The Journalism Major
A journalism degree is one of the most flexible and versatile college majors out there. As a journalism major, you’ll learn the ins and outs of reporting, honing critical skills in writing, analysis, and storytelling. This major can lead to a wide range of careers within journalism and the broader field of communications, including roles in PR, advertising, and content creation.
However, as the media landscape evolves, many interested students are left wondering, “Is journalism a good major for the future?'” To answer that question, this guide will explore what it means to major in journalism. We’ll review what to expect in school, from types of programs to core requirements, as well as what it takes to build a successful journalism career today.
Specifically, we’ll discuss:
- What is a journalism degree and why is it popular?
- Types of journalism majors and opportunities for specialization
- Journalism major requirements and key subjects
- The best schools offering journalism degrees
- A list of the top 10 journalism major jobs (plus other opportunities outside of journalism)
- The importance of journalism and the role of a journalist in today’s society
- Tips for deciding, “Is journalism a good major for me?” — and more!
Before diving into journalism career paths or what to expect from a journalism major salary, let’s start with the foundation: a journalism degree.
Majoring in Journalism in College
Whether you’ve always wanted to pursue a broadcast journalism degree or are just discovering the world of communications, majoring in journalism can set you on an exciting path. It’s a great major for anyone with a passion for storytelling, staying informed on current events, and communicating and connecting with others.
Students who major in journalism develop core skills including writing, editing, digital media, and investigative techniques. This opens up possibilities for a wide variety of journalism major jobs, such as content writer, news analyst, documentarian, and reporter, to name a few.
If you have a specific journalism career in mind, such as news editor or radio host, there are plenty of opportunities to get hands-on experience during your time on campus. School newspapers, campus radio, and other student publications can all prepare you for future success in journalism major jobs. Plus, many well-regarded journalism degree programs offer experiential learning opportunities to set you up for success.
Is journalism a popular major?
Journalism is a relatively popular major, especially within the field of communications. Over 10,000 students earn a bachelor’s degree in journalism each year, making journalism among the top 10 college majors in the country, according to some lists.
Despite its popularity, the question, “Is journalism a good major?” often comes up — especially when it comes to job stability and earning potential. In fact, the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a decline in employment opportunities for news analysts, reporters, and journalists through 2033. With this uncertainty around journalism major jobs, it might be surprising that the major remains such a popular choice.
So, what’s driving the popularity of journalism majors? One reason may be the degree’s versatility. The writing, research, and communication skills developed in journalism programs are transferable across various fields. This makes journalism a major with strong job placement rates and a good return on investment — if you’re open to exploring a variety of career paths.
Additionally, as the field evolves, journalism major requirements are increasingly focused on digital media. Journalism students now gain valuable skills in content creation, social media strategy, and multimedia storytelling — abilities highly sought after in today’s digital-first world.
Exploring Types of Journalism Majors
While a journalism degree provides students with a broad foundation in the field, some programs may focus on a particular kind of journalism. This includes specific journalism career tracks, concentrations, and avenues for strengthening relevant skills. From broadcast journalism to sports journalism majors, there’s many types of programs to consider.
To give you a better sense of the types of journalism majors out there, let’s look at some examples:
Syracuse University
Offering a B.S. in Journalism, Syracuse University provides a clear pathway to a career in journalism. Students can choose from two tracks: Broadcast/Digital Journalism or Magazine/News/Digital Journalism. To further specialize, students also have the option to add a secondary focus in sports journalism.
University of Missouri
Another top choice, the University of Missouri also offers a B.S. in Journalism. The program is split into five career paths: Television, Cross-Platform Editing and Producing, Photojournalism and Documentary, Reporting and Writing, and Social and Audience Strategy.
New York University
NYU offers a B.A. in Journalism. Students must decide between two tracks: Print/Online and Broadcast. Journalism majors at NYU are also required to pursue a second major outside of journalism.
As you can see, there are important distinctions between different journalism programs. Most schools offer some kind of broadcast journalism degree, while others provide more specialized programs in areas like photography or documentary. Choosing a program that aligns with your specific interest can set you on the right path for a successful journalism career.
Online journalism degree programs
If you’re looking for a more flexible education, you may be wondering, “Is journalism a good major to earn online?” An online journalism degree is a great way to develop a background in journalism without the time and financial constraints of a full-time, in-person program. However, you do lose the benefit of hands-on learning opportunities, such as on-campus labs or direct involvement with student-run media outlets.
However, there are plenty of online options that are worth exploring. For instance, SUNY Oswego offers an online broadcast journalism degree, and Penn State offers an online journalism degree in digital journalism and media. Just make sure your program has a solid reputation and offers concrete opportunities for skill development.
Journalism Major vs. Marketing Major
As you explore journalism major jobs, you may come across roles in the world of marketing. While a journalism major can certainly translate to a career in marketing or advertising, these majors are quite different.
Journalism focuses on unbiased writing and reporting. It involves gathering, analyzing, and presenting information clearly and without an agenda. Careers in journalism often take place in newsrooms or media companies, with a strong emphasis on telling stories that inform and impact society.
Marketing, on the other hand, is focused on brand promotion, understanding consumer behavior, and developing communication strategies. The goal of marketing is to promote a product, service, or organization, typically with the aim of driving sales or brand awareness. Careers in marketing include roles in public relations, social media management, and advertising, which all focus on engaging and persuading target audiences.
While both majors help develop shared skills, such as communication and writing, they each offer a distinct perspective on storytelling. Ethics play a crucial role in journalism, while persuasion is at the core of marketing. Choosing between the two ultimately depends on whether you’re more interested in informing and educating the public or influencing consumer behavior.
Defining a Journalism Degree
Before we dive into the types of courses offered by a journalism program, let’s first take a step back and review what a major in journalism is.
A journalism degree:
- Explores the principles of journalism, media law, reporting techniques, and ethics.
- Develops skills such as interviewing, fact-checking, researching, writing, content creation, and editing.
- Prepares graduates to report news, analyze public information, and contribute to democratic societies.
As previously mentioned, journalism degrees can be categorized into specializations (broadcast journalism major, sports journalism major, investigative journalism major, etc.). There are also various levels of journalism degrees, ranging from bachelor’s degrees (B.A. and B.S.) to master’s and doctoral degrees. Generally, a bachelor’s degree is all you need to start a journalism career. For those looking to pivot to journalism later in life, an advanced journalism degree can help them make the switch.
Journalism Courses
The breadth and depth of your journalism courses will depend on your particular degree program. For instance, a broadcast journalism major will have different requirements compared to a more niche sports journalism major.
If you choose to major in journalism, here are some common journalism topics and courses you might encounter:
Common Journalism Topics
Reporting and Writing
This class teaches you how to write clear, compelling news stories. It focuses on the basics of reporting, like gathering facts and presenting them accurately.
Visual Journalism
You’ll dive into using images, videos, and graphics to tell stories that not only inform but also captivate and engage your audience.
Media Law and Ethics
This course walks you through the legal side of journalism, like free speech and privacy, while helping you navigate the ethical decisions reporters face every day.
Data Journalism
You’ll learn how to dig into data to find stories and present it in ways that are visually appealing and easy to understand.
Digital Journalism
This class focuses on how to tell stories online, using multimedia tools and strategies to connect with readers in today’s digital world.
Investigative Reporting
Here, you’ll explore investigative techniques and master the art of uncovering hidden stories to create impactful reports.
Most journalism programs also include capstone projects or internships to give students real-world experience. For instance, at the University of Missouri, students pursuing a broadcast journalism major can complete a capstone project in Advanced Broadcast Reporting.
However, different journalism careers require different skills and expertise, so it’s important to do your research before settling on a program. Whether you’re considering a broadcast journalism major or an investigative journalism degree, make sure your program offers courses and opportunities aligned with your career goals.
Journalism Major Requirements
Most journalism major requirements are a mix of general education, core, and elective courses, all of which vary by school. This variation means a major in journalism at one institution could be quite different from that at another.
The best way to understand the scope of any potential major is by reviewing the program’s required courses. So, let’s compare the journalism major requirements at the University of Missouri – Columbia (MU) and the University of Southern California (USC).
MU Journalism Major Requirements
In addition to completing their general education requirements, journalism majors at Mizzou must take the following core courses:
- Principles of Journalism in Democracy
- Fundamentals of Visual Journalism and Strategic Communication
- Fundamentals of Written Journalism and Strategic Communication
- Applied Projects for Journalism and Strategic Communication
- Cross-Cultural Journalism
- Audiences and Persuasion
- Social Media Foundations and Practice
- Newsroom Content Creation
- Communications Law
- History of American Journalism OR History of Photojournalism
Students must also take two courses in their chosen journalism career path and complete a capstone project.
USC Journalism Major Requirements
Like other USC majors, journalism majors are required to take a combination of lower division and upper division courses:
- Lower division courses:
- Culture of Journalism: Past, Present and Future
- Reporting and Writing Practicum
- Reporting and Writing I
- Upper division courses:
- Reporting and Writing II
- Introduction to Coding for Storytelling
- Visual Journalism
- Introduction to Investigative and Data Journalism
- Engaging Diverse Communities
- Advanced Digital Media Storytelling
- Law of Mass Communication
Additionally, students must complete a core Annenberg experience course and at least one advanced reporting elective.
Best Journalism Schools in the U.S.
If your goal is to have a successful journalism career, you’re probably wondering about the best journalism programs and what sets them apart. Below, you’ll find our list of top journalism schools in the country. These schools give students context into the historical and current role of a journalist and the skills and knowledge needed to be successful in the field today.
Top 5 Schools for Journalism Majors
1. University of Missouri – Columbia
First on our list is the University of Missouri. The Bachelor of Journalism program offers five career paths and several specialty areas, such as Magazine Writing, Arts and Culture Journalism, and Broadcast Radio News. For their capstone project, students can choose between a number of topics, including Photo and Visual Editing, Media Management and Leadership, Magazine Publishing, and Journalism and Democracy.
2. Northwestern University
One of the most highly regarded Northwestern majors is their B.S. in Journalism. The curriculum offers a foundation in reporting, writing, editing, and critical thinking, with opportunities to explore specialized electives such as Bilingual Reporting/Storytelling and Artificial Intelligence in Media. Students at the Medill School of Journalism also have the flexibility to explore other Northwestern majors, minors, and certificates in addition to their journalism major.
3. Syracuse University
Next is Syracuse University, home to another top-ranked journalism B.S. program. Journalism majors at Syracuse develop crucial journalism skills, including writing and multimedia video and design, as well as a deep understanding of the issues and ethical dilemmas facing journalism professionals today. The two main journalism tracks are Broadcast and Digital Journalism and Magazine, News and Digital Journalism, with an optional secondary track in sports journalism.
4. University of Southern California
The B.A. in Journalism is one of three USC majors housed in the Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism. With 83 courses to choose from, students can dive into topics like Non-Fiction Television, Introduction to Coding for Storytelling, and Visual Journalism. In this program, students build solid journalism skills and get hands-on experience in Annenberg’s cutting-edge Media Center.
5. New York University
If you’re looking to build a journalism career in NYC, why not start with NYU’s undergraduate journalism program? The NYU journalism major has two tracks: Print/Online and Broadcast, which students are required to declare before completing more advanced courses. Since NYU journalism majors are required to double major, this a great program for students with a second academic interest.
Looking for more top schools? Here are ten more universities offering degrees in journalism.
More schools for journalism majors to explore!
- Boston University
- University of Maryland – College Park
- University of Minnesota – Twin Cities
- University of Wisconsin – Madison
- Washington University in St. Louis
- University of Florida
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
- Northeastern University
- University of Texas – Austin
- Columbia University
One important caveat: Columbia University doesn’t offer an undergraduate journalism program. However, it’s still a top choice for those looking to advance their careers. The Graduate School of Journalism offers highly respected master’s or doctoral programs, making it a great option for graduate students looking to take their journalism careers to the next level.
Is Journalism right for you?
If you’re wondering, “Is a major in journalism right for me?”, it’s important to consider the role of a journalist in society. Journalists tell stories and share information with the public, which requires a certain level of curiosity, compassion, and a knack for communication. They need to ask tough questions and remain skeptical when evaluating sources and stories, which also necessitates critical thinking.
Important skills for success include handling tight deadlines, rejection, and the sometimes unpredictable nature of news reporting. Given the evolving nature of the field, students interested in building a journalism career should also be open to learning new tools, technologies, and formats.
For those asking, “Is journalism a good major in terms of earning potential?”, the short answer is: it depends. Your journalism major salary will vary based on the particular field and roles you go into after graduation. For instance, the journalism major salary for media networks and content providers is around $74,000, compared to just $43,000 for newspaper publishers. If you’re open to other fields, such as PR or advertising, your journalism major salary might be well over three figures.
As with any major, salary and job prospects are not guaranteed. So, rather than limiting yourself to the top 10 college majors or worrying about your potential journalism major salary, focus on your skills and interests. If you love storytelling, researching, and digging into important topics, a journalism degree could be just what you’re looking for.
What kind of jobs can you get with a journalism degree?
If you’re wondering, “Is journalism a good major?”, you might want to know what jobs you can get with a journalism degree. As we shared above, the job prospects for journalism majors aren’t bad, in part because it is an in-demand field. In addition, the skills you learn when you major in journalism can translate to many other roles.
As journalism is a fast-growing field, there are many traditional and non-traditional journalism careers. Some of the traditional roles held by journalism majors are reporter, editor, news anchor, and investigative journalist. In these roles, you generally work for a news station, magazine, or newspaper to share stories in broadcast or print media.
With the internet becoming a staple of everyday life, many non-traditional roles have evolved for journalism majors. These include, for example, content writer, social media strategist, and digital media manager positions. For these journalism careers, you may develop a company’s written or visual content that attracts clients and buyers. You could also work for nonprofits to amplify their missions and create content that is both educational and encourages people to donate.
One of the growing trends in journalism careers is the emergence of freelance journalism, blogging, or independent reporting. As a freelance journalist, you are hired by news stations to investigate stories on a case-by-case basis, rather than being a full-time staff member. Bloggers create content to drive internet activity around a specific topic, thereby leading to advertising sponsorships. As an independent reporter, you could write your own stories and then sell them to newspapers, magazines, or news sites. While these roles are increasingly popular due to their flexibility and autonomy, irregular income is a significant consideration.
What to do with a journalism degree?
As we shared above, journalism majors can pursue many traditional and non-traditional journalism careers. In addition to being prepared for many different pathways, they can also branch into many industries. There are journalism majors working in media, publishing, entertainment, government, public relations, tech, and non-profits, among other industries. Within these industries, journalism majors can market themselves for diverse roles, such as those in content marketing, media consulting, scriptwriting, and internal communications.
Some journalism majors decide to pursue advanced degrees, including a master’s degree or law school. There are several master’s programs which allow journalism majors to specialize in a specific field or media format. For example, Columbia University offers specialized master’s in data journalism, investigative journalism, and documentary film. With specializations like these, journalism majors can increase their skillsets and make themselves more attractive for jobs in specific types of journalism. Harvard University also offers an online journalism degree, with only one course required on campus. With an online journalism degree, you can continue to work and maintain the flexibility to complete coursework when you have the time.
Is journalism a good career?
Mass media has been subject to quite a bit of criticism in the past decade. Indeed, media shifts have also led to some traditional roles being in flux, such as in print journalism. Meanwhile, other journalism careers are booming, including digital journalism, niche publications, and content creation.
Another part of the answer to “Is journalism a good major?” is the average journalism major salary. Whether you complete a broadcast journalism major or a sports journalism major, the important figure is your annual salary. The average journalism major salary for new analysts, reporters, and journalists is $57,500 a year. This number varies greatly depending on factors like location, experience, and specialization.
In addition to your potential salary, consider important factors like job stability, benefits, meaningful work, variety, and opportunities for professional growth. All these factors can influence your quality of life in a journalism career.
Top 10 Journalism Degree Jobs
Those wondering, “Is journalism a good major?” might be wondering what the top journalism major jobs are. In this section, we will explore the top journalism major jobs and why they are important in the field of journalism.
Top 10 Journalism Major Jobs
1. Reporter
A reporter is a journalist who collects data and performs interviews to tell riveting and important stories. Reporters can work at the local or national level and share stories via print, news, radio, and other avenues. Some reporters may specialize in different types of journalism, such as investigative or sports journalism. Ultimately, reporters contribute to the broader public’s awareness about what is happening in their communities and beyond.
2. Editor
Another popular journalism career is as an editor. Editors focus on helping writers and content creators sharpen their creations. Often, editors are also those selecting what content will be published. By curating content and working closely with writers to refine their stories, editors maintain a publication’s standards. At the best of times, they can also serve as mentors for writers who report to them.
3. Feature Writer
Like reporters, feature writers tell stories for publications. However, feature writers tend to write long-form pieces that require extensive research. For example, a reporter may provide a broad overview of a recent immigration crisis. Meanwhile, a feature writer may write a longer piece examining the immigration patterns and experiences of immigrants in a region.
4. News Producer
Another one of the top journalism major jobs is a news producer. News producers work for television stations and networks to help curate all aspects of a broadcast. For example, they ensure stories are told accurately, create the schedule and timing, and manage the budget. Those interested in becoming news producers might choose to be broadcast journalism majors. This role requires management and communication skills in addition to a sense for good journalism.
5. Data Research Analyst
An important part of a journalism team is a data research analyst. This person oversees analyzing data and presenting it in compelling and accurate ways. Data research analysts ensure that news stories are as accurate as possible. They may also contribute to finding datasets, making graphics, or tracking trends for ongoing stories.
6. Critic
Another exciting journalism career is a critic. Critics are people who write informed opinions on one or several forms of art, from writing to film to visual arts. Critics play an important role because they contribute to public discourse that allows for journalists and artists to continue growing. While some lucky critics are on a publication’s regular payroll, a large number are freelance.
7. Field Correspondent
One of the most thrilling types of journalism careers is the role of a field correspondent. A field correspondent is a reporter who primarily works from the scene of a story. This person interviews locals, collects information on the ground, and provides the most up-to-date status of a situation. Field correspondents are critical in telling the latest breaking news as accurately as possible. Some field correspondents also start their journeys as broadcast journalism majors.
8. Columnist
As a columnist, you merge the roles of reporter and critic. Columnists write opinion pieces, basing their ideas on reliable facts but also adding their own perspectives. In doing so, columnists both inform and persuade readers about issues. Columnists are typically published regularly in a particular publication, though they often write for other outlets as well.
9. Photojournalist
If you have a love for photography and storytelling, then being a photojournalist could be the perfect journalism career for you. Photojournalists work for magazines and newspapers to tell news stories using photos. They bring stories to life in ways that tend to evoke more emotional response from readers. Some photojournalists have specialties, like working the political beat or working in conflict areas.
10. Videographer
Finally on our list of top journalism major jobs is videographer. Like photojournalists, videographers tell stories using video. Video journalism helps to engage viewers to understand and empathize with the story. They may work closely with field correspondents to deliver broadcasts from outside the news studio.
The above list illustrates that the response to “Is journalism a good major?” is a resounding “yes!” With so many career opportunities available, it is no wonder that journalism is one of the top 10 college majors.
Journalism and Ethics
Regardless of which journalism degree you pursue, one important theme of your studies will be ethics. In fact, one common course in the journalism major requirements at most universities is an ethics course. For example, the NYU journalism major requirements include a course called “Investigating Journalism: Ethics and Practice.” Meanwhile, Northwestern majors in journalism are required to take a course called “Media Law and Ethics.” These journalism major requirements help prepare students for the inevitable challenges they will face as journalists.
Indeed, the role of a journalist requires managing many ethical dilemmas, such as handling anonymous sources, reporting on sensitive topics, and managing bias. Especially in today’s news climate, ethical quandaries are not to be taken lightly. To navigate these dilemmas, journalists of all types, from broadcast journalism majors to sports journalism majors, must learn the rules of ethics. These include the importance of accuracy, fairness, transparency, and avoiding conflicts of interest.
Organizations like the Society of Professional Journalists also provide ethical guidelines for journalists to follow. Ethics doesn’t stop being important after you pass your class! If you choose to major in journalism, be prepared to explore and adhere to these guidelines throughout your career.
Considering the role of a journalist
When considering a major in journalism, you will want to understand what it is that journalists do on a regular basis. Certainly, the types of tasks can vary depending on what type of journalism degree and career you are pursuing. However, there are some daily tasks that are common for almost all journalists.
The role of a journalist nearly always requires researching, interviewing, writing, editing, and reporting on stories. You may have to do these tasks under tight deadlines, as stories are developing constantly. You’ll often be required to stay neutral in contentious environments where people have strong opinions about a topic.
Performing these tasks well is what makes a good journalist. Indeed, journalists have an incalculable impact on society: they hold people in power accountable for their words and actions, educate the public, and influence public opinion. It’s not a responsibility to be taken lightly. If you major in journalism, you will explore these topics as part of your journalism major requirements. This is true whether you pursue any type of journalism, from a broadcast journalism degree to a sports journalism major.
The Importance of journalism
In some ways, pursuing a journalism degree means committing oneself to a life of public service. Journalism plays a crucial function in providing citizens with the information they need to make informed decisions. Journalists shape discourse by highlighting important stories and bringing issues to light. This is especially true for investigative journalists, whose role is to expose corruption and injustice and promote government accountability.
The skills you learn as a journalism major will prepare you to contribute to the important work that journalists do every day. For example, USC majors in journalism take a required course called “Introduction to Investigative and Data Journalism.” Another fundamental course for USC majors is “Reporting and Writing.” Meanwhile, Northwestern majors in journalism must take a course called “Journalism in Practice,” where they practice their journalism skills through investigative work locally and abroad.
What else can I do with a journalism degree?
If the journalism careers above don’t appeal to you, you might wonder what else you can do with a journalism degree. As previously stated, there are many related fields where journalism skills are valued, such as media relations, publishing, public affairs, and teaching. These fields all rely on having strong writing, communication, and research skills.
With a journalism degree, you can also find opportunities for entrepreneurship, such as starting blogs, podcasts, or digital media companies. Through these avenues, you can explore your own voice and the business side of journalism. In addition, a journalism degree can help you make a social impact through roles in non-profits. After all, non-profits always need to raise awareness about their cause and appeal to potential donors.
Choosing a Major that is right for you!
If you’re still wondering “is journalism a good major?”, take a step back and assess the factors driving your major choice. Some students are driven by the job prospects of a major, such as the average journalism major salary. Others are more intrigued by the type of work they will be doing.
Here are some tips for seeing if a major in journalism is right for you:
3 Tips to Decide if Journalism is For You
Assess your interests.
What topics in school have really intrigued you? What skills do you most want to sharpen or learn? Consider ways to explore your interests via independent projects that connect you to people in the field and teach you relevant skills. Also, consider whether following a specialized track, such as a broadcast journalism degree, may accelerate your path to the work you love.
Explore job prospects.
Are you looking for a field that is booming? Do you want a career with job stability? Are you concerned about living comfortably on a journalism major salary? What kind of companies might you like to work at, and would having a journalism degree open doors to those places?
Investigate the industry.
Speak with current journalists, professors, students who are journalism majors, and career advisors to gain more nuanced insights into the industry. Ask what they see as trends in the field and what advice they would have for exploring a major in journalism.
While there are many reasons why journalism is among the top 10 college majors, it isn’t a career path for everyone. It’s important to do the internal reflection and external research to know if it’s the one for you.
Journalism Major- Final Thoughts
As we covered in this article, a journalism degree is an incredible pathway to many types of interesting jobs. We explored what a journalism degree requires, from the skills you must develop to the courses you will need to take. In addition, we covered the different types of journalism degrees, from specialties like a broadcast journalism degree to newer formats like online journalism degrees. We also explored specific universities’ journalism offerings, including the University of Missouri and NYU journalism major. Finally, we looked at whether journalism is a good major based on the average journalism major salary and job prospects.
From our exploration, we found that journalism degrees are best for people who love writing, investigating, and storytelling. Journalism degrees can prepare you for careers in several industries, from corporate settings to nonprofits to government. We also know that while the field is evolving, it offers exciting pathways to explore complex ethical challenges and new ways of communicating.
If you feel compelled to pursue a journalism major, CollegeAdvisor can help you find and apply to the best journalism program for you. While the road to a journalism career may seem complex, we’re here to help you navigate it with confidence.
This article was written by Stefanie Tedards and Courtney Ng. Looking for more admissions support? Click here to schedule a free meeting with one of our Admissions Specialists. During your meeting, our team will discuss your profile and help you find targeted ways to increase your admissions odds at top schools. We’ll also answer any questions and discuss how CollegeAdvisor.com can support you in the college application process.
