ICTQual Level 3 Diploma in Foundation Journalism

The ICTQual Level 3 Diploma in Foundation Journalism is a robust and internationally aligned qualification designed for learners who want to deepen their journalism expertise and prepare for professional roles in media, communications, and content creation. Building on the Award and Certificate levels, this diploma offers a broader and more advanced curriculum across six study units, covering everything from investigative reporting and editorial skills to media law, ethics, and digital storytelling.

Learners will gain hands-on experience in writing for multiple platforms, conducting in-depth research, managing interviews, and producing content that meets professional standards. The program also explores audience engagement strategies, multimedia integration, and global journalism practices ensuring learners are equipped to thrive in today’s fast-evolving media landscape.

With a total of 30 credits, the diploma is ideal for those seeking freelance opportunities, community journalism roles, or editorial positions in digital and print media. It supports learners in building a strong portfolio, developing a professional voice, and understanding the ethical and legal responsibilities of modern journalism.

Whether you’re aiming to lead media projects, contribute to public discourse, or support organisations with impactful communication, the ICTQual Level 3 Diploma provides the skills, structure, and credibility to make your mark.

Course overview

Level 3 Diploma in Foundation Journalism

To enrol in ICTQual Level 3 Diploma in Foundation Journalism, learner must meet the following entry requirements:

  • Age Requirement: Learners must be at least 18 years old at the time of enrolment. This ensures they have the maturity to engage with topics such as media ethics, legal responsibilities, and investigative reporting.
  • Educational Background: A basic secondary school qualification (or equivalent) is recommended. This provides the foundational literacy and critical thinking skills needed to succeed in written assignments and research tasks.
  • Professional Experience: Experience such as writing for a blog, contributing to a school or community magazine, managing social media content, or participating in local reporting projects can help learners connect more deeply with the course material and apply their skills more confidently.
  • English Proficiency:As the programme is delivered in English, learners should demonstrate basic competence in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Centres may assess language ability through internal placement tests or accept evidence of prior study in English.
  • Additional Requirements: Access to a computer or laptop and a stable internet connection is essential. Learners should be comfortable using word processors, browsing online sources, and managing digital files, as these are core to the course’s practical components.

This qualification, the ICTQual Level 3 Diploma in Foundation Journalism, consists of 6 mandatory units.

  1. Advanced News Writing and Editorial Skills
  2. Investigative Journalism and Research Methods
  3. Media Ethics, Law, and Global Standards
  4. Digital Media Production and Storytelling
  5. Public Communication and Audience Engagement
  6. Professional Practice in Journalism

Learning Outcomes for the ICTQual Level 3 Diploma in Foundation Journalism:

Advanced News Writing and Editorial Skills

By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:

  • Write longer, more complex news stories with clarity, structure, and editorial precision.
  • Apply advanced techniques for leads, transitions, and narrative flow.
  • Edit and proofread articles for grammar, tone, and factual accuracy.
  • Tailor content for different formats such as features, briefs, and opinion pieces.
  • Use style guides and editorial standards to maintain consistency.
  • Respond to editorial feedback and revise content professionally.
  • Meet deadlines and manage multiple assignments under pressure.
  • Demonstrate awareness of audience needs and platform-specific writing styles.

Investigative Journalism and Research Methods

By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:

  • Plan and conduct in-depth investigations on public interest topics.
  • Use open-source intelligence (OSINT) and public records for research.
  • Identify credible sources and cross-verify information.
  • Conduct background checks and build timelines for investigative stories.
  • Handle sensitive information ethically and securely.
  • Structure investigative reports with evidence-based storytelling.
  • Collaborate with editors or peers on long-form investigations.
  • Understand the risks and responsibilities of investigative reporting.

Media Ethics, Law, and Global Standards

By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:

  • Apply key legal principles such as defamation, contempt, and copyright.
  • Recognise ethical dilemmas and apply professional codes of conduct.
  • Understand global standards for press freedom and responsible reporting.
  • Respect privacy, consent, and data protection in journalism.
  • Navigate reporting restrictions in conflict, crisis, or court scenarios.
  • Identify and avoid bias, misinformation, and harmful stereotypes.
  • Balance public interest with ethical responsibility.
  • Reflect on case studies involving ethical breaches or legal challenges.

Digital Media Production and Storytelling

By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:

  • Create multimedia content using text, images, audio, and video.
  • Use basic editing tools for video, audio, and visual storytelling.
  • Adapt stories for digital platforms including websites, blogs, and social media.
  • Apply SEO and metadata techniques to improve content visibility.
  • Integrate interactive elements such as polls, timelines, or infographics.
  • Understand mobile-first and cross-platform publishing strategies.
  • Plan and produce short-form digital stories for online audiences.
  • Evaluate the impact of digital content using analytics and feedback.

Public Communication and Audience Engagement

By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:

  • Identify target audiences and tailor messages accordingly.
  • Use social media platforms to share stories and build engagement.
  • Write for public campaigns, announcements, and community outreach.
  • Monitor audience feedback and respond professionally.
  • Apply storytelling techniques to increase reach and resonance.
  • Understand the role of journalists in shaping public opinion.
  • Use tools like hashtags, tagging, and scheduling to optimise reach.
  • Evaluate the effectiveness of communication strategies using audience data.

Professional Practice in Journalism

By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:

  • Demonstrate time management and organisational skills in a newsroom setting.
  • Work independently and collaboratively on editorial projects.
  • Build a professional portfolio showcasing diverse journalism work.
  • Follow editorial workflows from pitch to publication.
  • Reflect on personal strengths and areas for development.
  • Uphold professional standards in conduct, communication, and accountability.
  • Understand the role of freelancing, pitching, and client communication.
  • Prepare for real-world journalism roles through simulated or live assignments.

The ICTQual Level 3 Diploma in Foundation Journalism equips learners with advanced, real-world skills in reporting, digital media, and public communication. After completing this diploma, learners are well-prepared to enter the media industry, take on freelance projects, or support organisations with impactful storytelling. The qualification also opens doors to further professional development and specialised training.

Where You Can Go Next

  • Apply for entry-level roles in journalism, editorial support, content creation, or media production.
  • Work as a freelance journalist, blogger, or digital storyteller, contributing to online platforms, magazines, or community outlets.
  • Join local or regional newsrooms, supporting reporting, editing, or audience engagement teams.
  • Contribute to NGOs, advocacy groups, or community organisations through media campaigns and public communication.
  • Launch your own news blog, podcast, or YouTube channel focused on niche topics or local stories.
  • Offer freelance services such as article writing, interview transcription, multimedia editing, or social media content.
  • Collaborate with schools, youth groups, or media clubs to mentor aspiring writers and storytellers.
  • Take short specialist courses in investigative journalism, media law, podcasting, or mobile journalism.
  • Build a portfolio for digital marketing, public relations, or communications roles in private or public sectors.
  • Join online journalism networks or forums to share work, find opportunities, and stay updated.
  • Volunteer with community radio stations, digital magazines, or citizen journalism projects.
  • Participate in media ethics workshops, writing challenges, or journalism bootcamps for continuous growth.
  • Explore roles in audience analytics, editorial planning, or newsroom coordination.
  • Support corporate communications teams with internal newsletters, press releases, and stakeholder messaging.
  • Use your skills to train others, lead workshops, or develop media literacy programs in your community.

FAQs

The ICTQual Level 3 Diploma in Foundation Journalism is ideal for learners who want to pursue journalism as a profession or develop advanced media and communication skills. It suits aspiring journalists, bloggers, content creators, and those working in public engagement or advocacy. You don’t need a university degree — just motivation, basic English skills, and a passion for storytelling.

You can apply for entry-level roles in journalism, editorial support, or communications. Many learners start freelance careers, launch blogs or podcasts, or contribute to community media. You can also take short specialist courses or support organisations with public engagement and storytelling. The diploma opens doors to flexible, impactful career paths.

The ICTQual Level 3 Diploma in Foundation Journalism is a 30 Credit hours training programme designed to be completed in full-time study over this period, with a focus on both theoretical learning and practical application.

ICTQual Level 3 Diploma in Foundation Journalism is offered in various formats, including online, in-person, or a combination of both. Participants can choose the format that best fits their schedule and learning preferences. But final decision is made by ATC.

Yes, ICTQual Level 3 Diploma in Foundation Journalism consist of 6 mandatory assessments. These assessments are designed to evaluate participants’ comprehension of course material and their capacity to apply concepts in practical situations. It is mandatory to pass all assessments to achieve this qualification.