Course description
Course Duration One Year Full-time
Leads to NFQ Level 5 QQI Award in Journalism
With technology playing an ever-greater role in journalism and the wider media industry, this course aims to provide students with the practical knowledge to aid their progression to higher education while instilling core communications skills to enhance their employment prospects in journalistic and broader fields.
Successful completion of this course opens up a range of alternative course options as outlined opposite. This is a sample of the possible courses that can be accessed.
Particular emphasis is placed on the traditional qualities of writing, research, initiative and attention to detail. Students are also given instruction on the use of industry-standard software such as Adobe InDesign, Photoshop, Premiere, Audition and Dreamweaver.
Entry Requirements
Open to those who have completed the Leaving Certificate or its equivalent. Entry is also open to students with good written English and a keen interest in journalism. Mature applicants are welcome. Evidence of writing ability will strongly aid your application.
Progression
Students who successfully complete this course can proceed via the Higher Education Links Scheme to the Journalism programmes at DCU (DC132) and Dublin Institute of Technology (DT582). Successful completion can also open a path to a broader range of degree programmes such as:
Communications – DCU (DC131)
European Studies – NUI Maynooth (MH108)
Philosophy, Politics and Economics – NUI Maynooth (MH120)
Law and Society (BCL) – DCU (DC232)
Bachelor of Arts (Joint Honours) – UCD (DN500)
Film and Broadcasting (DIT 504)
Creative Digital Media – IT Tallaght or IT Blanchardstown (TA022/BN021)
English, Media and Cultural Studies – IADT (DL821)
For full details of QQI requirements for progression to CAO courses please click here. Simply enter the code for the programme you are interested in or if you are not sure of the code choose the Select by Institution option, then click on Go.
Course content:
News Writing
Feature Writing
Online Journalism
Subediting
Newspaper Layout and Design
Public Relations
Radio and Sound Production
TV and Video Production
Media Analysis
Communications
Work Experience
Distance Learning and Online Courses are offered in a number of different formats, these include correspondence courses (by post), online via computer or a combination of online and classroom instruction (blended learning).. View 
Further Education and PLCs (Post Leaving Cert Courses) have become a popular alternative to the CAO system here in Ireland. PLC Courses are validated by QQI (Quality & Qualifications Ireland) at levels 5 & 6 of the NFQ.. View 
Evening courses and part time learning options are a great way to enhance a CV, to socialise and make friends, as well as learn something completely new. There are an abundance of night courses and evening classes available.. View