Researching accredited courses

Which course is for you?

All NCTJ courses meet the accreditation standard and follow the NCTJ curriculum, and all are designed to give you the best possible chance to get a job in journalism. However, course structures vary, so you may want to consider the following questions when weighing up which course would suit you best:

• Are you interested in including academic study in your course?
• Do you want to focus exclusively on vocational training leading to NCTJ qualifications?
• What length of study are you considering? NCTJ courses range from 17 weeks to four years.
• Compare the cost of a number of courses, as the fees vary.
• If you are going to move away from your current residence to study, does the learning centre offer guidance on finding accommodation?
• All courses include "real-world" journalism activities. Check that your particular interests will be catered for.
• What are the facilities like at the learning centres you are interested in?
• What academic qualifications and/or work experience are required to gain a place on the course?
• What work placement experience does the course expect while on the course?
• What existing relationships with local media companies does the course have?
• What are the course’s exam results from the previous year? The past three years can be found on the NCTJ’s exam results table on this website.
• Which optional NCTJ diploma modules does the course offer?