Diploma in Journalism
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Description
This two-year diploma program focuses on training in applied journalism skills to prepare students for entry-level jobs in print, on-line and multi-media jounalism. Students are also required to complete academic courses, and courses in popular culture, communication theory, law and ethics. Successful completion of the journalism diploma or an equivalent journalism program is required for acceptance into the Bachelor of Journalism degree.
Career Opportunities
The Journalism Diploma program prepares graduates to:
- Apply for entry-level reporting, editing and photography positions in journalism and related fields
- Work as a freelancer
Kwantlen’s Journalism program celebrates a high rate of employment for its graduates.
Student Profile
Applicants include high school graduates with strong English skills and an interest in writing and current events; postsecondary students who have previously completed academic subjects; and mature students who are returning to university in order to make a career change and increase marketable skills. Most diploma students are full-time but some qualified part-time students may be accommodated in the second year of the program as space allows. Applicants who have industry experience and want to take specific courses on a part-time basis may do so with the permission of the Program Coordinator. English language entrance requirements apply to all students. Some course prerequisites may be waived based on work experience. Contact the Program Coordinator for further information.
Entrance Requirements
Applicants are encouraged to apply as early as possible, as admission is based on date of application once the applicant has met entrance requirements.
Because writing is a fundamental component of journalism, the following admission requirements apply:
- Completion of English 12 with a grade of B or higher or equivalent
Applicants must also provide the following by the application deadline:
- A brief resumé
- A 500-word essay explaining why they are interested in journalism
Applicants must attend an interview at Kwantlen’s Richmond campus at a designated time, after acceptance of application, resumé and essay. Potential students will have the opportunity to meet faculty, ask questions about the program and determine what the program entails. (Arrangements will be made to accommodate out-of-town applicants).
During this appointment, applicants will complete a current events quiz, and must obtain a minimum grade of 60 per cent to qualify as a candidate for acceptance into the program. The purpose of this quiz is to demonstrate an interest, familiarity and understanding of basic knowledge essential to the successful pursuit of journalism. Applicants who have limited computer skills will find it difficult to keep up with writing assignments, and will be advised to upgrade their skills before starting the program.
Content
The Journalism Diploma Program is organized into four semesters and requires completion of 60 credits. Students concentrate on general knowledge and on developing the skills, work habits and attitudes they will need to succeed both as students and as professionals. During their two years of study, students will:
- Develop a broad knowledge of journalism and develop critical-thinking skills through course work which covers areas such as popular culture, communication theory, law and ethics
- Train in specific skill areas such as news and feature writing, interviewing, photography, editing, layout, and industry- standard software
- Develop sound work habits, such as effective time management, teamwork, and setting objectives and standards
- Develop appropriate attitudes through exposure to the legal, ethical and societal constraints under which they will be expected to function
Required Courses
- FIRST-YEAR
- JRNL 1100 Explorations in Mass Communications (transferable to SFU)
- JRNL 1123 Newspaper Writing & Editing
- JRNL 1130 Photography for Print Media
- JRNL 1141 Visual Design with Computers
- JRNL 1160 Introduction to Journalism
- JRNL 1231 Basic Photojournalism
- JRNL 1261 Advanced Journalism
- JRNL 1262 Political Reporting
- JRNL 1265 Feature Writing
- JRNL 1273 Newspaper Production and Editing
- First-year English or Political Science in each semester
- SECOND-YEAR
- JRNL 2301 Media and Audiences (transferable to SFU)
- JRNL 2332 Advanced Photojournalism
- JRNL 2353 Research Techniques
- JRNL 2373 Newspaper Publication I
- JRNL 2401 Ethics and the Media
- JRNL 2402 Broadcast I: Introduction to Radio Reporting
- JRNL 2463 Investigative Journalism
- JRNL 2471 Work Experience *
- JRNL 2477 Newspaper Publication II
- First-year course in Humanities, Social Science, or Science**
*Note: Work experience: Students spend four weeks working full-time at a print and/or online publication. This allows them to test and develop their skills in a working environment, and to receive direction and feedback from editors.
**Note: To be taken in the fall semester, as spring semester classes are shortened because of the Work Experience.
Electives
In addition to the journalism courses, students must take:
- Three general education courses, (nine credits) including one first-year English, one first-year Political Science, and either a Humanities, Social Science, or Science course
Graduation
Upon successful completion of this program, students will be awarded a Diploma in Journalism.
