Bachelor of Arts in Journalism and Mass Communication

The Bachelor of Arts in Journalism and Mass Communication (BA JMC) is a four-year undergraduate programme at the University of Eswatini that prepares students for careers in journalism, media, communication and related fields like public relations, advertising, and broadcasting. It combines classroom theory with practical training in media skills.

This programme is aimed at producing versatile media professionals who can effectively work in print, broadcast and corporate communication environments.

 

DEPARTMENTS & FOCUS AREAS

The programme is housed within the Department of Journalism and Mass Communication under the Faculty of Humanities. The faculty also has departments in languages, history and other arts disciplines.

 

STUDENTS TYPICALLY STUDY AREAS SUCH AS:

News reporting and writing

Broadcasting (radio & TV)

Media ethics and law

Public relations & advertising

Digital media and journalism practices

Field attachments and practical media projects

 

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

To be admitted into the BA in Journalism and Mass Communication programme at UNESWA:

SGCSE/IGCSE/O-LEVEL ROUTE

  • A minimum of six (6) subject passes in your high school qualification.
  • Must include a C grade (credit) or better in SiSwati or any other language.
  • Other general admission requirements set by the university also apply (e.g., passes in English and other subjects as stipulated in the general regulations).

 

DIPLOMA ENTRY

  • Holders of a Diploma in Journalism and Mass Communication from UNESWA or another recognised tertiary institution may be admitted into the degree programme.
  • The level of entry (e.g., Year 1 or Year 2) will be determined by the University Senate based on the diploma and department recommendation.

 

MATURE AGE ENTRY

If you are 22 years or older and meet specific criteria under the Mature Age Entry Scheme, you may also be eligible to enter (this applies to JMC as well as other degree programmes).

 

DURATION & STRUCTURE

  • The BA JMC is normally completed in four academic years of full-time study.
  • The curriculum usually blends theoretical courses with practical media training, including field attachments or internships.

 

SKILLS & CAREER PATHS

Graduates from this programme develop skills in:

  • News reporting and editing
  • Broadcast production (radio, TV, online)
  • Media ethics and communication law
  • Public relations and advertising planning
  • Digital media & content creation

 

SUCH SKILLS ARE RELEVANT FOR CAREERS LIKE:

  • Journalist/Reporter
  • Broadcast Presenter/Producer
  • Public Relations Officer
  • Advertising and Corporate Communications Specialist
  • Social Media and Digital Content Editor

The training emphasises hands-on experience to make students job-ready.

 

PRACTICAL EXPERIENCE

Students typically participate in studio work (e.g., broadcasting practicum) and field attachments with media houses or communication firms as part of their training — valuable for building real-world newsroom and production experience.