Is becoming a 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 a 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 a 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 a Journalist
Becoming a journalist typically involves a combination of education, skills development, and practical experience. Here are the general steps to pursue this career:
- Earn a Relevant Degree: Most journalists start by earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism, Broadcast Journalism, Communications, or a related field. This provides a foundation in writing, reporting, ethics, and media law. While a bachelor’s degree is often sufficient, a Master’s Degree in Journalism or a specialized field (such as political science or business) can provide advanced skills and open up more career opportunities, especially for those aiming for higher-level positions or specialized reporting.
- Gain Practical Experience: Internships and freelance work are valuable for gaining hands-on experience. Many aspiring journalists start by writing for college newspapers or contributing to local media outlets.
- Develop Strong Writing and Research Skills: Journalists must be skilled in writing clearly, conducting thorough research, and gathering accurate information. Practice writing in different styles and formats, including news articles, features, and opinion pieces.
- Build a Portfolio: A strong portfolio of writing samples is essential when applying for journalism jobs. It showcases your ability to cover different topics and demonstrates your style and skills to potential employers.
- Stay Informed and Network: Journalists should stay updated on current events and trends in media. Networking with industry professionals, attending journalism events, and joining professional organizations can also help you advance in the field.