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AMST40620

Academic Year 2025/2026

Journalism & International Aff (AMST40620)

Subject:
American Studies
College:
Arts & Humanities
School:
Centre For American Studies
Level:
4 (Masters)
Credits:
10
Module Coordinator:
Professor Liam Kennedy
Trimester:
Autumn
Mode of Delivery:
On Campus
Internship Module:
No
How will I be graded?
Letter grades

Curricular information is subject to change.

This module focuses on the roles of news media – print, broadcast and online - in the making and representation of international affairs. It will link news production and consumption to historical, economic, political and cultural contexts. It introduces students to critical debates on the political economy of international news media and the relationship between the media and state, IO and NGO actors, and the impact of news media on policy and public opinion. It will enable students to understand the basic elements of state systems and of international relations, including the role of diplomacy and international law, and matters of security, conflict and human rights. It will also underline the significance of satellite broadcasting and the internet for international affairs and global news flows. Students will be encouraged to make international comparisons across regions and cultures.

About this Module

Learning Outcomes:

Students will achieve an understanding of the structures and practices of international news media, the ways in which this media has shaped perceptions of international affairs and how it interacts with politics and policy. The module will also sharpen students’ critical awareness of current international affairs from a media perspective.

Indicative Module Content:

A range of case study events will focus analysis, including:

history of the news agencies
international news flows
media technologies – from the telegraph to the mobile phone
misinformation and disinformation
reporting global crises
investigative and collaborative journalism
reporting war and terrorism

Student Effort Hours:
Student Effort Type Hours
Lectures

24
Autonomous Student Learning

176
Total

200

Approaches to Teaching and Learning:
The module is seminar focused, with students preparing for discussions based on syllabus readings. Each student will present a commentary on a relevant topic of their choice in one of the classes.

Requirements, Exclusions and Recommendations

Not applicable to this module.


Module Requisites and Incompatibles
Not applicable to this module.
 

Assessment Strategy
Description Timing Component Scale Must Pass Component % of Final Grade In Module Component Repeat Offered
Assignment(Including Essay): 4,000 word essay Week 14 Graded Yes
75
 Yes
Practical Skills Assessment: 20 minute presentation Week 8 Graded No
25
 No

Carry forward of passed components
Yes
 

Resit In Terminal Exam
Spring No
Please see Student Jargon Buster for more information about remediation types and timing. 

Feedback Strategy/Strategies

• Feedback individually to students, on an activity or draft prior to summative assessment
• Feedback individually to students, post-assessment

How will my Feedback be Delivered?

Students will be offered feedback on draft materials and post-assessment.

Timetabling information is displayed only for guidance purposes, relates to the current Academic Year only and is subject to change.
Autumn Lecture Offering 1 Week(s) - Autumn: All Weeks Wed 11:00 - 12:50
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