Key takeaways
- Journalism has been part of human civilization for centuries. However, it has evolved and transformed significantly since then.
- Journalism degrees are part of the humanities and liberal arts programs.
- A degree in journalism is your gateway to acquiring some essential skills such as communication, interpersonal skills, and research.
- Journalism encompasses various fields, including fashion, sports, politics, media, and entertainment.
- You must complete 120 credit hours and other necessary coursework such as capstone projects, written assignments, reports, examinations, and lectures.
- Journalism majors can find job roles as news reporters, multimedia journalists, PR specialists, and digital media managers.
- Some of the top colleges that specialize in journalism are the University of Iowa, the University of Kansas, the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, the University of Oklahoma, and the University of Florida.
- To make an informed choice and choose a college carefully, you must consider factors like student facilities, cost of attendance, campus life, financial aid options, and accreditations.
Journalism has evolved rigorously over the past centuries. From ancient Rome to the launch of the first few newspapers, there have been so much advancement in this field. The most recent advancements and changes in the industry are the shift towards digital. From printed newspapers to e-papers, electronic news, along with technologies like real-time or live streaming and artificial intelligence have come into the picture.
Undoubtedly, journalism is today’s most refined and revolutionized industry, with so many branches and subcategories. So, the term “journalism” is now extremely broad, and is an umbrella for all things including fashion, sports, media, entertainment, politics, and so on.
Due to this broad scope and application of this field, many young students like yourself find themselves interested in these college majors. From learning ethics in journalism to finding your muse as a professional sports or fashion journalist, there is so much you can unleash with this degree. So, to help you get started, this guide gives an overview of everything about a journalism degree including colleges, types of degrees, coursework, and career outlooks.
What is a journalism degree?
A bachelor’s or undergraduate journalism degree is a 4-year-long program that typically requires the completion of 120 credit hours, along with other requirements such as a capstone project. Moreover, this is a college program that allows students to learn and develop new skills and competencies, relevant to their chosen field of work.
So, if you would like to be covering the most important local events, or want to write some thought-provoking pieces in the New York Times – a journalism degree is your gateway. In addition to this, a journalism degree is a pathway to achieving and unlocking so many different types of career paths, such as finding jobs as a sociologist or becoming eligible for communications degree jobs.
As an aspiring journalist, you must have numerous questions and queries about these college majors. So, let’s help you out during this important part of your college planning!
Types of journalism degree
There are two main types of journalism degrees, including a bachelor’s degree or a master’s in journalism:
Bachelors
An undergraduate journalism degree is typically a 4-year program. So, there are two types of bachelor’s degrees in journalism:
- BA: Many colleges offer a Bachelor of Arts in journalism. This type of degree is more relevant for creative careers, such as PR and media. Moreover, it offers a much more flexible range of course options and does not have a fixed path.
- BS: Bachelor of Science in journalism is a more technical degree. It is more relevant for typical journalism careers, especially for people who already have a career goal in mind. Moreover, this kind of degree has a set path and requires competition for certain courses.
Masters and postgraduate
A masters in journalism or a postgraduate degree can range anywhere between 1 and 2 years, depending on various factors. Moreover, these degrees are ideal for working professionals and older students who would wish to land managerial or higher level jobs.
Specialization in journalism degrees
Since you are looking for something to start your career in journalism, you must look into the details of a bachelor’s in journalism. So, choosing the specialization or concentration area plays an important role in ensuring that your career goals are met. Moreover, specializations allow you to narrow down your focus on a specific aspect, ensuring subject expertise by the end of the degree.
Usually, specializations offered by colleges with journalism majors can vary. However, the most popular concentration areas include the following:
Photojournalism
Photojournalism involves visual storytelling. Moreover, it is a much more creative expression of news and social issues. As a photojournalist, you may be eligible to work in various mediums such as magazines and newspapers, for print and digital alike.
Public relations
A public relations bachelor’s degree is a more straightforward pathway to building a career in PR. However, both PR and journalism are closely connected fields. Therefore, a common specialization within journalism is PR. Within this specialization, you learn about strategic communication with the media.
Sports journalism degree
With a sports journalism degree, you may work in various fields and journalism platforms, including TV and magazines. However, you can opt for sports generalists or specialize in a specific sport. Overall, this is a common choice for young students as it offers a lot of exciting work and has a good growth rate as well.
Magazine journalism
If you have a knack for writing, editing, and storytelling, you should definitely opt for magazine journalism. With this specialization, you can explore various types of journalism degree jobs such as columnist, magazine editor, interviewer, and so on.
Fashion journalism
As the name of the specialization itself suggests, fashion journalism focuses on journalistic reporting for the fashion industry. Here, you must specify what kind of work you want to be doing, such as writing articles and reviews or covering fashion events for TV news outlets.
Courses in journalism degrees
So, an important part of deciding which journalism degree is ideal for you is exploring the coursework. The coursework, program details, and the learning techniques of a program are indicators of what you can expect and achieve from the program. Therefore, you must not skip this crucial consideration during your college planning.
To help you understand, here is a quick list of various components and coursework of a typical degree in journalism:
- Completion of 120 credit hours
- Selecting a concentration area of specialization”
- Successful completion of examinations, written, digital, or both
- Quizzes and assessments
- Final year project, thesis, or capstone project
- Various teaching materials such as class lectures, books, research papers, and so on
- Multimedia lectures and class sessions
- Guest lectures
- Internship and other hands-on work opportunities
So, through these various teaching methods, you will be able to develop a broad range of knowledge and skills. Lastly, here is a list of some core courses that you must enroll in and complete during the 4-year program:
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Skills and learning outcomes after a journalism degree
Since you are spending so much time and effort into a 4-year bachelor’s degree in journalism, there must be some worthy outcome to keep you motivated. Just like any other college degree, a journalism degree also offers numerous skills and competencies that are indispensable in your career.
So, here is what you can expect to achieve after graduating from the top-ranked journalism colleges:
Transferable, soft, and hard skills
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Competencies, capabilities, and knowledge
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List of colleges for a journalism degree
Finding the best journalism schools is perhaps going to be the ultimate game changer. The best colleges for journalism degrees will ensure that you get the best education and the best training. Thankfully, there are so many amazing colleges around the nation, including some of the best schools in Florida for journalism, Texas, Arizona, and so on.
University of Iowa
To get a balanced exposure to both traditional and modern journalism, you should opt for the journalism degree offered by the University of Iowa. Firstly, the program has comprehensive coursework focusing on practical learning. Moreover, it focuses on developing skills like critical thinking and public speaking. Lastly, you will be required to complete core courses, along with electives, and a capstone project to finish with.
University of Kansas
The University of Kansas offers a well-rounded BS program in journalism and mass communication. As a result, you become eligible for not only careers in journalism but also for jobs and work opportunities related to the media field. Moreover, this is one of the best places for those interested in different varieties of journalism, such as a sports journalism degree, PR, advertising, and so on.
University of Nebraska-Lincoln
For the most hands-on learning experience, the bachelor’s degree in journalism offered by the University of Nebraska-Lincoln is the best choice. First, you are taught through practical work and examples. Moreover, the degree is offered by highly qualified and industry-famous faculty members. Additionally, the college ensures an atmosphere of growth and exposure through facilities like academic groups, clubs, and associations with industry-relevant institutions.
University of Oklahoma
The University of Oklahoma offers a journalism degree through its Gaylord College of Journalism. The program is best for those interested in the mix of journalism and mass media. It is also suitable for those interested in becoming impactful storytellers, writers, and editors. Additionally, you can explore postgraduate programs at the college for an even better career outlook.
University of Florida
If you are searching for the ideal Bachelor of Science degree in journalism, look no further. The University of Florida is on top of the list of the best schools in Florida for journalism. Firstly, you will find the program’s coursework to be evenly focused on multiple aspects of journalism such as PR, storytelling, writing, news reporting, and much more. Secondly, the program has the most proficient sports journalism specialization.
How to choose a college for a journalism major?
Now you know that there is no shortage of amazing and top journalism schools in America. However, the large variety means that finding or selecting the ideal college may be a bit of a challenge. Therefore, to make things easier for you, we have provided an overview of some of the most important factors to consider:
Student facilities
Firstly, make sure that the college you are planning to enroll in has all the necessary facilities, such as computer labs and photo labs. This will ensure that you get access to valuable academic and professional resources for better learning outcomes.
Cost of attendance
Secondly, college can be financially tolling. Therefore, make sure you have evaluated the costs involved, and compared the COA of different colleges.
Accreditations and college reputation
Thirdly, the best way to assess a college’s reputation and quality is through its program and institute accreditations. These validate the college for its specific, unique qualities.
Campus life
Fourthly, look into the kind of campus life the college ensures. Spending 4 years in college should be productive and cherishable. Therefore, explore what on-campus activities are conducted, whether there are career fairs, student clubs, and so on.
Financial aid options
Lastly, do not forget to explore the financial aid options you may be eligible for. So, look for scholarships, government grants, loans, and other such channels through which you can fulfill your 4-year financial commitment.
Can I get an online journalism degree?
Fortunately, you can now also explore online journalism degrees. These degrees are offered typically by accredited colleges, ensuring the reputation and validity of the degree once you graduate. Moreover, online journalism degrees are great for adult students who are wrapped up by other commitments as well. Additionally, online degrees in journalism tend to be cheaper than on-campus ones, ridding you off expenses like house allowance and commute.
So, to explore this option, you must look into the top colleges with journalism majors offered online. Here is a list of such colleges:
- Arizona State University – Online
- University of Florida – Online
- Southern New Hampshire University
- Pennsylvania State University (World Campus)
- University of Missouri (Mizzou Online)
- University of Maryland Global Campus
What can you do with a journalism degree?
The careers with a journalism degree are the most exciting part of this college major. So, if you find yourself learning towards this line of work, you will find excellent career options.
In addition to this, a bachelor’s degree in journalism is ideal for finding entry-level and mid-level jobs, according to BLS. It also reports the average annual wage for journalism professionals in 2023 to be $57,500 per year. Additionally, BLS reports fields of journalism to have a similar wage rate, some even higher. In particular, the related professions include the following:
- Audio and video technicians
- Video editors
- Fundraising managers
- Writers and authors
- Community managers
- Social workers
Furthermore, there are certain skills and responsibilities expected of people working in the journalism field.
- Observation and information-gathering skills
- Research and survey skills
- Communicating with a diverse group of people
- Social media management
- Understanding of laws and ethics in the context of journalism
Finally, here is a list of job roles you may be eligible for with a degree in journalism:
| News Reporter
Staff Writer Content Writer Digital Journalist Social Media Coordinator Communications Specialist Copywriter Editorial Assistant Multimedia Journalist Public Relations Assistant Marketing Content Specialist Proofreader Associate Editor Podcast Producer Media Relations Coordinator Video Content Creator |
Investigative Reporter
Photojournalist Web Content Manager Communications Coordinator Newsroom Assistant Technical Writer Speechwriter Broadcast Production Assistant Public Relations Specialist Media Relations Coordinator Press Officer Corporate Communications Associate PR Account Executive Social Media Strategist Freelance Journalist |
Crisis Communications Consultant
Public Affairs Specialist Content Strategist Communications Manager Community Relations Specialist Brand Storyteller Event Publicist Influencer Relations Coordinator Internal Communications Specialist Media Planner Broadcast Producer News Editor TV/Radio Reporter Digital Media Manager |
Can you work in journalism with a sociology degree?
An undergraduate sociology degree is an excellent college major for students who would like to keep diverse career options. Moreover, a sociology degree is primarily focused on studying and analyzing human behavior in groups. It requires some important skills such as observation, research, ethics, and social awareness. Therefore, there are certain points at which both sociology and journalism careers may overlap.
Consequently, with a sociology degree, you can explore careers in journalism. Sociology trains you to analyze and understand complex social phenomena, which can help you report on topics like inequality, race, gender, crime, and cultural trends. In particular, you can pursue a career in investigative journalism with this degree.
Furthermore, sociology programs are focused on developing research skills and abilities, along with data management and analysis. So, these skills are essential for gathering credible information and presenting data in articles or reports.
However, if you are planning to get a sociology degree for a journalism career, you may want to start early with hands-on learning opportunities. So, look for part-time work at museums and information institutes, explore internships with news agencies and magazines, and find work on campus too.
Enroll in a journalism program today
In conclusion, pursuing a journalism degree from a top college will enable you to tap into many rewarding career paths. The degree is ideal for truly passionate individuals who want to develop skills such as social awareness, political knowledge, and research skills.
Moreover, there is a long list of colleges with journalism degrees. However, some of the most ideal options with generous acceptance rates include the University of Florida and the University of Kansas. Lastly, to select the best colleges for a journalism degree, you must explore some important factors like college accreditations, program reputation, faculty expertise, and campus facilities.