10 Best Universities For Journalism Degree In UK For Indian Students: Ranking, Eligibility, And Fees

You know what? Bunny from YJHD graduated from Cardiff University and look where he is today. Kidding.

But last year alone, over 22,000 international students enrolled in journalism and media courses across UK universities to become a bunny, yet I keep meeting Indian students who pick their universities based on WhatsApp forwards or Instagram reels. 

Many realise too late that the “popular” name they chased either doesn’t provide the ROI, or worse, offers a journalism degree that feels like a history lecture with zero training in digital journalism, multimedia storytelling, or public relations.

So, I decided to curate a list of the 10 best universities for journalism in the UK. I won’t be adding QS world university ranking; it is everywhere.

Cardiff University

Cardiff’s MA Journalism, Media and Communications for international students is priced at £23,700 per year. The BA Journalism and Communications undergraduate program for international students costs £22,700 annually.

Cardiff boasts a diverse student body, with students from over 30 countries in its journalism school. This international mix enhances the learning environment, providing a global perspective on media practices. Additionally, Cardiff’s overseas fees are significantly higher than domestic fees, a crucial consideration for Indian applicants.

University of Leeds

The International Journalism MA at Leeds is priced at £29,000 per year for international students, compared to £12,500 for UK students. Entry requirements include a bachelor’s degree with a 2:1 classification or equivalent.

Leeds’ program emphasizes practical skills, offering opportunities for work placements and internships, which are integral to the curriculum. This hands-on experience is invaluable for students aiming to build a career in journalism.

City, University of London

City’s MA International Journalism program costs £22,733 per year for international students. The program is designed to provide both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, preparing students for various roles in the media industry. City University London is renowned for its strong industry connections, offering students opportunities to engage with professionals and gain real-world experience.

University of Sheffield

Sheffield’s BA Journalism Studies for international students ranges between £23,810 and £30,570 per year, depending on the specific course. The Global Journalism MA is priced at £24,750 for international students. Sheffield’s programs are recognized for their comprehensive curriculum, combining academic study with practical training. The university’s strong focus on research and its state-of-the-art facilities provide students with a conducive environment for learning.

Goldsmiths, University of London

Goldsmiths charges approximately £21,900 per year for international students pursuing the BA Journalism degree. The MA Journalism program for international students is about £25,450 annually. Goldsmiths is known for its creative approach to journalism education, encouraging students to explore innovative storytelling methods. The university’s emphasis on digital media and multimedia journalism prepares students for the evolving landscape of the media industry.

University of Westminster

Westminster’s MA Journalism program costs £22,000 per year for international students. The university offers various specializations within the journalism field, allowing students to tailor their education to their interests. Westminster’s central London location provides students with access to a vibrant media scene, offering numerous opportunities for internships and networking.

University of Kent

Kent’s BA Media program for international students is approximately £20,000 per year. The university’s media programs are designed to provide students with a solid foundation in media theory and practice. Kent’s strong emphasis on employability ensures that graduates are well-prepared for careers in the media industry.

University of Stirling

Stirling’s MSc International Journalism program is priced at £18,000 per year for international students. The program offers a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills, focusing on global media practices. Stirling’s picturesque campus and supportive learning environment make it an attractive option for international students.

Loughborough University

Loughborough’s BA Journalism program for international students costs approximately £21,000 per year. The university’s journalism courses are known for their practical approach, with students gaining hands-on experience through workshops and projects. Loughborough’s strong industry links provide students with opportunities to engage with professionals and enhance their employability.

University of East Anglia (UEA)

UEA’s BA Journalism program is priced at £18,000 per year for international students. The program combines academic study with practical training, preparing students for various roles in the media industry. UEA’s commitment to research and its supportive learning environment contribute to a high-quality education in journalism.

What Is The Eligibility Criteria For Masters In Journalism In Best Universities In UK?

I remember a student walking in, portfolio in hand, thinking a few Instagram articles would get them into a top UK journalism program. Three hours later, after reviewing transcripts, IELTS scores, and missing references, reality hit: it’s not just about writing.

Top universities for journalism and media want the right academics, verified skills in multimedia journalism, digital journalism, and digital media, plus a grasp of media and communication, public relations, and data journalism.

Is It Worth Studying Journalism In The UK?

I would say a yes, and no, I am not biased. It is my job to show the truth. But I do have a research and reasoning why you should go UK.

Here it is:

1. Top Rankings in Communication & Media Studies

UK universities consistently rank high in global university rankings, particularly in the field of journalism. For instance, the London School of Economics (LSE) was named the Sunday Times University of the Year 2025, surpassing Oxford and Cambridge in rankings due to improvements in student satisfaction and graduate prospects. Look, this report clearly shows that best UK universities for journalism are recognized globally for their quality.

2. High Employability Rates for Journalism Graduates

Graduates from UK journalism programs have strong employability prospects. According to a report by the National Council for the Training of Journalists (NCTJ), 74% of diploma graduates secured journalism-related jobs within 15 months of completing their course. This proves that studying journalism in the UK significantly boosts career in journalism opportunities.

3. Competitive Salaries in the Journalism Field

Journalism graduates in the UK can expect competitive starting salaries. Broadcast journalists earn an average annual salary of £35,737, with experienced professionals earning up to £42,000. If your goal is a career in media, this makes masters in journalism or an undergraduate degree in journalism from top journalism universities a valuable investment.

4. Abundant Internship Opportunities

Studying journalism in the UK provides access to numerous internships. London, being a global media hub, offers a plethora of placements in media organizations, giving journalism students practical experience and networking opportunities that many colleges in the UK fail to provide.

5. Diverse Career Paths for Journalism Graduates

A degree in journalism opens doors to roles in digital media, public relations, environmental journalism, and more. Universities in the UK integrate communication and media studies, modern journalism, and media law into their curriculum, ensuring journalism graduates are prepared for multiple journalism careers in the digital age.

Conclusion

You don’t choose a degree in journalism in the UK just for the league table or subject rankings. The right journalism universities in the UK focus on hands-on experience, multimedia journalism, and preparing you for real-world journalism careers. If you prioritize practical skills and industry exposure, the ROI goes far beyond the diploma.

FAQs