Cardiff University School of Journalism
Cardiff University School of Journalism, Media and Culture stands as one of the most respected journalism schools in the United Kingdom and globally. As part of Cardiff University, a prestigious Russell Group institution, the school has earned an international reputation for excellence in journalism education, media research, and professional training that prepares graduates for successful careers in the rapidly evolving media landscape. The school traces its origins to the 1970s when it pioneered postgraduate journalism education in the UK. Today, it offers comprehensive programs spanning undergraduate to doctoral levels, combining rigorous academic inquiry with professional skills training. The school distinctive approach integrates theoretical understanding with practical experience, producing graduates who are both critical thinkers and skilled practitioners. Research at the School of Journalism is internationally recognized, with academics producing influential work on news media, political communication, digital journalism, and media policy. The school hosts the Centre for Community Journalism and the Centre for Digital Media Research, fostering innovative research that shapes understanding of contemporary media. Industry connections are a hallmark of the school, with strong relationships with major news organizations including the BBC, ITN, Sky News, and leading newspapers. These partnerships provide students with valuable work experience opportunities, industry mentorship, and insight into current professional practice. The school commitment to diversity and ethical journalism ensures graduates are prepared to uphold the highest standards in their careers.
- Acceptance Rate
- 65.0%
- SAT Range
- 1050–1250
- ACT Range
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- Avg GPA
- 3.25
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Student Life & Environment
Journalism students at Cardiff form a tight-knit community based on the shared intensity of their training program. The demanding schedule of deadlines and practical assignments creates bonds between classmates who work together on stories and help each other meet challenging targets. Student-run publications and broadcast outlets provide additional platforms where students can develop their voices and build portfolios outside of assessed coursework. Cardiff itself offers a student-friendly city with affordable housing, lively nightlife, and easy access to the Welsh countryside for those who need breaks from urban life. The city center features pedestrian shopping streets, a covered Victorian market, and a growing food scene that has earned recognition in recent years. Cardiff Bay, redeveloped from old docklands into an entertainment district, provides waterfront restaurants and cultural venues including the Wales Millennium Centre. Sports play a significant role in Cardiff culture, with the Principality Stadium hosting rugby internationals that bring the city to life during match weekends. Football fans support Cardiff City, while cricket matches at Sophia Gardens attract summer crowds. Students interested in participating rather than spectating find opportunities through university sports clubs and local leagues. The proximity to Brecon Beacons National Park opens hiking, climbing, and mountain biking possibilities for outdoor enthusiasts.
Location & Surroundings
The journalism school occupies dedicated facilities that include everything students need for their training. Newsroom spaces replicate professional environments where students work on rotating assignments and learn to function as part of editorial teams. Television studios with professional lighting and camera equipment allow broadcast students to practice presenting and producing in realistic conditions. Radio facilities support audio journalism training that has grown increasingly relevant as podcast production has entered the mainstream. Computer labs equipped with industry-standard editing software give students access to the tools they will use in professional settings. The Adobe Creative Suite, Avid Media Composer, and specialized audio software are available for student projects. Technical support staff help students master equipment and troubleshoot problems that arise during production work. The school invests regularly in equipment upgrades to ensure students learn on current technology rather than outdated systems. Beyond the technical facilities, the school provides spaces for collaboration, informal meetings, and the socializing that builds professional networks. A common room serves as a gathering point between classes where students discuss assignments, share job leads, and develop the relationships that often lead to career opportunities after graduation. Guest speakers from the journalism industry visit regularly, offering insights into different career paths and connecting current students with working professionals.
Costs & Career Outcomes
Interviews form part of the selection process for competitive programs, giving admissions tutors an opportunity to assess candidates' communication skills and passion for journalism. These conversations explore why candidates want to pursue journalism, what areas interest them, and how they have prepared for the demands of professional training. Strong current affairs knowledge and thoughtful perspectives on media issues help candidates make positive impressions. English language requirements apply to international applicants, with IELTS scores typically set around 7.0 for journalism programs given the writing-intensive nature of the coursework. Some flexibility may exist for candidates with exceptional portfolios or relevant professional experience. Fees for international students exceed those for UK students, so financial planning should account for the full cost of study including living expenses in Cardiff. Career outcomes for Cardiff journalism graduates reflect the program's strong industry connections. Many graduates find positions at major news organizations within months of completing their studies. The skills developed during training transfer across media platforms, allowing graduates to adapt as the industry continues to evolve. For international students, Cardiff offers training in British journalism traditions while providing a supportive environment for those adjusting to UK culture.
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