Mode of Study

Full-time

Start Date

24th Aug 2026, 2 years

Location

City Campus

Applications from International Students Welcome

Overview

This is a vocational and skills-specific course suitable if you want to pursue a career in Journalism.

Journalism nowadays demands a skill set not limited to writing and research alone. Journalists are expected to be proficient in recording high-quality sound, shooting videos, and editing on digital systems. The growing need for journalists to produce their web content has led to an increased demand for digital skills. As a response to these requirements, this course has been developed to ensure that students are well-versed and practised in the digital skills that are the future of journalism. The course is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the tools and techniques essential for success in a rapidly evolving media landscape.

This course will provide you with the skills needed to prepare for the professional world or advance your education at university level. Additionally, you will have the chance to specialise in a particular area of journalism that you find intriguing.

Why not connect with International Journalism Network and keep up with news and opportunities from journalists worldwide?

You'll be awarded an HND in Practical Journalism on the successful completion of this course.

This course is placed on the Scottish Credit Qualifications Framework at Level 8. 

Entry requirements

Minimum entry requirements

• Higher English or Higher Media Studies at Grade C or above; OR
• National Certificate Group Awards at SCQF level 6 in the field of Communication and Media or Arts and Social Sciences; OR
• National Progression Award in Journalism at SCQF level 6; OR
• Other equivalent qualifications or relevant work experience.

Additional selection requirements

• You'll be invited for a group and/or individual interview where you can find out more about the course and tell us why you're interested in this subject area or we'll make an offer based on your application form.
• You’ll be asked to write a 200-word article according to the brief given on the day. 
• You'll also be asked to correct the spelling, grammar and punctuation in a 300-word article.
• It would also strengthen your application to provide evidence of relevant experience in the area, e.g. blogging, podcasting, published articles, involvement in school newspapers, magazines or radio stations, relevant volunteering or work experience.

ESOL entry requirements

Applicants whose first language is not English should have minimum SQA ESOL National 5 or equivalent for NC/NQ courses and ESOL Higher or equivalent for HNC/D courses.

What you study

Some of the elements of the course will be:

• Feature Writing.
• News Writing
• Public Affairs.
• Scots Law.
• Sub-editing.
• Video Journalism
• Podcasting

In addition, you will be asked to contribute to our student website, City Live.

After the course

Careers

This is the first year of a two-year HND course and we expect most, if not all of our students to progress to second year with us. You will also be able to apply for jobs in the industry or a place at a university after the first year.

Continuing Study

Successful completion of first year will allow entry to our second year and will also open up opportunities to apply for university.

Teaching

How the course is taught

Assessment methods

Additional Information

Dress code