Sourcing, Analysing, and Visualising Stories: Multidisciplinary Programme Development in Data Journalism

Data journalism is an multidisciplinary industry that combines the fields of data science, design, and journalism. Research shows the growing interest in the complex combination of disciplines and skills needed for visualising information. Through a review of literature in the field of data journalism and the tertiary education system within New Zealand, this thesis explores the creation of a Bachelor of Data Journalism. An in-depth analysis of the education of data journalism across the globe, their programme structures and taught papers influenced the exploration and iteration of a tertiary programme design. It supports the structure of the learning process and the selection papers to be taught within the programme.

This exploration of a Bachelor of Data Journalism offers an all-inclusive programme that provides the necessary skills to visualise information for the public. It explores and assesses a range of structures to support the effectiveness of a Bachelor of Data Journalism. Graduates will have sought-after skills that will support their future careers. These skills will help increase the creation of information that is engaging, accurate, easy to digest, and can be applied to a wide range of industries.