Diploma in Media Practices Specialising in Journalism
Journalism is the practice of gathering, analysing, and disseminating news and information to the public. Journalists play a crucial role in providing timely and accurate reports on events, issues, and trends, serving as a bridge between the happenings in the world and the public’s awareness. This profession encompasses various forms, including print, broadcast, online, and multimedia journalism.
From the ‘basics’ of how to research and write articles for a broad range of publications and platforms, to honing your skillset in terms of investigative journalism, internet journalism, sub-editing, photography, and how to use social media for effective coverage, the journalism major will ensure you’re entirely up to date with the latest journalistic trends.
This diploma is offered at Boston Media House Pretoria and Sandton.
Career opportunities include, but are not limited to:
- Reporter/Writer
- Multimedia journalist
- Content creator
- Social media manager
- Content manager
- Editor
- Sub-editor
- Photojournalist
Entry Requirements
A minimum requirement for admission in to the diploma is a:
- National Senior Certificate (NSC), with English as one of the subjects passed and an endorsement for admission to Diploma study; or
- National Certificate (Vocational) (NC(V)), with English as one of the subjects passed and an endorsement for admission to Diploma study; or
- Prior to 2009, Senior Certificate with English as one of the subjects passed.
Alternative Entry Requirements
A number of higher education qualifications may meet the requirements for admission into the diploma:
- Certificate programme, NQF Level 5 (OQSF/HEQSF), minimum Credits 12; or
- Diploma programme, NQF Level 5 (OQSF), minimum credits 240; or
- Higher Certificate, NQF (HEQSF) Level 5, minimum credits 120; or
- Advanced Certificate, NQF (HEQSF) Level 6, minimum credits 120; or
- Diploma. NQF (HEQSF) Level 6, minimum credits 240 or 360; or
- Equivalent qualification from an international higher education institution, see section on International Applicants
Personality Profile
- Curious
- Critical thinker
- Communicative
- Adaptable
- Ethical
- Persistent
- Independent
- Flexible
- Resilient
- Academic Literacy 1
- Advertising 1
- Creativity
- Digital Marketing 1
- Journalism 1
- Photography
- Public Relations 1
- Radio 1
- Television 1
- Computer Skills
In Journalism 1 you will learn the foundational journalism skills as well as multimedia skills such as collecting information, presenting story ideas, interviewing, sound quality, reporting writing, shaping stories, basic sub-editing, media law and ethics.
- Journalism 2
- Academic Literacy 2
- Design Thinking
- Media in a Digital Age
Choose one elective from the following:
- Advertising 2
- Digital Marketing 2
- Public Relations 2
- Radio 2 and Sound Engineering
- Television 2 and Sound Engineering
Journalism 2 explores the significance of media, providing insights into newsroom operations, and delves into the nature of news. Students will develop practical skills in reporting and writing news, master the process of story identification and location. The curriculum extends to crafting feature stories, understanding successful freelance writing, editing techniques, and comprehending the role of a publicist. There is a practical component, Covering the News 1, which offers hands-on experience in reporting on diverse topics, requiring students to produce original written content.
- Journalism 3
- Entrepreneurship
- Experiential Learning
- Media Law
In Journalism 3, topics include the media landscape, digital-first strategies, and social media trends, with a focus on X’s (Twitter) role in newsrooms. The curriculum covers producing feature articles as a freelancer, exploring career paths for journalism graduates, and understanding news programming. Students delve into radio news, current affairs, interviews, scriptwriting and addressing global news challenges. The practical workshop, Covering the News 2, gives hands-on experience in reporting on diverse content and creating original multimedia content.