The objective of this course is to provide students with the knowledge and skills to produce professional standard journalistic articles and to know how to market them. During the course students will examine and practise the four main questions of journalism:

• WHAT to write,
• HOW to write it,
• WHICH techniques to use and
• WHERE to submit your work.

The course is split into the following 8 Lessons:

• Lesson One - Introduction

The following topics are covered: What the course can do for you? Why do we need content? How is style arrived at? How do we know what the editor wants? and Where is analysis important?

• Lesson Two - Markets

The following topics are covered: Presentation, Keeping records, What the Editor Wants, How to Analyse and What the Reader wants.

• Lesson Three - Content

The following topics are covered: What do I write? Why do I need to find ideas? How do I save time and trouble? and Where is interviewing a factor?

• Lesson Four - Style

The following topics are covered: How do I write? Why do I need to find the right tone? How do I use the basics well? When do I use structure? and Where is re-writing a factor?

• Lesson Five - Techniques

The following topics are covered: What techniques will help me sell my work? Why do I need new angles? How do basic techniques help? When is the "writer's dozen" valuable? And Where is self-discipline a factor?

• Lesson Six – Practical Matters

The following topics are covered: What is defamation? Why is reputation important? How do I avoid libel? When is copyright important? and Where are photographs a factor?

• Lesson Seven – Fiction Writing

The following topics are covered: What do editors not want? Why is market analysis valuable? How do I undertake market analysis? When is plotting useful? and Where is characterisation a factor?

• Lesson Eight – No Excuses – verse, Criticism and Sports Writing

The following topics are covered: What is Critical Writing? Why does verse usually not sell? How do I see about income tax? When is executive writing used? and Where are expenses a factor?

Pre-Requirements:

There are no particular entry requirements.

Technical Support:

Once you have enrolled, you will have access to your own personal tutor by mail or email. You will receive full tutor support for a 12 month period.

Qualification:

The course consists of 8 modules with set assignments to complete. The qualification is gained from your coursework and there is no exam to complete. On completion of this course students will be awarded with the ASET Level 3 Diploma in Freelance Journalism. This award is at an equivalent to A Level or NVQ Level 3.