Are you passionate about storytelling and news reporting? Do you aspire to become a journalist, making a name for yourself in the competitive world of media?
Look no further than the University of South Africa (UNISA), which offers a range of journalism courses designed to equip you with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in this exciting field.
Journalism is the practice of gathering, processing, and disseminating news and information to the public.
It involves researching and investigating stories, conducting interviews, and writing and editing articles for publication in various media outlets, including newspapers, magazines, online news sites, and broadcast news programs.
Journalists play a vital role in society, serving as watchdogs over those in power and providing citizens with the information they need to make informed decisions.
UNISA Journalism Courses Offered
UNISA offers a range of journalism courses at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. These courses are designed to provide students with a comprehensive education in journalism, covering topics such as news reporting, feature writing, editing, and broadcasting. Some of the journalism courses offered by UNISA include:
The Bachelor of Arts in Communication Science, which includes modules in journalism, media studies, and communication science.
The Bachelor of Arts Honours in Journalism, which provides advanced training in journalism and is designed for students who have already completed a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field.
The Master of Arts in Journalism, which is a research-based degree that provides students with the opportunity to conduct in-depth research in a specific area of journalism.
The Doctor of Philosophy in Journalism, which is the highest degree offered by UNISA in the field of journalism and requires students to conduct original research that makes a significant contribution to the field.
Career Opportunities for Journalism Graduates
Graduates of UNISA’s journalism courses have a wide range of career opportunities available to them. Some possible career paths include:
News reporting and editing for newspapers, magazines, and online news sites.
Broadcasting for television and radio stations.
Public relations and communications for companies, non-profit organizations, and government agencies.
Media management and production for film, television, and digital media companies.
Academia and research, teaching and conducting research at universities and other institutions.
Skills and Qualities Required for a Career in Journalism
To succeed in a career in journalism, you will need to possess a range of skills and qualities, including:
Strong writing and communication skills, with the ability to write clearly and concisely for different audiences and formats.
Good research and analytical skills, with the ability to conduct thorough research and analyze complex information.
Strong interviewing and interpersonal skills, with the ability to conduct effective interviews and build relationships with sources.
Good time management and organizational skills, with the ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.
A strong sense of curiosity and a passion for storytelling, with the ability to identify and pursue interesting and important stories.
How to Apply for UNISA Journalism Courses
To apply for UNISA’s journalism courses, you will need to follow these steps:
- Check the admission requirements for the course you are interested in applying for, which can be found on the UNISA website.
- Ensure that you meet the admission requirements, which may include a minimum matriculation score, a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, or a certain level of work experience.
- Submit your application online through the UNISA website, which will require you to provide personal and contact information, as well as details about your educational background and work experience.
- Pay the application fee, which can be done online or by bank deposit.
- Wait for the outcome of your application, which will be communicated to you by email or post.
Fees and Funding for UNISA Journalism Courses
The fees for UNISA’s journalism courses vary depending on the course and the level of study. Here are some approximate fees for the 2024 academic year:
- Bachelor of Arts in Communication Science: R20,000 – R30,000 per year.
- Bachelor of Arts Honours in Journalism: R30,000 – R40,000 per year.
- Master of Arts in Journalism: R40,000 – R50,000 per year.
- Doctor of Philosophy in Journalism: R50,000 – R60,000 per year.
There are various funding options available to students, including:
- National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) funding, which provides financial assistance to students who are unable to afford the fees.
- UNISA scholarships and bursaries, which are awarded to students based on academic merit or financial need.
- Private funding, such as bank loans or sponsorships from companies or organizations.