Master of Arts in Journalism

The primary purpose of this qualification is to develop the advanced applied competence of qualifying learners in journalism. Advanced applied competence implies the highly developed ability to acquire, analyse, interpret and applied advanced communications principles and theories related to the context of Journalism with relevant sectors of the print and electronic media and the broadcasting industry. Furthermore, learners will develop the highly sophisticated ability to internalise, reflect and communicate highly complex strategic decisions and applications effectively through the progressive and suitable use of scientific language and technical terminology associated with journalism. The qualification will facilitate effective critical learning and foster appropriate research capabilities through exposure to and application of specialised learning and research styles, thereby enabling the learner to navigate and holistically manage the complex, dynamic context of journalism.

Potential learners should be in possession of an Honours Degree in Communication or Journalism with an average of 65% at NQF level 7, with a minimum of 120 credits. Potential learners who are not in possession of such a degree, but who are in possession of a qualification that could be regarded as equivalent to such a qualification, must apply to the Accreditation Committee of the Faculty of Arts for accreditation.

Recognition of prior learning (RPL)

All potential learners who are not in possession of an Honours Degree in Communication or Journalism need to provide proof of an equivalent qualification. Those who claim that they have achieved relevant prior learning which should give them access to the programme need to apply to the Departmental Chairperson of the Department of Communication for Recognition of Prior Learning.

A potential learner who wants to be credited for prior learning, and/or experience for a particular module or modules, needs to apply in writing to the Departmental Chairperson of the Department of Communication, clearly stating the title(s) of the module or modules he/she wants to be credited for, as well as the basis on which he/she believes the accreditation should be granted.

The principles of RPL are subscribed to and will be implemented in a flexible manner. The principle of flexible and open access will, however, be offset by the provision that this is not to the detriment of the potential learner and that his/her chances of success are reasonable.

The Committee will assess learners' competencies in order to determine whether they are eligible for a) access to, b) advanced placement in, or c) recognition of status for this qualification.

Entry Requirements

The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is

• Bachelor of Arts Honours in Journalism, NQF Level 8.

Or

• Postgraduate Diploma in Journalism, NQF Level 8.

1. Identify, evaluate, anticipate and solve advanced Journalism and communication problems using critical and creative thinking.
2. Strategically manage and work effectively with others as a member of a journalism team or a group to identify, solve and critically evaluate highly complex communication and Journalism problems.
3. Organise and manage personal activities related to the Journalism learning process in an accountable manner.
4. Collect, analyse, organise, critically evaluate conceptualise and apply complex information pertaining to journalism.
5. Communicate specialised Journalism information effectively using appropriate communication skills and media, and facilitate effective verbal and non-verbal persuasive communication.
6. Use intricate Journalism science and technology effectively, critically and responsibly to address complex issues pertaining to Journalism.
7. Demonstrate a sophisticated understanding of the related systems of Journalism and the dynamic interrelationship between these nits and the broader context.
8. Acquire and reflect on specialised reflective skills and strategies appropriate to the context of communication and Journalism.
9. Acquire a specialised understanding of the intricate principles of responsible citizenship with regard to journalism in local, national and global communities.
10. Comprehend and apply heightened cultural and aesthetic sensitivity to the process of Journalism.
11. Develop advanced career-development skills within the Journalism employment context.
12. Identify and develop strategic Journalism entrepreneurial opportunities.

1. Did the learner identify, evaluate, anticipate and solve advanced Journalism problems by using critical and creative thinking?
2. Did the learner strategically manage and work effectively with others as a member of a journalism team or a group to identify, solve and critically valuate highly complex communication and Journalism problems?
3. Did the learner organize and manage personal activities related to the Journalism learning process in an accountable manner?
4. Did the learner collect, analyse, organize, critically evaluate conceptualise and apply complex information pertaining to journalism?
5. Did the learner communicate specialized Journalism information effectively using appropriate communication skills and media, and facilitate effective verbal and non-verbal persuasive communication?
6. Did the learner use intricate Journalism science and technology effectively, critically and responsibly to address complex issues pertaining to Journalism?
7. Did the learner demonstrate a sophisticated understanding of the related systems of Journalism and the dynamic interrelationship between these nits and the broader context?
8. Did the learner acquired and reflect on specialized reflective skills and strategies appropriate to the context of communication and Journalism?
9. Did the learner acquire a specialized understanding of the intricate principles of responsible citizenship with regard to journalism in local, national and global communities?
10. Did the learner comprehend and apply heightened cultural and aesthetic sensitivity to the process of Journalism?
11. Did the learner develop advanced career-development skills within the Journalism employment context?
12. Did the learner identify and develop strategic Journalism entrepreneurial opportunities?

Integrated Assessment

Continuous assessment practices form an integral part of the design of this qualification. Learning outcomes are made explicit to learners and there is a coherent assessment strategy in place for each module, with a fair between formative and summative assessment strategies.

Formative assessment practices that will be implemented

A range of formative assessment strategies is used. Formative assessment strategies include, inter alia, short essays, oral presentations to a group of peers, and practical computer-based activities, personal discussions and practical projects. Opportunities for peer assessment are included.

Summative assessment practices that will be implemented

Integrated assessment, focusing on the achievement of the exit-level outcomes, include the drafting of a research proposal and the writing of a research report.

And

For the structured qualification, summative assessment of essays and an oral examination also take place.