The ICTQual Level 3 Diploma in Foundation Journalism is designed to provide learners with a solid grounding in the core principles, skills, and practices of journalism. As an entry-level qualification, it introduces participants to the fundamentals of news writing, reporting, interviewing, and ethical communication, making it an ideal starting point for those aspiring to build a career in media and communication.
This diploma emphasizes practical learning, enabling learners to develop confidence in producing accurate and engaging content across print, broadcast, and digital platforms. Through real-world assignments and case studies, participants gain essential skills in research, editing, and storytelling while understanding the role of journalism in shaping public opinion and supporting democratic values.
The program is tailored for individuals who are curious about current affairs, passionate about storytelling, and motivated to explore the dynamic world of journalism. It equips learners with transferable skills such as critical thinking, effective communication, and digital literacy, ensuring they are prepared for both professional opportunities and further study.
Ultimately, the ICTQual Level 3 Diploma in Foundation Journalism serves as a stepping stone toward advanced qualifications and entry-level roles in the media industry. It empowers learners to progress into higher-level diplomas, specialized journalism pathways, or practical roles in reporting, editing, and content creation, contributing meaningfully to the evolving landscape of global journalism.
ICTQual Level 3 Diploma in Foundation Journalism
This qualification, the ICTQual Level 3 Diploma in Foundation Journalism, consists of 6 mandatory units.
| Sr# | Unit Title |
| 1 | Advanced News Writing and Editorial Skills |
| 2 | Investigative Journalism and Research Methods |
| 3 | Media Ethics, Law, and Global Standards |
| 4 | Digital Media Production and Storytelling |
| 5 | Public Communication and Audience Engagement |
| 6 | Professional Practice in Journalism |
Learning Outcomes for the ICTQual Level 3 Diploma in Foundation Journalism:
Advanced News Writing and Editorial Skills
By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:
- Write longer, more complex news stories with clarity, structure, and editorial precision.
- Apply advanced techniques for leads, transitions, and narrative flow.
- Edit and proofread articles for grammar, tone, and factual accuracy.
- Tailor content for different formats such as features, briefs, and opinion pieces.
- Use style guides and editorial standards to maintain consistency.
- Respond to editorial feedback and revise content professionally.
- Meet deadlines and manage multiple assignments under pressure.
- Demonstrate awareness of audience needs and platform-specific writing styles.
Investigative Journalism and Research Methods
By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:
- Plan and conduct in-depth investigations on public interest topics.
- Use open-source intelligence (OSINT) and public records for research.
- Identify credible sources and cross-verify information.
- Conduct background checks and build timelines for investigative stories.
- Handle sensitive information ethically and securely.
- Structure investigative reports with evidence-based storytelling.
- Collaborate with editors or peers on long-form investigations.
- Understand the risks and responsibilities of investigative reporting.
Media Ethics, Law, and Global Standards
By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:
- Apply key legal principles such as defamation, contempt, and copyright.
- Recognise ethical dilemmas and apply professional codes of conduct.
- Understand global standards for press freedom and responsible reporting.
- Respect privacy, consent, and data protection in journalism.
- Navigate reporting restrictions in conflict, crisis, or court scenarios.
- Identify and avoid bias, misinformation, and harmful stereotypes.
- Balance public interest with ethical responsibility.
- Reflect on case studies involving ethical breaches or legal challenges.
Digital Media Production and Storytelling
By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:
- Create multimedia content using text, images, audio, and video.
- Use basic editing tools for video, audio, and visual storytelling.
- Adapt stories for digital platforms including websites, blogs, and social media.
- Apply SEO and metadata techniques to improve content visibility.
- Integrate interactive elements such as polls, timelines, or infographics.
- Understand mobile-first and cross-platform publishing strategies.
- Plan and produce short-form digital stories for online audiences.
- Evaluate the impact of digital content using analytics and feedback.
Public Communication and Audience Engagement
By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:
- Identify target audiences and tailor messages accordingly.
- Use social media platforms to share stories and build engagement.
- Write for public campaigns, announcements, and community outreach.
- Monitor audience feedback and respond professionally.
- Apply storytelling techniques to increase reach and resonance.
- Understand the role of journalists in shaping public opinion.
- Use tools like hashtags, tagging, and scheduling to optimise reach.
- Evaluate the effectiveness of communication strategies using audience data.
Professional Practice in Journalism
By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:
- Demonstrate time management and organisational skills in a newsroom setting.
- Work independently and collaboratively on editorial projects.
- Build a professional portfolio showcasing diverse journalism work.
- Follow editorial workflows from pitch to publication.
- Reflect on personal strengths and areas for development.
- Uphold professional standards in conduct, communication, and accountability.
- Understand the role of freelancing, pitching, and client communication.
- Prepare for real-world journalism roles through simulated or live assignments.
The ICTQual Level 3 Diploma in Foundation Journalism equips learners with the essential skills and knowledge needed to begin a career in media and communication. It provides a strong grounding in reporting, writing, and ethical practices, making it an ideal starting point for those new to journalism.
Skill Development
- Learn the fundamentals of news writing and reporting
- Develop interviewing and research techniques for credible journalism
- Gain practical skills in editing and content creation
- Understand ethical principles and responsibilities in journalism
- Build confidence in producing accurate and engaging stories
Career Preparation
- Prepare for entry-level roles such as junior reporter or editorial assistant
- Acquire transferable skills useful in media, communication, and digital content
- Strengthen employability with a recognized international qualification
- Develop a portfolio of practical assignments and journalistic work
- Gain exposure to newsroom practices and media workflows
Professional Growth
- Enhance critical thinking and analytical skills for evaluating information
- Improve communication and storytelling abilities across multiple platforms
- Adapt to digital transformation and online publishing trends
- Build awareness of global issues and diverse perspectives
- Develop resilience and accountability in professional practice
Progression Opportunities
- Pathway to Level 4 and higher diplomas in journalism or media studies
- Opportunity to specialize in areas such as broadcast, investigative, or digital journalism
- Foundation for careers in reporting, editing, and content creation
- Support for progression into communication, PR, or related fields
The ICTQual Level 3 Diploma in Foundation Journalism is tailored for individuals at the beginning of their journey into media and communication. It is designed to provide a strong introduction to the principles of journalism, making it suitable for learners who are curious, motivated, and eager to explore the fundamentals of reporting and storytelling.
Aspiring Journalists
- Learners interested in exploring journalism as a career path
- Individuals motivated to develop basic reporting and writing skills
- Candidates eager to understand the role of journalism in society
- Learners who want to build confidence in producing accurate and engaging content
- Participants preparing for entry-level roles in media and communication
Career Starters & Enthusiasts
- School leavers or early-career professionals seeking a recognized qualification in journalism
- Individuals with a passion for writing, reporting, or digital content creation
- Learners aiming to strengthen employability in media-related fields
- Candidates interested in building a portfolio of journalistic work
- Participants wishing to gain practical newsroom exposure
International Learners
- Learners motivated to understand journalism in diverse cultural and political contexts
- Individuals aiming to adapt to global media environments and digital-first practices
- Candidates seeking internationally recognized qualifications for career mobility
- Participants committed to ethical communication and fair reporting
- Learners eager to engage with global issues and perspectives
Progression-Oriented Candidates
- Learners preparing to advance to Level 4 and higher diplomas in journalism or media studies
- Individuals aspiring to specialize in areas such as broadcast, investigative, or digital journalism
- Candidates motivated to pursue careers in reporting, editing, or content creation
- Learners aiming to strengthen critical thinking and communication skills for future growth
The ICTQual Level 3 Diploma in Foundation Journalism provides learners with a strong entry point into the world of media and communication. It builds essential skills in reporting, writing, and ethical practice, serving as a foundation for both academic advancement and career opportunities.
Academic Progression
- Progression to ICTQual Level 4 Diploma in Journalism or Media Studies
- Opportunity to pursue specialized diplomas in broadcast, digital, or investigative journalism
- Foundation for higher-level qualifications in communication, public relations, or media management
- Eligibility to advance toward Level 5 and Level 6 programs in journalism and leadership
- Support for continuous professional development in global media practices
Career Pathways
- Entry-level roles such as junior reporter, editorial assistant, or content creator
- Opportunities in local newspapers, radio, and online media platforms
- Roles in communication support, PR, or social media management
- Freelance opportunities in writing, blogging, and digital content production
- Foundation for progression into newsroom and editorial coordination roles
Professional Growth
- Strengthen confidence in producing credible and engaging journalistic content
- Develop transferable skills in research, communication, and critical thinking
- Adapt to digital-first publishing and multimedia storytelling
- Build awareness of ethical responsibilities and global perspectives in journalism
Entry Requirements
Learners must meet the following criteria to be considered for admission into the course:
- Age Requirement: Minimum age of 18 years or above
- Educational Background: Completion of secondary education or equivalent. Learners with a strong interest in writing, communication, or media may be accepted without prior formal qualifications in journalism
- Work Experience: No prior industry experience is required. However, exposure to school publications, blogging, or community reporting can be beneficial
- English Language Proficiency: Good command of spoken and written English is essential, as the program is delivered entirely in English. International learners may be asked to provide evidence of proficiency through recognized language tests (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent)
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Qualification Process
Qualification Process for the ICTQual Level 3 Diploma in Foundation Journalism
- Self-Assessment:
Begin by evaluating your eligibility to ensure you meet the qualification requirements, including work experience, knowledge, and language proficiency. - Registration:
Complete your registration by submitting the required documents, including a scanned copy of a valid ID, and paying the registration fee. - Induction:
An assessor will conduct an induction to confirm your eligibility for the course and explain the evidence requirements. If you do not meet the criteria, your registration will be cancelled, and the fee will be refunded. - Assignments & Evidence Submission:
Provide all assignments and the necessary evidence based on the assessment criteria outlined in the course. If you are unsure of the required evidence, consult with the assessor for guidance on the type and nature of evidence needed. - Feedback and Revision:
The assessor will review your submitted evidence and provide feedback. Evidence that meets the criteria will be marked as “Criteria Met,” while any gaps will be identified. You will be asked to revise and resubmit if needed. - Competence Evidence:
Submit final evidence demonstrating that all learning outcomes have been met. This evidence will be marked as “Criteria Met” by the assessor once it is satisfactory. - Internal Quality Assurance (IQA):
The Internal Quality Assurance Verifier (IQA) will review your evidence to ensure consistency, quality, and compliance with standards. - External Verification:
The IQA will submit your portfolio to ICTQUAL AB External Quality Assurance Verifiers (EQA) for final confirmation. The EQA may contact you directly to verify the authenticity of your evidence. - Certification:
Upon successful completion of all checks, ICTQUAL AB will issue your official certificate, confirming that you have attained the ICTQual Level 3 Diploma in Foundation Journalism
