go on to graduate with a full Honours degree. Follow the link to see full details of the course with foundation year.
5.5 IELTS or above

You need to meet our English language requirement - a minimum of IELTS 5.5 for each of the four individual components (Reading, Writing, Speaking and Listening). Visit our English language requirements page for information on other English language tests we accept.

You also need academic qualifications at the same level as UK applicants. In some countries where teaching is in English, we may accept local qualifications. Check for local equivalents. 

We offer pre-sessional English language courses if you do not meet these requirements.

Find out more about our English Language courses.

Looking for BA (Hons) Journalism with Content Creation without Foundation Year?

View course
Whether you are changing career or don't have the exact subjects and grades required for this course, you might want to choose this course with a foundation year. This will give you an extra year's study to prepare you for the standard degree programme, where you can go on to graduate with a full Honours degree. Follow the link to see full details of the course with foundation year.

You may be eligible for a student loan to cover the cost of tuition fees, or a maintenance loan. Additional funding is available to some types of students, such as those with dependants and disabled students.

Looking for BA (Hons) Journalism with Content Creation without Foundation Year?

View course
Whether you are changing career or don't have the exact subjects and grades required for this course, you might want to choose this course with a foundation year. This will give you an extra year's study to prepare you for the standard degree programme, where you can go on to graduate with a full Honours degree. Follow the link to see full details of the course with foundation year.
Fees & funding

Fees & funding

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Additional costs

There are additional costs for this course that are not included in the tuition fees. See the links below to get a better idea of what to expect:

Please note:

  • Fees for the 2026/27 academic year and onwards may be subject to Government regulation and change.
  • Tuition fees are charged for each year of your course. If your course runs for two years or more, you will need to pay the fee for each academic year at the start of that year.
  • If your course runs for less than two years, the cost above is for your full course and you will need to pay the full fee upfront.
  • If no fee is shown above then the fees for this course are not available yet. Please check again later for updates.

Funding your studies

You may be eligible for a student loan to cover the cost of tuition fees, or a maintenance loan. Additional funding is available to some types of students, such as those with dependants and disabled students.

Foundation year bursary

If you are a UK student joining a foundation year course with UWL, you will receive a £2000 Path to Success bursary to support your studies. This is not a loan and does not need to be repaid. You will receive £500 per year subject to your attendance, engagement and progression through your studies. 

To find out more, explore our Undergraduate scholarships and bursaries page.

Funding your studies
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Additional costs

There are additional costs for this course that are not included in the tuition fees. See the links below to get a better idea of what to expect:

Please note:

  • Fees for the 2026/27 academic year and onwards may be subject to Government regulation and change.
  • Tuition fees are charged for each year of your course. If your course runs for two years or more, you will need to pay the fee for each academic year at the start of that year.
  • If your course runs for less than two years, the cost above is for your full course and you will need to pay the full fee upfront.
  • If no fee is shown above then the fees for this course are not available yet. Please check again later for updates.

International students - funding your studies

We offer scholarships for international students including International Ambassador Scholarships. 

Further information about funding and financial support for international students is available from the UK Council for International Student Affairs.

 

Financial support for international students
Teaching staff

Teaching staff

Jo is wearing a light blue shirt with the collar open and silver chain necklace. They have blue eyes and short light brown hair. Jo is smiling.

Dr Jo Henderson

Course Leader for Foundation Year courses within the London School of Film, Media and Design.

My teaching experience started with A-Level and BTEC in Media and Design since then I have taught at various London institutions at all levels of Higher Education in the field of media, documentary, television and contextual studies. I joined UWL as a full-time staff member in 2016 to establish the successful Foundation course.

Course Leader for Foundation Year courses within the London School of Film, Media and Design.

My teaching experience started with A-Level and BTEC in Media and Design since then I have taught at various London institutions at all levels of Higher Education in the field of media, documentary, television and contextual studies. I joined UWL as a full-time staff member in 2016 to establish the successful Foundation course.

Study & career progression

Study & career progression

A woman writing in a notepad next to a Mac

Your journalism with content creation degree will maximise your employability skills, fully preparing you for a career in the journalism sector. You could go on to work for regional, national or international publications. 

There are many journalism jobs and career paths you could take, including:

  • journalist researcher/coordinator
  • TV/social platform presenter
  • digital content producer
  • videographer
  • radio presenter
  • TV and radio production (vision mixer, camper operator, sound operator)
  • feature writer
  • short and long form documentary maker
  • public relations exec
  • social media producer
  • digital/multimedia reporter
  • podcaster
  • news writer.

You may decide to specialise in a related area or explore a new subject. Please see our postgraduate courses for a range of options.

How to apply

How to apply

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Important notes for applicants

Disclaimer

*Modern universities - defined as higher education institutions that were granted university status in, and subsequent to, 1992.

**The National Student Survey 2023 and 2024 - Average of answers to all questions by registered student population. Excludes specialist institutions.

Testimonials - our students or former students provided all of our testimonials - often a student from the course but sometimes another student. For example, the testimonial often comes from another UWL student when the course is new.

Optional modules - where optional modules are offered they will run subject to staff availability and viable student numbers opting to take the module.

Videos - all videos on our course pages were accurate at the time of filming. In some cases a new Course Leader has joined the University since the video was filmed.

Availability of placements - if you choose a course with placement/internship route we would like to advise you that if a placement/internship opportunity does not arise when you are expected to undertake the placement then the University will automatically transfer you to the non-internship route, this is to ensure you are still successful in being awarded a degree.