Jobs for Diploma in Journalism and Mass Communication Graduates

A practical media qualification

A Diploma in Journalism and Mass Communication is offered by media colleges, national polytechnics and private institutes, typically over two years. Compared with the degree, it is more practical: news gathering, writing, radio and TV production, camera work, editing, presenting and an introduction to public relations. Many well-known Kenyan presenters, camera operators and reporters started with a diploma and built their careers on experience.

Jobs diploma holders get

• Reporter and correspondent for county and national media, often starting as a contributor
• Camera operator, video editor and production assistant in TV and digital studios
• Radio presenter and producer, including at community and vernacular stations
• Social media assistant and content creator for brands, agencies and NGOs
• Communications assistant in county governments and organisations

Accreditation

The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) accredits journalists and enforces the code of conduct for media practice. Working journalists, including freelancers covering official events, are expected to hold MCK press accreditation, so apply once you are working in the field.

Entry requirements

Public institution places are available through KUCCPS, usually with a KCSE mean grade of C- (minus) and a reasonable grade in English or Kiswahili. Private media colleges set their own requirements; check that the college is properly registered.

Standing out

The media industry hires people who can show work. Build a reel of video and audio pieces, and a set of written stories, and keep it online. Being able to shoot, edit and publish on your own is a big advantage, because many newsrooms and agencies now run small teams. Fluency in Kiswahili and a local language can open vernacular radio and TV roles that are less crowded than national ones.

Contracts and pay

Entry-level media jobs are often freelance, internship or short-contract roles with modest pay, so negotiate clearly and keep records of work submitted and paid for. Our fake job adverts guide is worth reading, because unpaid "auditions" and fees for media training are a common trap.

Progression

With experience, diploma holders move into producer, editor, senior presenter and communications officer roles. Many top up to a degree part-time, which helps for corporate communications and management posts.