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NCTJ Level 5 Diploma in Journalism in Darlington

Cost£2,882.00
Duration240 hours
LevelLevel 5
DeliveryClassroom based
Start10 Sep 2027
Study modePart-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyNCTJ
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About this course

NCTJ Level 5 Diploma in Journalism in Darlington. Classes run at Darlington College, part-time during the day.

The course covers reporting, media law, shorthand, and digital journalism across print, broadcast, and online platforms. You will also study public relations and communications. Around 240 hours of study takes you through the full NCTJ journalism qualification. Classes are daytime, so you can balance study with other commitments.

You'll finish with a Level 5 Diploma in Journalism.

Who this course is for

This course will equip you with the practical skills and the industry-accredited NCTJ professional qualification across a multimedia landscape which are essential for anyone seeking employment in digital and print journalism, public relations and communications, magazine and broadcast.

Entry requirements

You will need to be 18 years of age, at the start of this course.

The entry requirements are 5 GCSEs with 4 points or C grade and above, including 4 points or C grade in English, or ideally two A Levels or a Level 2 Diploma in Creative Media at merit or above.

Many of our students already have a degree, but this need not necessarily be a journalism or media degree.

You will need to pass the NCTJ entrance test and have a short interview here at the college.

What you will learn

  • You'll develop news reporting skills for print and digital platforms.
  • You'll study media law and the legal framework journalists work within.
  • You'll learn Teeline shorthand to a professional standard.
  • You'll practise writing for broadcast, magazine, and online audiences.
  • You'll explore public relations and communications alongside journalism.
  • You'll build skills in multimedia storytelling and content production.
  • You'll prepare for the NCTJ professional examinations.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom sessions at Darlington College, combining practical exercises with taught content. Assessment includes NCTJ examinations in subjects such as media law, public affairs, and shorthand. You'll also complete portfolio work and practical journalism tasks. Entry to the course requires passing an NCTJ entrance test and a short interview at the college.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Darlington College will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Reporter, writes news stories for local or national outlets.
  • Digital journalist, produces content for online news platforms.
  • Broadcast journalist, reports for radio or television.
  • Magazine journalist, writes features and news for print or digital magazines.
  • Public relations officer, manages communications for organisations.
  • Content writer, creates editorial content for media or corporate clients.
  • Press officer, handles media relations for public or private sector bodies.

What you could study next

  • A degree in Journalism or Media, for those who want to deepen academic knowledge alongside professional practice.
  • A postgraduate journalism qualification, suited to graduates looking to specialise further.
  • An apprenticeship in journalism or PR, combining work-based learning with continued professional development.
Apply on darlington.ac.uk →
Apply now →

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