Advanced Sub-Editing, Layout and Design

• Credit value: 15 credits at Level 7
• Assessment: a 1000-word design analysis (20%), raw copy subbing (20%), proof reading (20%), subbing and fitting copy (40%)

This module aims to give you a working knowledge of the practices involved in visual design within newspapers, magazines and online publications. Through an introduction of the core principles of layout and design, typography and images, you will be equipped with the skills to use industry standard print media software (Adobe inDesign) proficiently to produce creative and professional materials. You will be encouraged to think imaginatively and critically about the visual dimension of media production, and to understand the importance not only of technical proficiency but also awareness of which visual strategies are best suited to different media contexts, aims and audiences. To round out your non-writing journalistic skills, the module also includes a sub-editing component.

Indicative module content

• Principles of design
• The role of the art director
• Page architecture and design
• Targeting audiences visually
• House style
• Introducing InDesign
• Principles and practices of typography
• Manipulating text in InDesign
• Digital photography and the production process
• Working with images and graphics
• Working with colour
• Cross-media applications
• Creating a multimedia document
• Exporting content
• Sub-editing to house style and length
• Newsroom simulation