What Will I Learn in a Journalism Degree Program?

This degree program will teach you the skills you need to be a successful journalist. You'll finish with a strong foundation in writing, editing and reporting. In addition to traditional journalism, you'll also learn about new media, with classes on webcasting, blogs, citizen reporting and social media. Some students will decide to specialize in a certain type of journalism, such as broadcast, new media or reporting. Your classes will typically include journalism methods, story writing, editing, new media, libel laws and ethics.

BA in Journalism	MA in Journalism

What Can I Do With a Journalism Degree?

This degree prepares graduates for a career in journalism. That means you'll be ready to work in video production, a magazine, newspaper, or radio or TV station. These jobs are available in the public and private sectors, as well as nonprofits. You may also decide to use your journalism degree in the related fields of advertising or public relations. Job titles that journalism graduates typically pursue include broadcast news analyst, reporter, public relations specialist and correspondent. Most graduates will start out in entry level positions and work their way up into more coveted positions such as anchors and editors. Competition is fierce, and only those with proven experience and talent will be promoted.

What Is the Career Outlook for Journalism Degree Students?

The career outlook for journalism students has diminished recently, as traditional journalism has suffered a significant downturn. Employment is expected to decline moderately through 2018. However, this should not discourage you, as there are excellent opportunities for those with the right education and talent. You will find that small broadcast stations and towns will offer the best opportunities, as competition is intense in major metropolitan areas and at big newspapers, stations, magazines, and networks. You'll find a wide variety of salaries in this field from about $20,000 to $156,000. Average annual wages are typically about $33,000 in publishing and $38,000 in broadcasting.