MA Investigative Journalism

The MA Investigative Journalism course at De Montfort University is designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to become accomplished investigative journalists. The course covers a wide range of topics, including research techniques, data journalism, and media law. Students will learn how to identify and pursue investigative stories, conduct interviews, and write compelling narratives. The course also includes practical exercises in audio and video production, allowing students to develop their skills in these areas as well. By the end of the course, students will have produced a portfolio of work that showcases their investigative journalism abilities.

Additional Information

De Montfort University is located in the vibrant city of Leicester, which provides a diverse range of stories and sources for investigative journalists. The university has a strong reputation for teaching excellence and a commitment to producing graduates who are highly sought after by media organizations. Students on the course will have access to state-of-the-art facilities and equipment, as well as opportunities to work with experienced journalism professionals.

Discover Your Investigative Voice at De Montfort University

De Montfort University is the perfect choice for students interested in pursuing a career in investigative journalism. The university's location provides easy access to a wide range of stories and sources, while its strong reputation for teaching excellence means that graduates are highly sought after by media organizations. Additionally, the course includes practical exercises in audio and video production, allowing students to develop their skills in these areas as well.

This course is the result of a unique collaboration between DMU and one of the country’s most respected broadcasters, Channel 4. It will equip you with the specialist skills and knowledge for a successful career in investigative video journalism.

Designed by industry experts, the course addresses skills such as in-depth research, handling complex data, understanding financial information, and working undercover. After a thorough grounding in media law, regulation and ethics, you will receive tuition in various investigative techniques, including using the Freedom of Information Act, data journalism and financial journalism.

You will also be taught how to use specialist camera equipment, and how to plan, shoot and edit your own material with a view to making industry-standard, broadcast-quality journalistic films. This is supplemented by a survey of the academic study of journalism, all of which is intended to help you flourish as a practitioner.

The connection with Channel 4 helps the course tutors identify potential work experience placements, and professional mentors for students.

Recent graduates have gone to work as directors, presenters, reporters and researchers with national and international news and current affairs broadcasters, including the BBC and Channel 4.

Candidates should normally:

• Have the equivalent of a British honours degree (2:1 minimum)

• Have an excellent standard of English (IELTS 6.5 or equivalent for international applicants).

• Be able to demonstrate a commitment to a career in journalism through involvement in student media, online blogging or broadcast

• Be able to demonstrate relevant knowledge and awareness of current affairs, and also a minimum of one week’s work experience in a professional newsroom. 

20 Hours of Work permit weekly for international students.