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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Higher Certificate in Journalism Practice 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
124975  Higher Certificate in Journalism Practice 
ORIGINATOR
Boston City Campus (Pty) Ltd formerly Boston City Campus and Business College (Pty) Ltd 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
CHE - Council on Higher Education  HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
Higher Certificate  Field 04 - Communication Studies and Language  Communication Studies 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  120  Not Applicable  NQF Level 05  Regular-Provider-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Registered  EXCO 0836/25  2025-11-13  2028-11-13 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2029-11-13   2032-11-13  

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 Higher Certificate in Journalism Practice will equip learners with the essential workplace knowledge of journalism. Learners will apply their understanding of general journalism principles and theory in a practical writing component. The qualification will give learners insight into the role of journalism in society and the significance of ethics in journalism practice, while developing their basic research and writing skills. Qualifying learners will be prepared for entry-level positions in the journalism field and for further studies in journalism and related fields.

The qualification will ensure that learners get the essential theoretical and practical skills necessary for a career in journalism. School leavers (matriculants) who may not have met the criteria for entry into diploma or degree qualifications will be able to pursue an entry-level higher education qualification in journalism. This qualification will be delivered remotely, enhancing opportunities, accessibility, and flexibility through open distance e-learning (ODeL), to working individuals. Learners will receive support in their studies from administrative staff and will have access to ICT at the institution's Learner Support Centres across the country.

Upon completion of this qualification, qualifying learners will be able to:
  • Understand the role and responsibility of ethical journalism practice in society.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of journalism practice key terms and concepts.
  • Communicate appropriately as required within the journalism practice field.
  • Demonstrate the ability to produce articles for in-house or freelance publication.

    Rationale:
    Journalism has been described as the cornerstone of democracy, vital for informing the general population about current issues. There is a global need for educational institutions to reflect current journalism practice, with emerging opportunities in Africa, and for journalism practice qualifications to include an understanding of ethical journalism. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa (2023) cites media freedom as the pillar of the South African democratic order, and the need for journalists "to be the standard-bearers for accountability and the empowerment of citizens". Within the South African workplace, communicators, proofreaders, and journalism lecturers are listed as occupations in high demand.

    Qualifying learners of this qualification will have a sound understanding of the importance of ethical journalism, the role of journalism in society, digital journalism, and practical writing skills that can be applied to a variety of contexts.

    This qualification will be enhanced by introducing a journalism practice focus. Learners who complete this qualification may pursue further academic studies with related NQF level 6 diplomas or NQF level 7 degrees.

    Typical occupation in which the qualifying learner will operate:
  • Captions Editor.
  • Communications Coordinator.
  • Digital Content Writer.
  • Freelance Production Assistant.
  • Freelance Writer.
  • Junior or Assistant Reporter.
  • Junior Researcher.
  • News Production Assistant.
  • Junior Copywriter.
  • Production Assistant.
  • Junior Sub-editor.
  • Junior Proofreader. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
    The institution follows the CHE's Policies on the Recognition of Prior Learning, Credit Accumulation and Transfer, and assessment. In accordance with the existing RPL policy and practices, these will be applied in relation to the qualification. The principles of recognising learning that has already taken place will be applied at a modular level.

    RPL for access:
  • Learners who do not meet the minimum entrance requirements or the required qualification at the same NQF level as the qualification required for admission may be considered for admission through RPL.
  • To be considered for admission in the qualification based on RPL, applicants should provide evidence in the form of a portfolio that demonstrates that they have acquired the relevant knowledge, skills, and competencies through formal, non-formal and/or informal learning to cope with the qualification expectations, should they be allowed entrance into the qualification.
  • Learners need to be able to demonstrate their prior learning through evaluation/verification and assessment.
  • Each application will be considered on a case-by-case basis, and learners will enter a discussion with the RPL advisor to determine the requirements for the RPL assessment/portfolio of evidence.
  • Only 10 % of a cohort will be allowed admittance on an RPL basis.

    RPL for exemption of modules:
  • For a learner to be exempted from a module, the learner needs to provide sufficient evidence in the form of a portfolio that demonstrates that competency was achieved for the learning outcomes that are equivalent to the learning outcomes of the module.
  • Assessment has no guarantee that a learner will gain admission into a qualification or receive exemptions from modules.
  • Learners applying for admission to the qualification via RPL can only be exempted from a maximum of 50 % of the qualification modules.

    Entry Requirements:
    The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is:
  • National Senior Certificate, NQF Level 4, granting access to higher certificate studies.
    Or
  • National Certificate Vocational, NQF Level 4, granting access to higher certificate studies.
    Or
  • Senior Certificate, NQF Level 4 without endorsement. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification consists of the following compulsory modules at National Qualifications Framework, Level 5, totalling 120 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules, Level 5, 120 Credits
  • Computer Literacy, 16 Credits.
  • Academic Literacy, 14 Credits.
  • English Foundations, 15 Credits.
  • Introduction to Journalism Practice, 15 Credits.
  • Journalism Law and Ethics, 15 Credits.
  • Digital Journalism, 15 Credits.
  • Content Writing, 15 Credits.
  • Journalism Portfolio, 15 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1: Demonstrate an understanding of the role and responsibility of ethical journalism practice in society.
    2: Demonstrate an understanding of journalism practice key terms and concepts.
    3: Communicate appropriately as required within the journalism practice field.
    4: Demonstrate the ability to produce articles for in-house or freelance publication. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Explain the concept of free press and its role within a democratic society.
  • Explain the implications of the pertinent South African legislation on journalistic practice.
  • Demonstrate ethical conduct.
  • Explain the Press Code of Conduct.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of cultural diversities.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Explain media production.
  • Identify the various types of journalism.
  • Discuss terms used in journalism practice.
  • Describe the nature of freelance journalism practice and demonstrate knowledge of current rates charged.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Demonstrate effective verbal and written English communication.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of body language.
  • Use software relevant to journalism practice to produce and present articles.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Write basic editorials, commentaries, or reviews on current topics suitable for newspapers, television, radio, and online media platforms.
  • Outline self-managed studies and organise the research and production of newsworthy stories to meet deadlines.
  • Interpret and produce an article based on a given brief meeting Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) requirement.
  • Produce news stories that contain accurate reference sources with verified information.
  • Demonstrate problem-solving capacity in overcoming journalism obstacles.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Collect, collate and evaluate data from different sources for verification before utilising the information.
  • Reference or attribute data and quotes in a correct manner.
  • Apply an unbiased opinion to data and report objectively.
  • Demonstrate fair treatment of sources, respecting privacy.

    INTEGRATED ASSESSMENT
    The institution's assessment practices are driven Assessment and Moderation Policy. This policy is informed by key national policies and best practice benchmarks, including the SAQA National Policy and Criteria for Designing and Implementing Assessment for NQF Qualifications and Part-Qualifications and Professional Designations in South Africa (2014); CHE Policy on RPL, CAT and Assessment (2016) and CHE Distance Education Qualifications in a Digital Era: Good Practice Guide (2014). The principles of good assessment, including transparency, fairness, authenticity and legitimacy, drive assessment praxis will be observed.

    The Higher Education Assessment and Moderation Management Policy which sets the institutional assessment strategy, is written from the standpoint of open distance and e-learning provision. The policy guides and frames assessment practices, imagining the specific requirements of learners studying in the distance modality. That is, the policy and its implementation are fully cognisant of what is needed to ensure learners can navigate the challenges and opportunities associated with the distance modality.

    While the institutional policy provides the broad parameters for assessment and moderation practices, there are several factors peculiar to the specific requirements of the qualification that inform how we think about and design the qualification, including the choice of assessment strategies (i.e., the specific number, configuration, weighting and combination of assessment events as the means by which learning outcomes are assessed), the assessment typologies (i.e., the general category/type of assessment, e.g., summative, formative, ipsative, diagnostic, etc., selected as the assessment strategy), and assessment modalities (i.e., the particular type of instrument by which learners are assessed, e.g., examination, research essay, discussion forum, etc.) used in each module.

    The assessment strategy includes the following combination of weighted assessment strategies:

    Assessment Strategy 1:
  • Three (3) formative assessments will count 75% towards the overall mark.
  • One (1) summative assessment will count 25% towards the overall mark.

    The Journalism Portfolio module (as WIL module) will use Assessment Strategy 1:
  • Three (3) formative assessments will count 75% towards the overall mark.
  • One (1) summative assessment will count 25% towards the overall mark.

    Assessment Strategy 2:
  • One (1) formative assessment will count 50% towards the overall mark.
  • One (1) summative assessment will count 50% towards the overall mark.

    Assessment Strategy 3:
  • One (1) formative assessment will count 40% towards the overall mark.
  • Two (2) summative assessments will count 60% towards the overall mark.

    Assessment Strategy C (ASC):
  • Two (2) formative assessments will count 50% towards the overall mark.
  • One (1) summative assessment will count 50% towards the overall mark.

    The implementation of this assessment strategy is carefully monitored and quality assured by Academic and Quality Managers (AQMs) responsible for overseeing all assessment development undertaken by the educators assigned to individual modules for the qualification. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    Country: Kenya
    Institution name: ZETECH University
    Qualification title: Certificate in Journalism and Media Studies
    Duration: Two trimesters

    Entry requirements:
  • An aggregate grade of D+ and above with a D+ in either Kiswahili or English or relevant qualification.

    Purpose:
    The Certificate in Journalism and Media Studies offer skills on how to operate, direct and manage media-related engagements and is specifically designed for those interested in pursuing a Diploma/Degree in Journalism and any area of the communication sequences. The qualification seeks to build a strong foundation that can help trainees build their skills and enable them to work in a media house and other communication-based office.

    Qualification structure:
    Year 1 Semester 1:
  • Communication Skills.
  • Information Communication Technology and Ethics.
  • Health and Wellness.
  • Introduction to Mass Communication.
  • English for beginning Journalists.
  • Introduction to Media House Management.

    Year 1 Semester 2:
  • Introduction to Public Relations.
  • Introduction to Media Law and Ethics.
  • Writing and Reporting for Print Media.
  • Broadcast Production.
  • Photojournalism.

    Similarities:
  • The Zetech University (ZU) and the South African (SA) qualifications both accept learners who have completed high school or have a Senior Certificate.
  • The ZU is two semesters full-time. The SA qualification is offered in the distance modality as a minimum of one year (two semesters) of study.
  • The ZU and SA qualifications aim to equip learners with a journalism mindset and similar skills such as competence in oral, written, and visual communication.

    Differences:
  • The number of modules per semester is not indicated for ZU qualification, while the SA qualification offers 4 modules per semester.
  • The ZU offers an introduction to public relations module, while the SA qualification offers computer literacy to equip learners with computer skills.

    Country: United Kingdom
    Institution: Birkbeck, University of London
    Qualification Title: Journalism (Certificate of Higher Education)
    Duration: Two to three years part-time

    Purpose:
    The Journalism (Certificate of Higher Education) qualification aims to enhance learners' writing and interview skills. Graduates will learn to tailor their writing for various audiences and specialised markets, fostering professional writing habits. Additionally, the qualification supports the development of key professional skills and understanding of the social, political, cultural, and ethical issues relevant to journalism. As Birkbeck is a prominent centre for media and cultural studies, learners will also explore influential figures, theories, and approaches within cultural studies.

    Qualification structure:
    Compulsory modules.
  • Introduction to Journalism Practice.
  • Journalism in British Life.

    Elective modules:
  • Cinema Today.
  • Introduction to Digital Culture.
  • Introduction to Journalism Practice.
  • Media Studies: Key Thinkers and Approaches.
  • Screenwriting.
  • Working with Digital Media.
  • Working with the Film Camera.

    Similarities:
  • The Birkbeck, University of London (BUL) and the South African (SA) qualifications have 120 module credits.
  • Both qualifications offer a similar module, which is an introduction to journalism practice.
  • The BUL and SA qualifications aim to equip learners with the skills and knowledge regarding ethical issues related to journalism.

    Differences:
  • BUL offers their qualification over two to three years part-time, with mandatory attendance one evening a week. Meanwhile, the SA qualification has a duration of 1 year (two semesters), offered in distance modality.
  • BUL qualification does not have any entry requirements except that the candidate should be able to read, write and speak English fluently. The SA qualification requires that the candidate learner should have completed an NQF Level 4 qualification.
  • The BUL qualification has electives, whereas the SA qualification consists of compulsory modules only.
  • The SA modules are at NQF level 5, whereas the BUL compulsory modules are at level 4, with the two journalism-specific modules at level 5, although the qualification exits at level 4. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    Horizontal Articulation:
  • Higher Certificate in Advertising and Integrated Communication Practice, NQF Level 5.
  • Higher Certificate in Versatile Broadcasting, NQF Level 5.
  • Higher Certificate in Social Media and Communication, NQF Level 5.
  • Occupational Certificate: Database Administrator, NQF Level 5.
  • Occupational Certificate: Journalist, NQF Level 5.
  • Occupational Certificate: Library Assistant, NQF Level 5.

    Vertical Articulation:
  • Diploma in Journalism, NQF Level 6.
  • Diploma in Media Practices, NQF Level 6.
  • Bachelor of Arts in Journalism, NQF Level 7.
  • Bachelor of Arts in Media Studies, NQF Level 7.
  • Bachelor of Journalism, NQF Level 7.

    Diagonal Articulation:
  • Advanced Certificate in Management Studies, NQF Level 6.
  • Diploma in Public Relations Management, NQF Level 6.
  • Bachelor of Arts in Community Development and Leadership, NQF level 7.
  • Bachelor of Business Administration, NQF Level 7.
  • Occupational Certificate: Permissions Editor, NQF level 6.
  • Occupational Certificate: Text Editor, NQF level 6. 
    		•

    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.
     
    1. Boston City Campus (Pty) Ltd formerly Boston City Campus and Business College (Pty) Ltd 


    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.