Investigative Journalism – (M.Sc.)

Contents

Programme Modules

Investigative Journalism: History and Theory

The genre of Investigative Journalism has a unique and specific history. This core class traces its development from the late 19th century, through the 1950s and into
the late 20th and early 21st century. The development of the genre will be considered by comparing investigative journalism in the US and the UK. By the end of this class students should be able to differentiate between different categories of journalism and be able to self-start an investigative project.

Investigative Journalism: Project

In this core class, students will learn practical `desk skills´ which will enable them to begin identifying suitable projects for investigation. They will also learn the skills
required to kick-start their inquiries. Many of the key skills will be taught using case-histories. By the end of the class, students will be able to apply their in-class
learning to in-the-field investigations. Throughout the class, they will be able to enjoy the benefits of using the learning-hub of a dedicated website available to all
participants.

Investigative Journalism and the Law

This class provides an introduction to the main aspects of the law as they impact on the work of investigative journalists, both in the UK and abroad. Issues such as
libel, Freedom of Information and data protection legislation, and privacy rules will be laid out for examination.

Investigative Research

This class offers advanced training in the skills, tactics and techniques of investigative research. It is aimed at those interested in undertaking their own independent
research on both public and private institutions and organisations in society. The class emphasises the policy relevance of investigative research and offers a grounding in the legal, procedural and practical issues raised by this form of research.

Manufacture of Consent

This class introduces the debates surrounding the role of opinion management, propaganda and `spin´ in our societies. The class is paired with the Investigative
Research module, and allows students to take their conceptual understandings of the topics examined and begin to explore and investigate the themes raised. There
will be the opportunity to explore debates surrounding Managed Democracy and the Manufacture of Consent, as well as scrutinising the management of public opinion.

Alternative Voices

The splintering of mainstream media and the rise of accessible, interactive technology, has led to alternative sources for news and comment. This class looks at the
alternative media and asks what purpose and mission they serve. Students will also consider what influence the alternative media has had on established media outlets
and will critically examine the impact of alternative media on the working methods and values of mainstream media.

Human Rights Journalism

This class looks at the development and practice of Human Rights journalism, focusing on human rights in the contemporary political landscape. As global outlets for
news increase, this class challenges students to consider the role of journalism in examining human rights issues, in the context of commercial and political pressures within the industry.

MSc Dissertation

MSc students complete a dissertation of 12-15,000 words on a topic related to investigative journalism. The topic is chosen by the student and gives them the opportunity to reflect in the areas of journalism they have examined and
the discoveries they have made themselves during this course. The dissertation is supervised by a member of the teaching staff.