University gains accreditation to expand NCTJ training in region
Move will 'strengthen regional voices in media'
A city university has gained NCTJ accreditation for its masters course in journalism, expanding access to journalism training in its region.
Birmingham City University, pictured, has become the latest NCTJ-accredited course provider, delivering the NCTJ Diploma in Journalism as part of its MA Journalism course.
The accreditation will expand access to NCTJ training in the West Midlands, supporting the training body's efforts to strengthen regional voices in the media.
The MA Journalism course combines academic study with practical newsroom training across print, broadcast and digital media and is now open for enrolment for this September.
Joanne Forbes, chief executive of the NCTJ, said: “We are delighted to welcome Birmingham City University as an accredited course provider.
"This marks an important step in widening access to journalism training in the West Midlands and opening up opportunities for a more diverse future workforce.”
Michelle Johnson, director of editorial at Vantage Media and chair of the NCTJ accreditation board, said: “This marks an important milestone in expanding access to NCTJ-accredited training.
"Students in the West Midlands will now benefit from high-quality, industry-focused training, helping them develop the practical skills and experience needed to succeed in journalism.”
Ross Hawkes, associate professor of journalism at BCU, said: “This course has been designed in close collaboration with industry to ensure our students graduate with the core journalistic skills and the adaptability needed to succeed in a rapidly changing media landscape.
“We’re particularly proud of the course’s practical focus. Students will be out reporting, creating and experimenting from the very start, supported by staff with real-world experience across local, national and international journalism.”
Matthew Day, head of department of English and media at BCU, added: “The accreditation from the National Council for the Training of Journalists is a significant advantage for our students and underlines the professional relevance of this MA.
“With major organisations such as the BBC investing in the region, there has never been a more exciting time to study journalism in Birmingham. We are proud to be part of that growth and to support the talent that will shape the future of the industry.”
As part of the accreditation, BCU will work closely with NCTJ industry advisers who support course leaders and students to ensure journalism education remains aligned with the needs of the industry.
Students will take part in regular news days, working to deadline in a live news environment and producing content across multiple platforms.
