Journalism

See study programme

Autumn 2023 (1. semester)

FIL1005
10 sp
EXF1000
10 sp

Spring 2024 (2. semester)

Autumn 2024 (3. semester)

Spring 2025 (4. semester)

JOU2004
10 sp
JOU2003
10 sp

Autumn 2025 (5. semester)

Spring 2026 (6. semester)

JO214U
20 sp

The Bachelor’s degree in Journalism is a three year vocationally-oriented education. After completing the education, students will be able to work as editorial journalists or as independent freelancers. The aim is to educate knowledgeable, critical and creative journalists, who possess a conscious attitude regarding the media’s tasks and role in society. Students will acquire broad media expertise so that as future professionals they can relate to a changing working life, with constantly new opportunities and requirements.

The programme of study emphasises that journalistic knowledge will be developed in parallel with professional awareness and practical skills in the subject. Therefore, journalistic exercises are linked with theoretical teaching, supervision and systematic reflection. Students get to practice all parts of the journalistic work process, from the development of ideas and research to publication. Parts of the teaching will include all students on the programme, other parts will involve smaller groups. The groups also act as arenas for reading, workshops and reflection.

A skilled journalist must be able to communicate in an appropriate manner using texts, images and audio. Throughout the programme of study, students will work systematically to develop their own use of language that is adapted to different genres, modes of publication and target groups.

Knowledge

The candidate

  • has broad knowledge of central themes, theories, issues, of journalism and media arts
  • have acquired knowledge about the journalist's role and editorial processes and routines, tools and methods
  • knows the ethical framework for journalistic activity
  • knows about research and development work within journalism
  • can update their knowledge in journalism
  • has knowledge of journalism's history, traditions, uniqueness and place in society

Skills

The candidate

  • can apply professional knowledge and relevant results from research and development work to practical and theoretical issues
  • can make justified journalistic choices based on ethical reflection
  • can reflect on own professional practice and adjust this through guidance
  • can find, assess and refer to information and subject matter of both a journalistic and scientific nature, and present this in such a way that it illuminates an issue
  • can master relevant tools, techniques and forms of expression within journalism

General competence

The candidate

  • has insight into relevant theoretical and professional ethical issues in journalism
  • can plan and carry out varied tasks and projects that extend over time, alone and as a participant in a group, and in line with ethical requirements and guidelines
  • can convey central subject matter such as theories, problems and solutions both in writing, orally and through other relevant forms of expression
  • can exchange views and experiences with others that has a background in journalism, and in this manner contribute to the development of good practice
  • knows new theories and innovation processes in the media
  • knows international conditions and trends within journalism and the media
1-4 semester must be approved before semester 6
Graduates have the opportunity to choose career pathways both within journalism and other sectors. The programme qualifies graduates for work in the media as journalists and editors and in publishing. It also provides a solid background for work in the public sector, social work and within the information and communication sectors.
Graduates qualify for entry into relevant master programmes at Nord university and other institutions.

The programme of study provides students with the opportunity to study abroad during the 4th or 5th semester. The faculty has collaboration agreements with foreign universities and can assist with contacts and planning the study period.

In order to take part in an exchange, students must have passed a minimum of 60 credits. Before taking part in an international study period, students must apply to have it approved as part of their bachelor’s degree in journalism.

Students must expect the following study expenses, excluding semester fees:

  • Course literature
  • Equipment: laptop, digital still camera and smartphone in order to produce text and the recording/editing of images, audio and video.
  • Period of practice placement (6th semester): Students must cover their own travel and accommodation costs associated with editorial practice placements. Practice placement students are entitled to a salary during the placement period according to the applicable agreement between the working parties.
Several different forms of assessment are used in the programme of study, both during and at the conclusion of each course. These forms of assessment shall measure the degree to which the student has acquired the knowledge, skills and general competence that are defined as learning objectives in the syllabus. In addition, the assessments shall contribute in providing the best possible learning outcomes during the programme of study. This is why different forms of assessment are used, adapted to the characteristics of each individual course. The assessments are discussed in greater detail under each course. Compulsory participation and work requirements are indicated in the individual course descriptions. All courses conclude with an examination.
The programme of study concludes with editorial practice placement (JO214U) and a final practice placement thesis in the course Practice placement – tempo and reflection (JO218U). The period of practice placement is assessed using a pass/fail grade, according to criteria set out in the course description. The practice placement thesis is assessed using grades A to F. The period of practice placement and the thesis must be carried out in the same semester.

The programme of study is annually evaluated by students through course surveys and by the programme coordinator. The evaluations are part of the university’s quality assurance system.

Relevant regulations and central provisions

We refer to applicable regulations and associated guidelines

Refer to applicable legislation, regulations and related guidelines
Two short periods of praxis, and a longer praxis period 6th semester