Students are required to complete an application form and attend a formal interview before selections are made for each intake, either for the Journalism major in the new Bachelor of Communication or the Graduate Diploma in Journalism. You may also be asked to sit a writing test.
Selection takes into account a number of factors, notably evidence that the applicant has a realistic understanding of the workplace and possible career paths, and a sense of vocation about journalism.
Note that for the graduate pathway, you do not need to have studied journalism. We welcome graduates from all disciplines and recent intakes have included graduates with degrees in Arts, Science, Law and Commerce.
Application requirements
Download the application form for the qualification you wish to apply for below.
Email the completed and signed application form to journalism@canterbury.ac.nz or post, together with:
- A submission outlining your career to date, why you wish to be a journalist, and the steps you have taken to investigate journalism as a career, including samples of work published or broadcast if you have them
- A certified copy of your academic record (if you are a UC applicant, a printout of your UC record is fine)
- Your current CV, including contact details for two referees
- If you wish to have the material submitted with your application returned, provide a suitably sized, stamped, addressed envelope
N.B. If any of the above is not received, your application may not be considered.
The deadline for applications closes October 31, but late applications may be considered.
Interview process
Most candidates can expect to be interviewed early November. Those from the South Island are interviewed in Christchurch. Other applicants, including those residing or travelling overseas, may be interviewed by Skype or telephone at a pre-arranged time.
What are the language requirements?
Candidates for whom English is a second language must provide evidence of IELTS or equivalent (Academic) 6.5 with no score less than 6.
Do I need straight As to get in?
We look for intelligence allied with good work habits and a high standard of English. You are not ruled out because your degree fails to meet some arbitrary grade average. However, a sound academic record is normally essential.
What elective subjects should I study?
Take what interests you. We look for graduates in a wide range of disciplines. Obviously some subjects like economics, political science, history, te reo Māori and statistics are useful but we have an open mind.
What do you look for?
A sense of vocation about journalism. We look for people who know why they want a career in journalism and who have a realistic understanding of what being a journalist involves. It's not enough to say you like writing and meeting people.
How can I show my commitment?
Have you visited newspapers, radio and television stations? Have you spoken to journalists? Have you had work published? That will do for starters.
What are my chances of being admitted?
Entry into the course is competitive. You can improve your case by thoroughly investigating journalism as a career and taking steps to show you are serious about becoming a journalist. International students must demonstrate a high level of English fluency.
How heavy will the workload be?
The journalism courses are applied courses and, as such, the workload and commitment expected is high.
How do I apply?
Download an application form. The deadline for applications closes October 31, but late applications may be considered.
