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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION THAT HAS PASSED THE END DATE: 

Diploma in Journalism and Media Studies 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
64989  Diploma in Journalism and Media Studies 
ORIGINATOR
Damelin 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
CHE - Council on Higher Education  HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
National Diploma  Field 04 - Communication Studies and Language  Communication Studies 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  360  Level 6  NQF Level 06  Regular-Provider-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Passed the End Date -
Status was "Reregistered" 		 SAQA 091/21  2021-07-01  2023-06-30 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2024-06-30   2028-06-30  

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:

This qualification is aimed at learners who wish to work in the print and electronic media sector. On successful completion of the programme, graduates will be able to seek entry level positions in the field of journalism in a range of areas such as publication editing, news reporting, news investigation, sub-editing, copywriting and freelance writing in various media sectors. Graduates will have developed a sound foundation to function in the media industry and the qualification will provide the basis for further development of the learner into specialist areas within the media industry.

After completing the programme, the qualifying learner can demonstrate the following skills and abilities:
  • Effective time management.
  • The ability to interact successfully and effectively with others.
  • Creativity and innovation.
  • Perseverance and self-confidence.
  • Accountability and responsibility.
  • The ability to take initiative.
  • Contribute meaningfully to his/her community and to society as a whole.
  • Communicate effectively in writing or verbally.

    Rationale:

    The Diploma in Journalism and Media Studies provides learners with a variety of career opportunities in the media industry. The curriculum has been designed to give learners an in-depth knowledge of the media environment and the skills required to build a successful career in journalism. The Diploma in Journalism and Media Studies will provide learner with the theoretical knowledge and practical experience in the fields of gathering, reporting and presenting news in both the broadcast and print media.

    The independence and freedom of the media, including freedom of expression, forms an integral part of the South African Constitution. To this end, it is important to equip media practitioners with the skills, knowledge and expertise required to promote and build a free and independent media environment. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    It is assumed that learners have communication abilities. Computer experience will be an advantage to learners.

    Recognition of Prior Learning:

    The Diploma in Journalism and Media Studies, NQF Level 6 allows for open access and may be achieved in part or in whole through the process of Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL). Provision should be made for prior learning to be recognised if a learner is able to demonstrate competence in the knowledge, skills, values and attitudes embedded in this qualification. Candidates must be able to demonstrate their competence through compulsory interviews, and knowledge and skills tests. Such competencies may help gain access to the programme leading to this qualification, or advanced placement therein.

    Access to the Qualification:

    This qualification is for all candidates who meet the entrance requirements and who would like to enter into, or who have been employed or involved in journalism and media studies. 

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    The learning programme leading to this qualification should consist of at least:
  • Fundamentals: 40 credits.
  • Core: 305 credits.
  • Electives: 15 credits.
  • Minimum credits at level 7: 60 credits.
  • Maximum credits at level 5: 120 credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    The graduates must demonstrate that they have acquired/developed competency in the following:
  • Understand how mass communication has evolved and the effects of mass communication on society.
  • Understand the different styles of writing as well as how to analyse articles for the different types of media.
  • Effectively use and apply different styles of journalistic writing.
  • Understand the broadcast media industry and develop skills required to be a broadcast journalist.
  • Understand the print media, the media laws that govern the industry and the art of politics and journalism.
  • Understand practices and concepts in typing and effectively know how and when to use typing signs.
  • Understand the relationship between culture and communication.
  • Apply communication techniques in the advertising industry and develop electronic media releases.
  • Demonstrate a thorough understanding of the Zulu/Xhosa/Sotho/French culture, history and expressions and how these influence the writing and understanding of news.
  • Create effective and technically sound news programming content that will capture audience attention.
  • Illustrate, describe and apply the skills required for specialised fields in print media.
  • Discuss the management and editorial sectors of the journalism industry.
  • Apply and use technology related to various broadcast methods such as recording, editing and mixing. Provide effective commentary on live broadcasts.
  • Effectively use various Microsoft Office programmes in a business environment.
  • Effectively use Adobe Photoshop to create and edit photographic images.
  • Perform background research for a script for an audiovisual medium.
  • Practically apply theoretical knowledge on page layout and design through the use of Adobe in Design.

    Specific Outcomes for Fundamentals:

    1. Know the broadcast industry.
    2. Demonstrate the ability to communicate.

    Specific Outcomes for Core:

    3. Enhance writing skills and analyse articles for different types of media.
    4. Write a variety of documents and apply different styles of writing for the journalistic field.
    5. Understand the broadcast media industry and explain requirements to become a broadcast journalist.
    6. Understand print media, media laws that govern the industry and the art of politics and journalism.
    7. Type business letters, memorandums and other related office materials.
    8. Know how journalism skills can be applied in the advertising field in a culturally sensitive manner.
    9. Know the theories of page layout and design and apply these.
    10. Understand the Zulu/Xhosa/Sotho/French culture and its history.
    11. Know how to write short story scripts for an audiovisual medium.
    12. Know the theory on creating effective news programmes and documentaries and the application of these to describe an event.
    13. Know and apply basic End-User Computing in a business environment using MS Outlook, MS Word and MS Excel.
    14. Know and apply basic End-User Computing in a business environment using MS PowerPoint, MS Access and MS Publisher.
    15. Understand the basic principles of specialised fields in print media and their applications.
    16. Practice advanced understanding of End-User Computing using MS Word and MS Excel.
    17. Understand and apply various tools in Adobe Photoshop.
    18. Know the management and editorial sectors of the journalism industry.
    19. Operate efficiently within a controlled workplace environment.

    Specific Outcomes for Electives:

    20. Know critical aspects of the print media.
    21. Know the relationship between public relations and the media and handle the media in a professional way.
    22. Know and apply the laws and regulations of the media industry.

    Critical Cross Field Outcomes:

    The programme aims to develop the SAQA critical cross-field outcomes listed below:
  • Identify and solve problems in which responses display that responsible decisions using critical and creative thinking have been made.
  • Work effectively with others as a member of a team, group, organisation, community.
  • Organise and manage oneself and one's activities responsibly and effectively.
  • Collect, analyse, organise and critically evaluate information.
  • Communicate effectively using visual, mathematical and/or language skills in the modes of oral and/or written presentation.
  • Use science and technology effectively and critically, showing responsibility towards the environment and health of others.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the world as a set of related systems by recognizing that problem-solving contexts do not exist in isolation. 
    		•

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Assessors should ensure that learners demonstrate the following competencies:

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Specific Outcome for Fundamentals 1:
  • Recording process are understood and applied.
  • Recording equipment is identified and described.
  • An effective recording is created.
  • Sound and visuals are edited together.
  • Mix is performed successfully.
  • All members of a general broadcast crew are identified and their roles discussed.
  • Basic aspects of effective communication are critically explained.
  • Strategies of basic teamwork are explained.
  • Effective leadership is described and debated.
  • The news aspect of live broadcasting is performed.
  • Commentary for live sport broadcastings is performed.
  • The essential equipment required for an outside live broadcast is identified and described.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Specific Outcome for Fundamentals 2:
  • The concept of the mass media is defined.
  • The process of mass communication is explained.
  • The function and the characteristics of the mass media is discussed.
  • Ways in which the public opinion influences the mass media is explained.
  • The requirements of the mass media is identified.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Specific Outcome for Core 3:
  • Effective précis are discussed, written and analysed.
  • English language in terms of grammar, well-constructed sentences and paragraphs are applied.
  • Emotional and objective writing are assessed.
  • The importance of letters to the press and feedback on controversial issues are explained.
  • A passage is analysed and important information selected.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Specific Outcome for Core 4:
  • The importance of letters to the press is explained.
  • A letter to the press is written in prescribed format and style.
  • Feedback on controversial issues is dealt with correctly.
  • A passage is read, analysed and explained.
  • Important information is selected.
  • Language skills is demonstrated.
  • Language in practice is demonstrated.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Specific Outcome for Core 5:
  • Different methods of gathering news are identified.
  • Visuals and actualities are used correctly.
  • Contacts are made and good contacts details are kept.
  • The importance of working with other media is described.
  • A document is written for mass media and a story is told with all the necessary details and evaluated.
  • Different types of interviews are identified and interviewing skills is explained and applied.
  • A disaster story is constructed and told.
  • Working of cameras, and light and exposure concepts are explained.
  • Lenses, film handling, viewing and focusing are explained.
  • Broadcast equipment for video capturing is identified, set up, connected and used.
  • Various broadcast microphones are identified and used correctly.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Specific Outcome for Core 6:
  • The traditional news values are identified and described.
  • The subjective quality of news is debated.
  • Various categories of news reports are distinguished and discussed.
  • Process of writing a news story and the structure of good news stories are followed.
  • Story ideas and personal sources are created and evaluated.
  • Public relations and media interviews are explained and critically discussed.
  • Research is defined and an outline of the various research methods is critically discussed.
  • The keeping of proper records is debated.
  • An overview of the constitution and its makings, and the functions of the constitution is outlined and analysed.
  • The forces that shape South Africa and the evolution of politics is identified and discussed.
  • Basic Media Law and Practices, court terminologies, defamation and copyright terminologies are described.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Specific Outcome for Core 7:
  • Use the keyboard with correct posture.
  • Touch type with pace and accuracy.
  • Use the keyboard with accuracy.
  • Explain the functions of the important keys found on the keyboard.
  • Describe the format of a business letter and type it.
  • Describe the format of a memorandum and type it.
  • Use these manuscript signs effectively.
  • Have complete knowledge of the keyboard.
  • Create advertisements.
  • Identify various advertising presentation styles.
  • Type a précis.
  • Put a telephone message into a proper format.
  • Type an internal memorandum.
  • Draft a fax message.
  • Design invitations.
  • Identify the qualities of an effective business letter and be able to type one.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Specific Outcome for Core 8:
  • The effects and use of electronic media releases are explained.
  • Electronic media releases are compiled and written.
  • The different types of electronic media releases are explained and applied.
  • The importance of advertising as a distinct field of communication is critically discussed.
  • The relationship between advertising and public relations is debated.
  • The use of advertising in public relations practice is explained.
  • The structure and the work flow of an advertising agency is explained.
  • An advertising agency is briefed.
  • How cultural groups differ from other groups with shared characteristics is discussed.
  • Cultural roles and norms are discussed.
  • How language can interfere with communication is explained.
  • Principles that encourage community building are described.
  • The process of writing is explained and applied.
  • Media Releases are compiled and different types of media releases are critically discussed.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Specific Outcome for Core 9:
  • The relationship between text and house style and how type is created is discussed.
  • The importance of line, tone and colour in production is explained and how to choose and prepare illustrations is critically discuss.
  • The hardware and software components of desktop publishing are identified.
  • The prepress process, including layout, digital make-up and repro is discussed.
  • The onpress process, including paper, inks, printing and finishing is discussed.
  • Digital design is described and applied.
  • Documents and columns are set up for a variety of publications.
  • Rulers, guides, and snap-to guides are used correctly.
  • Type including styles, sizes, leading, tracking, kerning are formatted.
  • The edit menu - cutting, copying, pasting - is used.
  • Multiple pasting, editing stories, spell checking is performed.
  • Paragraphs are formatted, text blocks moved/resized, lead adjustment.
  • Graphics placed and resized, text wraps performed.
  • Templates and style palettes set up.
  • Objects grouped and aligned, multiple paste with "step and repeat" functions performed.
  • Graphic formats, links, resolutions performed.
  • Colour, colour libraries and colour separation performed.
  • Bi-fold brochures and other custom layouts applied.
  • The rotation tool and drop caps used.
  • Page numbers applied and insert special symbols.
  • Styles and creating a custom style palette, use of templates applied.
  • Printing solutions and PPD's and PDF's applied.
  • Principles of design are described and applied.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Specific Outcome for Core 10:
  • The term "Culture" is defined.
  • The history of Zulu/Xhosa/Sotho/French culture is discussed.
  • Traditional beliefs are described.
  • Differences between gender roles are explained.
  • The history of the word in Zulu/Xhosa/Sotho/French is critically discussed.
  • Population numbers are discussed.
  • Methods of learning Zulu/Xhosa/Sotho/French are identified and applied.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Specific Outcome for Core 11:
  • Information that may be relevant to the script is gathered.
  • Information is analysed to identify aspects relevant to the script.
  • Research findings are documented and incorporated into script.
  • Databases for future research is created.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Specific Outcome for Core 12:
  • News scripts are written correctly.
  • Various news programmes are differentiated and discussed.
  • The concepts of input and output in the newsroom are identified and explained.
  • Items are selected and ordered.
  • Shows are constructed.
  • A programme is compiled to fit.
  • A news programme is professionally carried out.
  • The qualities of a good presenter are identified and discussed.
  • The importance of a good voice when presenting is explained.
  • A news story is read with the correct speed and emphasis.
  • The different uses of microphone techniques are applied.
  • A prompter is used.
  • Target audience is addressed with ease.
  • Ad-libs and gates are used when required.
  • The importance of knowing your material is identified, evaluated and applied.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Specific Outcome for Core 13:
  • Knowledge of Microsoft Office 2003 basics and the Internet is applied using all required functions correctly.
  • Knowledge of Introductory Microsoft Outlook is applied using all required functions correctly.
  • Knowledge of Introductory Microsoft Word is applied using all required functions correctly.
  • Knowledge of Introductory Microsoft Excel is applied using all required functions correctly.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Specific Outcome for Core 14:
  • Knowledge of Introductory Microsoft PowerPoint is applied using all required functions correctly.
  • Knowledge of Introductory Microsoft Access is applied using all required functions correctly.
  • Knowledge of Introductory Microsoft Publisher is applied using all required functions correctly.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Specific Outcome for Core 15:
  • Different types of feature stories are identified and explained.
  • The basics of good style identified and critically discussed.
  • The Wall Street Journal form of organising a story is evaluated and principles applied.
  • Freelance articles are written.
  • The various specialist fields that exist within the journalism industry are identified and explained.
  • Areas of specialisation that best suits the learner are identified and motivated.
  • The necessary skills to succeed as a specialist that would be marketable are described and explained.
  • A variety of editing is performed.
  • Captions for stories are created.
  • Good political reports are written.
  • A balance in political reports are maintained.
  • Major political events are covered efficiently.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Specific Outcome for Core 16:
  • Knowledge of Advanced Microsoft Word is applied using all required functions correctly.
  • Knowledge of Advanced Microsoft Excel is applied using all required functions correctly.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Specific Outcome for Core 17:
  • Photoshop window is customized.
  • A blended photo is created.
  • The marquee tools are used correctly.
  • The lasso tools are used as prescribed.
  • Objects are selected using the Magic Wand tools.
  • A layer is created via cut and the Layers palette used.
  • Level adjustments and opacity changes are made.
  • A composite image is flattened.
  • Photoshop brushes are used to paint and draw.
  • The Pen, Ellipse, and Line tools are used correctly.
  • Technical tips for digital cameras and scanners are critically discussed.
  • Images are retouched using the Patch tool, Dodge and Burn tools.
  • The Channels palette is used to create alpha channels.
  • Adjustments are made using the Channel Mixer.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Specific Outcome for Core 18:
  • An average publication is costed out based on its layout and size and evaluated.
  • The budget required for successfully running a publication is put together and evaluated.
  • High income publication and one that will run at a loss is distinguished and critically discussed.
  • The key role players in a functional newsroom are identified.
  • The flow of a publication from the brief stage to distribution and circulation is described and critically analysed.
  • The daily operation of a publication is managed and ensured.
  • The senior management of a newspaper and their respective responsibilities are discussed.
  • All practices within a publication are managed within legal and media regulations.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Specific Outcome for Core 19:
  • The processes involved in mass communication in the media sector are described, explained and evaluated.
  • Different styles of journalistic writing are applied to create an article for a specific medium (broadcast or print) and evaluated.
  • The technological processes employed in the media environment are discussed.
  • A variety of software packages utilized in the media industry are used to create a document and evaluated.
  • Given tasks are completed within a reasonable period of time and a professional report on the completed tasks is professionally presented.

    Learners are to elect two of the following:

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Specific Outcome for Electives 20:
  • A complete script is written demonstrating knowledge of various scripts formats.
  • The usage of various writing styles is debated.
  • The need for both sports and entertainment reporters is explained and the elements that contribute to good sport or entertainment compilations are discussed.
  • Specific sport or entertainment news are aligned to relevant target markets.
  • The concept of online journalism is explained and work is performed.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Specific Outcome for Electives 21:
  • Public relations concepts is explained in relation to media practice.
  • Positive newsworthy information is sourced and supplied to the media under proper supervision.
  • Discuss and apply the codes, norms and rules that govern media relations practice within public relations are discussed and applied.
  • Contact is made with the media.
  • An interview is planned and conducted.
  • The structure and the organisation of the South African print media is described.
  • The technical aspects of a camera is managed and photographs are taken.
  • Various types of articles often written by public relations practitioners are identified and described and captions, headlines and articles are written to print in specified newsletters.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Specific Outcome for Electives 22:
  • The terminologies used in the courtroom and in the legal field in general are discussed.
  • South African laws are identified and described.
  • The various South African courts and their jurisdiction are identified.
  • Punishment and sentencing in South African courts are discussed.
  • The laws that surround Defamation of Character and a journalist's responsibility not to defame any individual or organization are described.
  • The concept of Invasion of Privacy is discussed.
  • Laws and requirements involved in copyrighting a piece of work are identified.
  • Understand the concept of newspaper registration and the purpose of the South African Media Council is discussed.

    Integrated Assessment:

    Assessment of competence is done through a combination of formative and summative assessment methodologies, tools and procedures, which will not discriminate against learners in an unjust or invalid way. Formative assessment integrates theory with practice, with transfer of skills being conducted in a real or simulated workplace environment. Assessment practices are fair, transparent, valid and reliable.

    The purpose of assessment is to determine whether a learner has met the outcomes of the qualification in terms of theory and practice. Integrative techniques are therefore used to assess applied competence. Candidates should be required to demonstrate that they can perform the outcomes with understanding and insight.
    Assessment should ensure that all exit level Outcomes and Critical Cross-Field Outcomes are evaluated. Assessment of the Critical Cross-Field Outcomes should be integrated with the assessment of the exit level outcomes. The Critical Cross-Field Outcomes are implicit in the learning and assessment programmes are designed to extend and further reflect integration. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    This qualification has been benchmarked against a similar qualification in the United Kingdom. The University of Sheffield, which is regarded as the leader in Journalism, offers a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism. The three year programme contents compares well with the Diploma in Journalism and Media Studies as same subjects are being included in the programme. The Bachelor of Arts focuses more on TV and Radio presenting than the Diploma. On its turn, the Diploma focuses more on written media. However, both forms of journalism are included in the programmes.

    The Diploma in Journalism and Media Studies provides learners the opportunity to follow a programme that compares well with the best in the world. 

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    Access to qualifications on the same level:

    Learners who are (have been) registered for the same or another related qualification on NQF Level 6 will be able to horizontally enter another relevant learning programme on the same level, given the rules of access have been complied with. Such learners will retain credit for relevant modules that have successfully been completed at a previous institution and could enrol for a relevant diploma or degree level programme.

    Vertical articulation:

    Holding this qualification will enable candidates to gain access to a first degree in Journalism. 

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
  • Assessors and moderators assessing a learner or moderating the assessment of an assessor against this Qualification must be registered as an assessor and/or moderator with a relevant Education and Training Quality Assurance (ETQA) Body.
  • Formative assessment will be conducted internally with internal moderation being done by registered moderators. The moderation body is the relevant Education and Training Quality Assurance (ETQA).
  • Moderation must include both internal and external moderation of assessments at exit points of the Qualification. 
    		•

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    For an applicant to register as an assessor for this Qualification, the applicant should:
  • Hold a relevant qualification at least on NQF level 7.
  • Have relevant workplace experience.
  • Be declared competent in all the outcomes of the enclosed outcomes as stipulated by South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA).
  • Be declared competent in all the exit level outcomes of the qualification as stipulated by South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA). 
    		•

    REREGISTRATION HISTORY 
    As per the SAQA Board decision/s at that time, this qualification was Reregistered in 2009; 2012; 2015. 

    NOTES 
    Admission Requirements:

    This qualification is for all candidates who would like to enter into, or who have been employed or involved in journalism to advance their knowledge and skills. Candidates should have obtained one of the following:
  • National Senior Certificate.
  • An equivalent qualification. 
    		•

    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. Damelin 
    2. Damelin - Benoni 
    3. Damelin - Braamfontein 
    4. Damelin - Bramely 
    5. Damelin - Cape Town formerly Cape Town City 
    6. Damelin - Durban formerly Durban City 
    7. Damelin - East London 
    8. Damelin - Menlyn 
    9. Damelin - Mowbray 
    10. Damelin - Overpoort formerly Westridge 
    11. Damelin - Pietermaritzburg 
    12. Damelin - Pretoria City 
    13. Damelin - Randburg 


    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.