BA (Hons) Sports Journalism Bachelor's degree at Sheffield Hallam University
BA (Hons) Sports Journalism at SHU. The curriculum covers core theory, research and methods, applied practice, specialist options, an independent project, and professional skills development.
About this course
<p>Prepare to join the fast moving and dynamic world of Sports Journalism, hone your skills with industry experts and real-world experience.</p> From the provider’s course page.
BA (Hons) Sports Journalism is a Bachelor's degree (BA (Hons)) at SHU, based in City Campus. It runs 3 years, studied full-time.
For Journalism graduates from this provider, typical earnings around £25,000. (HESA Graduate Outcomes / LEO, via Discover Uni.)
For the typical curriculum, specialisations, career paths and graduate earnings for Sport & Exercise Science, see the sections below.
Course evidence score
The arithmetic mean of the official measures available for this course: NSS satisfaction, graduate activity and continuation.
Published threshold met NSS publication requires sufficient responses; small differences are not a rank. NSS mean of 7 published themes (Discover Uni snapshot 2026-06-21)
Published threshold met Discover Uni suppresses continuation data below its publication threshold. Cohort 2022-23. Continuation 85% (2022-23; Discover Uni snapshot 2026-06-21)
Curriculum & modules
Real modules published for this course, grouped only where the source gives a year, stage or level.
Year 1 4 modules
- Broadcast JournalismCompulsory40 credits
Module details
On this module, you will research real-world stories and use audio and visual skills to create content for broadcast (from TV and radio to digital platforms and social media). You will gain an understanding of practical studio techniques, including production, editing, and broadcast. You will learn to reflect on your strengths, and recognise your professional behaviours, limitations, and experiences. Indicative Content: Story gathering and writing for broadcast. Use of video and audio equipment.
Assessment: Coursework (100%)
- Live Event ReportingCompulsory20 credits
Module details
On this module, you will develop your understanding of live event reporting, including key roles in live broadcasting and coverage in both radio and television commentary. You'll work with external partners to experience live sporting events and press conferences, increasing your skills and confidence in these dynamic spaces. Indicative content: Live reporting skills for radio and television platforms. Live commentary skills for radio and television platforms. Researching and planning sports cov
Assessment: Coursework (100%)
- Sport, Media, And SocietyCompulsory20 credits
Module details
This module will immerse you in key issues and debates in sports journalism and reflect on the role that sport has played and continues to play in society. You will also develop your research skills to critically reflect upon issues in sport including governance, diversity, inclusion, gender and globalisation. Indicative Content: The history of sport. The development of sports coverage in the media. Foundational research skills. Representation and diversity. Equality and inclusion. Globalisation
Assessment: Coursework (100%)
- Sports WritingCompulsory40 credits
Module details
This module introduces you to the essential skills needed to produce written sports content for target audiences across print and digital platforms. These skills will include researching and writing sports news and features and previewing and reporting on sports events. In addition, you'll develop an understanding of audience, news values, approaches to interviewing and inclusive practice. Indicative content: Sources and resources for inclusive sports news and feature writing. Understanding audi
Assessment: Coursework (100%)
Year 2 5 modules
- Content CreationCompulsory40 credits
Module details
This module will equip you with the skills to deliver content across social media and digital first platforms. It involves applying relevant methods, production techniques, and technical skills to support creative storytelling, while effectively communicating ideas tailored to specific audiences. You will work in groups as well as with external partners, demonstrating professional awareness, ethical practice, and self-leadership. Indicative content: Gathering audio, video and photographic materi
Assessment: Coursework (100%)
- Magazine And Feature WritingCompulsory40 credits
Module details
You will develop a deeper understanding and improved practical application of the ways in which journalists use language, content, style and structure to produce features for both print and online magazines. You will be introduced to the business of magazines and develop your ability to conceptualise, justify, design, and produce your own magazine content. You will explore how print and online magazines work together within a brand, and how content is shaped differently for printed publications,
Assessment: Coursework (100%)
- Media Law, Regulation And GovernmentCompulsory20 credits
Module details
This module will introduce you to the key social, legal, governmental, and regulatory frameworks for professional journalism. Building on foundational knowledge from L4, you will focus on relevant local and national structures and processes, and on key topics of media law. You will develop a critical awareness around questions of ethics and the role of journalists in exploring, explaining, and exposing legal and political processes. Indicative Content: The essential structures and processes of l
Assessment: Coursework (100%)
- Sports NewsdayCompulsory20 credits
Module details
This module further develops writing and broadcast skills. You'll gain experience of newsday processes and cycles in realistic professional newsroom settings, and you'll research, develop, and prepare same-day multi-platform programmes. Through collaboration with peers on the module and with external partners, you will develop your digital fluency, technical competencies, and professional awareness. Indicative Content: Developing, preparing, and presenting news stories. Multiple and multi-platfo
Assessment: Coursework (100%)
- Study Abroad - Creative IndustriesElective60 credits
Module details
This module is for undergraduate students to study abroad in their second year, Semester 2 (only for courses that offer this option). With this module, you can spend a semester at one of the University's approved partner institutions worldwide – from Europe to the Americas, Asia Australia or Canada. Study Abroad plays an important role in the University's commitment to an engaging, challenging, and thriving learning culture. It offers opportunities to experience other academic cultures and foste
Assessment: Coursework (100%)
Year 3 1 modules
- Undergraduate Sandwich Placement Applied Professional DiplomaCompulsory
Module details
The aim of this module is to enhance students' professional development through the completion of and reflection on meaningful work placement(s). A work placement will provide students with opportunities to experience the realities of professional employment and experience how their course can be applied within their chosen industry setting. The placement will: Allow student to apply the skills, theories and behaviours relevant and in addition to their course. Enable students to enhance their in
Final year 3 modules
- Approaches To Communication ResearchCompulsory20 credits
Module details
In this module you will explore the ways research can provide a deeper insight into communication practice in a range of social contexts. You'll develop your research skills, learning about a range of data collection methods relevant to Media, Journalism and Public Relations, and gain hands-on experience of approaches to the analysis of different types of data. The module will support you to reflect on the ethical considerations relating to research in online and in-person contexts. You will enh
Assessment: Coursework (100%)
- Sports Journalism Applied Project/DissertationCompulsory40 credits
Module details
On this module, you'll undertake a project in an area of your choosing, focusing on your interests and ambitions. With dedicated support from a supervisor, you'll develop, plan, and carry out a project that showcases research, writing and/or other production skills to create a dissertation or practical project on your chosen topic. You'll work closely with your colleagues as part of a learning community, providing and receiving feedback on your ideas and work in progress. This module will develo
Assessment: Coursework (100%)
- Sports News LiveCompulsory40 credits
Module details
Building on your previous study, this module further develops your writing and broadcasting skills.
Assessment: Coursework (100%)
Source: provider course page. Modules can change; required/optional status, credits, descriptions and assessment are shown only when explicitly published.
Course in depth
What this course covers, who it suits and where it leads.
What you'll study
This course prepares you to work in the fast-moving world of sports journalism, combining industry expertise with real-world experience. You'll typically begin with foundations in sport and exercise science, anatomy, physiology, and how the body adapts to training, alongside introductory sport psychology and practical coaching skills. In Year 2, you'll progress to more specialised study: biomechanics, physiology of training, and research methods. By Year 3, you'll choose specialisations such as strength and conditioning, sport psychology, nutrition, rehabilitation, or coaching, apply your learning through workplace placements, and undertake an independent research project. Throughout, you'll develop both theoretical knowledge and the practical skills needed for sports journalism.
Who it's for
This course suits students interested in sports journalism and media communication. Most accepted students held A-levels or equivalent qualifications; the typical UCAS tariff band among entrants was 96–111 points. You'll need to meet the university's specific entry requirements, which you should verify directly with the admissions team.
University & format
This BA (Hons) course is studied full-time over 3 years at Sheffield Hallam University, a university located on the City Campus. The language of instruction is English. Sheffield Hallam is a recognised UK degree-awarding body, and this degree is nationally recognised. The university holds Gold for teaching quality in the Office for Students' TEF 2023.
Student satisfaction
How students on this course answered the National Student Survey, by theme.
Share of students responding positively.
Published threshold met NSS publication requires sufficient responses; small differences are not a rank. NSS mean of 7 published themes (Discover Uni snapshot 2026-06-21)
Applicant information
The next application dates for this course, followed by facts the provider publishes.
- 2027 entryCompleted applications can be submitted
Your application needs a reference before you can send it.
- 2026 entryFinal date for 2026 applications
Applications must reach UCAS by 18:00 UK time.
- 2026 entryLast day to add a Clearing choice
Check that this course still has a vacancy before adding it.
- 2027 entryEqual-consideration deadline
18:00 UK time for most undergraduate courses.
Show 5 later dates
- 2027 entryUCAS Extra opens
Applicants who used all five choices and hold no offer may be able to add another choice.
- 2027 entryLast day applications go directly to providers
Applications received after 18:00 UK time are entered into Clearing.
- 2027 entryClearing opens
Eligible applicants can see vacancies and release themselves into Clearing.
- 2027 entryFinal date for 2027 applications
Applications must reach UCAS by 18:00 UK time.
- 2027 entryLast day to add a Clearing choice
Check that this course still has a vacancy before adding it.
Provider-published requirement; check the linked course page before applying.
Placement year. Availability, selection and pay can vary.
See and book current events. Dates can fill or change.
Entry & how to get in
Who gets in
What recently admitted students actually held, official admissions data, not a stated requirement.
UCAS tariff of entrants
Grades are the A-level equivalent of each points band. Tap a band to check your own chances below.
Qualifications held on entry
| Qualification | Share |
|---|---|
| A-levels or equivalent | 93% |
| another higher-education qualification | 3% |
| an Access course | 3% |
| Other | 1% |
Entry & your chances
An honest read from the official entry data, plus your personal match.
Accepted students came in with a broad spread of qualifications and UCAS points. If you're worried about grades, this course has historically taken a wide range, and contextual offers may apply.
Will you get in? Plot your grades
Pick your predicted A-levels and watch your UCAS points land on the real spread of students admitted to this course.
Each bar is the share of admitted students in that UCAS-points band (lower → higher). Grades show the A-level equivalent.
Based on the official admitted-student tariff distribution. Many universities make contextual (reduced-grade) offers, so a result below the range doesn’t rule you out.
How to apply
Undergraduate applications go through UCAS. Here’s what matters for this course, the right deadline, the grades to aim for, and the steps in order.
- 1Register on UCAS Hub
Create your UCAS application and add this course. One application covers up to five choices.
- 2Write your personal statement
A single statement covers all your choices, so keep it broad enough for similar courses while showing genuine interest in this subject.
- 3Submit by 13 January 2027, 18:00 UK time
UCAS equal-consideration deadline for most undergraduate courses. Source: UCAS 2027 dates.
- 4Reply to your offers
When decisions are in, pick a firm (first) choice and an insurance (back-up) choice with slightly lower grades.
- 5Results day & confirmation
On results day (mid-August) your place is confirmed if you meet the offer. Just missed? Talk to the university, or find a place through Clearing.
Fees & funding
What this course costs and how UK student finance covers it.
Tuition per year
Provider fee page (England 2026/27 cap where not stated).
Check fees at SHU →For students who normally live in England
2026/27 Student Finance England figures. Maintenance support is means-tested and this two-point view is not an entitlement calculator. The course total uses its published length and home fee where both are available; a missing full-time fee uses the clearly labelled England-cap scenario, while part-time fees and unknown lengths are never guessed. Use the official calculator. Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland use separate systems: SAAS, Student Finance Wales, and Student Finance NI.
Starting on or after 1 January 2027?
The Lifelong Learning Entitlement is a separate system. A new learner’s tuition entitlement is currently stated as £39,160 (about 480 credits at 2026/27 fee levels), subject to prior study and eligibility. Check the official LLE guide.
Paying for it
- Tuition Fee Loan: can cover eligible tuition up to the applicable limit and is paid straight to the provider.
- Maintenance Loan: up to £10,830/yr away from home outside London (England, 2026/27), means-tested on household income.
- Repayment: 9% of income above £25,000, nothing below it; written off after 40 years.
- Earn alongside: most students work part-time in term, part-time roles on the StudySmarter job board.
England figures shown; Scotland, Wales & NI run their own schemes, check gov.uk.
Scholarships & bursaries you could qualify for
That does not mean no funding exists. Check the university directory for current amounts, eligibility and application dates.
We only display a named award when its provider source identifies the award and who it is for.
Still deciding what to study?
StudyKit brings course choice, applications and funding together in one place, with a personal AI assistant. Find what really fits you and start your UCAS application step by step.
Careers & earnings
What Sport & Exercise Science graduates actually earn, from real outcome data, 15 months, 3 years and 5 years after graduating.
Graduate earnings: this course
| When | Median | Typical range | Graduates |
|---|---|---|---|
| 15 months after | £25,000 | £22,500 – £28,000 | 1265 |
| 3 years after | £20,500 | £18,500 – £23,500 | 85 |
| 5 years after | £27,500 | £23,000 – £31,000 | 85 |
Nominal earnings for graduates of this course/subject at this provider. Stronger evidence. Published sample: 1,265. Cohort 2021-22.
Graduate outcomes, 15 months on: this course
- 1Graduate roleFirst role after the degree · 0–2 yrs
- 2Specialist / PractitionerWorking in sport & exercise science · 2–5 yrs
- 3Senior / LeadLeading work and people · 5–10 yrs
- 4Head of / ExpertSenior leadership or deep expertise · 10+ yrs
How pay grows: this course vs Sport & Exercise Science nationally
National figures for Sport & Exercise Science graduates, HESA Graduate Outcomes (15 months) and the Longitudinal Education Outcomes (LEO) dataset (3 & 5 years). These are national, not university-specific; actual pay varies by employer, region, role and experience. Different cohorts, so the bars are not one group over time.
Work out your pay
Headline figures hide a lot. Calculate realistic take-home pay for this field by role, region and experience, then check your CV before you apply.
What happened to 100 students?
Choose an outcome to translate the published percentage into a simple 100-person view. Each dot represents one percentage point, not an individual tracked student.
continued or completed
continued into the next year or completed their qualification
Source: Discover Uni, using Graduate Outcomes and continuation data. Cohorts: 2022-23. Stronger evidence. Published sample: 1,265. Cohort 2021-22. Each tab is a separate published measure; categories can overlap and should not be added together.
Value compared with similar courses
How this course’s 5-year median earnings compare with Sport & Exercise Science courses at the same study level.
Compared with 915 courses with compatible official earnings data. This is a course-value comparison, not a quality ranking.
Is BA (Hons) Sports Journalism worth it?
Weigh it carefully. On these figures graduates of BA (Hons) Sports Journalism earn close to non-graduate pay, so on cost alone the course is slow to pay off.
Cumulative earnings vs. going straight to work at 18, counting tuition and 3 years of wages given up while studying. The line clears zero around year 36.8. This is a simplified gross-earnings comparison, not a forecast of cash loan repayments.
Model: this course’s own median graduate earnings (Graduate Outcomes / LEO) above the £24,000 non-graduate baseline (ONS), net of £9,790/yr over 3 years (published course home fee). Eligible England-domiciled students can apply for a Tuition Fee Loan; repayments are 9% only on income above the threshold, with anything left written off after 40 years. That makes the cash flow different from conventional commercial debt. Opportunity cost assumes £18,000 gross earnings forgone in each study year; figures are nominal and exclude tax, living costs, investment returns and loan interest. A simplified estimate. Earnings and actual fees vary by graduate, provider, fee status and UK nation.
Job market & outlook
How Sport & Exercise Science graduates fare in the labour market, and how AI is reshaping the work.
How AI is changing the work
AI doesn't replace the profession, it shifts it: routine tasks get automated, while judgement, working with people and using AI well become more valuable.
What AI takes off your plate
- Routine information gathering
- First-draft writing and summaries
- Standard analysis and admin
- Repetitive processing tasks
More human than ever
- Judgement and original thinking
- Working with and leading people
- Owning and sense-checking AI output
- Ethics and accountability
The strongest graduates pair subject depth with the ability to use AI tools critically.
Roles & employers
Where Sport & Exercise Science graduates typically go, indicative destinations from graduate career data. Each role links to live openings on the StudySmarter job board.
Roles graduates go into
Where they work
- Sports clubs & NGBs
- Leisure providers
- Schools
- The NHS
Jobs after this course
Current roles from the StudySmarter job board that suit Sport & Exercise Science graduates.
Sport CoachAspire PeopleSport Science LeadBiolyz FlexCoBTEC Tech Awards Sept 22 - Sport - ExaminerPearsonEquine Vet: Independent Clinic for Leisure & Sport HorsesBritish Veterinary LGBT+Learning Mentor (PE/Sport)Prospero TeachingCasual Youth Worker: Sport, Community Growth & BelongingActive Herefordshire & WorcestershireIs this course right for you?
The essentials UK applicants ask about: finance, outcomes, entry and quality.
Student finance
Published home tuition is £9,790/year for this course. If you normally live in England, eligible students can apply for a Tuition Fee Loan, plus a Maintenance Loan for living costs. Under Plan 5 you repay 9% of income above £25,000, nothing below that, and the balance is written off after 40 years.
Where graduates go
Most graduates were in work or further study, with a median salary of £25,000. See the full breakdown in Careers & earnings above.
Your entry chances
Use the UCAS points calculator above to see how your predicted grades compare with admitted students, and whether a contextual offer could apply.
Official-data snapshot
Averaging the official measures published for it, this course scores 8.2 out of 10: NSS 78.6% · continued 85%.
Who studies here and in this subject?
Provider- and UK subject-level context.
Sheffield Hallam University
Biological and sport sciences across the UK
HESA student record 2024/25. Counts are rounded.
Local crime-data context
A neutral snapshot around the published teaching location.
Around City Campus
3,427 street-level reports returned within roughly one mile across 2026-04 to 2026-06.
Police.uk street-level API. Approximate locations, not confined to campus. England, Wales and Northern Ireland; not Scotland.
Is Sport & Exercise Science right for you?
Tick what applies to you and see how good a fit it is.
International students
What applying to SHU from outside the UK involves: fees, English, visa, funding and living costs.
Tuition fees
International tuition is £18,000 / year for this course (from the provider’s fee page). You’re not eligible for UK Tuition Fee or Maintenance Loans, so plan for fees plus living costs upfront.
English language
Most UK undergraduate courses ask for around IELTS 6.0–6.5 (no band below 5.5–6.0), or an accepted equivalent. If you’re just short, most universities run a pre-sessional English course that counts towards the requirement.
Student visa
You’ll usually need a Student visa (Student Route). After you accept an offer the university issues a CAS; you then show funds for fees plus about £1,023–£1,334/month living costs and pay the Immigration Health Surcharge for NHS access.
Scholarships & funding
Many universities offer international/global scholarships (often £2,000–£6,000/yr), check SHU’s funding pages.
Living costs
Budget roughly £1,100–£1,400/month outside London and £1,400–£1,800/month in London for rent, food and travel; the figure also matters for your visa.
Working while you study
A Student visa usually allows up to 20 hours/week in term time and full-time in holidays, useful alongside study, though not something to rely on for fees.
Visa rules and fees change. Always confirm the current requirements with SHU and gov.uk before you apply.
Related courses
More at SHU
Common questions
How competitive is entry?
What are the entry requirements?
What do graduates go on to do?
What will it cost me?
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