Become a Journalist

Train with PA Media / PA Training

NCTJ Diploma in Journalism courses

If you want to be a journalist, there are two things that will impress a potential editor. Exclusive stories, of course. But also an NCTJ Diploma in Journalism.

The National Council for the Training of Journalists Diploma is a highly-practical course that makes you newsroom-ready and is regarded as the stamp of quality. On our 18-week fast track course you’ll learn the essential skills of a professional journalist and after six weeks, you have the opportunity to specialise in sports or digital features and longform journalism.

Alternatively, you can apply for our year-long part-time diploma course, studying with us on Saturdays and Tuesday evenings, enabling you to continue to work. 

The Shard on a sunny day
Learn in the heart of London

News journalism

This course provides aspiring journalists with everything you need to start your career in journalism.

Duration: 18 weeks

Sports journalism

Train with us to become a sports journalist. Develop all the skills sports media are looking for.

Duration: 18 weeks

Digital features and longform journalism

Learn the fundamentals of journalism and specialise in digital features and longform.

Duration: 18 weeks

Part-time diploma

Balance work whilst training to become a journalist. Study part-time on Tuesday evenings & Saturdays.

Duration: 42 weeks

Our newsroom sets the standard, we help you achieve it

PA Training is part of PA Media Group, which was formerly known as the Press Association. We’ve been training journalists for more than 50 years, and our NCTJ diploma course is among the top-performing by results. We’re the sister company of PA Media, the UK and Ireland’s national news agency, and maintain the same high standards in our training as in our newsroom.

Our training is by journalists, for journalists

You’ll be taught by senior journalists from leading UK newsrooms, who will not only give you the skills and knowledge you need to do well in your exams, but also to thrive in a media organisation after your studies are complete.  

Our courses are taught face-to-face in central London, and there are plenty of opportunities to gain hands-on experience through live news exercises, trips to the courts, and lending a hand in the PA Media newsroom during elections and big events.  

We are looking for candidates with passion, commitment and a hunger to build on existing skills. In return, we’ll get your career off to a flying start.  

If you’re interested in finding out more, get in touch or you can apply now.

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Become a journalist with PA Training