Journalism for the Digital Age
Course Description
This course is designed to introduce students to a wide variety of practical techniques and theoretical knowledge that underpin the fundamental skills of a journalist. It also takes a highly modern approach, as the convergence of broadcast, print and online media require the learning of new skills and methods. Much of the course is project based with the student working closely with each teacher in a variety of platforms, from magazines/newspapers to broadcast and online media. The course provides students with new digital tools and practices and better ways to engage the public in a rapidly changing media world.
QQI Level 5
Journalism
5M2464
One year full time.
Leaving Certificate standard or equivalent. Successful applicants will have displayed a noticeable flair for English and a lively interest in current affairs. Academic entry requirements may be waived for mature applicants.
The following subjects may be offered:
-
Writing Skills for Journalism
5N2435
This subject has been designed to develop writing skills for journalism. The units within this subject have been selected to cover the range of writing undertaken by journalists. -
Research Skills for Journalism
5N2443
This subject has been developed to introduce learners to the techniques of research. -
Technical Skills for Journalism
5N2463
The subject is designed to equip the learner with the knowledge, skill & competence to sub-edit editorial copy and apply the skills of page design and layout to a range of publication formats. -
Word Processing
5N1358
Equips the learner with the skills and competence to produce documents to a professional standard. -
Media Analysis
5N1298
This subject is designed to offer a theoretical framework that underpins practical media work, thus providing the learner with an understanding of successful practice. It explores and analyses strategies involved in constructing media messages and examines how interpretation is defined by context. Learners will study a range of media products and associated critical texts. -
Desktop Publishing
5N0785
This subject is intended to enable the learner to produce various printed/online documents containing text and graphic images from design briefing to printing, using a desktop publishing system. It incorporates analysis, process, craft, technology and design elements, thus ensuring a comprehensive treatment of the subject. -
Political Studies
5N1837
This subject has been primarily developed to introduce students to an awareness of the Irish political system, and to an appreciation of the wider geo-political implications of key contemporary issues. -
Work Experience
5N1356
All students participate in either work placement or work practice during the year. Students may find themselves working in the areas of broadcasting, local/national newspapers. -
Communications
5N0690
Communication skills are highly valued in the workplace but this subject extends beyond exclusively vocational needs, recognising that the acquisition of these skills is a life-long process, and central to personal, social and professional development and fulfilment.
Work in print, radio and television journalism, public relations, advertising and the Internet. Former students have secured positions at Reuters (London), Sunday Times, Head of I.R.N. (Dublin), 103FM, Limerick Leader, 96FM., Red FM., RTE, The Irish Examiner, The Evening Echo and The Kingdom.
Sunderland University is now happy to guarantee that any student (who have a Merit -or better – profile) from Coláiste Stiofáin Naofa, College of Further Education, Tramore Rd., Cork City, who successfully completes the Level 5 Journalism (5M2464) course (including Political Studies) will have direct entry into the second year of the university of Sunderland’s BA (Hons) Journalism and BA (Hons) Magazine Journalism degree courses.
Students who successfully complete (who have a Merit -or better – profile) the Level 5 Journalism (5M2464) course (NB: Political Studies is not necessary for this)will, alternatively, be guaranteed direct entry into the first year of BA (Hons) Fashion Journalism, BA (Hons) Sports Journalism, BA(Hons) Broadcast Journalism and BA (Hons) Public Relations degree courses at Sunderland University.
Other Progression Opportunities
For full details on progression opportunities see these links:
Cork Colleges Progression Scheme
QQI Requirements
Successful participants are eligible to apply to higher education courses through the Higher Education Links Scheme
- UCC: B.A. Degree
- UL: Bachelor of Arts in Journalism and New Media (LM039)
- UL: Bachelor of Arts in New Media and English (LM033)
- UL: Bachelor of Arts in Politics and Public Administration (LM041)
- DCU: Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies (DC131)
- DCU: Bachelor of Arts in Journalism (DC132)
- DCU: Bachelor of Arts in Contemporary Culture and Society (DC238)
- DCU: BA (Joint Honours) Media Studies (DC291)
Special Features
The college provides excellent training facilities comprising:
- Fully equipped digital radio studio
- Computer Suite
- Digital Film equipment and software