Journalism Careers

Journalists use their writing, photography, and video skills to cover important events. They work in media organizations at all levels, from local newspapers to national network television channels. Journalism careers also include marketing, communications, and public information roles.

Journalism degrees help learners develop writing abilities, interviewing skills, and research competencies. Read on to learn how these vital skills prepare journalism graduates for different career paths. You can also find information about different degrees, salary potential, continuing education resources, and professional organizations.

Curiosity is the foundation for successful journalists. Curiosity helps journalists to identify interesting reporting projects and ask questions that inform readers and viewers. Journalism degrees supplement students’ natural curiosity with research, interview, and writing skills.

Careers in journalism require the ability to talk to diverse individuals to gather information and multiple perspectives. Reporters then share that information, adhering to a code of ethics built on honesty and maintaining the public’s trust. As media companies provide breaking news and adhere to strict publishing timelines, journalists also need to work well on a deadline.

While journalism students once specialized in writing or broadcast, today’s journalism programs incorporate both of these skills in order to enhance traditional and emerging media channels. Journalism careers require comfort with new technology, essential data analysis ability, and strong writing and grammar skills. Critical thinking, decision-making, and problem-solving are also crucial skills for journalists.

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects a 11% decline in the employment of reporters, correspondents, and broadcast news analysts between 2019 and 2029. This decline hinges on changes in business models and advertising revenue as media companies transition to digital publishing ventures. 

According to the BLS, reporters earn a median annual salary of $46,270. New journalists will face stiff competition for journalism careers. Experience in the field through student media and internships can provide an edge in the job market.

A journalism degree prepares graduates for other career opportunities, several of which are projected to experience positive employment growth. For example, the BLS projects 7% job growth for public relations specialists between 2019 and 2029. 

The table below explores the earning potential for several journalism careers.

Earning a journalism degree teaches learners a variety of skills and competencies, preparing them to excel in the industry. In the classroom, students learn to interview subjects, conduct research, and outline stories.

Learners can also take advantage of internships to work in practical settings, as well as participate in journalism clubs and organizations to gain more expertise.

Journalism concentrations can help students prepare for a specific career path. The specializations discussed below give degree-seekers a sense of what to expect, but students should check with individual schools to learn more about specific offerings.

To qualify for roles as journalists, reporters, or correspondents, candidates must hold a bachelor’s degree. Professionals who want to work in research, academia, and advanced leadership must hold a master’s or doctoral degree.

As students earn higher degrees, they qualify for jobs with more responsibilities and earn higher levels of pay. As you review the following sections, consider how each degree level fits with your personal and professional goals.

Advancing your journalism career may involve adding new skills, building a professional network, and demonstrating your storytelling ability across various platforms. Working with a mentor can help you develop your career goals. Your mentor may help you identify learning opportunities, leadership development training, and potential job openings.

Many journalists develop online collections of their work, collecting their best samples for potential employers. They also establish professional social media accounts where they interact with their audience and share their work.

Read on to learn about continuing education and certification opportunities to enhance your resume.

There are few professional certifications for journalists. The Journalism Education Association offers voluntary certification in scholastic journalism. The association established its program because many states have no certification standards for teachers of journalism. It awards the certified journalism educator and master journalism educator certifications.

Journalists can supplement their journalistic skills with related industry certifications. For example, certification in Google Analytics can help editorial directors evaluate online readership and inform content decisions.

Visual journalists can seek certification in industry-standard software used in photo editing, page design, and video editing. Adobe offers certification in its various products, with instructor and expert-level certifications. 

The American Marketing Association offers professional credentials in marketing management, digital marketing, sales management, and content marketing. Public relations professionals may benefit from the Public Relations Society of America’s accreditation in public relations credentials.

Many schools and organizations offer accessible continuing education opportunities for journalists. Columbia Journalism School offers workshops and seminars throughout the year that help working journalists advance their skills. The school also partners with the Google News Initiative Newsroom Leadership Program to provide leadership development training.

The Society of Professional Journalists and its state-level affiliates offer in-person and online training opportunities. The nonprofit Poynter Institute for Media Studies, which owns the Tampa Bay Times, offers a library of training resources through its NewsU online training platform. The organization offers some courses for free, while others require a fee.

Some journalism careers may require a return to the classroom. A master’s degree or doctorate can open the door to tenured professor positions. It can also prepare journalists for leadership positions in their media companies.

The path to reaching your career goals begins with your first journalism job. Begin by finding a mentor in the field whom you admire. Ask about training opportunities, professional organizations, and local groups that can enhance your professional network.

Keep examples of your work in a well-organized digital portfolio. You can design your website, demonstrating your technical design abilities, or use a ready-made platform. This space also offers a place to showcase awards and special projects.

Make time for continuing education. While you will inevitably have multiple deadlines to track and meet, prioritize learning new skills that you can use in your career.

While you may think journalists only work in publishing or information industries, their skills are in high demand in other fields. Read on to learn about industries that offer careers for graduates with a journalism degree.

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics

Many journalism careers are concentrated in New York and California, both of which are hubs for broadcast news organizations and emerging media companies. According to the BLS, New York houses 6,020 journalists, who earn an annual mean wage of $90,160. California companies employ 4,500 journalists, who earn an average annual salary of $67,870.

The District of Columbia reports a mean salary of $103,320 for journalists. As the nation’s capital, the city serves as a hub of government agencies and legislative offices. New York ranks second for journalist pay, followed by Georgia, where journalists earn an average salary of $68,780.

Few journalists work in Delaware, Hawaii, and Vermont. Journalists earn the lowest salaries in Wyoming, Iowa, and Montana.

Journalists can access a wealth of resources. Professional organizations, for instance, support journalism through legislative advocacy, legal expertise, and professional development. These organizations also coordinate annual press contests that recognize excellence in journalism each year.

Journalists can also access open courseware and publications. Open courseware makes it easy for students and professionals alike to learn new skills. Publications help keep journalism students and professionals informed about industry trends, research, and career opportunities.