Higher Occupational Certificate: Journalist
Higher Occupational Certificate: Journalist
This comprehensive qualification is designed to equip learners with the essential skills needed to excel as a Journalist. Aspiring journalists will master the art of originating and pitching content ideas, meticulously collecting and analyzing information for journalistic purposes, and crafting and delivering compelling content across a diverse range of media platforms and formats. Throughout this course, participants will gain the expertise necessary to thrive in the dynamic world of journalism, becoming adept storytellers across various media outlets.
Learners who successfully complete the Journalist Training Program will be able to perform the following tasks:
Originate and Pitch Compelling Content Ideas (NQF Level 5):
- Formulate innovative content ideas tailored for media platforms.
- Craft persuasive pitches to engage audiences and media outlets effectively.
- Develop a keen understanding of audience preferences and trends.
Collect and Analyse Information for Journalistic Use (NQF Level 5):
- Employ thorough research techniques to gather accurate and relevant information.
- Apply critical analysis to assess the credibility and significance of collected data.
- Ethically source information and adhere to journalistic integrity.
Create and Deliver Versatile Content (NQF Level 6):
- Produce engaging content for diverse journalistic purposes, including news, features, and opinion pieces.
- Tailor content to various formats, such as articles, videos, podcasts, and more.
- Utilize multimedia tools to enhance the impact of storytelling.
Modules to be covered:
Semester 1
Knowledge Theory Modules
- 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
Semester 2
Practical Skill Modules:
- Originate and pitch content ideas
- Report by gathering information and materials
- Create publishable content
- Develop work-relevant personal skills
Workplace Experience Learning
- Processes to observe and assist an experienced journalist in a selected range of journalistic activities
- Processes to work as a junior member of a team to produce content
- Processes to work with news production colleagues on assigned content that is accepted for publication
- Processes to work on self-generated content that is accepted for publication
- High school graduates who have completed Matric or
- Who have completed an education program equivalent to NQF Level 4
- 12 Month Full Time
- 18 Month Part time
The Learner will be subjected to both internal and external assessment. Internal assessments will encompass formative, summative, and workplace assessments. And upon successfully completing the comprehensive external summative assessment, learners will qualify for certification. The certification will be granted by the QCTO, affirming that the learner has attained the necessary competencies and is officially recognized as a qualified Journalist
News Reporter: Keep the public informed by covering local, national, or international events across various beats such as politics, business, health, and more.
Feature Writer: Craft in-depth stories that provide insight into human interest topics, cultural trends, and thought-provoking narratives.
Investigative Journalist: Uncover hidden truths and expose corruption through in-depth research and impactful reporting.
Editor: Oversee and shape the content of publications by managing writers, ensuring accuracy, and maintaining editorial standards.
Broadcast Journalist: Present news and stories on television or radio, combining verbal communication with visuals or audio.
Digital Content Creator: Produce engaging content for online platforms, including articles, videos, podcasts, and interactive multimedia pieces.
Columnist or Opinion Writer: Share your unique perspective and commentary on current events, trends, and social issues.
Freelance Journalist: Work independently, contributing to various media outlets on a per-assignment basis, giving you flexibility and varied experiences.
Photojournalist or Videographer: Use visual storytelling to capture and convey news events, human experiences, and impactful moments.
Foreign Correspondent: Report on international events and trends from different regions, offering global insights to audiences.
Content Strategist: Collaborate with brands and organizations to develop engaging and relevant content that resonates with their target audiences.
Media Relations Specialist: Work with public relations teams or government agencies to manage media inquiries, craft press releases, and maintain relationships with journalists.
- Nationally Recognized Qualification: Achieve a respected qualification that enhances your current competencies and paves the way for future growth and opportunities.
- Real-World Readiness: Whether you’re entering the field or transitioning from school or college, our hands-on approach prepares you for the dynamic challenges of the newsroom.
- Versatility Across Platforms: Acquire the expertise to thrive in diverse journalistic environments – from radio and television to print and online – and master content creation in various formats.
- Dynamic Skillset for Modern Journalism: Our program acknowledges the evolving media landscape by integrating multimedia platforms, ensuring you’re well-prepared for the demands of converged newsrooms.
- Empowerment Through Information: Journalism equips you to play a pivotal role in society, keeping the public informed about critical developments, events, and issues that shape lives.
- Industry Relevance: Our curriculum aligns with industry standards, ensuring you receive high-quality training that directly meets the demands of modern journalism.
To enroll, simply apply online. There is no application fee required. However, upon acceptance, you will need to make a deposit payment or adhere to your designated payment plan.
Want to know more about our programme offering?
Frequently Asked Questions
Distance learning is not offered for this course.
No, we are a private institution and NSFAS does not fund private intuition. Check our https://www.fundi.co.za/ a leading education finance provider that can assist you with fees funding or loans.
A high school matriculation certificate is a prerequisite for enrolling in this course. If you do not possess a matric certificate, an alternative pathway to eligibility involves enrolling in our Sound Technology or Film and Television programs. This will enable you to meet the qualification requirements for this course.