High Impact Journalism Jobs: Love 'Em or Hate 'Em

By Kelly Richardson
Career Colleges Columnist

There is no profession that draws more praise and more criticism than that of journalism. The jobs are exciting and the pace is fast. If you have even a little bit of writing ability, you can parlay your skills into a journalism job with just a few short years of formal journalism training. Here’s how to break into this growing field.

To the public, the journalism professional represents the last bastion of truth and perspective left in our capitalist society. To the government big wigs and high profile athletes and entertainers that are constantly the subject of news features, the journalism professional is a nuisance. In either case, being a journalist is an exciting job, to say the least. Here are some of the major employers of journalism professionals and the job opportunities that they offer.

Journalism Job Options: Paper or Plastic?

Newspapers. Most journalism majors are employed by various newspaper outlets. And because most newspapers are offering online versions of their product, this will increase your chances of employment considerably.
Magazines. There are magazines that represent virtually every interest and vice you can think of. If you have a special interest, getting a job with a professional magazine publisher allows you to immerse yourself in the topic.
Web Reporting. The arrival of the Internet has changed the journalism profession considerably. Writing for the web is a perfect way to cut your journalistic teeth before joining that big time newspaper staff.

The Occupational Outlook Handbook provides a robust summary of the state of the journalism profession. Opportunities abound for those candidates who are willing to be trained and put in their time building a resume. Here’s what you can expect as you enter the field of journalism.

Journalism Career Profile: What to Expect

Investigation. Reporters investigate leads and news tips, examine documents, observe events at the scene, and interview people to find the heart of the story.
Employment. Competition will be tough for jobs on large metropolitan and national newspapers. Look for opportunities with small-town and suburban newspapers as you begin your career.
Earnings. The median annual earnings of reporters and correspondents were $31,320 in May 2004, with the middle 50% earning between $22,900 and $47,860.

For an all-access pass to the biggest events in our society, you must earn your journalism training from an accredited program. The jobs are out there waiting for you. Find out more today.

About the Author
Kelly Richardson covers the local education and technology scenes in major cities across the country. His articles appear in a variety of respected educational journals, periodicals, and e-zines.

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