Stellenbosch University Journalism Requirements
Journalism Honors Program: Application and Course Details
Eligibility and Application Process Prospective students interested in the Journalism Honors Program must hold a bachelor’s degree or be in their final year of pursuing one. Applicants from any undergraduate discipline are welcome, not limited to BA degrees. Each year, after a rigorous selection process, the program admits approximately 25 students.
Entrance Examination and Interview All candidates are required to take an entrance exam in early September. This test evaluates general knowledge, language proficiency, interests, and cultural awareness. Candidates meeting the minimum test score will be invited for a personal interview. Details about the test date are annually updated on our social media channels and website.
Program Duration The program typically begins in the first week of February and concludes with final project submissions by the end of November. Following this, students must complete a mandatory four-week internship at an accredited media organization. Graduation ceremonies are held in March of the subsequent year.
Program Structure This intensive program demands a significant time commitment throughout the academic year. Students engage in daily classes and workshops, undertake regular assignments, participate in reporting excursions, and attend various local events and activities, including weekends. A pivotal part of the learning experience is contributing to the student-managed digital publication, SMFNews.
Plagiarism Policy The Department of Journalism maintains a strict stance against plagiarism, reflective of professional journalism standards. Detailed information on plagiarism and prevention strategies is available on the Library’s website. Students found plagiarizing will receive a zero for the assignment and a formal warning from the department. Repeat violations result in referral to the University’s Central Disciplinary Committee.
Course Modules The program comprises six comprehensive modules, each designed to prepare students for the digital media landscape:
- Journalism Practice (30 credits): This foundational module covers writing and editing across various media formats, including print, online, and social media. It includes a four-week internship at a recognized media institution.
- Multiplatform Journalism (15 credits): Expanding on Journalism Practice, this module focuses on creating content for diverse platforms such as print, online, social media, radio, podcasts, and video.
- Media Studies (20 credits): This module emphasizes critical thinking about media’s societal role, covering media ethics and the importance of context in journalism.
- Media Entrepreneurship (10 credits): Prepares students for careers beyond traditional media, imparting essential entrepreneurial skills.
- Specialist Journalism (15 credits): Industry professionals impart their expertise in areas like Science and Technology, Business, Arts, Politics, and Lifestyle.
- Research Assignment (30 credits): A capstone project testing a range of skills acquired during the program, culminating in a professional-grade media product.
Application Deadline Applications are due by 31 August. The entrance test is scheduled for September each year. Stay updated through our social media and website for specific dates. Admission is contingent on meeting the program’s minimum requirements and passing the entrance test.
Contact us
Department of Journalism,
Stellenbosch University
26 Crozier Street, Stellenbosch
Private Bag X1, Matieland, 7602
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