Semester one provides knowledge, understanding and experience of processing words and pictures for newspaper and magazine use through an introduction to production methods, constraints and needs, while also improving reporting and writing skills. It introduces computer-based editing and design using industry-standard software (QuarkXPress) typography, layout, the use of headlines, and the analysis of how news values and reader needs and expectations are addressed through the editing process.

Semester two focuses on analysing the magazine market and carry out research to identify and develop a new magazine, either consumer or B2B, which fits a gap in the market.
Quark Xpress will be used to design and produce a front cover, a contents page, two appropriate advertising pages and two pages of indicative content. Topics covered in classes include appropriate research to support argument for a new publication, advertising potential, titles and mastheads, the elements of a grabbing cover, the function of the contents page and the production and presentation of content which meets the expectations raised by the cover. The design and the supporting argument for its commercial production must be submitted to an appropriate publisher.

In semester one:
12 x workshops (2 hours) - 24 hours
Independent learning - 126 hours

In semester two:
12 x workshops (2 hours) = 24 hours
Independent learning - 126 hours

Key Information Set:
16% scheduled learning and teaching activities
84% guided independent learning

Anton, K K and Cruise, J (2009) QuarkXPress 8: Essential Skills for Page Layout and Web Design, Peachpit Press
Evans H, (1978) Editing and design, Heineman
Hodgson FW (1998) News subediting: Apple Mac, QuarkXpress and after, Focal Press
Leslie, J., (2003) Magculture: new magazine design, Laurence King
Morrish J (1996) Magazine editing
Quark incorporated QuarkXpress reference manual, Quark Incorporated
Quinn, S., (2001)Digital sub-editing and design, Focal Press
Rivers, C., (2006) Mag-art: innovation in magazine design

QuarkXPress on Mac computers
Library
Blackboard

At the end of semester one, carrying 50% of the overall module mark:
The design and layout of an inside tabloid news page and the design and layout of a magazine front cover. (Learning outcomes 1, 2 and 4);

A project evaluation of 1,500 words which includes a design analysis of news pages from two different publications and an evaluation of the role and duties of the sub-editor. (Learning outcomes 1, 2, 3, and 4);

An in-class assessment of sub-editing skills based on requirements of the NCTJ sub-editing exam. (Learning outcomes 1 and 2).

At the end of semester two, carrying 50% of the overall module mark:
A six page portfolio of an original new magazine-style publication, 1,750 words;
An individual project evaluation based around the argument for the magazine's viability, 750 words;
A commercial pitch presentation of 500 words.
[Learning Outcomes 5-8]

Key Information Set:
100% coursework