Journalism Colleges & Universities

Uncover the Facts About Journalism School
Journalism students learn to gather, analyze, and interpret information, then communicate that information accurately and quickly to the general public.

Journalists have a natural curiosity, and strive to be informed citizens. They're also resourceful; journalists investigators who do what it takes to seek out answers. You must work well under pressure, because journalism is a deadline-driven field. Above all, the ability to communicate effectively, to tell a good story, is essential. If you don't like to write, journalism school isn't for you.

Opportunities for Those With Journalism Degrees
Such technological innovations as free online news sites, smart phones, Twitter, and the iPad have transformed journalism. Print journalism is declining; newspapers around the country are shedding jobs, cutting printed pages, and closing up shop.

Opportunities do exist for those with journalism degrees, but the required skill set has expanded. Media outlets will want one-stop-shop journalists who can identify stories, thoroughly research them, write about them effectively and accurately, and provide photos of subjects. And online outlets should offer the most new job opportunities.

The following jobs may be available to those with journalism degrees:
  •   News analyst or anchor (TV, radio)
  •   Reporter (print, online, TV, radio)
  •   Weather reporter
  •   Sportscaster
  •   Editor
  •   Public relations specialist

What Goes On In Journalism Schools
Mostly what journalism students do is write. You'll take courses in news writing for print and broadcast, and you'll regularly write articles under deadline. You'll likely study copyediting, media law and ethics, reporting fundamentals, and a history of American media. If you specialize in broadcast journalism, video and audio production will likely be part of your studies. And you can expect to work for the school paper or radio or TV station, or as an intern at a media outlet, which is critical experience for finding work as a journalist.