Is a Journalism Degree Right for Me?
A journalism degree is great for people with strong communication skills. Journalism majors enjoy careers in public relations, news writing, and digital media.
Working in the field of journalism can be quite exciting. Journalists might write fascinating news stories, report on current events, or interview stars on the red carpet.
Many schools offer journalism programs. But is a journalism degree the right choice? If you love written or verbal communication and want to work in broadcast TV, radio, print media, or digital media, a journalism degree is right for you.
Are you interested in this field? Don't pursue a journalism degree yet. First, discover the coursework you'll explore in a journalism program. Also, find out why people study journalism. Reviewing journalism career options and asking questions about the field can help you decide if this is the right career.
What Is a Journalism Degree?
Journalism degrees are among the most common communication degrees students pursue. Programs teach enrollees how to gather, produce, and present news and more through various forms of media.
Students in journalism degree programs learn about news writing and reporting in television, radio, digital media, and print (newspapers and magazines). Many programs also explore the ins and outs of public relations.
While it's possible to start a journalism career by taking an entry-level position right out of high school, most media roles require a bachelor's degree. Some schools offer associate degree programs that teach core journalism concepts and prepare students to transfer to four-year schools. Students who aim for leadership roles can look into master's degree programs.
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Arizona State University
Arizona State University offers more than 300 online degree programs, certificates and courses. ASU Online delivers the same rigorous academic programs as on campus, with the flexibility you need to succeed.
What Does a Journalism Major Study?
Journalism courses vary from school to school. However, you might encounter the following subject matter in a degree program:
- copywriting
- editing
- public speaking
- strategic planning
- social media and digital news
- mass communication
- broadcast journalism
- communications law
- news production
- magazine publishing
- public relations
The program you choose might allow you to focus your coursework on a specific area of journalism. Concentrations and specializations might include:
- broadcast TV or radio
- photojournalism
- public relations
- strategic communication
- international journalism
- documentary journalism
- media planning
- sports journalism
- business journalism
Programs teach journalism skills like writing and editing. Students also build their research skills and learn to fact-check, write press releases, and edit content. Schools often encourage students to take internships to get experience in the field and connect with potential employers.
Why You Should Consider a Degree in Journalism
Journalism offers exciting career opportunities that can take you across the globe. That's just one of many reasons to consider a degree in journalism. Others include the following.
Strengthen Your Communication Skills
Communication is a major aspect of journalism. Effectively communicating messages to your audience should be your primary goal. Degree programs ensure students have great written and verbal communication skills. They might also help students strengthen their English language skills to work in American markets.
Enjoy the Freedom of Freelancing
Many journalism jobs are found at radio stations, television newsrooms, and public relations firms. But journalists can also work independently as freelancers. Companies often contract with freelance writers, PR consultants, news reporters, editors, and digital media pros. Freelancing lets journalists work on the schedules they choose. However, freelancers must find work or create their own projects sometimes leaving them with fewer consistent opportunities.
Become a Voice for the Voiceless
Journalists often play a major role in helping people tell their stories. Maybe a family is seeking justice for a crime that took their loved one's life. Or a nonprofit organization wants to get the word out about their fundraiser to help victims of devastating wildfires. Journalists working for broadcast and independent news outlets can help provide a voice for people who would otherwise be voiceless.
Discover and Share New Information
As a journalist, you might report on unfamiliar topics. While doing so might seem intimidating, it lets you put your research skills to use. You'll discover and possibly even gain expertise in various new subjects. You also get the opportunity to share what you've learned with the public — possibly even as breaking news.
Have a Positive Influence on Public Opinion
The field of journalism has a tremendous influence on the public's opinion. When reporting the news, a great journalist doesn't shy away from the truth, whether good or bad. However, they often try to find a silver lining when possible. This is a great way to use one's influence for positivity.
Job Opportunities for Journalism Degree Majors
There are plenty of great career options for journalism majors. Student choose their career paths based on their unique interests. Whether you want to become a copywriter, broadcast journalist, or PR consultant, many job opportunities are available.
Journalism jobs include the following:
- news editor
- freelance writer
- radio personality
- news analyst
- media planner
- photojournalist
- news anchor
- sports reporter
- news producer
- video editor
- data research analyst
- communications specialist
A journalism degree can also open doors to careers in digital media. You might become a blogger, podcaster, social media manager, SEO strategist, or digital media strategist.
Journalism Degree: Questions To Ask Yourself
You might be eager to dive into a journalism degree program. But before getting started, ask yourself these questions to see if a journalism degree is right for you.
Is Journalism a Good Career If I'm an Introvert?
Journalism is a great career for introverts. Many assume introverts always shy away from public interactions. However, some have very public careers as news anchors and reporters. They simply need more time off the clock to re-energize. Introverts who prefer private lives can still enjoy great careers in journalism by taking on writing, editing, producing, and other behind-the-scenes roles.
What Skills Should I Develop To Succeed in a Journalism Degree Program?
To enjoy success in a journalism degree program, students should possess these skills:
- writing and communication skills for conveying clear messages to audiences
- interpersonal skills to conduct interviews and work closely with editors and producers
- technological skills to use broadcast, editing, and other multimedia equipment
- persistence to research, investigate, and deliver stories
What Is the Career Outlook for Journalists?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), about 6,000 openings are projected annually for news analysts, reporters, and journalists from 2022 to 2032. These openings will result from the need to replace workers leaving the labor force or transferring to other occupations.
