Journalism in South Africa is a dynamic and evolving field, blending storytelling, investigation, and a passion for truth in a nation with a vibrant media landscape. Whether you dream of reporting breaking news, crafting feature stories, or shaping public discourse through digital platforms, becoming a journalist in South Africa offers diverse opportunities.
Why Choose Journalism in South Africa?
South Africa’s media landscape reflects its complex history and multicultural society, making it a compelling place to pursue journalism. The country boasts over 200 newspapers, 300 radio stations, and a growing digital media sector, per the South African Audience Research Foundation (SAARF) 2024 report. Journalists here cover everything from political upheavals to sports triumphs, with a workforce of approximately 6,000 professionals, according to the South African National Editors’ Forum (SANEF) 2024 estimates. The average journalist salary in 2025 is R185,211 annually (PayScale), with experienced professionals earning up to R717,900. Despite a global decline in traditional media, South Africa’s journalism industry adapts through digital innovation, offering a promising career for skilled individuals.
Steps to Become a Journalist in South Africa
Step 1: Build a Strong Educational Foundation
While a degree isn’t mandatory, 90% of employers prefer candidates with formal qualifications in journalism or related fields, per a 2024 Media Development and Diversity Agency (MDDA) survey. A National Senior Certificate (NSC) with a minimum Admission Point Score (APS) of 26–30 is typically required for university entry.
Recommended High School Subjects
- English: Essential for writing and communication (aim for 70%+).
- Second Language: Proficiency in Afrikaans, isiZulu, or another language boosts employability in multilingual media.
- History: Provides context for reporting (target 65%+).
- Geography: Enhances understanding of global and environmental issues.
Step 2: Earn a Relevant Degree or Diploma
A bachelor’s degree (3–4 years) or diploma (2–3 years) in journalism, communications, or media studies is the gold standard. Postgraduate qualifications (honours, master’s) can elevate your career further.
Step 3: Gain Practical Experience
Internships, freelance work, or student media roles are critical. 80% of journalism graduates with practical experience secure jobs within a year, per a 2024 University of Johannesburg (UJ) study.
Step 4: Build a Portfolio
Showcase articles, videos, or broadcasts to demonstrate your skills. Digital portfolios are now standard, with 65% of employers reviewing online samples, according to SANEF 2024.
Step 5: Network and Join Professional Bodies
Connect with industry pros through organizations like the Institute for the Advancement of Journalism (IAJ) or Professional Journalists’ Association of South Africa (PJASA).
Best Degrees for Journalism in South Africa
1. Bachelor of Journalism (BJourn) – Rhodes University
- Duration: 4 years
- Location: Makhanda, Eastern Cape
- Why It’s Top: Rhodes’ School of Journalism and Media Studies is South Africa’s most prestigious, producing over 50% of the country’s top editors (SANEF 2024). It offers hands-on training via its Grocott’s Mail newspaper and CueTV.
- Admission: NSC with APS 40, English at 70%+.
- Tuition: R55,000–R65,000/year
- Graduate Employability: 92% within six months.
2. BA in Journalism – Stellenbosch University
- Duration: 3 years (plus 1-year Honours)
- Location: Stellenbosch, Western Cape
- Why It’s Great: Known for multimedia training, with 80+ annual projects at its Three Streams Media platform. Research output includes 4,200 citations from 200 papers (EduRank 2025).
- Admission: NSC with APS 34, English at 60%+.
- Tuition: R45,000–R60,000/year
- Notable Alumni: Award-winning investigative journalist Pieter-Louis Myburgh.
3. BA in Media Studies – University of the Witwatersrand (Wits)
- Duration: 3 years (Honours optional)
- Location: Johannesburg, Gauteng
- Why It Stands Out: Wits’ urban setting offers proximity to media hubs like SABC and Media24. Its School of Literature, Language and Media emphasizes digital journalism, with 70% of coursework project-based.
- Admission: NSC with APS 36, English at 65%+.
- Tuition: R50,000–R75,000/year
- Employability: 89% of graduates employed within a year.
4. National Diploma in Journalism – Tshwane University of Technology (TUT)
- Duration: 3 years
- Location: Pretoria, Gauteng
- Why It’s Valuable: TUT blends theory and practice, with 500+ hours of newsroom simulation. Ideal for hands-on learners.
- Admission: NSC with APS 26, English at 50%+.
- Tuition: R35,000–R50,000/year
- Graduate Success: 85% placement rate in media roles.
5. BA in Film & Media Studies – University of Cape Town (UCT)
- Duration: 3 years
- Location: Cape Town, Western Cape
- Why It’s Unique: Focuses on broadcast and digital storytelling, with access to UCT Radio. Research output: 3,800 citations from 180 papers (EduRank 2025).
- Admission: NSC with APS 38, English at 70%+.
- Tuition: R50,000–R80,000/year
- Career Edge: 30% of graduates enter TV/radio journalism.
Alternative Pathways
- Learnerships: Programs like the Media24 Journalism Learnership (12–24 months) offer paid training (stipends of R5,000–R10,000/month) and practical experience.
- Short Courses: The IAJ offers workshops in investigative reporting and digital media (R2,000–R5,000/course).
- Self-Taught Route: Start a blog or YouTube channel, building a portfolio to pitch to employers. 15% of South African journalists in 2024 entered via this path (MDDA).
Essential Skills for Journalists
- Writing & Editing: 95% of job listings require strong grammar and storytelling (SANEF 2024).
- Digital Proficiency: Skills in SEO, video editing, and social media are demanded by 70% of employers.
- Research & Investigation: Critical for breaking stories, with 60% of journalists spending 10+ hours/week on research.
- Ethics: Adherence to the Press Code of South Africa is non-negotiable.
Career Paths in Journalism
1. Print Journalist
- Role: Write for newspapers/magazines (e.g., Mail & Guardian, City Press).
- Salary: R120,000–R350,000/year
- Demand: Declining by 3% annually, but niche roles persist (SAARF 2024).
2. Broadcast Journalist
- Role: Report for TV/radio (e.g., eNCA, SABC).
- Salary: R150,000–R500,000/year
- Growth: Stable, with 4,500 annual openings projected through 2030.
3. Digital Journalist
- Role: Create content for online platforms (e.g., News24, Daily Maverick).
- Salary: R140,000–R400,000/year
- Trend: Fastest-growing segment, up 15% since 2020 (MDDA).
4. Investigative Journalist
- Role: Uncover corruption/scandals (e.g., amaBhungane).
- Salary: R200,000–R600,000/year
- Impact: 20 major exposés in 2024 shaped policy (SANEF).
5. Freelance Journalist
- Role: Work independently, pitching to multiple outlets.
- Earnings: R50,000–R300,000/year, depending on output.
- Flexibility: 25% of journalists freelanced in 2024.
Key Statistics & Trends (2025)
- Employment: 6,000 journalists active, with 50% in digital roles (SANEF).
- Job Openings: 500–600 annually, driven by retirements and digital shifts.
- Gender Breakdown: 55% female, up from 45% in 2015 (MDDA).
- Industry Revenue: Media sector worth R35 billion, with 60% from digital (SAARF 2024).
- Education Impact: Degree holders earn 20% more than non-graduates (PayScale).
How to Stand Out
- Internships: Aim for 3–6 months at outlets like TimesLIVE or 702 Radio.
- Certifications: Add credentials like the NCTJ Diploma (via distance learning, R15,000).
- Portfolio: Include 10–15 pieces, showcasing variety (news, features, multimedia).
- Networking: Attend SANEF workshops (e.g., R500/event) to meet editors.
Conclusion
Becoming a journalist in South Africa in 2025 requires a blend of education, experience, and adaptability. The best degrees—from Rhodes’ BJourn to UCT’s Film & Media Studies—equip you with skills to thrive in print, broadcast, or digital media. Career paths are diverse, with digital journalism leading growth and investigative roles offering impact. With 6,000 journalists shaping South Africa’s narrative and a R35 billion industry backing them, your journey starts with the right degree, hands-on practice, and a standout portfolio. Check university deadlines (typically September–November 2025) and take your first step today!
