A LOCAL university's degree in journalism has been recognised as the best in the country by two different accreditation bodies.

Journalism at University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) had been ranked number one in the Guardian University Guide 2022.

Now its BA (Hons) Journalism course has also been highlighted as the top-performing undergraduate programme by the National Council for the Training of Journalists (NCTJ).

The awards, presented annually, are based on students’ achievements in the NCTJ’s Diploma in Journalism, an integral component of the overall UCLan course.

The renowned UCLan degree is one of the UK’s longest established and most prestigious undergraduate journalism courses with an impressive worldwide graduate network.

From September 2022, the University will be celebrating 60 years of Journalism at UCLan.

Commenting on the recognition, the undergraduate course leader, Steve Greaves Law said: “Journalism at UCLan really is fantastic, with an incredible team and very talented students.

“I am immensely proud of all the hard work and dedication put in by both staff and students.

“The NCTJ Diploma in Journalism is a beneficial qualification when graduates are seeking employment with many local and regional news outlets, so we are delighted to receive this recognition.

“At a time when the importance of a free press is being underlined in the ongoing Ukrainian crisis, we are proud to be equipping our students with the necessary skills to thrive in a heavily competitive industry.”

UCLan’s undergraduate journalism programme is accredited by both the NCTJ and the Broadcast Journalism Training Council.