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How to Become a Journalist: Education and Job Training Requirements for Becoming a Journalist

Published Aug 13, 2009

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With newspapers, news magazines, 24-hour cable news stations and all-news radio stations, it seems as though people can never get enough of current events. As a Journalist, you could be at the forefront of unfolding events, from major world news to small town happenings. If reporting on the world around you sounds appealing, read on for more information about the education and job training requirements to become a Journalist.

Journalist Career Summary

A Journalist gathers information about a certain event or issue and writes a story for publication or broadcast. A Journalist uses interviews, records reviews, observations and eyewitness accounts to gather facts for a news story. These news stories can appear in print publications, on the Internet or be used for broadcast by radio and TV news stations. Journalists can report in many different areas of news, such as sports, entertainment, fashion, business and finance. Some Journalists even write daily or weekly columns.

Education Required to Become a Journalist

One typically needs to possess a bachelor's degree in journalism before becoming a Journalist. In some cases, a 4-year degree in communications or English is acceptable for those who have compiled freelance experience in the field. Programs that include courses in television journalism, radio journalism, online journalism and photojournalism prepare students for a career in any of these media. A bachelor's degree program in journalism prepares students to write many types of news stories, such as sports reporting, feature writing and international reporting. News editing and research methods for Journalists are also part of many bachelor's degree programs.

Job Training and Certifications Required to Become a Journalist

Those seeking to become a Journalist gain valuable training through internships offered as part of many degree programs in journalism. The American Society of News Editors, www.asne.org, suggests freelancing for those who do not have experience from either internships or writing for college newspapers. Freelance reporting allows a young Journalist to gain the experience he or she will need to break into larger newspapers, magazines or TV news stations. Starting out as a cub reporter for smaller newspapers or TV stations also provides a Journalist with training opportunities before moving on to larger news venues. No specific certifications are required to become a Journalist.

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