Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)
The PDMM is now accepting applications for entry to the programme via Recognition of Prior Learning.
What is Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)?
For journalists and communicators who have completed NQF6 two-year diplomas at universities of technology, recognition of prior learning means that your work experience, leadership roles in the industry, and awards could count towards helping you gain access to the PDMM, an NQF8 qualification.
During the course of your working life, you have built up immense skills and knowledge through your lived experience in the media and communications industry. This may have been through years of practice, on-the-job formal and informal training, mentorship, and learning while mentoring junior entrants to the media and communications industry.
Essentially, the RPL process allows media and communications practitioners who do not have NQF7 qualifications to demonstrate that their prior learning is evidence of their ability to complete an NQF8 postgraduate qualification.
To apply via Recognition of Prior Learning, please email the following documents to spi@ru.ac.za and use the subject line "RPL Application":
- A transcript of your NQF6 qualifications.
- Certificates of other short courses relevant to media management.
- Two references from media and communications industry leaders who you have worked closely with.
- A list of your industry and/or community service awards and evidence of these.
- Your ID document.
- An application letter that sets out the number of years you have worked in the media and communications industry, your major achievements in the industry (for example, impactful investigative articles that you've written, or major communications campaigns that you've run), a summary of leadership roles that you've played in the industry (including management and mentoring), your involvement in any broader community engagement projects, and your reason for wanting to enter the PDMM programme.
Last Modified: Mon, 20 Apr 2026 15:49:30 SAST