Journalism and History, BA (Hons)

The best journalism is based on a sound understanding of the history that has shaped the world we inhabit today.There is a strong and growing tradition of deeper journalistic investigation into issues and events in the recent and more distant past (however that might be defined). This might be to unearth new knowledge, to investigate and reinterpret existing thinking, or to revise and update past ideas and understandings.This innovative, collaborative, and interdisciplinary programme, jointly delivered by the Department of History and the Department of Media, Communications and Cultural Studies, emphasises that the causes and results of events in the past are fiercely contested by historians.Much contemporary journalism is focused not only on reporting, contextualising and analysing events as they happen, but also as they have recently happened. Consequently, journalism is often likened to ‘the first rough draft of history’.Why study BA Journalism and History at Goldsmiths

• History - the study, analysis and understanding of the past - is as important today as it has ever been, and it continues to make vital contributions to how we comprehend and interact with the world around us. It is a relevant, dynamic, fascinating and important field of study which, at Goldsmiths, is approached in creative, innovative and exciting ways.

• Understanding past societies fosters emotional intelligence and allows us to appreciate the diversity and adaptability of human life. Understanding our pasts can help us to shape our futures and, crucially, help us shape those futures intelligently, insightfully, fairly, and with compassion.

• The essential skills of researching, interviewing, and writing in a number of different long-form and short-form styles and formats are delivered alongside tuition for a range of digital tools including video reporting, the use of social media for research and dissemination, and how to work in the world of online, multimedia journalism.

• An international body of staff research and deliver modules covering a wide geographical range including Asia, Africa, the Americas, the British Isles, Eastern and Western Europe, and the Middle East. Academic staff in both departments are nationally and internationally recognized award-winning experts in their fields who are at the forefront of research excellence and research-led teaching.

• Learn about important contextual elements of journalism, including how it relates to the broader world of the media, media culture, and its place in society and the democratic process, as well as the role of investigative journalism and longer-form writing.

• The programme culminates with a linking interdisciplinary dissertation project. Co-supervised across both departments, this allows you to pursue your particular interests and aspirations while testing the knowledge, understanding, skills and experience acquired in both disciplines across all years of the programme.