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POSTGRADUATE


INTERVIEW Teesside University’s School of Arts & Media is helping graduates and postgraduates in creative sectors during a difficult economic time.


The School works extensively all over the UK to help those who want to work in- or already do work in- creative industries realise the opportunities/funding available, be more productive and, of course, earn more money in spite of recent cutbacks.


The university runs a variety of practical, professional courses for these sectors, especially in new media areas and provides a range of support services for media-related businesses. They have a lot of links to industry and work alongside companies such as Endemol, Film4 and the BBC.


Grad Mag spoke to Paul Baird who is doing an MA in Journalism at Teesside University’s School of Arts & Media. He is also currently working part time as a freelance reporter at BBC Tees, helping to produce the breakfast programme and doing occasional reporting.


Q: Do you think taking an MA in journalism will help to propel your career and if so why?


I believe that the MA in Journalism will show prospective employers that I have some life experience behind me as well as academic experience. The best thing about the MA Journalism at Teesside is that have been able to do the NCTJ exams that are recognised


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throughout the journalism which will show employers that I can hit the ground running.


Q: There is a strong practical element to the course tell us about the experience you have gained and what this has taught you?


The practical elements have helped me to put theory into practice. I was a bit of a novice when it came to video journalism. This part of the course and the lecturers have allowed me to develop my skills at my own pace. I have learnt that by putting the skills I have learnt will equip me for a job in the industry across a broad spectrum of media outlets.


WE HAVE HAD ADAM BOULTON (SKY POLITICAL EDITOR) COME TO VISIT RECENTLY AND HIS INSIGHTS AND EXPERTISE WERE INVALUABLE.


Q: You are currently working as a freelance for the BBC. How did you get into this role? What pieces have you produced so far?


I got in touch with BBC Tees News Editor to gain some experience. By doing some research around journalism I was able to put across my interest in journalism and I was granted one weeks work experience. Following on from this I continued on work experience for another 3 weeks before being offered some freelance work. I have produced a number of pieces including work


on travel and transport, access to the internet, health and public affairs which have gone out on the Breakfast, Mid morning and Drive programmes.


Q: How are you funding your course?


I am funding the course through freelance work and savings.


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