Program Description

Investigative Journalism at De Montfort University (DMU) is an industry-leading programme with a particular focus on the practical video skills involved in developing high-level investigative reports. Endorsed by and developed with Channel 4, it is well suited to established professionals who wish to develop their skills or change careers, as well as students progressing from undergraduate study. 

Reasons to study Investigative Journalism at DMU:

• Course endorsed by and developed in collaboration with Channel 4
• Ensuring industry-level teaching by expert academics and professional journalists
• The only MA in Investigative Journalism solely aimed at producing video investigative journalists and the only MA in the country supported by a major national broadcaster
• Designed with input from Industry leaders this specialist course is designed to provide you with the skills, knowledge and contacts you need to embark on a successful career in investigative journalism
• Work on live briefs produce your own professional programme to pitch to major broadcasters or elsewhere
• More than 20 years’ experience of teaching journalism our teaching staff have many years of industry experience which you can draw upon to develop skills and expertise that are relevant for a career in Journalism
• Excellent graduate prospects this course will equip graduates for a successful career in Investigative Journalism,with graduates now working for both local and national organisations like the BBC, Mail Online, top news agencies and national and international magazines

DMU's Investigative Journalism MA draws on Channel 4’s experience of training video investigative journalists, and is designed to maximise your chance of being employed in the industry. It is based on three pillars, teaching you:

• the law, regulation and ethics of investigative journalism
• how to investigate
• how to communicate using video

This is supplemented by a survey of the academic study of journalism, all of which is intended to help you flourish as a practitioner. 

The content of this course is endorsed by and has been developed with Channel 4, and the MA draws on the contributions of professional journalists who currently work in the industry. They have strong track records in a variety of genres and programmes.  The connection with the Channel also helps the course tutors identify potential work experience placements, and professional mentors for students.

As part of the degree, you will be expected to devise, pitch and manage your own investigations. You will be expected to pitch your ideas face-to-face to some of the most senior people in independent television investigative journalism, including Dorothy Byrne, Head of Channel Four News and Current Affairs and DMU’s Visiting Professor in Media Discourse (Journalism).

Dorothy has said: ‘I think it important to outline the need for such a degree. Investigative news and current affairs television in this country is crucial to our democracy. It holds power to account and is highly valued by the British public in helping to defend the integrity of institutions and society. There will, despite all the changes in the media, continue to be a need and demand for journalists with investigative skills and training alongside an understanding of television programme making.’