Rhodes owes its unique character among South African universities to a combination of factors - historical, geographical, cultural and architectural. Its history is a chronicle of the people whose intellect, vision and courage created and sustained a university, often against seemingly insuperable odds. Successive generations of Rhodians, imbued with their independence of thought, have had an influence on southern Africa and world affairs out of all proportion to their small numbers.
The South African Reserve Bank is deeply involved in the development and training of students, journalists, and economic visionaries in the South African media community. Funding is for full scholarships to exceptional applicants. The scholarship funding provided sits at the top level of academic support in the country and covers full residence fees and course costs.
Potential applicants should have a passion for media and the economic landscape and be looking to use their knowledge and skills gained from their study to further educate and develop dialogue around issues affecting citizens, communities, and the broader industry.
Scholarships are available in 2025 for the following degrees which will be offered at the Rhodes University, School of Journalism and Media Studies;
Postgraduate Diploma in Journalism (One-year programme in residence).
Postgraduate Diploma in Economics Journalism (Part-time, delivered across two years).
Bachelor of Arts Honours (Journalism) (One-year programme in residence).
Master of Arts (Journalism) (Two-year programme in residence).
Requirements and eligibility
Applicants should note that as the funding is assigned for development purposes in the Eastern Cape preference will be given to candidates who are female, from a previously disadvantaged background and who originate from the Eastern Cape. An intention to remain in and further develop the content of community and economic journalism in the Eastern Cape will be considered a distinct advantage. Applicants will be required to meet the academic entrance levels set by the Rhodes University School of Journalism and Media Studies pertaining to the Degree or Diploma of their choosing.
Applicants are not required to have a previous undergraduate qualification in journalism and/or media studies, candidates from a Commerce background are encouraged to apply for the Postgraduate Diploma in Journalism if they are looking to develop their skills as a media practitioner.
How to apply
State clearly in your email heading the following: SARB CEJ 2025 Scholarship Application – [Degree][Name][ID Number]
Applications should be sent to The Postgraduate Funding Office at Rhodes University, pgfunding@ru.ac.za and include:
Full academic record
Certified copy of South Africa ID
Copy of Application to selected Degree at Rhodes University
Motivational Essay (1000 words) – Detailing the applicant’s intention to contribute to the field of Economics
Journalism and their thoughts on the significance of the subject in the South African context.
Any applications made that do not include all of the above will be considered incomplete.
Applications for the 2025 academic year close on 23 October 2024.
