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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Bachelor of Arts in Communication and Journalism 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
112543  Bachelor of Arts in Communication and Journalism 
ORIGINATOR
Akademia NPC 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
-   HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
National First Degree  Field 04 - Communication Studies and Language  Communication Studies 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  360  Not Applicable  NQF Level 07  Regular-Provider-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Reregistered  EXCO 0821/24  2019-10-30  2027-06-30 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2028-06-30   2033-06-30  

In all of the tables in this document, both the pre-2009 NQF Level and the NQF Level is shown. In the text (purpose statements, qualification rules, etc), any references to NQF Levels are to the pre-2009 levels unless specifically stated otherwise.  

This qualification does not replace any other qualification and is not replaced by any other qualification. 

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION 
Purpose:
The primary purpose of the Bachelor of Arts in Communication is to educate and train learners to be employed in communication-related work in general and journalism in particular, for the unique circumstances of South Africa. These circumstances include bridging the divide between developed and developing communities within one society, advancing social justice, and acting as the watchdogs of democracy. This qualification equips learners with fundamental knowledge of the principles and practices of communication and journalism, reporting across different genres and platforms, practical news writing, and publication skills. A sound theoretical background in terms of media theory and critical thinking as well as knowledge of broader communication contexts, mass media research, and communication law and ethics.

The qualification exposes learners to three disciplines, namely communication management, journalism, and corporate media. In communication management, the learner is equipped to function in the public relations as well as marketing sphere and will also be able to function in an organisation with an integrated approach to these specialisation fields. The study of journalism allows learners to gain a deep understanding and practical ability to function in print and digital media, as well as act as a presenter on radio and television. Corporate media provides learners with a deep understanding of the importance of visual communication. Learners have both theoretical knowledge and the ability to use software for, amongst others, internal communication, website development, and social media management. Also, subjects, such as language science, political philosophy, and economy, academic literacy, communication ethics and law, as well as research methodology, equip learners with a strong foundation to function in all fields of communication. This qualification enables learners to respond to the working environment by providing them with a solid foundation within the discipline of Communication Science with a specific theoretical and practical focus on Journalism as a profession within a developing society.

Rationale:
The levels of complexity within the modern world have grown exponentially in the last century. This increase in complexity has spread throughout society and has resulted in the monolithic responses to problems that do not suffice. Throughout the world, there is a growing need to move away from the singular approaches to problem-solving and adapt more integrated approaches to problems. This qualification seeks to equip learners with such an integrated approach that will produce results that are sufficient in dealing with the world around them. It also allows learners to tap into an array of tools and techniques as well as a deep pool of knowledge used in each discipline. In order to master the different fields of study, a learner will have to on an array of techniques, including understanding the logic and being able to reason.

Furthermore, a learner should develop an understanding of abstract ideas and be able to communicate ideas in both verbal and written form. Finally, the course entails a fair amount of analysis in both disciplines. In terms of the individual, this qualification provides learners with the opportunity to qualify for a career in journalism as well as the broader media industry. The latter holds economic benefits to the individual who will be able to secure a stable financial future, while at the same time contributing trained journalists to a growing media industry. South Africa requires well-trained journalists who can think critically and engage with issues from various viewpoints. These journalists act as the general link of the public with complex and often abstract information.

Learners who complete this qualification successfully may join a newsroom in one of the following:
  • Print (e.g. newspaper and magazine);
  • Radio (e.g. commercial; public broadcaster; community);
    Or
  • Multimedia (cross-platform) as a junior reporter and produce journalism across genres as required by an entry-level journalist.

    Also, learners will receive a solid theoretical foundation with ample opportunity to transfer and apply theoretical knowledge in practice. This qualification prepares learners to work as qualified Journalists in various media contexts: ranging from community media through commercial media to public broadcasting, and across platforms, including print, broadcast and online/multimedia.

    The qualification, equips learners with a deep pool of knowledge, which allow them to engage in any one of the two disciplines in Postgraduate studies. There are also still direct applications for learners to find work as communication specialists and journalists in both academic and corporate settings. Also, this qualification aims to provide South Africa with significant numbers of learners in communication sciences and journalism and related disciplines. The qualification develops the learners' intellectual, technical and personal requirements for direct entry into local and international communication and journalism-related professional activities and entry into Postgraduate academic qualifications. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
    Where applicants do not meet the minimum admission requirements stated, Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) may be used to grant access to the qualification. The Registrar manages the process in collaboration with the Dean and Qualification Coordinators. Through a structured process, the institution implements quality assurance processes that address the specificities of the RPL process. The quality assurance implemented (includes applications, assessment, reporting and management systems); and that administrative and support systems, both prior and after RPL assessment, are in place.

    Entry Requirements:
    The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is:
  • National Senior Certificate, NQF Level 4 (granting access to Bachelor studies).
    Or
  • National Certificate Vocational, NQF Level 4, granting access to Bachelor studies (with appropriate subject combinations Mathematics and Accounting). 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification consists of the following compulsory modules at NQF Level 5, 6 and 7 totalling 360 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules, NQF Level 5, 120 Credits:
  • Communication Management 1, 20 Credits.
  • Journalism 1, 20 Credits.
  • Corporate Media 1, 20 Credits.
  • Language Science, 20 Credits.
  • Political Philosophy, 20 Credits.
  • Academic Literacy, 20 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules, NQF Level 6, 120 Credits:
  • Communication Management 2, 20 Credits.
  • Journalism 2, 20 Credits.
  • Corporate Media 2, 20 Credits.
  • Language Science and Practice, 20 Credits.
  • Political Economy, 20 Credits.
  • Communication Ethics and Law, 20 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules, NQF Level 7, 120 Credits:
  • Communication Management 3, 30 Credits.
  • Journalism 3, 30 Credits.
  • Corporate Media 3, 30 Credits.
  • Research Methodology, 30 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Develop a broad knowledge base of the two major disciplines of Journalism and Communication Science.
    2. Develop generic skills including a broad general knowledge, critical thinking, and problem-solving, the ability to innovate and to work across disciplines.
    3. Develop all the essential technical skills required to practice as a journalist across genres and platforms.
    4. Analyse the state of the industry and adapt to ensure sustainability.
    5. Contribute to developing democracy maturely. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Have a thorough understanding of all appropriate theories within the field of public relations, marketing, corporate media, and journalism.
  • Apply the knowledge of the most influential theories within the different fields of specialisation in Communication and Journalism.
  • Analyse any given problem within the field of public relations, marketing, corporate media, and journalism using communication theory and propose appropriate solutions.
  • Apply the acquired competencies as reflected in communication theory using participation in communication-related activities.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the theoretical foundation of the different communication contexts, such as intrapersonal communication, interpersonal communication, small group communication, and digital communication, by using the cognitive skills of comparing and contrasting.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Writing strategies that keep writing focused, coherent, and readable for professional and academic environments are employed.
  • Use and apply knowledge of various writing and media communication skills to contemporary technology platforms.
  • Employ communication, writing, and English skills to communicate effectively, reliably, coherently and appropriately in professional and academic environments.
  • Think conceptually within various workplace contexts through considered, well-targeted communication/media-related projects.
  • Complete tasks required of a professional journalist and thereby identify their abilities and challenges and adapt learning strategies accordingly.
  • Critically analyse media theories, editorial policies, and statutory requirements that influence the media environment.
  • Act responsibly and recognise how responsibility translates to the professional working environment, including limited accountability for the decisions and actions of others.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Analyse any given problem within the field of communication and journalism, and by applying fundamental communication research methods compile strategies and plans to address said problems.
  • Apply theoretical approaches and perspectives as well as practical skills associated with the different communication specialisation fields to communication problems in the South African context.
  • Analyse and understand the traditional and digital South African media landscape.
  • Analyse any given problem within the field of communication and journalism, and by applying fundamental communication research methods compile strategies and plans to address said problems.
  • Apply theoretical approaches and perspectives as well as practical skills associated with the different communication specialisation fields to communication problems in the South African context.
  • Analyse and understand the traditional and digital South African media landscape.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Demonstrate a keen understanding of social and human complexity and diversity that result in a questioning attitude regarding existing journalism practices.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of a sense of civic responsibility both as professional media practitioners as well as private citizens.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of moral awareness regarding the role of journalism in safeguarding democratic principles in an emerging democracy and a transitioning society, including editorial decision-making.

    Integrated Assessment:
    Achievement of Applied competence is through a variety of formative assessment methods and an examination as a summative assessment. Alignment of various assessment activities to the qualification and subject outcomes, and teaching and learning activities integrate theory and practice. A combination of continuous assessment and traditional written examinations serve to assess the integration of all/most of the learning outcomes for each subject in the qualification. Formative assessment takes place during the process of teaching and learning and involves group work, tests, and assignments. Formative assessment uses informal continuous assessment tasks in the form of small pre- and post-tests during contact sessions to identify misconceptions and to learn gaps along the way. These assessments follow a schedule given to learners. Achievement of the integration of the evaluation uses one assessment activity for more than one outcome and across learning areas, which include both theory and application. Summative assessment in the way of a three-hour examination takes place at the end of the year and provides information and feedback that sums up the teaching and learning process. The intention behind the examination as the summative assessment is to either validate the achievement of outcomes for progress to the next year or the awarding of the qualification. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    The basis of the international comparison was with countries that use a similar qualifications framework. The qualification structures and curriculum content of Australia and New Zealand are closely related to the South African structures and NQF levels. Thus, the comparison with qualifications and outcomes for Journalism, Communication and Media Studies in higher education institutions in these countries. The two countries also use Exit Level Outcomes (ELO's) and Associated Assessment Criteria (AAC's). Also, there is a direct comparison of the title, ELO's and AAC's. The qualification is comparable with qualifications in Journalism, Communication Studies and Media in Australia and New Zealand. There is a fair degree of similarity to qualifications in Australia and New Zealand, especially the University of Canberra and Charles Sturt University in Australia and the AUT in New Zealand.

    In the development of this curriculum, cognisance of the technological developments and advances in the journalism industry and the concomitant ethical challenges that have arisen from such advances as reflected in the institutions selected. All these developments are in this curriculum. Consequently, the Bachelor of Arts in Communication and Journalism is comparable to the qualifications.

    Conclusion:
    This qualification compares well with the other qualifications cited in terms of the level, purpose of the qualification and content (modules).
  • Swinburne University of Technology, Australia offers a Bachelor of Media and Communication with a major in Journalism. The following modules comprise the qualification:
    > Professional Communication Practice.
    > Media content Creation.
    > Introduction to Media Studies.
    > Global Media Industries.
    > Selected Major: Journalism.
    > News Writing.
    > Reporting Public Forums.
    > Broadcast News Reporting.
    > Broadcast News Reporting.
    > Investigative Journalism.
    > Video Project.
  • University of Canberra, Australia offers a Bachelor of Journalism. The following modules comprise the qualification:
    > Introduction to Journalism.
    > Audio Journalism.
    > Newsroom.
    > Video Journalism.
    > Long-form and Investigative Journalism.
    > Reporting.
    > Mobile Reporting.
    > Minor in Journalism.
    > Journalism and Political Process.
    > Introduction to Communication.
    > Journalism and Society.
    > Law of Communication.
    > Editing Sound and Image.
    > Journalism Project.
    > Industry and Community Engagement.
    > Professional Orientation (Communication and Media).
  • Charles Sturt University, Australia offers a Bachelor of Communication (Journalism). The following modules comprise the qualification:
    > Professional Writing.
    > Intro to Media Production.
    > Indigenous Cultures, Histories and Contemporary Realities.
    > Communication in Context.
    > Professional Ethics in Communication and Citizenship.
    > Communication and Creative Industries Professional Practice.
    > Communication Fieldwork.
    > Specialisation Subjects.
    > Understanding advertising.
    > The Advertising Business Advertising creative.
    > Channel Planning.
    > Channel Planning in Action.
    > Communication Research Strategies.
    > Advertising Strategy and Planning.
    > What is Public Relations.
    > Public Relations Strategy.
    > Public Relations Tactics.
    > Communication Management.
    > Issues and Crisis Communication.
    > Going Global: Regional and Global Public Relations.
    > Journalism Specialisation.
    > Journalism in Society.
    > Newsgathering and Writing.
    > Convergent Storytelling.
    > Research and Data Journalism.
    > The Specialist Reporter.
    > Multiplatform Publishing and the Law.
    > Beyond News: Longform Journalism.
    > Deadline: Multiplatform Delivery.
    > Academic Enrichment Studies.
  • AUT University, New Zealand offers a Journalism Major - Bachelor of Communication Studies. The following modules comprise the qualification:
    > Interpersonal Communication.
    > Image and Sound.
    > Media Production Workshop.
    > Media Communication I.
    > Principles of Journalism.
    > Applied Media Ethics.
    > Media Communication II.
    > Intercultural Communication.
    > Journalism I: Structure, Form and Content.
    > Journalism II: Context, Audience and Reach.
    > Media Communication III.
    > Journalism III: Depth, Speciality and Data.
    > Journalism IV: Investigations, Features and Profiles.
    > Journalism Law and Ethics. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This qualification allows possibilities for both horizontal and vertical articulation.

    Horizontal Articulation:
  • Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies, NQF Level 7.
  • Bachelor of Journalism and Media Studies, NQF Level 7.
  • Advanced Diploma in Journalism, NQF Level 7.
  • Advanced Diploma in Media Studies, NQF Level 7.

    Vertical Articulation:
  • Bachelor of Arts Honours in Communication Science, NQF Level 8.
  • Bachelor of Arts Honours: Journalism, NQF Level 8.
  • Bachelor of Social Science Honours: Media and Communication, NQF Level 8. 
    		•

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
    N/A 

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    N/A 

    NOTES 
    N/A 

    LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION: 
     
    NONE 


    PROVIDERS CURRENTLY ACCREDITED TO OFFER THIS QUALIFICATION: 
    This information shows the current accreditations (i.e. those not past their accreditation end dates), and is the most complete record available to SAQA as of today. Some Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionaries have a lag in their recording systems for provider accreditation, in turn leading to a lag in notifying SAQA of all the providers that they have accredited to offer qualifications and unit standards, as well as any extensions to accreditation end dates. The relevant Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionary should be notified if a record appears to be missing from here.
     
    NONE 


    All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.