Frequently Asked Questions
These questions relate to the Diploma in Journalism and the Masters in Journalism.
1. What's the difference between the Diploma in Journalism and Masters in Journalism?
The School’s Diploma in Journalism is a nine month course while the Masters in Journalism is a one year course. The Masters syllabus follows the first nine months of the Diploma exactly, but includes a practice based project during the last three month of the course. Both courses are listed separately, applicants must apply for one or the other.
2. How long are the courses?
The start date of the course is September each year. The Diploma in Journalism lasts for 9 months while the Masters in Journalsim lasts one year.
3. Can I apply online?
Students can apply online via the main Cardiff.ac.uk website however this is not the preferred method. Those choosing to do so should still complete steps 2 and 3 and send the completed forms directly to the school marked 'Diploma/Masters Application'. Online Application
4. When is the closing date for applications?
The deadline for applications is the end of February each year. There is no advantage in applying early, students are not encouraged to apply before Christmas. Competition for places is high, so it is important that you take every opportunity to point out why you feel your claim to a place is distinctive.
5. What qualifications do I need to apply?
Applicants should normally hold a degree, of at least lower second class honours standard, awarded by a recognised university (or its equivalent). However, this requirement may be waived for applicants over 25 years of age who have a minimum of 7 years professional experience within the industry. An IELTS score of 7.5 is required for International students.
6. What are the current fees?
Current tuition fees can be found by visiting the Finance Division pages.
7. How can I fund my study/can I work part-time?
Most students pay their own way through with the help of loans, family support or savings. Students may find it difficult to undertake paid part-time work during the course because demands of time are too great.
8. Are any Scholarships available?
The School welcomes applications for scholarships from students who have accepted an offer from the school. Many scholarshops and bursaries are option-specific, which are explained during the interview period. Find out more at our Funding your Studies page.
9. Do I need to send in samples of professional work?
We do not require samples of professional work to be enclosed with your application form. However, those selected for interview will be invited to bring with them samples of professional work e.g. for Magazine and Newspaper - press cuttings; for Broadcast - to record an audio news bulletin.
10. When will I know whether I have been offered a place?
Applicants will hear within two weeks from the deadline submission whether they have been successful in obtaining an interview.
Interviews are held during the Easter vacation and can cover a three/four week period. The interview itself lasts for one day and will run from 10.00 am to 4.30 pm.
Our aim is to let all applicants know as soon as possible whether they have been offered a place on the course. Some applicants are informed on the day, others will find out shortly after the interview date. The interview process is complete as soon as the Offer letters have been sent to the successful applicants, this can take up to three weeks from the interview date.
As well as Offers made, tutors also draw up a Reserve list of applicants to select from if any places should become available at a later date. The letter you receive will tell you if we are making you an offer or placing you on the reserve list.
11. Will I be guaranteed a job at the end of the course?
No course can guarantee employment for its students, but students graduating from Cardiff are particularly successful in securing employment.