Careers in journalism

Liverpool John Moores University last week put on an excellent day for advisors who see students and graduates wanting to be journalists.  Amongst the usual messages, which include the importance of having a real passion for working in the media, gaining useful work experience and building helpful contacts, were  lots of   practical tips.One speaker said that if they met an aspiring journalist who didn’t have a blog, they would wonder why as this is an obvious way of developing writing skills.  Getting involved in student media (newspapers and radio),  contributing to newsletters for students societies and voluntary organisations,a re also great ways to get experience.

It’s difficult to get into journalism without having first completed a  respected course.  Accrediting bodies are the National Council for Training of Journalists (has traditionally accredited newspaper journalism courses), Periodical Training Council ( magazine journalism courses) and the Broadcast Journalism Training Council (broadcast journalism courses).  However, one  well established newspaper journalism course, City University’s MA in newspaper journalism, isn’t accredited and isn’t therefore listed on these sites.  

With developments in digital technology,  boundaries between different types of media are increasingly blurred so it’s a good idea to check each of the accrediting bodies for the kind of course that’s right for you. 

Course lengths vary.  The NCTJ accredits fast-track (e.g. 18 week) courses, 9 month diploma courses and 12 month MAs.   Views differ on what length of course is best.  One speaker from the Liverpool Daily Post and Echo argued in favour of  NCTJ accredited fast-track courses because of their intensive nature and focus on the essentials e.g. media law and shorthand.  Others  argue that longer courses provide more time to develop skills,  also focus on essentials, and may offer more work experience.   

This is where an enquiring mind comes in, something vital for any journalist.  Do your research, look closely at the content of a course, put questions to the course contact e.g. what have former students gone onto do and what experience did they have at the start of the course, speak to people in the area of media that interests you and ask their opinion…  Talking it through with a careers advisor can be really helpful.  Whatever you decide, time spent looking for the right course, will be time well spent.

Finding work experience is crucial and often achieved by making speculative approaches to newspapers, local radio stations etc.  Experience with local and regional media is often best because there are more opportunities to get stuck in.  You’re likely to need work experience  before you are accepted onto a journalism course.   The amount of experience needed will vary from course to course – always check details with the course provider.

What came across loud and clear from the day is that  massive changes are taking place in journalism.  Digital media has had a major effect and online news has changed the way  journalists work.  Those entering  journalism need to keep up to date with developments and have an open mind about how they use their skills.    While times are tough for journalists it’s not all gloom.  Newspapers have been hit by falling circulation figures and reduced advertising but magazines (including consumer and businees to business) are doing very well.  

Aim to keep up with what’s happening in the media industry.   Start by reading the Media Guardian and listening to the Media Show on Radio 4 (this can be online).