A Diploma in Communication and Media Studies in Kenya equips students to research, write and present stories, create media content and communicate with different audiences. Depending on the institution, learners may specialise in broadcast journalism, print journalism, digital media, advertising or public relations. A course may be called Communication and Media Studies, Journalism and Mass Communication, Broadcast Journalism or a related qualification.
What can you specialise in?
- Broadcast journalism: news reporting, scriptwriting and producing radio, television or online news.
- Print journalism: interviewing, fact-checking, editing and preparing news and feature articles.
- Digital journalism: video, podcasts, social media reporting and publishing for websites.
- Public relations: communicating with stakeholders, writing press statements and managing reputation.
- Advertising: planning paid campaigns, developing copy and preparing creative messages.
- Media production: camera operation, audio recording, video editing and storytelling.
Colleges and recognised training pathways
The TVET Authority course catalogue lists Broadcast Journalism Level 6, Digital Journalism Level 6, Print Journalism Level 6, Film Production Level 6 and related programmes under TVET-CDACC or relevant institutions. It identifies a Broadcast Journalism pathway linked with The Kenya Coast National Polytechnic. Students should check the exact approved programme, institution and current intake before enrolling.
Some colleges and universities offer a broad Communication and Media Studies diploma with modules covering several specialisations. Others provide separate journalism, public relations or film courses. A provider’s approval for one media programme does not automatically apply to every course under the same faculty.
Subjects covered
- News values, media ethics and responsible journalism.
- Media law, copyright, privacy and defamation awareness.
- Interview techniques, reporting and fact-checking.
- News writing, editing and communication research.
- Public speaking, presentation and voice training.
- Photography, sound recording, videography and editing.
- Digital publishing, social platforms and audience analytics.
- Broadcast programme production and studio work.
- Advertising strategy, public relations writing and crisis communication.
- Media entrepreneurship, project management and workplace attachment.
Entry requirements
A Level 6 TVET diploma may commonly have a minimum KCSE mean grade of Cā or an accepted related certificate. Individual universities and other examining bodies can require a different grade or relevant English or Kiswahili results. Confirm the exact programme requirements rather than relying on general diploma guidance.
Course duration and fees
Courses can have multiple modules or semesters, practical assessments, media projects and industry attachments. Fees may include tuition, examinations, transport for reporting assignments, internet, equipment access and production materials. Before accepting an offer, ask whether cameras, recording equipment and editing software are provided by the institution.
Practical skills and portfolio
Build a portfolio containing verified news reports, a short interview, a radio or video news package, a social media feature and a press release. Keep records of your sources and obtain permission before using private images or recordings. Employers value accuracy, good communication and evidence of completed projects.
Career opportunities
- Junior reporter, journalism researcher or news assistant.
- Radio or television production assistant.
- Digital content or social media officer.
- Public relations and communication assistant.
- Video or audio production technician.
- Advertising or campaign support officer.
- Community media communicator or documentary assistant.
- Freelance writer, editor or content creator.
How to select a media college
- Verify the college’s licensing and its specific campus.
- Check the exact diploma title, qualification level and awarding body.
- Review production studios, cameras, editing facilities and internet access.
- Ask whether training includes legal and ethical reporting and fact-checking.
- Find out about practical assignments and work placement.
- Check course entry grades, intakes and complete costs.
- Apply through the provider’s official admissions process.
Official course information and accreditation resources
- TVETA journalism, media and film qualification directory
- TVETA licensed institutions
- TVET-CDACC qualifications
- Kenya National Qualifications Authority
