A university has been accused of “academic vandalism” after one of its journalism courses was placed under threat.

The National Union of Journalists has criticised Goldsmiths, University of London, where its BA history and journalism degree is at risk of being removed from its curriculum.

According to the NUJ, the plan comes as Goldsmiths prepares to make 50 redundancies, including 20 academic posts in English, creative writing and history.

The institution’s University and College Union branch has voted to ballot for industrial action in opposition to the cuts.

NUJ general secretary Michelle Stanistreet, pictured, said: “We view with deep concern the move by Goldsmiths, University of London, to halve staffing in its history department.

“At a time when it has never been more important for journalists to have an understanding of history to understand some of the major issues of the day – such as Brexit and populism – the BA in history and journalism equips aspiring young journalists with key skills to interpret the modern world.

“With the government attempting to undermine the teaching of humanities subjects in higher education, Goldsmiths should instead be defending history and providing enhanced resources for journalism education, not engaging in academic vandalism.

“The BA history and journalism has shown how humanities subjects can make an impact on society and reflects the type of innovation needed in journalism education.

“The NUJ supports UCU’s call for the cancelling of the restructuring plan and urged Goldsmiths to work with its staff unions to build on the university’s strong potential for growth.”