MA
Journalism (Science and Environment)
MA
Journalism (Science and Environment)

Key Information


Duration

1 year

Start Date

September 2023

Typical Offer

See More

Campus

Brayford Pool

Duration

1 year

Start Date

September 2024

Typical Offer

See More

Campus

Brayford Pool

Academic Years

Course Overview

There is growing demand for science journalists who can report on health and environment issues accurately and succinctly. This Master's programme is designed to offer the practical and theoretical training needed for those wishing to communicate science and environmental issues to the public.

Students at Lincoln can learn how to take scientific news and turn it into engaging stories, without resorting to sensationalism or technical jargon. To develop their practical skills, students can gain experience working on the University-based community radio station, a multiplatform website, and student newspapers and magazines.

Students also have the opportunity to hear from leading names in the journalism industry. Previous speakers on the programme have included naturalist and broadcaster Chris Packham, ITV News science editor Tom Clarke, broadcaster and rural affairs correspondent Tom Heap, and former government chief scientific adviser Sir Mark Walport.

Those undertaking the programme are expected to complete an assessed work placement. Past students have worked at BBC Focus magazine, New Scientist, and the Vegan Society. Students are responsible for their travel, accommodation and general living costs while undertaking work placements.

Course Overview

There is growing demand for science journalists who can report on health and environment issues accurately and succinctly. This Master's programme is designed to offer the practical and theoretical training needed for those wishing to communicate science and environmental issues to the public.

Students at Lincoln can learn how to take scientific news and turn it into engaging stories, without resorting to sensationalism or technical jargon. To develop their practical skills, students can gain experience working on the University-based community radio station, a multiplatform website, and student newspapers and magazines.

Students also have the opportunity to hear from leading names in the journalism industry. Previous speakers on the programme have included naturalist and broadcaster Chris Packham, ITV News science editor Tom Clarke, broadcaster and rural affairs correspondent Tom Heap, and former government chief scientific adviser Sir Mark Walport.

Those undertaking the programme are expected to complete an assessed work placement. Past students have worked at BBC Focus magazine, New Scientist, and the Vegan Society. Students are responsible for their travel, accommodation and general living costs while undertaking work placements.

Why Choose Lincoln

Industry standard facilities

Apply skills through practical workshops and 'newsdays'

Learn from subject specialists

Focused on reporting scientific news

The School has close working relationships with the BBC and Lincolnshire Echo newspaper

Opportunities to undertake placements

Students sat in a lecture

How You Study

Students can learn in lectures, seminars, and practical workshops. This will incorporate 'newsdays' which replicate industry newsrooms.

Teaching usually takes place on two full days per week. Where possible, core sessions are scheduled on Thursday and Friday, although students may be required to attend on other days of the week depending on module options.

Journalism at Lincoln has a close working relationship with BBC Radio Lincolnshire and a partnership with local news provider Lincolnshire Live and its sister publication the Lincolnshire Echo. The Lincs Live team is based on campus and students have opportunities to work alongside its professional journalists during the course.

How You Study

Students can learn in lectures, seminars, and practical workshops. This will incorporate 'newsdays' which replicate industry newsrooms.

Teaching usually takes place on two full days per week. Where possible, core sessions are scheduled on Thursday and Friday, although students may be required to attend on other days of the week depending on module options.

Journalism at Lincoln has a close working relationship with BBC Radio Lincolnshire and a partnership with local news provider Lincolnshire Live and its sister publication the Lincolnshire Echo. The Lincs Live team is based on campus and students have opportunities to work alongside its professional journalists during the course.

Accreditations

The School has become one of the first institutions in Europe to be awarded a 'Recognised for Excellence' accolade by the European Journalism Training Association (EJTA).

The letters E J T A in a broken circle

Modules


† Some courses may offer optional modules. The availability of optional modules may vary from year to year and will be subject to minimum student numbers being achieved. This means that the availability of specific optional modules cannot be guaranteed. Optional module selection may also be affected by staff availability.

Advanced Research Methods 2023-24JOU9200MLevel 72023-24This module provides the opportunity to develop a methodological understanding and to receive support and advice on the final project. You will then be expected to prepare a written proposal for a dissertation, a documentary project, or a portfolio of articles.CoreEssential Reporting 2023-24JOU9203MLevel 72023-24This module introduces students to the processes of newsgathering and writing news and features for a range of platforms. It aims to develop a critical understanding of editorial processes in news organisations and a working knowledge of how news and feature ideas are generated and packaged for different markets and readerships.CoreEthics in Science and Environmental Journalism 2023-24JOU9163MLevel 72023-24This module aims to provide an in-depth reflection on philosophical issues and an opportunity for students to consider more fully the kind of dilemmas that they are likely to encounter as working journalists in the field of science and environmental reporting.CoreJournalism Production 2023-24JOU9204MLevel 72023-24This module introduces students to the editorial and production skills required for multiplatform and digital news production. The module focuses on newsgathering and preparing news content for broadcast and online. Students can work in a newsroom environment under appropriate time constraints, experiencing the pressures of operating as a multimedia journalist across a range of broadcast and web-based platforms, including social media.CoreMA Journalism - Final Project or Dissertation 2023-24JOU9170MLevel 72023-24The Final Project or Dissertation module consists of either a dissertation, portfolio of articles, radio or television documentary or chapters for a book or webpages. You are expected to spend the final term during the summer on self-directed learning, having already decided on the form of project that you will produce. You will be allocated your own tutor for support and guidance. This final project provides an opportunity to research and make an in-depth study of your chosen study area.CoreMedia Law 2023-24JOU9156MLevel 72023-24This module introduces students to the areas of the law most likely to be encountered in the practice of journalism and the practice of PR and related communications activities. Students will investigate the interaction between journalism, PR, communications and the law, and gain a clear insight into the relationships between journalists and officials, PR/communications practitioners and their clients/employers, and how information is communicated to an increasingly diverse public.CoreScience Communication 2023-24JOU9176MLevel 72023-24The module aims to explore the different ways in which scientific knowledge and information about scientific research and discovery are communicated to different audiences. You will have the chance to focus on and engage with some of the contemporary debates surrounding science and its role in society.CoreSpecialist Journalism Production 2023-24JOU9201MLevel 72023-24From a digital first perspective and focusing, in particular, on news and feature content in your specialist field(s) of interest, this module aims to develop the key skills of journalism through regular practice, including newsgathering, writing and interviewing, and live output production with text and audio and video output as required. Online skills will be used throughout, including social media to drive consumers to the content. The journalism and features produced will be outward facing, using techniques of electronic newsgathering, digital and non-linear editing, production/journalism for online and print, and an appropriate range of live news broadcasting techniques. On this module, you are expected to take up a work placement in one or several different media organisations of your choice. The module provides prior guidance, together with career advice. Tutors will help with research of the employment market, as you arrange international, national or local work placements, and will support you as you build an individual career profile, CV and work experience portfolio.Core

Modules


† Some courses may offer optional modules. The availability of optional modules may vary from year to year and will be subject to minimum student numbers being achieved. This means that the availability of specific optional modules cannot be guaranteed. Optional module selection may also be affected by staff availability.

Advanced Research Methods 2024-25JOU9200MLevel 72024-25This module provides the opportunity to develop a methodological understanding and to receive support and advice on the final project. You will then be expected to prepare a written proposal for a dissertation, a documentary project, or a portfolio of articles.CoreEssential Reporting 2024-25JOU9203MLevel 72024-25This module introduces students to the processes of newsgathering and writing news and features for a range of platforms. It aims to develop a critical understanding of editorial processes in news organisations and a working knowledge of how news and feature ideas are generated and packaged for different markets and readerships.CoreEthics in Science and Environmental Journalism 2024-25JOU9163MLevel 72024-25This module aims to provide an in-depth reflection on philosophical issues and an opportunity for students to consider more fully the kind of dilemmas that they are likely to encounter as working journalists in the field of science and environmental reporting.CoreJournalism Production 2024-25JOU9204MLevel 72024-25This module introduces students to the editorial and production skills required for multiplatform and digital news production. The module focuses on newsgathering and preparing news content for broadcast and online. Students can work in a newsroom environment under appropriate time constraints, experiencing the pressures of operating as a multimedia journalist across a range of broadcast and web-based platforms, including social media.CoreMA Journalism - Final Project or Dissertation 2024-25JOU9170MLevel 72024-25The Final Project or Dissertation module consists of either a dissertation, portfolio of articles, radio or television documentary or chapters for a book or webpages. You are expected to spend the final term during the summer on self-directed learning, having already decided on the form of project that you will produce. You will be allocated your own tutor for support and guidance. This final project provides an opportunity to research and make an in-depth study of your chosen study area.CoreMedia Law 2024-25JOU9156MLevel 72024-25This module introduces students to the areas of the law most likely to be encountered in the practice of journalism and the practice of PR and related communications activities. Students will investigate the interaction between journalism, PR, communications and the law, and gain a clear insight into the relationships between journalists and officials, PR/communications practitioners and their clients/employers, and how information is communicated to an increasingly diverse public.CoreScience Communication 2024-25JOU9176MLevel 72024-25The module aims to explore the different ways in which scientific knowledge and information about scientific research and discovery are communicated to different audiences. You will have the chance to focus on and engage with some of the contemporary debates surrounding science and its role in society.CoreSpecialist Journalism Production 2024-25JOU9201MLevel 72024-25From a digital first perspective and focusing, in particular, on news and feature content in your specialist field(s) of interest, this module aims to develop the key skills of journalism through regular practice, including newsgathering, writing and interviewing, and live output production with text and audio and video output as required. Online skills will be used throughout, including social media to drive consumers to the content. The journalism and features produced will be outward facing, using techniques of electronic newsgathering, digital and non-linear editing, production/journalism for online and print, and an appropriate range of live news broadcasting techniques. On this module, you are expected to take up a work placement in one or several different media organisations of your choice. The module provides prior guidance, together with career advice. Tutors will help with research of the employment market, as you arrange international, national or local work placements, and will support you as you build an individual career profile, CV and work experience portfolio.Core

What You Need to Know

We want you to have all the information you need to make an informed decision on where and what you want to study. In addition to the information provided on this course page, our What You Need to Know page offers explanations on key topics including programme validation/revalidation, additional costs, contact hours, and our return to face-to-face teaching.

What You Need to Know

We want you to have all the information you need to make an informed decision on where and what you want to study. In addition to the information provided on this course page, our What You Need to Know page offers explanations on key topics including programme validation/revalidation, additional costs, contact hours, and our return to face-to-face teaching.

Research Areas, Projects and Topics

The department has key research expertise in the following topics:

  • Science and Communication
  • Law and Institutions
  • Specialist Science Reporting and Production
  • Research and Professional Placement
  • Ethics in Science and Environmental Journalism

A Newsroom Environment

The teaching of journalism at Lincoln takes place in small groups within a newsroom setting, proving plenty of opportunities for one-to-one interaction with tutors. The programme has a careful balance of practical skills, using multi-platform media, and theory, providing students with the knowledge and intellectual skills needed to understand the world of modern journalism.

A male student sat with a laptop

How you are assessed

Assessments are a mixture of essays, presentations, portfolios of journalism, broadcast media packages, and timed examinations.

The University of Lincoln's policy on assessment feedback aims to ensure that academics will return in-course assessments to students promptly - usually within 15 working days of the submission date.

Students on this programme are expected to complete an assessed work placement as part of the course.

Tutors can help with research of the employment market, help to arrange international, national, or local work placements, and support students as they build their individual career profile, CV, and work experience.

Please note that students are expected to cover their own travel, accommodation, and general living expenses during their placement.

How you are assessed

Assessments are a mixture of essays, presentations, portfolios of journalism, broadcast media packages, and timed examinations.

The University of Lincoln's policy on assessment feedback aims to ensure that academics will return in-course assessments to students promptly - usually within 15 working days of the submission date.

Students on this programme are expected to complete an assessed work placement as part of the course.

Tutors can help with research of the employment market, help to arrange international, national, or local work placements, and support students as they build their individual career profile, CV, and work experience.

Please note that students are expected to cover their own travel, accommodation, and general living expenses during their placement.

How to Apply

Postgraduate Application Support

Applying for a postgraduate programme at Lincoln is easy. Find out more about the application process and what you'll need to complete on our How to Apply page. Here, you'll also be able to find out more about the entry requirements we accept and how to contact us for dedicated support during the process.

How to Apply
A student listening in a seminar

Entry Requirements 2023-24

Entry Requirements

First or second class honours degree or equivalent professional experience.

If you have studied outside of the UK, and are unsure whether your qualification meets the above requirements, please visit our country pages https://www.lincoln.ac.uk/home/studywithus/internationalstudents/entryrequirementsandyourcountry/ for information on equivalent qualifications.

Overseas students will be required to demonstrate English language proficiency equivalent to IELTS 7.0 overall, with a minimum of 6.5 in each element. For information regarding other English language qualifications we accept, please visit the English Requirements page https://www.lincoln.ac.uk/home/studywithus/internationalstudents/englishlanguagerequirementsandsupport/englishlanguagerequirements/.

If you do not meet the above IELTS requirements, you may be able to take part in one of our Pre-session English and Academic Study Skills courses. https://www.lincoln.ac.uk/home/studywithus/internationalstudents/englishlanguagerequirementsandsupport/pre-sessionalenglishandacademicstudyskills/ . These specialist courses are designed to help students meet the English language requirements for their intended programme of study.

Entry Requirements 2024-25

Entry Requirements

First or second class honours degree or equivalent professional experience.

If you have studied outside of the UK, and are unsure whether your qualification meets the above requirements, please visit our country pages https://www.lincoln.ac.uk/home/studywithus/internationalstudents/entryrequirementsandyourcountry/ for information on equivalent qualifications.

Overseas students will be required to demonstrate English language proficiency equivalent to IELTS 7.0 overall, with a minimum of 6.5 in each element. For information regarding other English language qualifications we accept, please visit the English Requirements page https://www.lincoln.ac.uk/home/studywithus/internationalstudents/englishlanguagerequirementsandsupport/englishlanguagerequirements/.

If you do not meet the above IELTS requirements, you may be able to take part in one of our Pre-session English and Academic Study Skills courses. https://www.lincoln.ac.uk/home/studywithus/internationalstudents/englishlanguagerequirementsandsupport/pre-sessionalenglishandacademicstudyskills/ . These specialist courses are designed to help students meet the English language requirements for their intended programme of study.

Course Fees

You will need to have funding in place for your studies before you arrive at the University. Our fees vary depending on the course, mode of study, and whether you are a UK or international student. You can view the breakdown of fees for this programme below.

Course Fees

Course -Specific Additional Costs

For each course you may find that there are additional costs. These may be with regard to the specific clothing, materials or equipment required, depending on your course.

With regards to text books, the University provides students who enrol with a comprehensive reading list and you will find that our extensive library holds either material or virtual versions of the core texts that you are required to read. However, you may prefer to purchase some of these for yourself and you will be responsible for this cost.

Course Fees

You will need to have funding in place for your studies before you arrive at the University. Our fees vary depending on the course, mode of study, and whether you are a UK or international student. You can view the breakdown of fees for this programme below.

Course Fees

Course -Specific Additional Costs

For each course you may find that there are additional costs. These may be with regard to the specific clothing, materials or equipment required, depending on your course.

With regards to text books, the University provides students who enrol with a comprehensive reading list and you will find that our extensive library holds either material or virtual versions of the core texts that you are required to read. However, you may prefer to purchase some of these for yourself and you will be responsible for this cost.

Funding Your Study

Postgraduate Funding Options

Find out more about the optional available to support your postgraduate study, from Master's Loans to scholarship opportunities. You can also find out more about how to pay your fees and access support from our helpful advisors.

Explore Funding Options
Two students working on a laptop in a study space

Career Development

Postgraduate study is an investment in yourself and your future. It can help you to further or completely change your career, develop your knowledge, enhance your salary, or even prepare you to start your own business. 

This course aims to prepare students for a career in science or environmental journalism or the related communications industries.

Recent graduates are now working as Science Correspondent for The Telegraph, and Chief Editor for an Indian Science Media Centre, while others have taken up positions in medical writing and health communications.

Why Postgraduate Study?

Academic Contact

For more information about this course, please contact the Programme Leader.

Gary Stevens
gstevens@lincoln.ac.uk

Postgraduate Events

To get a real feel for what it is like to study at the University of Lincoln, we hold a number of dedicated postgraduate events and activities throughout the year for you to take part in.

Upcoming Postgraduate Events
A group of students working together on a project
The University intends to provide its courses as outlined in these pages, although the University may make changes in accordance with the Student Admissions Terms and Conditions.