Pitch It. Write It. Get Paid For It.
Join successful writers who've broken into magazines, newspapers and websites in South Africa — with one-to-one coaching from working, award-winning journalists.
Our Courses Are for You If...
- You want to write articles for magazines, newspapers, websites, blogs or your own business.
- You want one-on-one feedback from a working, published journalist.
- You want to see a genuine, tangible transformation of your writing skills.
- You’ve got the ideas but don’t know how to pitch or structure them.
- You dream of seeing your name in the byline, but don’t know where to start.
Courses open now –
start anytime
No fixed intake dates. Enrol today and your first module can be with you within one working day.
What Makes SA Writers' College Different?
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No automated marking or peer reviews.
Every assignment is assessed the way a real editor would assess it, line by line, by your award-winning tutor. -
A proven path to bylines.
Our graduates have sold articles to 'Fairlady', 'Drum', 'The Big Issue', 'Merise', 'Club, 'Destiny', Huisgenoot' and dozens more. -
Work at your own pace, from anywhere.
No stress. No commute. Start today. -
Real, working journalists as tutors
Learn from writers who are still pitching, writing and getting published themselves.
Student Successes:
'I've also learned that nothing is impossible for a freelancer – with the right attitude and perseverance you can confidently sell your articles to any magazine under the sun.'
Christo Valentyn, Freelance Journalism graduate, published in 'Cosmopolitan', 'Longevity', 'Mitsubishi XPlore', 'African Communications', 'WIEL', 'Toyota Zone', 'The Blue Train', 'AbouTime', 'Die Burger', 'Volksblad', 'Beeld', 'Rekord', 'Mambaonline', 'Heritage', 'Gay Pages', 'Spilpunt', 'Rapport', 'Premier', 'Destiny Man', 'Platinum Living', 'Kormorant Newspaper' and 'SLOW' Magazine.
‘Your feedback has assured me that even though there is still a lot for me to learn, I have what it takes to be a great writer. Thank you.’
Duncan Masiwa, Freelance Journalism for Magazines and Webzines graduate, Assistant Editor/Head of News at 'Food For Mzansi', winner of the IFAJ/Alltech Young Leaders Award at the International Federation of Agricultural Journalists Global Congress in Switzerland (2024)
‘I never thought a full-time career in the publishing industry would be possible, but I have a job as an editor! Before the course, I wrote the way I thought was the right way, but I really had no idea what I was doing. I was stumbling around in the dark trying to find my way. Now, with everything I learned, I am more confident about what I do.’
Ansie van der Walt, graduate of the Freelance Journalism Course, and now an editor, content writer and podcaster
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How to find ideas that sell
Discover how to turn a topic into a saleable angle -
How to pitch to editors
Master query letters, cover letters, and how to approach the right publication. -
How to structure a publishable article
Practise writing, from a compelling opener through to a strong close. -
Uncover your writing blindspots with the help of your award-winning tutor
Eliminate self-doubt and uncertainty with feedback on the specific writing errors that are holding you back. Receive detailed constructive critiques on every assignment from an award-winning, professional writer. -
Explore a wide range of publication outlets to enhance your chances of success
Find out how and where to professionally submit work for publication, and exactly what steps to take when approaching different markets.
More Journalism Students' Successes
Our journalism students have sold their articles to these mainstream print and digital magazines. They walk away with the skills and confidence to write saleable articles for publications around the world.
Tracy Brooks
Freelance Journalism graduate, published in 'Lowveld Living' Magazine, 'Food & Home Entertaining', 'Out & About Live' (Motorhome & Caravan), 'Nomad' Magazine Africa, and 'Odyssey' Magazine.
Karen Truter
Graduated from the course Vryskutjoernalistiek vir tydskrifte en e-publikasies, published in 'Farming Portal', 'Netwerk24' and 'LinkedIn Pulse'.
Rosanne Turner
Travel Writing graduate, published in 'Holland Herald' (KLM), 'Morning Calm', 'Sawadee' (Thai Airways), and 'CEM Air' inflight magazine.
Jess Oosthuyse
Travel Writing graduate (with distinction), landed an internship at 'Getaway' Magazine.
we'll show you how.
"Strong course content and assignments that stretched my brain and taught me valuable skills."
Judy Botha, Writing Articles for Websites and Blogs Course
"[It's] given me the confidence boost I needed to start submitting my work professionally"
Jo Macdonald, Freelance Journalism for Magazines and Webzines Course
"One of the best courses I have done – didn't feel like work."
Linet van Niekerk, Freelance Journalism for Magazines and Webzines Course
"The Freelance Journalism for Magazines and Webzines course is packed with comprehensive notes, enjoyable assignments, and practical industry intel. I felt in really safe hands with a mentor model; the one-on-one feedback pushed me to develop and improve my writing significantly."
Jana Beer, Freelance Journalism for Magazines and Webzines Course
"I walk away with industry-relevant knowledge and skills"
Zeldi Smulders, Freelance Journalism for Magazines and Webzines Course