Rhodes University Post graduate Diploma In Journalism and Media Studies
PGDip JMS
The PGDip JMS is aimed at students who have typically done a non-journalism degree and are looking for a postgraduate route into the media industry. It is a one-year intensive programme in which media studies and media practices are blended to enable students to begin a career in the media industry. It is, therefore, an effective bridging course between any academic discipline and a rewarding life in media production. It is also a quick gateway to media practice for people who want to change careers. Think of it as a three or four-year journalism degree course compressed into just nine months. Diploma students emerge from this course with a strong portfolio of published and publishable work in print and online. Graduates have gone on to become print, online and broadcast reporters, feature writers, editors, foreign correspondents, freelancers, academics, communication officers and even spokespeople for government and big corporates.
For more information email the Post-Graduate Administrator, ammadmin@ru.ac.za.
Q: Who can apply to study the Post Graduate Diploma in Journalism and Media Studies?
A: One need not have any specialised qualification to do the PGDip besides a recognised first degree. This is because the PGDip course requirements make certain assumptions of prior learning which make it very difficult, if not impossible, for someone without a first degree to succeed. That is why it’s called a postgraduate diploma (and not a higher diploma which could bridge from a certificate or another diploma). Places in the PGDip are competitively awarded, and applicants have to motivate for entry. (See below)
Q: Can a student use the PGDip as stepping stone to pursue other postgraduate courses?
A: The PGDip is a stand-alone qualification and is not designed as a bridge to any other qualification in the School of Journalism and Media Studies. However, on completion of this course, a student may qualify to apply for entry into the MA or the BA Honours. Each application either for the PGDip (as for any other course in JMS) is considered on its own merit.
Q: What do I need to apply?
A: You need the following:
1. A completed Rhodes University application form (note: Rhodes graduates to fill out an INTERNAL honours form and graduates from other universities an EXTERNAL honours form). Forms and information can be found on the Postgraduate gateway HERE. You can also get a hard copy of the application forms by contacting The Registrar’s Division, Rhodes University, PO BOX 94 Grahamstown 6140, South Africa; +27 46 603 8111; Fax: +27 46 622 5049; Email: registrar@ru.ac.za. Online applications can be filled out HERE.
2. A certified copy of your degree certificate
3. Certified copies of complete transcripts from your previous or current university
4. An up-to-date resume (or CV) with at least two references and their current addresses.
5. A one-page motivational letter.
The full application must be sent to the Registrar’s Division at Rhodes University (address above) and not to the School of Journalism and Media Studies.
All applications must reach the Registrar’s office by 30 October.
Prospective students who need Financial Aid usually need to apply earlier than this.
Q: What are the selection criteria for the PGDip?
A: A maximum of 12 students are accepted. A successful application will therefore be one that meets all the entry requirements. It will also have a strong motivation. While the selection process is fair, equitable and sensitive to the transformation agenda at Rhodes University and South Africa generally, it is also a very rigorous process considering the large number of applicants. Prospective students are therefore advised to take particular care when preparing their applications.
Q: What does the course cost?
Fee increments are only finalised at the year-end. The cost of the Post Graduate Diploma in Journalism and Media Studies for 2014 was R43 800.00 – expect an increase of about 10% annually.
Q : What financial aid or scholarships are offered to PGDip students?
A: The School of Journalism and Media Studies administers a limited number of full and partial scholarships. Only students who have been accepted to study for the following academic year are eligible for scholarship consideration. We regret that no scholarships are currently available for international students. Please check with the Post-Graduate Administrator (ammadmin@ru.ac.za) for information.
Media24 also offers bursaries for students from various universities to undertake postgraduate studies in journalism. Find out more about the Grad24 Bursary Opportunity if this is available for the Rhodes PG Dip JMS course in the given year.
Financial Aid is available to South African students. Inquire about this from the Registrar’s Division. Prospective students are advised to apply early if they want to be eligible for Financial Aid.
Q: What happens after I am accepted?
If you are accepted to study the PGDip JMS, the Rhodes University Registrar division will contact you and ask you to complete an Acceptance of Offer form. Details will also be provided about the registration process and the registration fee required by the Registrar Division.
The academic year begins in February.