Journalism & Media Studies Diploma
This programme is designed for those wishing to pursue or develop a career in written or broadcast journalism.
The programme introduces students to the role of the media in modern society and focuses on the skills needed to research, prepare and present news and information. It is intended to equip students with the skills which they will require in order to operate effectively in the global communications environment.
It is suitable for those working in the media, who wish to enhance their prospects, and for those who intend to pursue a career in this field.
Course Structure
Subjects
Programme Objectives
To provide students with:
a) an understanding of the role of the different media in modern society
b) a thorough grounding in the role of the journalist
c) knowledge of specific media roles and skills
d) the skills to research, write and present effective copy
e) skills in presenting publications for the market place
f) an awareness of the legal environment in which the media operate
Recommended Course Duration
It is recommended that these courses are delivered over a suitable period of time to give learners the best opportunity for success. A standard delivery structure would involve six units per academic year, although 5-8 units per year are acceptable depending on the weekly timetable used.
Examination Grades
| Grade A - Distinction | 70% and above |
| Grade B - Credit | 60% to 69% |
| Grade C - Pass | 50% to 59% |
| Grade D - Marginal Pass | 40% to 49% |
| Grade F - Fail | 39% and under |
Status of Qualification
Professional Vocational Diploma.
Examinations
Externally set and marked by the Institute. Examinations are held in March, June, September and December each year. Candidates must be registered and paid-up Student Members of the Institute at the time they undertake the examinations.
Examination Closing Dates
Candidates entering for examinations must ensure that their completed examination entry forms and fees reach the Institute at least eight weeks before the date of the examinations. Examination timetables indicate the closing date for receipt of entries for each sitting.
Examination Results
These are normally distributed twelve weeks after each examination date.
Subject Exemptions
Students holding relevant recognised qualifications from other professional bodies may apply for exemptions on a subject-for-subject basis.
Entry Requirements
The Institute operates an ‘Open Entry’ policy in respect of many of its vocational programmes but prospective students should note that the following entry qualifications are recommended for those wishing to undertake this Diploma programme:
The minimum age for registration for this programme is 18.
- One GCE A-level plus Three GCSEs (or equivalents)
- Five GCSEs at grades A, B or C (or equivalents)
- A suitable BTEC National Award
- Any qualification equivalent to one of the above.
PLEASE NOTE: IT IS ESSENTIAL THAT THOSE WISHING TO UNDERTAKE THIS PROGRAMME ARE ABLE TO COMMUNICATE FLUENTLY IN BOTH WRITTEN AND SPOKEN ENGLISH. THE EXAMINERS WILL DEDUCT MARKS FOR THE INCORRECT USE OF GRAMMAR, POOR SENTENCE CONSTRUCTION AND THE INAPPROPRIATE USE OF ENGLISH.
Applicants over the age of 19 who do not hold one of the recommended entrance qualifications may also register for the programme providing they have been in full-time employment for a minimum of two years.
Study Methods
Your Teaching Centre has been provided with a detailed syllabus and reading list for each subject area. Each subject syllabus clearly defines the areas that you will be required to cover for each subject and your examination questions will be based on the areas and topics detailed for each subject. It is important to ensure that you obtain a copy of each subject syllabus from your Teaching Centre.
Each subject syllabus is linked to one main textbook and the examiners base their questions on the contents of the nominated text.
The subject syllabuses also give details of ‘Alternative Texts’ and texts recommended for further reading. Where possible you should read one or more of the ‘Alternative Texts’ in order to broaden your knowledge of the subject area.
