PNA Foundation Journalism Training Certification Program

If you are new to the editorial department or are interested in honing your journalism skills and knowledge, get ready to embark on an exciting educational journey. The PNAF’s yearlong Journalism Training Certification Program will equip you with the essential skills and industry insights needed to thrive in a newsroom.

News media experts will share practical advice and tips on interviewing techniques, story structure, writing ledes, understanding local and state government, First Amendment rights, implementing ethical standards, utilizing AI, and avoiding burnout.

Each webinar will be held the second Monday of each month from noon to 1 p.m., April 14, 2025, through March 9, 2026. Participants are encouraged to attend every session in real time; however, the webinars will be recorded for on-demand viewing if there is a scheduling conflict. Registrants must complete all sessions to receive a graduation training certificate at the end of the program.

Download the complete program brochure.

Complete certification program sessions:

#1 – Monday, April 14, 2025 – Reporting Basics: Navigating Local Journalism

#2 – Monday, May 12, 2025 – Writing Primer – Part 1: Mastering Story Structure and AP Style

#3 – Monday, June 9, 2025 – Writing Primer – Part 2: From Lede to Publication – Writing, Vetting and Legal Considerations

#4 – Monday, July 14, 2025 – It is a Balancing Act – Managing Multiple Roles

#5 – Monday, Aug. 11, 2025 – Comprehending Local and State Government in Pennsylvania – A Guide for Journalists

#6 – Monday, Sept. 8, 2025 – Access & Transparency – Navigating the Sunshine Act and First Amendment

#7 – Monday, Oct. 13, 2025 – Unlocking Public Records – A Guide to Pennsylvania’s Right-to-Know Law

#8 – Monday, Nov. 10, 2025 – First Amendment, Court Access and Legal Updates – Navigating Press Rights in the Current Legal Landscape

#9 – Monday, Dec. 8, 2025 – Ethics & Bias in Journalism – Implementing and Maintaining Standards

#10 – Monday, Jan. 12, 2026 – Staying Safe on the Job – Best Practices for Journalists

#11 – Monday, Feb. 9, 2026 – Mental Health and Wellness – Covering Trauma While Protecting Yourself

#12 – Monday, March 9, 2026 – Artificial Intelligence in the Newsroom – Leveraging Technology While Upholding Journalistic Standards

For as little as $20 a month, you will gain access to a comprehensive yearlong editorial training program, that provides expert-led webinars designed to build and refine your journalism skills. For less than the cost of a daily cup of coffee, this is an affordable and invaluable investment in your professional growth. Whether you are new to the field or looking to sharpen your expertise, this budget-friendly solution ensures that you stay ahead in today’s fast-paced media landscape.

Twelve sessions: PNA member: $240; Press Association Member: $350; PNA college member: $120; Non-member: $495

Six sessions: PNA member: $180; Press Association Member: $275; PNA college member: $90; Non-member: $350

Three sessions: PNA member: $125; Press Association Member: $175; PNA college member: $65; Non-member: $225

One session: PNA member: $50; Press Association Member: $75; PNA college member: $25; Non-member: $95

To register: complete the registration form and email a letter of support from an editor or publisher to foundation@pa-news.org by Monday, March 31. Please include “PNAF Journalism Training Certification Program” in the subject line of the email.

If you have any questions about this program, contact Teresa Shaak at teresas@pa-news.org or 717-703-3003.

Register now!