ICTQual Level 3 Diploma in Journalism

The ICTQual Level 3 Diploma in Journalism is a robust and internationally aligned qualification designed for learners who are serious about building a career in journalism, media, or public communication. This diploma offers a comprehensive curriculum that blends traditional reporting techniques with modern digital storytelling, investigative research, and ethical media practice.

Structured across six advanced units, the program covers everything from news writing and editorial skills to media law, global standards, and audience engagement. Learners will gain hands-on experience in writing for multiple platforms, conducting interviews, producing multimedia content, and managing real-world journalism tasks. The diploma also explores how journalists can shape public discourse, build trust, and communicate effectively in today’s fast-paced digital environment.

With a total of 30 credits, the ICTQual Level 3 Diploma in Journalism is ideal for aspiring reporters, bloggers, content creators, and communications professionals. It supports learners in building a strong portfolio, developing a professional voice, and understanding the legal and ethical responsibilities of modern journalism. Whether learners aim to work in newsrooms, contribute to community media, or launch their own digital platforms, this qualification provides the structure, credibility, and practical skills to succeed.

The diploma also serves as a progression route from the ICTQual Level 3 Certificate in Foundation Journalism and prepares learners for freelance opportunities, editorial roles, or specialised short courses in investigative journalism, digital publishing, and media ethics.

Course overview

Level 3 Diploma in Journalism

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

  • Age Requirement: Learners must be at least 19 years old at the time of enrolment. This ensures they have the maturity to engage with complex topics such as investigative journalism, media law, and ethical 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, research tasks, and editorial work.
  • Professional Experience: Learners with prior experience in journalism, blogging, content creation, or media-related activities are encouraged to apply.
  • 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 Journalism, consists of 6 mandatory units.

  1. Editorial Writing and Newsroom Techniques
  2. Investigative Reporting and Source Validation
  3. Journalism Ethics, Media Law, and Accountability
  4. Digital Storytelling and Online Publishing
  5. Audience Interaction and Public Messaging
  6. Applied Journalism and Portfolio Development

Learning Outcomes for the ICTQual Level 3 Diploma in Journalism:

Editorial Writing and Newsroom Techniques

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

  • Write structured, engaging news articles using clear leads, transitions, and conclusions.
  • Apply editorial standards to revise and refine written content.
  • Use newsroom workflows to manage assignments and meet deadlines.
  • Tailor writing style for different formats such as briefs, features, and opinion pieces.
  • Collaborate with peers or editors to improve clarity and impact.
  • Follow house style guides and editorial policies.
  • Demonstrate awareness of audience expectations and platform-specific tone.

Investigative Reporting and Source Validation

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

  • Plan and conduct investigations on public interest topics.
  • Identify, verify, and cross-check sources for accuracy and credibility.
  • Use basic research tools including public records and online databases.
  • Handle sensitive information ethically and securely.
  • Structure investigative stories with evidence-based narratives.
  • Recognise risks and responsibilities in investigative journalism.
  • Reflect on feedback to improve depth and clarity of reporting.

Journalism Ethics, Media Law, and Accountability

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

  • Understand key legal concepts such as defamation, copyright, and contempt.
  • Apply ethical principles in reporting sensitive or controversial topics.
  • Follow professional codes of conduct and editorial guidelines.
  • Respect privacy, consent, and data protection laws.
  • Distinguish between public interest and unethical intrusion.
  • Recognise bias, misinformation, and conflicts of interest.
  • Demonstrate accountability and transparency in journalistic practice.

Digital Storytelling and Online Publishing

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

  • Create digital content using text, images, and multimedia elements.
  • Use basic publishing tools and content management systems (CMS).
  • Adapt stories for blogs, websites, and social media platforms.
  • Apply SEO techniques to improve visibility and reach.
  • Format headlines, captions, and metadata for online audiences.
  • Evaluate the impact of digital content using analytics and feedback.
  • Demonstrate mobile-first and cross-platform publishing strategies.

Audience Interaction and Public Messaging

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

  • Identify target audiences and tailor messages for clarity and impact.
  • Use social media tools to share stories and build engagement.
  • Write for public campaigns, announcements, and outreach initiatives.
  • Monitor audience feedback and respond professionally.
  • Apply storytelling techniques to increase reach and resonance.
  • Use hashtags, tagging, and scheduling tools to optimise content delivery.
  • Evaluate communication strategies using audience data and insights.

Applied Journalism and Portfolio Development

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

  • Apply journalism skills in simulated or real-world reporting tasks.
  • Build a professional portfolio showcasing diverse writing and media work.
  • Reflect on personal strengths and areas for improvement.
  • Follow editorial workflows from pitch to publication.
  • Demonstrate time management and organisational skills.
  • Uphold professional standards in conduct and communication.
  • Prepare for freelance or entry-level journalism roles with confidence.

This diploma is more than a qualification it’s a practical foundation for entering the world of journalism, digital media, and public communication. Learners graduate with real-world skills, a professional portfolio, and the confidence to pursue meaningful opportunities across multiple sectors.

What you can do next:

  • Begin working as a junior reporter, editorial assistant, or content writer in local or online media outlets
  • Offer freelance journalism services to blogs, magazines, NGOs, or community platforms
  • Launch your own blog, podcast, or YouTube channel focused on news, storytelling, or public awareness
  • Join community radio stations, youth media clubs, or citizen journalism projects
  • Support NGOs, schools, or advocacy groups with newsletters, press releases, and campaign writing
  • Create and manage social media content for organisations, using storytelling to build engagement
  • Build a professional portfolio showcasing your writing, interviews, and multimedia content
  • Take short specialist courses in podcasting, mobile journalism, media ethics, or digital publishing
  • Collaborate with educators or youth mentors to run workshops or media literacy sessions
  • Contribute to local bulletins, community newsletters, or civic engagement campaigns
  • Explore roles in communications, outreach, or public messaging across various sectors
  • Join online journalism networks or freelance platforms to pitch stories and find paid opportunities
  • Continue developing your skills through real-world reporting, content creation, and feedback from peers or mentors

FAQs

This qualification is ideal for aspiring journalists, bloggers, content creators, and anyone interested in public communication. It’s designed for learners who want practical skills in writing, reporting, and digital storytelling no prior degree required.

Graduates can pursue roles such as junior reporter, editorial assistant, freelance journalist, content creator, or communications assistant. You can contribute to community media, support NGOs with public messaging, or launch your own blog, podcast, or digital platform. The diploma also prepares you for short specialist courses and real-world freelance opportunities.

The ICTQual Level 3 Diploma in 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 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 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.