Zara is a graduate from the MSc Digital Journalism programme

Tell us a little bit about your background...

I had an undergraduate degree in English Literature and Comparative Literature from the University of Glasgow where I was an editor and contributor to the student magazine. I have always wanted to work in media and journalism so this course felt like a natural step to develop those skills. 

What drew you towards undertaking a Masters degree?

I wanted to gain practical skills and a formal qualification in journalism to help me break in to a competitive industry. I choose the MSc Digital Journalism because it was a flexible course with the option to choose modules most relevant to you. I found the entrepreneurial journalism module really helpful as I am interested in freelancing. I was also able to pick up modules from outside my department and I absolutely loved the creative writing module I chose.

Tell us about the format of the programme...

The course was really flexible which allowed me to work alongside it which was a real decision making factor because other courses I looked at were in class five days a week which is inaccessible to a lot of people.

I had 3 classes per week and I felt able to manage the workload well. You could be going from a live news room class to an ethics lecture to a creative writing class. I really enjoyed the variety the programme offered.

Tell us a little bit about how your degree has helped you in your post-University life...

The course has really helped me to take steps in my career as I am now working in communications for a large third sector organisation and want to continue down the path of media and communications. I am also a freelance journalist writing for titles such as SNACK, Greater Govanhill, Discovery Music. 

I was recently shortlisted for best interview for a piece I wrote while at university at the National SPA journalism awards. 
This course has really helped me to make strides in the world of media and journalism and I feel well equipped to navigate my career.

What advice would you give to someone considering applying for this course?

I would say go for it! If you are interested in media and journalism this course will help you make connections and develop key skills you will need to build a career as a journalist.