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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Higher Certificate in Journalism 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
122922  Higher Certificate in Journalism 
ORIGINATOR
Berea College of Technology (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 0527/24  2024-10-03  2027-10-03 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2028-10-03   2031-10-03  

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 purpose of the Higher Certificate in Journalism is to provide learners with the fundamental knowledge, conceptual and interpersonal skills to prepare them for an entry-level role or a career in journalism and media and to teach theory and principles that will develop learners into competent individuals who can assist organisations to reach their mission and goals.

This qualification is the start of a career path in Journalism. The skills, value attributes, and knowledge reflected in this qualification are building blocks that will prepare learners for progression along the learning ladder.
The qualification will further contribute to the full development of the learner within the Journalism environment by providing recognition and further mobility within the field. The qualification supports the philosophy of lifelong learning because learners will be able to increase their access to employment since this qualification also caters for individuals who are employed but lack the certification to perform efficiently or to be promoted.

Not all school leavers meet the requirements for admission into diploma and degree studies, and there is, therefore, a need for access and entry-level qualifications, which are vocationally and industry-focused. Graduates will seek employment positions in both public and private institutions.

Upon successful completion of the qualification, the qualifying learner will be able to:
  • Demonstrate knowledge of business management and the media industry and apply basic management principles and practices.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the ethical and legal frameworks within the journalism industry.
  • Apply technologies and other methods of presentation for communication in the journalism industry.
  • Communicate effectively and professionally within a multicultural and diverse organization in the media industry, using various communication approaches and technologies.

    Rationale:
    As the country battles high unemployment rates, especially among the youth, it is striking to note that there are insufficient applicants with qualified skills for available career opportunities.
    Findings of the scarcity of professionals in some fields have gained widespread coverage in the recent past, following employer frustrations to find adequately skilled workers. As a result, many South African workers are now asking, which skills are most in demand by employers.

    Journalism forms part of a learning pathway of journalism and media qualifications across various public, governmental, and private industries and sectors.

    The current skills deficit across all sectors means that there is a premium placed on staff who are qualified with up-to-date and relevant knowledge and skills and able to perform across the areas of journalism and media. It is acknowledged that traditional journalism and media publications and opportunities have been severely undermined in recent years due to global trends. The key challenge is that many journalism qualifications relevant to the modern workplace do not contain the complete skillset required to function effectively.

    The current skills shortage also requires that employees be equipped with skills and knowledge that are key to the transformation of the South African economy and that they can contribute to the positive performance of their employers.

    Employers often view higher education qualifications as an indicator of the ability to think, analyse, solve problems, and communicate effectively.

    Statistics available from the National List of Occupations in High Demand (2020) reflect some journalism jobs are on the high-demand list and thus indicate the need for editors and writers. Additionally, to function effectively within the current knowledge economy, practitioners must be trained in the use of web-based technology and tools to succeed in their field, particularly in this competitive global economy.

    The proposed higher certificate is aligned with key aspects of the guidelines offered by UNESCO's Model Curricula for Journalism Education (2007 and 2013) and its Global Initiative for Excellence in Journalism Education project (2014 - 2021). UNESCO's Model Curricula for Journalism Education was the outcome of extensive research on existing journalism offerings, including those at South African universities. UNESCO has called for journalism schools to renegotiate the future trajectory of journalism education in an increasingly complex social, political and economic global context.

    Higher certificate qualifications in Journalism offer introductory knowledge to the areas of journalism, media, general business administration, entrepreneurship, languages, communication, and computer skills within a business environment and prepare learners for a range of entry-level professional positions in Journalism. Further, it also provides opportunities for upskilling and certification of skills obtained during on-the-job training or self-study or further studies. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):

    RPL for access:
    The institution has increasingly considered how learning that has taken place in a range of contexts may be assessed and formally recognised through accreditation.

    The RPL process is aligned with national RPL Policies.
    As per the national and institutional RPL policies and procedures, RPL is applicable to all prospective candidates. The limitation of 10% of the cohort with regard to admission applies as stipulated in the CHE guidelines.

    This qualification may be achieved in part through the recognition of prior learning (a maximum of 50% of the credits), which includes informal, and formal learning and work experience. The candidate must demonstrate competence in the knowledge, skills, values, and attitudes indicated in the qualification to obtain credits/credit exemptions.

    Evaluation of evidence:
    This is done by all the members of the Selection Panel, as and when practical - it is normally not necessary to convene a meeting for this purpose.
    If necessary BCT will conduct a skills assessment in respect of skills not supported by evidence. Such an assessment covers the entire process applicable to a particular skill.
    Feedback is given to the Applicant by the entire Selection Panel. The Applicant will also receive a written report of the RPL assessment result.

    If the applicant is not granted admission onto his/her selected programme, the panel refers the Applicant to the student counsellor, if necessary, in order to offer and explore career alternatives.

    Entry Requirements:
    The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is:
  • National Senior Certificate, NQF Level 4, granting access to Higher Certificate studies.
    Or
  • National Vocational Certificate, 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 NQF Level 5 totalling 138 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules at NQF Level 5, 138 Credits.
  • Business Management Fundamentals, 12 Credits.
  • Business Communication, 10 Credits.
  • Print Journalism, 14 Credits.
  • Photo-Journalism, 14 Credits.
  • Languages for Journalism A: isiZulu, 8 Credits.
  • Languages for Journalism A: French, 8 Credits.
  • Social media and Communication, 10 Credits.
  • English for Journalism, 10 Credits.
  • End User Computing, 10 Credits.
  • Entrepreneurship, 8 Credits.
  • Media Law and Ethics, 12 Credits.
  • Media Studies, 12 Credits.
  • Journalism Practice, 10 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Demonstrate knowledge of business management and the media industry and apply basic management principles and practices.
    2. Demonstrate an understanding of the ethical and legal frameworks within the journalism industry.
    3. Apply technologies and other methods of presentation for communication in the journalism industry.
    4. Communicate effectively and professionally within a multicultural and diverse organization in the media industry, using various communication approaches and technologies.
    5. Demonstrate knowledge of business information systems via the use of hardware tools and software applications to perform various business operations and tasks in journalism.
    6. Demonstrate knowledge of entrepreneurship to complete tasks and practices for small business development and entrepreneurial activities. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    The following Associated Assessment Criteria will be used in an integrated manner across Exit Level Outcomes:
  • Define and explain management, media and journalism concepts, principles, and methodologies to decision-making within a commercial context.
  • Collect data from research and compile meaningful reports for various business management decision-making purposes.
  • Define, select, and implement technologies and other methods of presentation for communication in the journalism industry.
  • Collect and apply effective written and oral journalistic and media work communication tools, approaches, and techniques.
  • Describe and apply knowledge of entrepreneurship to complete tasks and practices for small business development and entrepreneurial activities in the media industry.
  • Apply knowledge of business information systems via the use of hardware tools and software applications to perform various journalism, media and business operations and tasks.
  • Discuss and illustrate understanding of the current role played by the media in South Africa.
  • Illustrate knowledge of the application of fundamental journalistic legal and ethical principles to given case studies.

    INTEGRATED ASSESSMENT:
    This qualification uses summative and formative assessment strategies. A number of assessment techniques and instruments are used to ensure appropriate learning and evaluation.
    Formative Assessment:
  • Assignment or project.
  • Written test.
  • Constructive classroom activities.

    Summative Assessment:
  • Written examination.
    Assessment Percentage:
    40% of the DP mark and 60% of the written examination are combined to produce the final total. Qualifications that require continuous assessment, practical assessment, and external written examinations by relevant accreditation authorities - as per criteria the rules will apply.

    Moderation assessment:
    All formative and summative assessments of non-exit level modules will be internally moderated by either the Qualification Co-coordinator or Module coordinator. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    The institution endeavours to ensure that all qualifications offered, compare well with industry standards and requirements on a national and international level. In general, most universities covered a variety of management short courses or marketing within more traditional BCom and Diploma type degrees. Nevertheless, the course content, level and outcomes compare relatively well with some of the related certificate qualifications.

    Country: New Zealand.
    Institution name: Massey University.
    Qualification title: Media Studies - Diploma in Arts.
    Duration: One year.
    Credits: 120.
    NQF Level: 5.

    Entry requirement:
  • NCEA Level 3, or equivalent.

    Purpose/Rationale:
    The social, economic, and cultural importance of mass media for communication in modern life requires critical analysis and understanding.
    In a world where it is difficult to escape the impact of the media, media studies provide analysis. It gives you an understanding of the production, consumption, and content of the media industries.

    Learners will also learn about the media industry's codes, conventions, and production techniques. The course includes a practical component as a useful learning supplement.

    Qualification structure:
    Modules:
  • Media and Society.
  • Script Writing.
  • Advertising and Consumer Society.
  • Popular Culture and the Media.
  • Digital Media Production I.
  • International Film History.
  • Screen Media.
  • Digital Media: Theory and Practice.
  • Gender and Race in the Media.
  • Social media and Digital Cultures, comparable to Social Media and Communication.
  • Global Media Cultures.

    Similarities:
  • The Massey University (MU) and the South African (SA) qualifications are both offered over one year.
  • Both qualifications consist of 120 credits and are placed at NQF Level 5 of their respective frameworks.
  • The SA qualification will offer learners introductory knowledge in the areas of journalism, media, general business administration, entrepreneurship, languages, communication, and computer skills within a business environment.
  • The MU learners will also learn about the media industry's codes, conventions, and production techniques.
  • Both qualifications share similar modules and focus especially on Social Media, Digital Cultures, and Communication.

    Country: United Kingdom.
    Institution name: Northwest Regional College.
    Qualification title: Journalism (Level 5 Diploma).
    Duration: 34 Weeks.

    Entry requirements:
    32 UCAS points + GCSE (Grade C or above) in English Applicants is also required to attend an interview where they will discuss their interest in news and current affairs and demonstrate the qualities needed to enter this challenging profession.

    Purpose/Rationale:
    The Diploma is accredited by the National Council for the Training of Journalists which sets the standard for journalism training in the UK. Learners are typically graduates in any discipline or, if not graduates, have at least partially completed study at a Higher Level. The Diploma is a requirement for entry to most areas of the profession and offers a foundation for a career in print, online, radio and broadcasting. It is also a useful qualification for existing journalists who may have no formal qualification but wish to advance in their careers or add additional skills in video/radio/social media/law.

    Career Prospects:
    Graduates are to be found working at the highest level in local and national media outlets including print, online, radio, TV and the associated industries of PR and Marketing. Employment rates for graduates are high and the industry is keen to use the skills which this course provides.

    Qualification structure:
    Modules:
  • Interview skills.
  • Video editing.
  • Radio production.
  • Court reporting.
  • Law, comparable to Media Law and Ethics.
  • Social media practice, comparable to social media and Communication.
  • Writing skills.

    Similarities:
  • The Northwest Regional College (NRC) and the South African (SA) qualification are both placed at Level 5 of their respective country's frameworks.
  • The SA qualification provides learners with the fundamental knowledge, and conceptual and interpersonal skills to prepare them for an entry-level role or a career in journalism and media.
  • The NRC is a requirement for entry to most areas of the profession and offers a foundation for a career in print, online, radio and broadcasting.
  • Both qualifications will offer learners an opportunity to seek employment in both public and private, local, and national media outlets.
  • Both qualifications share similar modules such as Law, Media Law and Ethics, Social Media Practice, and Social Media and Communication.

    Differences:
  • The SA qualification is offered over a year, whereas the NRC is offered over 34 weeks. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    Horizontal Articulation:
  • Higher Certificate in Social Media and Communication, NQF Level 5.
  • Higher Certificate in Public Relations and Communication, NQF Level 5.
  • Higher Certificate in Operations Management, NQF Level 5.

    Vertical Articulation:
  • Diploma in Public Relations, NQF Level 6.
  • Diploma in Public Relations and Communication, NQF Level 6.

    Diagonal Articulation:
  • Advanced Occupational Certificate: Media/Programme Content Production Manager, NQF Level 6.
  • Higher Occupational Certificate: Information and Communication Technology: Business Development Consultant, 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. Berea College of Technology (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.