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Why "Journalism" Is In This Newsletter

By Clare Kaufman
Learning & Life Columnist

The pen is mightier than the sword--especially when you have a mass audience. Journalists offer snapshots of our world, often exposing injustice and mobilizing the public to take positive action. Corporations are more responsible, political figures more reliable, and the world a safer place because of the information journalists make accessible.

With expanding media outlets and information networks, now is an exciting time to embark on a journalism career. In addition to print newspapers and magazines, journalists tell their stories on the radio, on television, and online. Written accounts are accompanied by visual and interactive multimedia features.

Journalism Education

The basics of solid journalism remain the same, however. A college degree or online program in journalism trains students in:

• Research
• Media writing
• Oral presentation
• Interviewing
• Journalistic ethics
• Computer-assisted reporting

Communications degrees offer a broader look at communication across digital, written, and visual media platforms. Aspiring news broadcasters can find coursework in radio and television production.

Most journalists enter the field with bachelor's degrees in communications or related fields. A master's degree from a journalism school is helpful for access to more specialized training, international experience, and a professional network.

Career Forecast

Competition is keen for this popular career path--journalists with education and experience in new media outlets have an edge. The median salary for reporters and news correspondents was $31,320 in 2004; for broadcast news analysts, it was $36,980. Many newspapers advertise a salary of $50-$60,000 for staff reporters. Editors at prominent news sources can earn over $100,000.

Journalists have always performed a crucial civic role, disseminating information and promoting public discourse. Today's digital media offers a new venue for reaching a broader audience in more sophisticated ways. With a degree in journalism or mass communications, you can join the next generation of news reporters and analysts.

Sources

• Bureau of Labor Statistics, "News Analysts, Reporters, and Correspondents"

About the Author
Clare Kaufman is a freelance writer specializing in education and career advice. She has a graduate degree in English.

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