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Journalism (Level 5 Diploma)

NCTJ
Media, Multimedia & Journalism

Course Overview

The Diploma is accredited by the National Council for the Training of Journalists which sets the standard for journalism training in the UK. Students are typically graduates in any discipline or, if not graduates, have at least partially completed study at Higher Level. Applications from mature students are welcome. 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 who wish to advance in their careers or add additional skills in video/radio/social media/law. Exam fees are additional and must be paid in advance. The course is delivered across three semesters by practicising industry professionals.
  • Start Date
    1 Sept 2026
  • Study Mode
    Part-Time
  • Duration
    1.5 Years
  • Campus
    Strand Road

Available Sessions

  • Course
    Campus
    Type
    Start Date
    Fees
  • Course: National Council for Training Journalists (NCTJ) Level 5 Diploma Journalism
    Campus: Strand Road
    Type: Part Time
    Start Date: 01/09/2026 (P)
    Fees:
    Part time per annum fee to be confirmed

You may be eligible for funding on this course *

If you are an employer or employee of a NI based company

* Terms and Conditions apply

Course Offering

  • Site location Strand Road

Course Modules

  • PR for Journalists
  • Broadcast Journalism for Radio and TV
  • Public Affairs
  • Essential Journalism
  • Court Reporting
  • Videojournalism
  • Law
  • Portfolio Building
Want to book your place?
Apply Now

Entry Requirements

UK Requirements

32 UCAS points + GCSE (Grade C or above) in English Applicants are 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.

ROI Requirements

32 UCAS Points + OLC (Grade O5 or above) in English Applicants are 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.

Additional Requirements Prior to Entry

Interview Required

Work Placement

While not a requirement of the qualification, it is strongly recommended that students spend at least ten days working as a journalist during the course.

What's Next?

Further Study

The NCTJ Diploma in Journalism is a professional qualification designed to lead successful students into work in the journalism and media industries.

Career Prospects

NWRCs journalism alumni have gone on to work in every sector of the journalism industry across Northern Ireland and beyond, including print, television, radio and multimedia journalism.

Enquiry

  • Image of Ben McDermott (Music)
    Everything the Music departament at NWRC had on offered sounded appealing and was the obvious next step for me after my GCSEs.
    Ben McDermott (Music)
  • Image of Vanessa Canning (Hair & Beauty)
    The support I received from my lecturers at NWRC was incredible. They always pushed me to my full potential and gave me the confidence to open my own beauty salon.
    Vanessa Canning (Hair & Beauty)
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