Currently in Thailand on tourist visa doing some freelance writing, however, could potentially be offered full-time employment. Have 18 months experience working for publications in the region, but don't have a degree. Is a degree a necessity in order to obtain a work permit to work as a journalist?

Cheers.

Can't answer your question, but normally a degree is not required. Might be different for journalists.

Foreign journalists have to apply through the ministry of Foreign Affairs, not sure what the rules are if you want to work for a Thai based media organisation.

Edit:

http://www.mfa.go.th/web/2676.php

From police order 777/2551.

2.12 In the case of performing duties in the mass media: Each permission shall be granted for no more than one year.

The alien: (1) Must have been granted a non-immigrant visa (NON-IM). (2) Must have been confirmed and requested by the Government Public Relations Department or the Department of Information, Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

There is no mention of a work permit and I seem to recall that there is no requirement for one.

The "work permit" is issued by the Foreign Ministry, but as said that is only for foreign journalists working for foreign media. If the OP works for Thai media, things might be different.

I think that's why the Government Pubic Relations Department is mentioned just before the or.

I would have thought to be issued a WP as a journo in Thailand one would have to be acredited to a recognised foreign entity or employed by a Thai media company....from what I can see the OP would be neither at this point in time..

I would have thought to be issued a WP as a journo in Thailand one would have to be acredited to a recognised foreign entity or employed by a Thai media company....from what I can see the OP would be neither at this point in time..

Sounds like the Nation is about to hire him. Opps, did I say that?

The OP did ask about the work permit in connection with potential employment in Thailand. The Department of Employment generally does not ask for a university diploma, the general rule being that the supporting documents with the application need to show that the applicant is qualified for the job as per the job description issued by the employer. How the Government Public Relations Department handles it, I do not know.