Media, Music & Sound Production
Practical Journalism HND
Campus Granton Campus
Qualification SCQF Level 8
Study mode Full time
Start date
Aug 2026
Course enquiry form
Course overview
This two-year HND course provides an excellent starting point for anyone interested in a career in digital, online, broadcast, and written media journalism.
Our Practical Journalism course teaches a range of skills that support communications, marketing, PR, social media, magazines, newsletters, and other promotional media for a professional working environment. We encourage anyone who would like to develop their skills and knowledge further to apply.
The course reflects contemporary demands on journalists to be multi-skilled and agile. It aims to provide you with the skills and knowledge to become self-shooting, editing video reporters; proactive and empathetic newsgatherers and programme-makers; articulate commentators, reviewers and presenters; and to equip marketing and communications officers with the skills to produce media packages for a range of modern and traditional platforms.
By the end of the course, you will have produced a portfolio of work that demonstrates your applied skills in writing, presentation, radio, video, and online production. The course could be your pathway to a career within the digital media, marketing, broadcasting, or journalism industries.
On successful completion of the course, you will attain an HND in Practical Journalism.
What you will learn
- The current landscape of journalism in the UK
- Research skills
- Planning and organisation
- Video production techniques for journalists
- Radio and podcasting techniques for journalists
- Portfolio website design
- Writing for a range of media
- Editing and proofreading
- Presenting and presentation skills
- Interview skills
- Legal and ethical considerations for journalists and media professionals
- How to analyse a piece of journalism
Number of days per week
- Classes on campus for 3 days each week
- Additional self-directed study
Entry requirements
- Two Highers in relevant subjects (such as English, Media, Modern Studies) at grade B or above.
- Alternatively, you may provide evidence of a strong pass in a relevant Level 6 qualification.
- Mature applicants without formal qualifications, who have appropriate experience and well-developed writing and verbal communication skills, may also be considered.
Information on Tests / Auditions / Interview Requirements
- You will be invited to interview.
English Proficiency Requirements
IELTS 6Progression and Articulation Routes
- Journalism undergraduate degrees.
Career options
This course will provide the skills and experience to move into many career options, such as:
- Media journalism
- Marketing and communications
- Advertising
- Public relations
- Radio Broadcasting
- TV News Journalism
- Podcasting
- Freelance work (e.g. "self-shooter")
Study Options
| Campus | Study mode | Start date |
|---|---|---|
| Granton Campus | Full time | 24/08/26 |
