Communications & Journalism in Society - Journalism
Learn the fundamental skills of journalism.
| Award Name | Level 5 Certificate (Level 5 NFQ) |
|---|---|
| NFQ Classification | Major |
| Awarding Body | QQI |
| NFQ Level | Level 5 NFQ |
| Award Name | NFQ Classification | Awarding Body | NFQ Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Level 5 Certificate (Level 5 NFQ) | Major | QQI | Level 5 NFQ |
Duration
38 weeks.
Entry Requirements
Minimum:
- Applicants must be 16+ years of age on entry to the course.
- Leaving Cert, LCVP. LCA or QQI Level 4 Major Award is essential.
- Mature applicant route available for applicants aged 23+.
- Competent written and spoken English (CEFR B2 or Higher)
- Non-EU/EEA applicants must have permission to work in Ireland.
Additional:
Must have a motivation to learn, an interest in the subject and the ability to acquire the knowledge, skills and competencies set out in the course.
Careers / Further progression
What are the progression opportunities?
If you complete a QQI major award with Kerry College, you may use your results to progress to third level (University, Technological University or Institute of Technology). You may apply under the QQI Higher Education Links Scheme (HELS). A limited number of places are available each year. Some examples include:
B.A. (Hons) Journalism at Dublin City University (DCU)
B.A. (Hons) Communication at Dublin City University (DCU)
B.A. (Hons) Public Relations and Media at South East Technological University (SETU)
B.A. (Ord)/ B.A. (Hons) TV, Radio and New Media at Munster Technological University (MTU)
B.A. (Hons) Journalism and Digital Communication at University of Limerick (UL)
You should check individual university websites for specific entry criteria for courses.
There is a separate section on the CAO application for applying using your QQI results from Kerry College in the same way you use your Leaving Certificate results.
Further information
Start Date: 07/09/2026.
Apply online via the Kerry College Website - link above.
Your application will be processed using FETCHCOURSES - the National FET Course Application System.
If you haven't signed up for a FETCH account, you'll need to do this first. It's free and a one-time setup.
Why should I apply?
The aim of this course is to introduce learners to the fundamentals of Journalism. The course focuses on developing the learners’ writing and research skills, as well as introducing them to some of the technical aspects of Journalism. Learners are also introduced to some of the theoretical underpinnings of Journalism and of both media content creation and consumption.
As well as giving the learner a sense of the vocational area of Journalism, this course also serves as excellent preparation for progression to Further and Higher Education – encouraging students to engage in critical thinking whilst developing strong research and academic writing skills.
Applicants to this course should have a strong interest in news and current affairs.
What's the certification?
QQI Level 5 Major Award Certificate in Journalism (5M2464).
What will I study?
Communications Level 5 (5N0690)
Media Analysis (5N1298)
Photographic Techniques (5N1538)
Research Skills for Journalism (5N2443)
Social Studies (5N1370)
Technical Skills for Journalism (5N2463)
Work Experience (5N1356)
Writing Skills for Journalism (5N2435)
5M2464 - Journalism
Clash Road,
Tralee, Co. Kerry
V92 Y991
Tel: (066) 7121 741
e: clashroad@kerrycollege.ie
Mon-Fri 8:30am-5:00pm