Journalism Studies and Sport

The digital age has transformed the way news is reported and consumed, with more media platforms available than ever before. A degree in Journalism Studies from the University of Stirling equips you with the practical skills and theoretical knowledge you’ll need to make a mark in this rapidly-evolving industry.

With over 30 years of experience in researching and teaching journalism, the University of Stirling has established a reputation as one of the UK’s top institutions in the field. This course covers theoretical and practical aspects of journalism, and offers an in-depth, critical understanding of journalism practice. You’ll work individually and in groups to write articles and prepare portfolios; create pages for print and online news platforms; produce and edit visuals; and contribute to class blogs. Everything you do will deepen your understanding of how professional journalists operate across broadcast, online and print media – and by the time you graduate, you’ll be ready to take your place among them.

Guest lecturers from the media regularly visit the University to share their knowledge with you directly. The respected broadcaster Jon Snow described our media department as “a breed apart”. Join us to fulfil your ambitions in journalism, and you’ll soon find out why.

"The Film and Media Studies department is a breed apart. This is a holistic approach to film and media that refuses to ghettoise them into the narrow confines that others pursue in other institutions. For me Stirling is simply the best in this regard."

Jon Snow, broadcaster and journalist

We are 1st in Scotland and top 15 in the UK for Journalism (Guardian University Guide 2026)

Sport offers a wide range of exciting career opportunities. The sport sector supports 1.25 million jobs in the UK and has performed more strongly than the UK economy as a whole in recent years. (Department for Culture, Media and Sport, 2024).

At Stirling, we help prepare you for the diverse sports job market. By studying sport combined with another subject, you can focus in on a blend of skills to support your unique ambitions.

As you study your chosen specialism, you’ll get a firm grounding in all aspects of sport. Your sports modules will include:

• the role sport plays in society and how it impacts health and community;

• the psychology of physical activity;

• sport as a global phenomenon – including the role of sporting organisations and major events.

You’ll also complete a major project in your final semester. This will give you an opportunity to do extensive research on a topic you choose and produce a final piece of work that might take the form of a coaching resource, a journal article or a research report. The creative and analytical skills you gain on the project will be ideal preparation for the types of challenges you may encounter in your future workplace.

What makes Stirling one of the best places to study combined sports courses?

Learn from experts accredited by organisations like the British Psychological Society. Our cutting-edge sport research helps to ensure you’re gaining the latest knowledge in the field. As Scotland’s University for Sporting Excellence, we also have strong connections to partner organisations such as sportscotland.

These links create valuable networking and learning opportunities as you study. You’ll benefit from guest lectures from representatives of organisation such as the Scottish Institute for Sport and the Scottish Professional Football League Trust. We also host a career event that brings together former students and professional partners to talk about your next steps.

Our campus is also home to elite athletes competing in multiple disciplines worldwide. You’ll benefit from the same world-class facilities as them, including our 50 metre swimming pool, athletics tracks, grass and artificial pitches, tennis courts, multiple fitness suites and more.