Call us: +44 (0)1227 789 649 - Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm
Journalism
Journalism 800 Hours Advanced Diploma
Contact us
Learn About Journalism
Advanced Diploma in Journalism course online.
Become a successful journalist. Being paid to write is a dream shared by many because journalism is a challenging and exciting profession. Writing well under pressure and writing to a Newspaper’s requirements is very important.
This course will teach you the skills you need to achieve your potential, but you will also need to be able to write fast under pressure.
Journalists are primarily writers who are writing for periodicals (ie. things published at regular intervals). Some journalists work on staff for a publisher (full time or part time) from the publishers office, while others may work freelance or contract from home, submitting articles which have been commissioned, or on spec (ie. in the hope they will be accepted).
A good way to begin your career in journalism is as a freelance writer. With persistence and the right writing skills, you can develop a reputation and network of publishers who will regulary accept your work, leading to you being able to earn a comfortable living from your writing, or to gaining employment in the industry.
As an in-house journalist, you may find yourself performing a range of other jobs in the office where you work, particularly in smaller publishing houses. So additional skills in editing and other media delivery disciplines may be worth considering.
Journalism requires a modern approach and so you may find some accredited courses reliance on learning by rote, not really up to the task in preparing you for future journalistic practices (1).
This Advanced Diploma and our Higher Advanced Diploma with 4 additional modules to be completed, have been carefully designed to give you a fighting chance of being successful in a highly competitive industry.
This Advanced Diploma in Journalism is endorsed by TQUK –  an Ofqual approved awarding organisation.
Course Information
Other Categories
Lessons
Advanced Diploma in Journalism: VWR003
There are 8 modules to complete: 6 compulsory and 2 elective:
Compulsory Modules: Higher Advanced Diploma in Journalism: VWR003
- Gain practical journalism experience. Develop your ability to write articles to specification and submit those articles for publication in a periodical (ie. Newspaper, Magazine or Ezine). By the end of this course, you will actually have something published. More….
- Expand your practical journalism opportunities. Like Journalism Practice 1, this module gives you valuable experience in writing for a student publication, which will greatly enhance your resume. Publishers are more likely to employ writers who have already been published. More….
- If you love writing and want to improve your skills, network with other writers, and get personal guidance, then, this course is for you. Tutors are exceptionally well qualified, with university degrees and more than five years experience in writing and publishing. More….
- Learn to write effectively. This course is particularly useful for people who wish to brush up on their writing skills, or to obtain basic skills which they should have, but did not develop properly while at school. It aims to provide an understanding of how to write clearly and efficiently, and to communicate thoughts in the minimum number of words, and without any ambiguity. More….
- Understand how to write as a freelancer and how publishers buy from freelance writers. Learn everything from good grammar, to planning and writing newspaper and magazine articles, advertisements, books and more. Emphasis is placed on things which are important to publishers who might buy your work. Tutors concentrate on your ability to properly structure an article, and to be both concise and clear in your use of words. More….
- Study Research online and learn to plan and conduct research relating to Journalism. Develop your ability to collect, collate and interpret data and prepare reports in ways relevant to the work environment. Monitor and evaluate your own work in order to develop a responsible attitude to workplace performance and quality assurance. Learn to explain research methods, including experimental techniques, commonly used in your discipline. More….
Elective Modules: Advanced Diploma in Journalism: VWR003 – Choose 2
- Enhance your freelance writing skills! This is a course for people who already have skills in freelance writing, who have perhaps had some minor work published, but need to improve their overall technique and develop a more “efficient” approach to their work. More….
- A biography is neither a diary nor a journal. It’s more than a collection of ‘she did this’ and ‘he did that’. Although biographies are writing about life, it’s more useful to think of them as a collection of writings about life events. i.e. What are the key events in your subject’s life? How do these tie around a central theme or purpose? More….
- Write drama like a professional! There are many different types of writing – short stories, poems, novels, screen plays etc. Dramatic writing can fall into all of these. A short story usually takes place over a shorter period of time. Choose this course if you would like to report on the theatre or movies etc, to convey the excitement of the play or film to your audience. More….
4Â Editing I
- Learn the basics of editing Editors work for publications both in house, and outside, as contractors. A good editor is always in demand; and with the internet, today’s editors can often work from virtually anywhere in the world. Alone, this course does not make you into a professional editor, but it can lead to valuable career opportunities when combined with other courses that develop your knowledge and skills in journalism. More….
5Â Editing II
- Develop your editing skills. This course is designed for self-editors, aspiring professional editors and desktop publishers. Its aim is to develop the students understanding of the editing processes and acquire the capacity to edit a broad range of publishing material including both print and electronic media, text and graphics, commercial and non commercial material. More….
- Learn to write successfully in your specialist area. Develop skills to write technical information for a variety of different purposes. Students taking this course should have a basic understanding of technical writing including referencing procedures. If the subject is totally new, you may need to undertake some additional reading before progressing beyond the first lesson. More….
- If you work in the industry that you have been studying; you may submit a reference from your employer, in an effort to satisfy this industry (ie. workplace project) requirement; on the basis of RPL (ie. recognition for prior learning.) This can be achieved through your current and past work experience. The reference must indicate that you have skills and an awareness of your industry, which is sufficient for you to work in a position of responsibility. If you do not work in the relevant industry, you will need to undertake a project. More….
Learning Goals
Please see lesson titles for your learning goals.
Practical (Set Tasks)
Examinations
Program Summary
More Information
(1) Source: Guardian Newspaper Editorial Read More….
Being paid to write things is a dream shared by many. It can be an exciting profession, but before embarking on a substantial course of study whit us or anyone else; be sure you fully understand what is involved. Some people simply don’t succeed perhaps because the dream is not the same as the reality; or maybe they are simply not the right personality. This job is not just about writing well: it also requires you to be able to write fast, work under pressure. You also need to be prepared to write what an employer wants, which is not always the same as what you want. This is the reality of journalism. If you can get past these considerations, and with a bit of luck, you may be able to forge a serious career.
Assessment
Assessment is based on a combination of completing all assignments and sitting for a final short one and a half hour exam, in your own location.
If you don’t cope well with exams then you may elect to undertake a project instead. This is a popular option.
In addition, most modules have a Set Task at the end of each lesson placed before the assignment. This is an opportunity to undertake practical work to help you acquire knowledge and skills and practical experience. This ADL feature is an added bonus not found at most online schools. Set Tasks are not required for assessment.Â
Some courses also have optional Self-Tests which are available on our online learning platform. These are not available by correspondence or by USB, and do not form part of your overall grade.
How our courses work
- Choose Your Learning Method
You choose how you would like to receive your course material, i.e., Online, USB or Correspondence. The choice is yours. You may also work on online or offline. - Tutor Allocation
Every student is assigned their own dedicated tutor who is an expert in their subject area. They provide as much or as little individual contact as you require. You can contact your tutor whenever you need – your hours are not limited. - Feedback and Assignments
Tutor Feedback is an essential component in helping you understand the subject matter. Tutor feedback is given in the form of notes written on the assignment. We encourage you to contact your Tutor where help with clarification and understanding of course material may be required.
Your assignments are located at the end of each lesson. You submit them for marking whenever you are ready. There is no time limit.  - Set Tasks and Self-Tests
Most modules have a Set Task at the end of each lesson before for the assignment. This is where you get the opportunity to undertake practical work to help you acquire knowledge, skills and practical experience. Many modules also have short Self-Tests. - Exams
Once all assignments have been completed you may then elect to sit for a one and half hour exam in your own location. If you prefer not to take the exam you do have the option to undertake a project instead.
Once the exam or project part of the course is completed, your Certificate is then processed. Please allow approximately 4 weeks for this. - Design Your Own Qualification
ADL offers students the flexibility to self-design their own qualification – bundling together a combination of 100-hour modules into a qualification higher than a certificate.
FAQ
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Here is a list of the most often asked FAQ’s.
General
Q. Why should I enrol with the Academy for Distance Learning?
A. Here at ADL, our students are our priority – we treat everyone as a unique individual.
Q. Do I need to buy text books?
A. No, as each module has been written by highly qualified industry professionals. The content of the material is presented in such a way that text books are not required. However, if you require additional reading your tutor will be able to supply a list.
Q. What happens if I have to stop studying for a while? (eg. become sick, go on holidays, have a baby, move house, etc)
A. It’s OK to take a break and start up your study at a later point in time. Just let us know.
Q. Is there an age limit?
A. There is no maximum age limit. We do however, have a minimum age limit of 18 years. Below that age parental consent would be required.
Q. Are your courses up-to date?
A. Our courses are revised and updated on a rotation system.
Q. Do you have a Cancellation policy?
A. Yes. We have a cancellation policy that is fair and equitable. For further details please click here.
Q. Will I have any opportunity to engage with other students?
A. We have a Student Community group based on facebook! If you don’t have a facebook account already, you could make one just for talking with fellow students on the group.
Enrolment
Q. When can I enrol/start?
A. You may enrol and start at any time of the year – it’s all self- paced.
Q. Can I study from anywhere in the world?
A. Our courses are available to anyone, anywhere in the world from the comfort of your own home. The course content is relevant to any country, culture or economy.
Q. How long do I have to complete the course?
A. You complete the course at any time that is convenient for you.
Q. Completing a 100 hour module – how long will it take?
A. For some students a 100 hour module will take approximately to 3- 6 months to complete. Others take less time and some even longer.
Assessment
Q. Assessment – how does it work?
A. For each 100 hour module you are assessed by assignments (at the end of each lesson) and a final one and a half hour exam (or you may elect to complete a Project, instead of sitting the exam) – the choice is yours – you sit for the exam in your own location.
Q. I don’t cope well with exams – what can I do?
A. You may elect to undertake a Project (set by your tutor) instead of sitting the exam. Projects are completed from your home and can usually take a couple of weeks to complete.
Q. If my assignment is not up to standard is there an opportunity to resubmit my work?
A. Yes –
Q. How many assignments do I need to complete for each module?
A. At the end of each lesson, there is an assignment – so if a course has say, 10 lessons, there would be 10 assignments.
Q. I am having difficulty attending workshops/industry meetings, what can be done?
A. If your course requires attendance at workshops, conferences, or industry meetings; alternative arrangements can be made in your country.
Qualifications
Q. What qualification will I receive?
A. For individual modules, you would be awarded a Certificate endorsed by TQUK (Training Qualifications, UK), providing you complete all assignments and the exam. If you just want to complete only the assignments and not sit for the exam or finish a Project, then a Letter of Achievement would be awarded. For more details on qualifications available please click here.
Q. Can I customize my diploma/higher qualification?
A. Not all educational institution’s certificates /diplomas meet everyone’s needs. The opportunity to Design Your Own Diploma at the Academy (subject to our approval) is an added bonus, not found at other colleges. You choose modules that you think will help you in achieving your goal.
Q. What do I get when I complete the course? Will I receive a transcript?
A. At the completion of all courses and providing all assignments and exam requirements have been met, you will receive your Award and a Transcript.
Tutors
Q. Our tutors – who are they?
A. We appoint Tutors and require that they must be currently active in their industry, with at least 5 years’ experience in their chosen profession.
Q. Can I contact my tutor at any time?
A. Yes – you have unlimited access to your tutor via email through our Online Classroom. You can always leave a message with ADL requesting your tutor to contact you. You decide on how much or how little contact you wish to have.
Q. Practical work – How is this done?
A. To find out more about this part of the course please visit the section on How Our Courses Work here.
Career Options
What's Included
What your tuition fees include
- All Course Material via Online, USB or Correspondence
- Assignments Marked
- Professional Tutor Feedback
- Set Tasks - Practical Exercises to help you develop skills
- Self-Tests – multiple choice questions at the end of lessons in most modules
- Unlimited Personal Tutor Support – via our student classroom
- Committed and Friendly Admin Support – vital to your success
- All ADL Exam or Project fees (exception RHS exams)
- Qualification Certificate
- Official Transcript with assignment grades
- Student Manual
Plus FREE
- Academic Writing course (optional - 10 hours only)
- Critical Thinking course (optional - 10 hours only)
- Job Seekers Careers Guide
- Study Tips on How To Study Better
- Career Counselling by ADL Staff
- CV Writing Help, Tips and Advice
There are no hidden extras
Career Opportunities
FAQ - RHS Theory Qualifications
GENERALÂ
If you require further details about any of the RHS industry recognised qualifications please, call one of our friendly RHS Course Advisors on +44 (0)1227 789 649 or email: [email protected]
Q:Â When can I Enrol/Start My RHS Course With ADL?
A: Anytime, Anywhere. There are no enrolment deadlines.
Q:Â I live Overseas. Can I Study From Overseas?
A: You can study any of the RHS theory qualifications overseas. All courses are offered in English. You will need to email RHS Qualifications direct to arrange sitting for your examination overseas.
Q: Is There a Time Limit for Completing an RHS Qualification?
A: At present there are no time limits. However, RHS is contemplating in the future, the introduction of course time-lines.
Q:Â Are There Any Entry Requirements (Pre-Requisites)?
A:Â The RHS Theory courses do not require prerequisites, previous experience or any knowledge of horticulture. You just need passion for all things horticulture.
Q: What Course Should I Start With First? I Am New To RHS Qualifications.
A: We highly recommend that you start with Level 2 – Principles of Garden Planning, Establishment and Maintenance.
Q:Â What Does ADL Course Material Include?
A:Â Includes Power Point Presentations, Videos and written course lessons.
RHS EXAMS
Q:Â When Do Exams Take Place?
A: Exams are held on fixed dates in February and June of each year. You should register as a candidate at least 3 months before these dates, so please do not leave exam registration to the last minute
Q:Â Where Do I Take My Exams?
A:Â UK: You take the exams at the RHS Wisley Centre, located between Cobham and Ripley in Surrey or at other authorised RHS centres around the UK.
Overseas: please email RHS qualifications direct for centre information.
Q:Â Exam Pass Marks?
A:  Module – pass 50%.  Commendation 70%.
Qualification:Â 50% pass for all modules.
Commendation awarded for all modules.
Each question carries a value of 10 marks.
Q: I’m Not Happy With My Exam Results?
A:Â You have the opportunity to re-sit your exam at the next opportunity.
There are no restrictions on the number of re-sits you can take. The highest mark you achieve will remain.,