Find out how to Become a Journalist in South Africa

Find out how to Become a Journalist in South Africa

Requirements to study Journalism in South African Universities and Colleges

Requirements to study Journalism differ based on the Institutions. For example, below are the requirements to study Journalism at Damelin College.

Damelin requirements to study Journalism

A Grade 12 Certificate with admission to diploma studies
An achievement rating of 3 (40% – 49%) in 4 recognised 20 credit bearing subjects
Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy
English at grade 12/NQF level 4 or equivalent
AgeExemption(23 years or older):
- At least five years post-secondary school experience in the field in which the student wants to study and
- Proof of English language proficiency and
- National Senior Certificate or equivalent
Mature age applicants, 45 years and older without a school leaving qualification, may apply for conditional exemption.
Foreign Students whose first language is not English, may be required to provide proof of proficiency in English prior to admission to the programme

Apply for Journalism Course at Damelin

Journalists salary in South Africa

A Journalist earns an average salary of R124,376 per year. Pay for this job rises steadily for more experienced workers, but goes down noticeably for the few employees with more than 20 years’ experience. Most people with this job move on to other positions after 10 years in this field.

Types of Journalism Careers in South Africa

Broadcast Journalism

When you think of broadcast journalism, you may imagine the famous TV news anchors, like Diane Sawyer or Tom Brokaw. Broadcast journalism, however, has many different facets, both in front of and behind the camera. There are local news anchor jobs, traffic and weather reporters, and production crew. Or you may be drawn to the national spotlight and have a desire to join one of the major networks or news affiliates to report or produce national and world news.

Investigative Journalist

Throughout history, investigative journalists have been at the heart of an honest and high-functioning democracy. In our constantly changing and evolving society, the importance of the freedom of the press cannot be underestimated. Whether holding election campaigns accountable by following the money, or tracking and exposing our biggest environmental polluters, investigative journalists help to improve the world in which we live. If you are passionate about equality, fairness, and honesty, then a career in investigative journalism may be the right fit for you.

Photojournalism Career

For the past 100+ years, our view of the world in which we live has, in part, been shaped by photojournalists. Get away from the office and explore the world with your camera while documenting the events of our time. More than half of photojournalists are self- employed, giving you the freedom and flexibility to be at the helm of your career. Traditional photography classes combined with journalism courses will keep you relevant in a constantly changing environment.

Sports Journalism

Growing up, many of us dreamed about a career in professional sports. If we didn’t have the skill to be Michael Jordan or Brett Favre, maybe we could be Howard Cosell. A career as a sports journalist can serve in a multitude of media, including writing, broadcasting, producing, or commentating. Start your career as a sports reporter with an internship, and by requesting information from schools. Learn about the many types of sports journalism careers and the training and education necessary.

Communications Careers

The variety of ways in which we communicate in today’s society may be technologically driven, and becoming more so every day, but the ability to effectively communicate is more important than ever. Whether in writing or the spoken word, the ability to effectively communicate ideas, concepts, and influence is unduly powerful. A communications degree can be directed according to your areas of interest, whether it be mass communications, social media, newswriting, broadcasting, or many of the social and political sciences. Graduates in formal communication studies can apply their education to a multitude of careers covering journalism, politics, human resources, new media, marketing, and public relations, to name a few.

Social Media Journalism

The face of journalism has changed with the emergence of social media. Websites such as Facebook, Twitter, and Linked-In now serve as news sources for many of their followers. Now, more than ever, a novice blogger or Tweeter can turn their hobby into a career with a degree in social media. Whether you’re interested in web design, multi media design, professional blogging, or social media management, a journalism degree will help you secure the most sought after jobs in social media.

Public Relations Career

Public relations professionals are in high demand, making it a competitive, highly paid career choice. The key to securing those positions is a combination of experience, skill, and education. Internships are often available to those looking to pursue a career in PR, and can help you refine your writing and communication skills so necessary in the workplace. Most reputable PR firms, ad agencies, and corporations require a bachelor’s degree in public relations, journalism, or communications. Request information from schools to determine the best course structure for your career.

Source:http://www.journalismdegree.com/journalism-career/