How To Become A Journalist In South Africa & Subjects Needed

Filed in Article by on May 4, 2021 0 Comments

Are you looking for a way to become a Journalist in South Africa and you don’t know the subjects needed or even universities in South Africa where you can undergo the course? If yes, then this informative article is for you. You will be given detailed information about how to become a Journalist in South Africa, Universities and Subjects Needed.

What Does A Journalist Do?

Journalists (or news correspondents) gather information, prepare stories for print or websites, or make broadcasts that inform us about local, national and international events; present points of view on current issues; and report on the actions of public officials, corporate executives, interest groups and others who exercise power. They spend a lot of time in the field, with constant demands to meet deadlines and to be the first to publish a news story on a subject.

In covering a story, journalists investigate leads and news tips, look at documents, observe events at the scene and interview people. They take notes, which they use to determine the focus or emphasis of their stories.

Many journalists electronically submit the material to their offices from remote locations. Radio and television news correspondents often compose stories and report ‘live’ from the scene. At times, they later tape an introduction to or commentary on their story in the studio.

What Qualifications Do I Need?

It is not necessary to have an academic background to work in journalism, though employers generally prefer people who have a diploma or bachelor’s degree in journalism or communications. A National Senior Certificate that meets the requirements for a diploma or degree course is a prerequisite for these courses.

It is also important to have practical experience from an internship or from working with print or broadcasting in an organisation. Some employers offer on-the-job training learnerships, which combines theory and practical training.

What Subjects Do I Need?

Contact each institution for their specific requirements, but these subjects are recommended:

  • Geography
  • History
  • Language

Where Can I Study?

University of Pretoria

Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University

University of Rhodes

North-West University

  • Bachelor of Arts: Communication Studies (Journalism)
  • www.nwu.ac.za

Boston City Campus and Business College

Cape Peninsula University of Technology

Tshwane University of Technology

Damelin Education Group

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