Studying journalism opens doors to a range of careers where your creativity, writing, communication and research skills are invaluable
Job options
Jobs directly related to your degree include:
Broadcast journalist
Editorial assistant
Magazine features editor
Magazine journalist
Newspaper journalist
Press sub-editor
Publishing copy-editor/proofreader
Web content manager
Writer
Jobs where your degree would be useful include:
Advertising copywriter
Digital copywriter
Market researcher
Multimedia specialist
Public relations officer
Science writer
Translator
If your aim is to work directly within journalism, it’s vital that you build up a portfolio of work and gain as much relevant experience as possible. Working on a student newspaper, magazine or radio station will be helpful. You could also start your own blog to develop your writing style and interview techniques.
Take advantage of any work placements on your course to gain experience and make contacts within the industry.
You could also find opportunities by contacting TV production studios, radio outlets, magazines and newspapers. Show an enthusiasm for their subject matter and ask if they have any work experience schemes. Writing voluntarily for websites, print publications or other media outlets will also add to your portfolio and display your skills.
Typical employers
If you want to work within journalism, you can find employment in a range of organisations such as:
national, regional and local newspapers (print and online)
radio and television stations
magazines
media and broadcast companies
creative digital media companies.
Outside of journalism and media, there are plenty of options for you to use your creativity and communication skills. Typical employers can include:
PR consultancies
corporate communications agencies
advertising and marketing companies
charities.
Skills for your CV
A journalism degree provides you with a range of core journalistic skills including researching, investigating, interviewing, reporting and writing, in addition to technical skills such as video, editing, shorthand, audio, content management and web design.
The degree also gives you more general skills that are valued by many employers. These include:
critical analysis
resourcefulness
self-management
interpersonal skills
leadership
a flexible, creative and independent approach to tasks
the ability to meet deadlines
the capacity to communicate information effectively and clearly
the ability to listen and work productively in a team.
