Is becoming an entertainment journalist right for me?
The first step to choosing a career is to make sure you are actually willing to commit to pursuing the career. You don’t want to waste your time doing something you don’t want to do. If you’re new here, you should read about:
Still unsure if becoming an entertainment journalist is the right career path? Take the free CareerExplorer career test to find out if this career is right for you. Perhaps you are well-suited to become an entertainment journalist or another similar career!
Described by our users as being “shockingly accurate”, you might discover careers you haven’t thought of before.
How to become an Entertainment Journalist
Becoming an entertainment journalist involves building strong writing skills, gaining media experience, and developing knowledge of the entertainment industry. Here are the general steps you can take to enter this field:
- Earn a Relevant Degree: Start with a Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism, Broadcast Journalism, Communications, English, or a related field. These programs teach core writing, editing, and reporting skills essential for a career in journalism.
- Gain Writing Experience: Write for school newspapers, blogs, or entertainment websites to build a strong portfolio. This hands-on experience shows your ability to cover stories, meet deadlines, and engage audiences.
- Develop Industry Knowledge: Stay informed about movies, music, television, celebrities, and pop culture. Understanding trends and knowing key figures in the industry helps you write with insight and credibility.
- Build Multimedia Skills: Learn to use digital tools like video editing software, social media platforms, and content management systems. Many entertainment journalists produce multimedia content or manage online engagement.
- Pursue Internships or Entry-Level Jobs: Look for internships at magazines, entertainment websites, or TV stations. These opportunities provide valuable experience and connections in the industry.
- Consider a Master’s Degree (Optional): A graduate degree in journalism or media studies can deepen your expertise, expand your professional network, and improve your job prospects, especially for competitive or senior roles.