Journalism Studies A
Journalism Studies is the core academic module for full- and part-time students registered for an honours degree in journalism at the Wits Centre for Journalism.
Course coordinator: Dr Thandi Bombi
Email: [email protected]
Course codes: (SLLS4034A / JOMS4008A)
2026 information: First semester (3 February – 19 May), Thursdays, 4 – 6pm, 10th Floor Newsroom
Course Overview
The course explores global and local journalism practice, using historical and contemporary examples to introduce and discuss key literature and theories related to the study of journalism and news media.
As part of the programme, students will learn about the Early Black Press, news media in the early 20th century, journalism during apartheid, and the state of media ownership and newsrooms in a democratic South Africa. The course also explores journalism practice in the global south, and considers features like race and gender, and how these impact on news production and consumption.
Projected Outcomes
After the completion of this course the student must be able to:
• Understand key principles and issues in journalism and news media
• Explain the link/s between journalism, the media, news and society
• Describe the evolution and dynamics of South African journalism and the news media
• Use core journalism and media theories, concepts and principles to analyse journalism and news media
• Be able to read, understand and discuss academic texts about journalism studies