Module Directory

This module provides students with an introduction to the law and how it affects the practice of all varieties of journalism. It provides students with knowledge of the main legal issues encountered by journalists; knowledge they will need to apply in practice as they undertake all forms of reporting.

It also covers the regulatory framework within which journalism works, and frequently touches on ethical issues. The module equips students with the necessary knowledge and skills to sit the NCTJ Essential Media Law and Regulation exam and the separate Court Reporting exam (early in their second year), which are elements of the NCTJ Diploma in Journalism.

The aim of this module is to provide multimedia journalism students with a comprehensive understanding of media law principles, regulations, and ethical considerations within the context of contemporary media landscapes. Through this module, students will develop a solid foundation of legal knowledge essential for responsible and professional journalism practices.

By the end of the module, students will be expected to:

1. be able to demonstrate an advanced understanding of the intricacies of the legal system and the law as it applies to multimedia environments;


2. be equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills to sit the NCTJ exams in Essential Media Law and Regulation and Court Reporting, showcasing advanced knowledge and practical skills in navigating media-related legal issues and effectively reporting on court proceedings;


3. have built up a degree of practical experience through visits to courts and inquests, after which they will have compiled court reports (either in class or as part of their work experience programme) with a high level of accuracy, ethics, and professionalism.


4. have a sound basic knowledge of the law, the structure of the legal system, and the way courts work.


5. be equipped to sit the NCTJ exams in Essential Media Law and Regulation, and Media Law Court Reporting


6. have built up a degree of practical experience through visits to courts and inquests, after which you will have compiled reports - either within the class or as part of your work experience programme.

The subjects covered include contempt of court; anonymity (on grounds of ethics, age, sexual offences or jigsaw identification among others); defamation; copyright; confidentiality; disclosure of journalist sources; privacy; ethical and regulatory considerations; taking photographs or filming in public places; status, responsibilities, powers of media regulatory bodies. The module also covers court processes and the workings of the legal system, including specific instances in which reporting restrictions are or could be appropriate (e.g., juveniles in court, complainants in sexual abuse cases etc.)

The module is taught through lectures (which provide students with an overview of the subject and place the course material in context) and seminars (which extend learners’ knowledge of the topics covered in lectures through in-depth discussion of key issues and current debates). Seminars also provide participants with the opportunity to practice essential academic and professional skills, e.g., arguing logically, problem-solving etc.