Intro to Financial Journalism
To be an effective journalist in any field, you need an understanding of the economy and business. This course equips journalists with essential knowledge about the economy, business and finance. Students do not have to be mathematicians or accountants – they simply need to be curious about how the world of business works.
Course coordinator: Gillian Jones
Email: [email protected]
2026 information: Weekdays from 29 June to 3 July, times to be confirmed, 12th Floor Seminar Room
Projected Outcomes
After the completion of this course the student must be able to:
• Identify and develop financial angles in general news stories, enabling more comprehensive reporting across all journalistic beats and subject matters.
• Apply economic and business fundamentals to interpret statistical, financial and economic data for news writing.
• Write clear financial stories that translate complex concepts for general audiences.
• Demonstrate financial literacy and understanding of business reporting, a specialised skillset that enhances employability while building credibility with audiences.
Course Content
• Understanding economic fundamentals and indicators
• Statistical analysis with Stats SA
• National Treasury operations
• Reserve Bank operations and monetary policy
• Understanding financial statements
• Personal finance principles
• Case studies
• Writing with numbers