Occupational Certificate: Journalist
Learn to find strong story ideas, research and verify information, interview sources and produce publishable journalism for print, radio, television and digital platforms. The course is built around newsroom practice, ethical reporting and work that meets a real brief and deadline.
Learn the full process.
This qualification prepares learners for entry-level journalism across converged newsrooms. You will move from identifying and pitching a story to gathering evidence, conducting interviews, shaping an angle and producing content that is accurate, fair and suitable for the intended platform.
The work is practical and deadline-driven. Learners are expected to build a body of publishable work while developing sound judgement around media law, ethics, public interest, verification and professional newsroom conduct.
Skills you can use.
- Generate, test and pitch story ideas that suit an audience and publication.
- Research a story, evaluate sources and verify information before publication.
- Plan and conduct interviews with the right tone, questions and follow-up.
- Create clear, accurate content in text, audio, image and video formats.
- Work within media law, ethical codes, newsroom systems and deadlines.
- Review feedback and improve a story before it moves to publication.
Knowledge. Practice. Workplace experience.
Choose face-to-face study in Johannesburg or Pretoria, or complete the learning component online. The programme combines guided knowledge sessions, practical work and workplace experience.
Online study does not remove the practical, workplace or external-assessment requirements. Admissions will confirm where practical activities, workplace evidence and the EISA must be completed for your intake.
Knowledge modules · 58 credits
- Introduction to journalism
- The legal and ethical framework for the media
- Governance and democracy
- Origination and pitching of content ideas
- Information gathering
- Storytelling
- Personal development
Practical skill modules · 59 credits
- Originate and pitch content ideas
- Report by gathering information and materials
- Create publishable content
- Develop work-relevant personal skills
Work experience modules · 76 credits
- Observe and assist an experienced journalist
- Work as a junior member of a content team
- Produce assigned content accepted for publication
- Produce self-generated content accepted for publication
How progress is assessed.
Assessment includes knowledge tasks, practical reporting assignments and verified workplace experience. Learners must complete the required modules and workplace record before they may enter the External Integrated Summative Assessment (EISA).
The EISA evaluates written and practical tasks in a QCTO-approved assessment environment. Certification depends on successful completion of the full qualification and the external assessment requirements.
Take the course information with you.
Course prospectus
Fee structure
Check that you qualify.
A Level 4 qualification with Communication and Computer Literacy is required. Recognition of Prior Learning may provide an alternative access route where the approved RPL requirements are met.
Apply online and select your preferred study format. Submit your identity document and proof of the required prior qualification. Admissions will confirm the intake, timetable, practical and workplace arrangements, and any additional documents. Because the registration period is closing, do not accept an application until the enrolment deadline and approved provider scope have been checked.