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Journalism Major

Study of news gathering, reporting, and media communication.

Entry: $35,000
Mid: $55,000
Senior: $80,000
Growth: -11% (declining)

Overview

Journalism majors learn to gather, verify, and communicate news and information to the public. Students develop skills in writing, reporting, editing, and multimedia storytelling across various platforms.

The curriculum covers news writing, investigative reporting, media law, ethics, and digital journalism. Students gain practical experience through campus publications, internships, and real-world assignments.

Journalism graduates work for newspapers, magazines, television, radio, and digital media. The field is evolving rapidly with new technologies and changing media consumption patterns.

Career Prospects

Reporter
Editor
Broadcast Journalist
Digital Content Creator
Investigative Journalist
Media Producer
Social Media Manager
Communications Specialist
News Director
Freelance Journalist

Top Universities for Journalism

1

Columbia University

New York, NY • 65.0% acceptance rate
2

Northwestern University

Evanston, IL • 7.0% acceptance rate
US News
#11
3

University of Missouri St Louis

St Louis, MO • 65.0% acceptance rate
4

Arizona State University-West

Glendale, AZ • 75.9% acceptance rate
US News
#105
5

Pennsylvania State University

University Park, PA • 35.0% acceptance rate
US News
#55
6

Indiana University-Bloomington

Bloomington, IN • 80.0% acceptance rate
US News
#73
7

University of Wisconsin Madison

Madison, WI • 30.0% acceptance rate
US News
#53
8

Ohio University

Athens, OH • 65.0% acceptance rate
9

Syracuse University

Syracuse, NY • 49.5% acceptance rate
US News
#58
10

University of Florida

Gainesville, FL • 26.0% acceptance rate
US News
#39

Popular Courses

News Writing and Reporting
Media Law and Ethics
Investigative Journalism
Broadcast Journalism
Digital Journalism
Photojournalism
Feature Writing
Media History
Public Affairs Reporting
Multimedia Storytelling

Admissions Requirements

  • Excellent writing skills
  • Current events knowledge
  • Communication abilities
  • Curiosity and investigation skills
  • School newspaper or media experience
  • English and social studies strength
  • Adaptability to technology

Essential Skills

Writing and editingResearch and investigationInterview techniquesMultimedia productionSocial media proficiencyDeadline managementCritical thinkingEthical judgment

Work Environments

  • Newspapers
  • Television stations
  • Radio stations
  • Digital media companies
  • Magazines
  • Non-profit organizations
  • Government agencies
  • Freelance work

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I do with a Journalism major?

A Journalism major opens doors to careers in reporter, editor, broadcast journalist, and many other fields. The skills you develop in writing and editing, research and investigation, interview techniques are highly valued across industries.

What is the job outlook for Journalism graduates?

The job growth for Journalism related careers is projected at -11% (declining), according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Entry-level salaries typically start around $35,000, with potential to grow to $80,000 or more with experience.

What are the admission requirements for Journalism programs?

Most Journalism programs require excellent writing skills and current events knowledge. Additionally, many programs look for communication abilities and curiosity and investigation skills.

Which universities have the best Journalism programs?

Top universities for Journalism include Columbia University, Northwestern University, University of Missouri St Louis, Arizona State University-West, Pennsylvania State University, among others. These institutions are known for their strong faculty, research opportunities, and career placement rates.