Undergraduate - Area of study Journalism studies

This program in journalism studies complements the journalism practice program, but can also be taken as a stand-alone sequence of study. It is concerned with the scholarly understanding of journalism as both a professional and disciplinary practice, and its contribution to contemporary social life. It explores foundational and contemporary scholarship about the context and practice of journalism in Australia and internationally, with exclusive use of media examples and case studies. Journalism studies takes an interdisciplinary approach, drawing on media studies, political economy, history, philosophy and sociology among other disciplines. It develops advanced skills in research, and fosters a critical and rigorous interrogation of journalism practice. Graduates can expect to possess strong skills in scholarly research and analysis that will both enhance their professional skills in journalism, and lead to further study at a higher level.

Outcomes

Upon successful completion of the major, students will be able to:

• understand the intellectual and social history of ideas and practices that underpin contemporary debates and research about the role of journalism in society
• discuss and examine journalism and its relationship to contemporary Australian society
• demonstrate a critical awareness of the strengths, limitations and socio-professional implications of disciplinary research practices for journalism
• write clear, well-researched and well-supported responses to theoretical, historical and contemporary issues in journalism studies and balance theoretical concepts with empirical media examples
• formulate and clearly communicate arguments on concepts such as power, conflict, law, the freedom of the press and representation that are theoretically informed, and empirically grounded.