Journalism and Communication with a Foundation Year (BA)
- Subject area: Journalism, media and culture
- UCAS code: 0N31
- Next intake: September 2026
- Duration: 4 years
- Mode: Full time
Why study this course
Explore how humanities help us understand culture, identity, creativity and the big questions shaping our world, before studying issues such as the impact of social media, the role of corporate communications and why in the era of ‘fake news’ quality journalism matters more than ever.
Global excellence
We're ranked 37th in the world for communication and media studies in the 2026 QS World University Rankings by Subject.
Capital connections
Cardiff is thriving; take advantage of growing media and creative industries plus links to BBC Wales and Media Wales.
State of the art facilities
Including a specialised onsite library, bright study spaces and six newsrooms.
Journalism now
Delve into pressing present day issues such as mediation of political violence, internet governance and body image.
Placement opportunities
Develop the skills, confidence and connections to accelerate your career.
Our Journalism and Communication with a Foundation Year programme provides a supportive and intellectually engaging route into undergraduate study. The programme offers a structured and supportive transition into university-level learning, providing additional academic preparation before undergraduate study.
You’ll explore some of the big questions at the heart of the humanities: who we are, how cultures and identities are formed, and how stories shape human experience. You’ll also consider how the humanities help us understand and respond to contemporary ethical, environmental and technological change.
You’ll be introduced to a range of perspectives from history, literature, philosophy, media, cultural analysis, language and related disciplines. You’ll learn about the latest humanities approaches to digital culture, AI and global change – all while developing key academic skills to help you develop in your target degree subject.
Our dynamic Journalism, Media and Communications programmes explore how media, cultural forms, technologies and trends shape society, politics, identities and everyday life, particularly in the context of globalisation, digital platforms, inequality and rapid social change.
You’ll explore media, journalism, and culture across a range of platforms and social contexts, engaging with issues such as representation, trust, fairness, power, and ethics.
You’ll learn to think critically, analyse content, and find innovative solutions to real-world problems. You’ll also learn to interpret media and cultural texts, evaluate digital platforms and technologies, and assess the social and cultural impact of media practices, while building confidence in presenting and communicating your ideas clearly.
You’ll study in a supportive and stimulating environment, taught by experts in media, journalism, communications and culture, with opportunities for personal development, placements, and careers engagement.
Subject area: Journalism, media and culture
Entry requirements
We accept a combination of A-levels and other qualifications, as well as equivalent international qualifications subject to entry requirements. Typical offers are as follows:
A level
CCD-CDD
Extended/International Project Qualification: Applicants with grade A in the EPQ/IPQ will typically receive an offer one grade lower than the standard offer. Please note that any subject specific requirements must still be met.
- Our grade range covers our standard offer and contextual offer. We carefully consider the circumstances in which you've been studying (your contextual data) upon application. Eligible students will be given an offer that is lower than the standard offer (usually the middle or lower end of the advertised grade range).
- Where there is no grade range advertised and/or where there are selection processes in place (like an interview) you may receive additional consideration in the selection process.
Learn about eligible courses and how contextual data is applied.
International Baccalaureate
27-26 overall or 554-544 in 3 HL subjects.
Baccalaureate Wales
From September 2023, there will be a new qualification called the Advanced Skills Baccalaureate Wales (level 3). This qualification will replace the Advanced Skills Challenge Certificate (Welsh Baccalaureate). The qualification will continue to be accepted in lieu of one A-Level (at the grades listed above), excluding any specified subjects.
GCSE and other essential requirements
You must have or be working towards:
- English language or Welsh language at GCSE grade C/4 or an equivalent (such as A-levels). If you require a Student visa, you must ensure your language qualification complies with UKVI requirements.
We do not accept Critical Thinking, General Studies, Citizenship Studies, or other similar equivalent subjects.
We will accept a combination of BTEC subjects, A-levels, and other qualifications, subject to the course specific grade and subject requirements.
English language requirements
GCSE
Grade B or grade 6 in GCSE English Language.
IELTS (academic)
At least 7.0 overall with a minimum of 6.0 in each subskill.
TOEFL iBT
At least 100 overall with a minimum of 20 in each subskill.
PTE Academic
At least 76 overall with a minimum of 62 in all communicative skills.
Trinity ISE II/III
II: Not accepted.
III: at least a Merit in all components.
Other accepted qualifications
Please visit our English Language requirements page for more information on our other accepted language qualifications.
Criminal convictions
You are not required to complete a DBS (Disclosure Barring Service) check or provide a Certificate of Good Conduct to study this course.
If you are currently subject to any licence condition or monitoring restriction that could affect your ability to successfully complete your studies, you will be required to disclose your criminal record. Conditions include, but are not limited to:
- access to computers or devices that can store images
- use of internet and communication tools/devices
- curfews
- freedom of movement, including the ability to travel to outside of the UK or to undertake a placement/studies outside of Cardiff University
- contact with people related to Cardiff University.
Other qualifications from inside the UK
BTEC
MMM-MMP in a BTEC Extended Diploma in Arts, Humanities and Social Science subjects.
T level
Acceptance of T Levels for this programme will be considered on a case-by-case basis by the Academic School. Consideration will be given to the T Level grade/subject and grades/subjects achieved at GCSE/Level 2.
Please see our admissions policies for more information about the application process.
Interview or selection process
No interview process, offer holders will be invited to Applicant Visit days in Feb/March each year.
Tuition fees for 2026 entry
Your tuition fees and how you pay them will depend on your fee status. Your fee status could be home, island or overseas.
Learn how we decide your fee status
Fees for home status
| Year | Tuition fee 1 | Deposit |
|---|---|---|
| Foundation/ preliminary year | £5,760 | None |
| Year one | £9,790 | None |
| Year two | £9,790 | None |
| Year three | £9,790 | None |
1 Home status tuition fees are charged at the maximum fee set by the Government each year. If the tuition fee cap changes before you start your course, we’ll email you to let you know. We’ll explain any changes to your tuition fees, and allow you to withdraw without penalty if you decide not to study with us.
Tuition fees may increase for subsequent years of your course if the fee cap changes. Learn what happens if tuition fees increase.
Learn more about our tuition fees
Fees for overseas status
This course does not currently accept students from outside the UK/EU.
Financial support
Financial support may be available to individuals who meet certain criteria. For more information visit our funding section. Please note that these sources of financial support are limited and therefore not everyone who meets the criteria are guaranteed to receive the support.
Additional costs
Course specific equipment
You will not need any specific equipment.
Accommodation
We have a range of residences to suit your needs and budget. Find out more on our accommodation pages.
Living costs
We're based in one of the UK's most affordable cities. Find out more about living costs in Cardiff.
Course structure
You’ll study for a minimum of 4 years, including your integrated foundation year.
In each year of the programme, you’ll study 120 credits from a blend of core and optional modules.
The modules shown are an example of the typical curriculum and will be reviewed prior to the 2026/2027 academic year. The final modules will be published by September 2026.
Foundation/ preliminary year
The foundation year is designed to build confidence, academic capability and subject-specific understanding through expert teaching, tailored support and an inclusive learning environment.
You’ll study 6 core modules of 20 credits each, carefully designed to prepare you for your chosen Journalism and Communication programme.
| Module title | Module code | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Independent Project | CH0008 | 20 credits |
| Skills for Knowledge, Independence, Lifelong Learning | CH0009 | 10 credits |
| Global Humanities: Culture, Identity and Place | CH0010 | 20 credits |
| Reading the World: Texts, Images and Interpretation | CH0011 | 20 credits |
| Humane Futures: Ethics, Technology and the Human World | CH0012 | 20 credits |
| Making Meaning: Creativity and Communication | CH0013 | 20 credits |
Year one
On successful completion of the Foundation Year, you’ll progress into one of our undergraduate Journalism and Communication programmes. Your options include:
- Journalism and Communications (BA)
- Media and Communications (BA)
- Media, Journalism and Culture (BA)
- Journalism, Politics and International Relations (BA)
Year 1 introduces the central debates and challenges shaping journalism, media and communications today and prepares you for year 2, when you’ll begin to specialise and develop your own interests.
Through mostly core modules, you’ll gain a solid foundation in the contemporary and historical contexts of journalism, communication, media and culture. You’ll also develop the core academic skills needed for university-level study, including high-quality writing, analysis and research, which you will continue to refine throughout your degree.
The exact blend of core and optional modules will depend on which programme you choose.
Year two
In year 2, you’ll study a combination of core and optional modules that build on your first-year foundations and allow you to start shaping your academic pathway. Core modules deepen your understanding of key areas within journalism, media and communications, while optional modules give you the flexibility to explore topics that interest you.
Year three
In year 3, you’ll build on your knowledge and focus on developing advanced analytical, research, and practical skills. Core modules explore key industry topics, while optional modules allow you to choose areas that interest you most.
You’ll also have the option to complete a dissertation, giving you the freedom to research a journalism, media and communications topic of your choice. This allows you to demonstrate your abilities in project management, research, and communication. You’ll benefit from one-to-one guidance and supervision from a member of staff to support your work.
The University is committed to providing a wide range of module options where possible, but please be aware that whilst every effort is made to offer choice this may be limited in certain circumstances. This is due to the fact that some modules have limited numbers of places available, which are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, while others have minimum student numbers required before they will run, to ensure that an appropriate quality of education can be delivered; some modules require students to have already taken particular subjects, and others are core or required on the programme you are taking. Modules may also be limited due to timetable clashes, and although the University works to minimise disruption to choice, we advise you to seek advice from the relevant School on the module choices available.
Learning and assessment
Lectures and workshops are combined with seminars, which give you space to discuss ideas, complete tasks and explore themes in a small-group setting. Your learning is supported by additional activities and materials like screenings and online resources delivered through the University’s digital platforms.
Our academic staff draw on current media trends, real-world examples and their own research expertise to help you engage critically with contemporary challenges. Their industry connections and ongoing scholarship ensure the curriculum reflects developments in the media sector while maintaining a strong academic foundation.
This programme is purposely designed to help you progress from applying established knowledge to developing your own critical insights and exploring how research informs practice, and vice versa.
How will I be assessed?
Our aim is to develop your skills in analysing media texts and technologies, testing existing sector knowledge or critical perspectives against contemporary trends, and exploring the relationship between theory and practice. You’ll be assessed through a range of methods that reflect the different ways you engage with journalism and communications. These include written assignments, presentations, data visualisation, market research tasks and responses to industry-style briefs. Some assessments are completed individually, while others involve group work.
Support is available throughout the assessment process. You’ll have access to formative activities, examples from previous cohorts and guidance on the University’s online platform. Clear marking criteria and timely feedback help you understand expectations and your progress, with the option to discuss your work with academic staff if you need further clarification.
What skills will I practise and develop?
The Learning Outcomes for this Programme describe what you will achieve by the end of your programme at Cardiff University and identify the knowledge and skills that you will develop. They will also help you to understand what is expected of you.
On successful completion of your Programme you will be able to:
Knowledge & Understanding:
- Demonstrate critical understanding of major theories, concepts, and debates concerning journalism and communications and their relevance to contemporary societies.
- Critically analyse the historical emergence of journalism and news media, recognising their social, cultural, economic, political and technological significance.
- Critically assess journalism and communications processes and practices, explaining how meaning is produced and circulated.
- Understand and assess the role of ethics in journalism and communications, and how these shape democratic society.
- Evaluate a variety of qualitative and quantitative sources of journalism to understand how data are acquired for journalistic investigation.
Intellectual Skills:
- Critically engage with and apply key concepts, theories, and debates in journalism and communications.
- Evaluate the strengths and limitations of diverse research methodologies relevant to journalism and communications.
- Critically assess and integrate research materials from academic and non-academic sources, using established and emerging technologies to inform work in journalism and communications.
- Critically analyse the political, legal, and ethical dimensions of journalistic practice and news dissemination, emphasising the importance of access, inclusion and democratic accountability.
- Critically examine inequalities in access and participation in journalism and communications.
Professional Practical Skills:
- Produce a wide range of outputs, demonstrating professional and academic skills in journalism and communications, effectively addressing different stakeholders across academic and industry settings.
- Produce coherent analyses and outputs appropriate to a range of journalistic and communication formats, adapting work effectively for different platforms and audiences.
- Critically reflect on journalistic ethics and professional communication standards and the accuracy, accountability, and the quality of personal work.
- Implement effective career planning strategies for journalism and communications industries, emphasising self-awareness, reflective practice and self-assessment.
Transferable/Key Skills:
- Communicate effectively across multiple platforms, adapting content for journalistic, professional and public audiences.
- Apply critical self-reflection to interrogate assumptions and integrate diverse perspectives.
- Confidently source, verify, and evaluate evidence to construct arguments and outputs.
- Demonstrate professionalism in personal and document presentation, selecting the most appropriate methods for effective communication in various professional contexts.
- Collaborate with peers to generate original content that respects and values the contributions of all participants.
Other information
Global Opportunities
Studying, working or volunteering abroad as part of your university experience is a great way to broaden your academic knowledge, immerse yourself in another culture and gain skills that will be highly valued by employers. You are able to apply for placements across Europe and internationally through a number of recognised schemes as part of your degree programme.
European destinations include Erasmus University Rotterdam (Netherlands) and Stockholm University (Sweden). International destinations include University of Sydney (Australia), University of Ottawa (Canada), Auckland University of Technology (New Zealand) and University of Pennsylvania (USA).
Careers and placements
Career prospects
Our students develop the analytical, research, and communication skills valued across a wide range of sectors, including media, journalism, communications and the creative industries. You’ll have opportunities to network with and gain insights from industry guest speakers and you’ll benefit from a dedicated employability module, delivered in collaboration with the University’s Student Futures service, designed to enhance your professional skills and readiness for work.
Our recent alumni have gone into the following roles and industries:
- Journalism – reporter, video journalist, blogger
- TV production – producer, researcher, reporter
- Digital and social – social media officer, marketing officer, video reporter
- Advertising – copy writer and campaign manager
- Public relations – account manager and writer
- Teaching – various disciplines
- Creative Industries – writer and producer
- Publishing – writer and copy editor
- Communications – press/communications officer
As this degree does not provide journalism training or a journalistic accreditation, many graduates choose to progress to our master’s courses to gain practical training.
Placements
You’ll be encouraged to take up short-term placements and other work-based opportunities throughout your studies, and we provide support to help you find roles that match your interests. While placements aren’t compulsory, you’ll gain practical experience through integrated employer led projects built into your second and third year. These real-world briefs give you the chance to work directly with industry partners, develop your professional skills, and build confidence in a collaborative, workplace style environment.
Next steps
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HESA Data: Copyright Higher Education Statistics Agency Limited 2021. The Higher Education Statistics Agency Limited cannot accept responsibility for any inferences or conclusions derived by third parties from its data. Data is from the latest Graduate Outcomes Survey 2019/20, published by HESA in June 2022.
