- What are the entry requirements?
There are no entry requirements for the distance learning course, however when applying for jobs reporters are usually required to have a minimum of five GCSE passes or equivalent – one of these must be in English.
We recommend that you complete a self-test before purchasing the course materials.
You can find the self test marking guide here.
- How many credits do I need to complete the diploma qualification?
You must complete the four mandatory skills modules plus a selection of elective skills modules to reach a minimum of 82 credits overall. The mandatory skills modules are worth a combined total of 47 credits. A further 35 credits minimum are required from the available elective skills modules. The credits are shown in this handy chart.
- What is the pass grade for each module?
To pass a module, learners must achieve a grade of A-E (if taking shorthand, a minimum speed of 60 words per minute is required). Learners should aim to achieve an A-C grade in each module to reach the industry gold standard which is recognised by journalist employers.
- Do I have to pay for the distance learning modules in one purchase?
No, you can purchase the modules in one bulk order or one at a time. We would recommend that you purchase the mandatory modules package first and work through those before purchasing the elective options. The mandatory modules will equip you with the essential knowledge and skills you need to operate effectively as a trainee journalist and the elective options build on those skills in specific subject areas.
- Do I have to study the modules in order?
Not necessarily but it is strongly recommended that you complete the core modules first as they form the backbone of learning.
- Are textbooks included in the course cost?
Textbooks are included in the price of the modules.
- How does it work for international shipping?
Shipping overseas costs extra. Price depends on where we are shipping to.
- Do I need to arrange work experience?
If you are not already working in the journalism industry, you should arrange your own work experience so that you can write stories for the portfolio element of the course. It is also important to get industry experience so that you can put what you are learning into practice. Work experience is just as important as the theory side of journalism otherwise you are going to go out looking for a job at a disadvantage compared to other applicants.
- How long does it take to complete the diploma course?
It depends on individual learning speeds and your available time to study and dedication.
Typically, learners can achieve the qualification within 12-18 months.
We strongly recommend that you aim to complete the Diploma in Journalism within 24 months.
The structure, requirements and availability of modules can change because the NCTJ reviews and updates all its diploma materials to reflect the needs of the industry.
The NCTJ will communicate any significant changes to the qualification to learners in advance and annual updates to individual modules are communicated each year in September.
The estimated number of learning hours per module required by a typical learner to gain the qualification (please note, this is for guidance purposes and not a requirement) are below:
Mandatory skills modules Learning hours Essential journalism 220 hours Essential journalism e-portfolio 120 hours Essential journalism ethics and regulation 30 hours Essential media law and regulation 100 hours Elective skills modules Learning hours Business and finance journalism 70 hours Editing skills for journalists 70 hours Journalism for a digital audience 70 hours Media law court reporting 70 hours Practical magazine journalism 140 hours PR and communications for journalists 140 hours Public affairs for journalists 70 hours Radio journalism 70 hours Shorthand for journalists 140 hours (to 100wpm) Sports journalism 70 hours TV journalism 70 hours Videojournalism for digital platforms 70 hours - What is gold standard and how do I achieve it?
Learners who achieve grades of A-C in each module completed (if taking shorthand, a minimum speed of 100 words per minute is required) will be awarded the industry ‘Gold Standard’ Diploma in Journalism.
To set yourself apart and increase your employability, all learners should strive to reach industry ‘Gold Standard’ level.
- How do I access tutor support?
Each Diploma in Journalism distance learning unit you have purchased includes 1 hour of tutor support time.
Tutor support is flexible and you can choose how to use your support time.
A tutor can help with content queries, review your work or mark a mock exam for you.
Additional tutor support time may also be purchased if required.
To book your tutor support.
- Do I have to take exams on certain dates?
Yes – national exams are open to all diploma candidates and are scheduled throughout the year and can be accessed here.
- What if I’ve booked an exam and then don’t feel ready to sit the exam?
You will need a good reason to cancel the exam and receive a refund e.g., for medical reasons. Evidence will need to be provided for the NCTJ to offer a refund. As per our website, In the event of a cancellation or non-attendance, exams are non-refundable. Deferrals will only be considered in exceptional circumstances, in line with the NCTJ reasonable adjustments and special considerations policy.
Distance learning allows you to complete your NCTJ Diploma in Journalism step by step, fitting study around your work and other commitments. The qualification is widely recognised by employers across the industry, with 79 per cent of diploma holders working in journalism-related roles within 15 months.
At a glance:
- Start at any time and work at your own pace
- Pay per module
- Tutor support throughout your studies (one hour per module)
- Sit assessments when you’re ready
Is distance learning right for you?
Distance learning is designed to fit around your circumstances. It could be right for you if you:
- Can’t attend an in-person course
- Are working or have other commitments
- Want to study at your own pace
- Are changing career or returning to journalism
- Want to complete or build on existing NCTJ study
How it works
You need to complete 82 credits, made up of a set of core modules and a choice of optional modules. You’ll build credits as you progress towards the full qualification.
- Choose your modules: Select the modules you want to study, starting with the core modules.
- Study flexibly: Access your learning materials via our online e-learning platform and study in your own time, with support from experienced tutors
- Complete assessments: Assessments for each module can be booked when you feel ready
Entry requirements
There are no formal entry requirements. However, when applying for journalism roles, employers will usually expect a minimum of five GCSE passes (or equivalent), including English. We recommend completing our self-test before getting started, to help you decide whether this qualification is the right option for you. You can find the self-test marking guide here.
If you’re unsure, we can advise.How long does it take?
As distance learning is flexible, the time it takes to complete your qualification will depend on your pace and availability. Some learners complete the diploma within a year, while others take longer. Each module includes guided learning hours to help you plan your study (more details below).
Assessments
Assessments are required for each module and can be booked when you feel ready. We hold national exams three times a year, which can be sat in-centre or remotely from home. Shorthand exams are also held three times a year.
Fees and formats vary depending on the module.What you’ll study
The NCTJ Diploma is made up of core (mandatory) modules and elective modules. You’ll need to achieve 82 credits to complete the qualification. To achieve the gold standard, you’ll need A-C grades in all modules and, if taken, 100wpm shorthand. View our handy qualification chart. View full module list, including prices and credits, below:
