Sports journalism is a dynamic and popular field of expertise, where passions for all kinds of sport and journalism unite. Competition for work is fierce and often, an amount of ingenuity and luck are required to get started.
In response to this enthusiasm, and to help the most dedicated aspiring sports journalists stand out from the crowd, the NCTJ has created a distance learning package to help them develop knowledge and gain a qualification that will be recognised and respected in the industry.
It teaches students how to cover sports, but the essential basics of journalism, like news writing, media law, public affairs and shorthand, must also be understood to become a competent sports journalist.
The sports journalism distance learning package has been designed to follow the NCTJ-accredited sports journalism syllabus, so learners are following a tried and tested route to success. Study leads to a two-part sports journalism exam, which will be held twice a year.
Covering everything a sports journalist needs to know to get started, the course will be popular with those looking to gain skills in this field but are unable to attend a centre-based course. It may also be of interest to trainees or reporters looking to specialise in sports reporting.
Dave King, NCTJ chief examiner for sport journalism, said: “This thorough and professional course is a great opportunity for young journalists to get a first foot on the ladder of sports journalism. Its wide and varied curriculum will challenge students and equip them with the skills they will need to achieve success in the high-octane world of sports journalism.”
The course covers:
· Introduction to sports reporting
· The sports news cycle: sports reporting in general
· Press conferences and interviewing
· Sports knowledge, sports public affairs and sports politics
· Sports features
· Subbing sports stories
The new sports journalism distance learning course will be available to buy from Monday, 2 March, priced £95 plus VAT, through the NCTJ’s online shop. The book to be studied with the course – Sports Journalism – A Practical Introduction, by Phil Andrews – is included in the course price, but is also sold separately at the RRP of £21.99, through the NCTJ eStore. Individual tutor support is also available at an additional cost.
