How was this course developed?
How was this course developed?
This online journalism course was developed using more than 35 years of professional experience in writing, publishing, and media training.
It is designed to reflect real industry practice and provide structured, practical learning for aspiring freelance journalists.
Who created this online journalism course?
The course was created by Joseph Morris, founder of the British College of Journalism, drawing on decades of experience across newspapers, magazines, broadcast media, and international journalism.
About Joseph Morris
Joseph Morris began his career as a cadet journalist and newspaper reporter before moving into feature writing and later publishing two weekly newspapers. He also produced newsletters such as On Assignment for travel writers and Briefing for media professionals, alongside experience in radio, television, United Press International (UPI), and international correspondence.
He went on to develop journalism training programmes in the United Kingdom and Australia, specialising in distance learning and practical media education. His approach has supported students in more than 80 countries and territories.
On the craft of freelance journalism, Mr Morris always said:
“Freelance writers are not born; they are taught. And, the simple truth is, it’s not that difficult.”
He also adds:
“Competent freelance material is always in demand. If you can provide well-written material on any subject, provided it has a new or interesting angle, readers will want to share your information, and editors will want to buy what you have.”
Who is the senior tutor on the journalism course?
The Senior Tutor on the course is Judy Yorke, a journalist with more than 20 years of experience working across both staff and freelance roles in the media industry.
Judy has worked in business journalism, regional newspaper features, and consumer magazines, holding senior editorial positions including Features Editor at Woman and Assistant Features Editor at Good Housekeeping. In these roles, she was responsible for editing both staff and freelance copy to prepare it for publication.
As a freelance journalist, she has written for leading publications including Fabulous, Closer, Prima, Essentials, Women’s Own, Love It, and Real People, and is also a weekly contributor to the Daily Mirror. Her experience provides students with practical, real-world insight into how freelance journalism works across different media sectors.
Who are the course contributors?
The British College of Journalism works with a range of highly regarded freelance writers, journalists, and editors who specialise in different areas of the media industry.
These contributors bring experience across multiple publishing genres, giving students practical insight into how to write for a wide variety of audiences and publications. Their combined knowledge helps support the online journalism course with real-world guidance on writing, editing, and freelance publishing.
-
Kristen King
Full-time freelance writer-editor. A previous finalist in the Writer’s Digest “Best Writer’s Website” Contest and named one of the previous “Top 10 Blogs for Writers”. Her work has appeared in local, regional and national publications both in print and online, and she has a global freelance client base. Kristen makes her home in the Virginian countryside with her husband, a pug, a bull mastiff, and two cats. -
Will rankin
Editor, managing editor, freelance journalist and PR since 1993. He has worked with publishing companies and clients across the globe, writing about a huge diversity of subjects, from politics to pandas, and everything in between. He currently lives in London. -
Nettie Hartsock
Nettie has been a professional freelance writer for the past 20 years, including high tech and business journalism. Apart from her strong print media background, Nettie has become a leading provider of freelance material to the internet. In her diverse writing journey, she’s worked as a technical writer, produced legal documentaries, and was a devoted celebrity/lifestyle/fiction review writer for many different print magazines. She also worked as managing editor of a high gloss feature and styles magazine Access Texas. Nettie was also a reporter for the award winning alternative print news weekly The Chatauquan. -
JOhn Parrish
English freelancer who also writes for US and international magazines including Stuff, Maxim, The Evening Standard and many others. International sales are primarily where he makes his income.
-
Deborah Grant
Freelance writer and sub-editor. Former Chief Sub-Editor on numerous international magazines including Inside Out, She and Marie Claire magazine. -
Craig Mathieson
Film and television critic, writer of music profiles and contributor to The Monthly. As a freelance writer Craig has written for Rolling Stone, The Age, Sydney Morning Herald and GQ. Former Editor Juice magazine. Film writer, The Bulletin, music writer, The Age. -
Michael Pickering
Currently a freelance editor and journalist, Michel was Editor of Men’s Style magazine. Previously Michael has been Editor of Rugby League Week and Editor of cricket magazine, Inside Edge and Ralph magazine. He has also been a senior writer, sub and editor at a number of international publications. -
Garth Montgomery
Freelance writer and editor specialising in computers and information technology. -
Anne Maria Dell'oso
Journalist, film critic and author whose books include Cats, Cradles and Chamomile Tea and Songs of the Suitcase. Ms Dell’oso did her newspaper cadetship on the Christchurch Star in New Zealand. -
Paul B Kidd
Freelance writer and editor, turned author. Specialising in travel, big game fishing, humour and adventure. Feature writer for magazines worldwide including Penthouse and Marlin. Now turned radio broadcaster and true-crime author. Currently author of more than 20 titles.

