Journalism Degree.org is excited to announce the arrival of our new blogger, Sean Flynn. Sean brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his blogging, with an M.A. in Journalism from The City University of New York Graduate School of Journalism and plenty of writing and reporting experienced culled from a successful freelance career.

We look forward to reading Sean’s posts as he keeps us up-to-date with developments in journalism and mass media. Check out his first post to learn more about the Era of Instant Journalism.

Welcome aboard, Sean!

If you want to get the training you need to be hired by some of the top news organizations, you will need a journalism degree, and to complete an internship. An internship will give you the hands-on experience you need to learn the ins and outs of being a journalist. You will practice writing, meeting deadlines and even editing. On top of that, an internship gives you the chance to make connections and meet people who can help your career later on. If you do a good job at an internship, you might be hired on later.

For someone with the dream of being a top journalist, an internship is an important step. If you are looking for an internship, here are 22 useful web sites to help you find the right journalism internship for you:

1. Media Bistro: This is one of the best places to go if you want to look for jobs and internships in the industry. There are a number of entry-level journalism jobs and internships listed on this site.
2. JournalismJobs.com: Another great place to look for internship opportunities. You can also find fellowships and other resources to help you in your career.
3. Poynter: For anyone who is serious about journalism, Poynter is vital. This is the premier think tank for journalism and media ethics, technique and industry news. You can also get access to internship information from around the country and the world, as well as entry-level jobs and jobs for the more experienced.
4. American Society of News Editors: Check out this professional organization for helpful hints when it comes to finding internships. This is a great place to start if you know that you want newspaper experience. Head to ASNE and make connections with newspaper editors who might give you an internship chance.
5. Society of Professional Journalists: Another professional organization, the SPJ can be a great place to go for information on available internships in print, online and broadcast journalism. Connect with professional journalists, learn how it’s done, and get pointed in the right direction for internships.
6. AP Careers: The largest press organization in the world, the Associated Press offers unique and varied opportunities for interns all over the world. While the internship program is currently on hiatus, it will resume in 2012, so it’s time to get your application ready!
7. Internships.com: This general internship web site has a section devoted to journalism. It includes different types of journalism, so you can find internships in broadcast, magazine, music, online, science, and sports journalism — as well as in other categories. A great place to start your search for a journalism internship.
8. American Journalism Center: You can find some great opportunities by interning with the American Journalism Center. You get the chance to learn solid skills and techniques, and put them into practice every day.
9. NewsJobs.net: Find different career and internship opportunities on this web site. You can keep up with the latest news and information, as well as apply for internships open all over the country.
10. Simply Hired: This general jobs web site also features internships and entry level positions. It’s a great place to look if you want information on available internship opportunities.
11. Mass Media Jobs: You can find a number of opportunities on this web site. Internships in a number of media arenas are available, and it is possible for you pinpoint different positions around the country.
12. I Want Media: Poke around on this web site, and you will run into plenty of journalism internship opportunities and entry level jobs. It’s a great starting point for tips, resources and industry news.
13. Media Biz Jobs: Look through available jobs listings and internships. This is a great resource for finding positions at a number of different media outlets — especially if you are involved in broadcast journalism.
14. The Write Jobs: While this web site is devoted to all sorts of writing jobs and internships, it is nonetheless useful for journalism internships as well. A great resource for all things in your writing career.
15. Kaiser Family Foundation: If health reporting is your thing, a media/journalism internship through the KFF might be the right move for you. There are a number of host organizations willing to bring on interns and provide you with a great opportunity.
16. American Society of Business Publication Editors: Cover business news and information, and get your foot in the door at some of the best business publications in the country. Track down internships through this professional organization.
17. Be a journalist: Links to internship opportunities, industry news and more. A great resource if you are looking to get started out as a journalist.
18. Investigative Reporters and Editors: Are you ready to get the real meat of a story? If so, you might want to look for an internship with a media outlet that values investigative reporting. The IRE web site might be just the thing to help you browse internships and entry level jobs.
19. Society of Environmental Journalists: Check out this society’s web site to learn more about the types of jobs and internships available for those who are interested in reporting on environmental issues.
20. World Press Institute: Use this web site to pinpoint different internships and fellowships all over the world. A great resource if you are interested in journalism opportunities on a global scale.
21. Pew Research Center: The Project for Excellence in Journalism is a great place to look for information on jobs and internships in the industry, as well as news, methods and ethics.
22. Copy Editing: For those interested in an internship aimed more at editing, this web site can be a useful starting point. You can find entry level jobs, internships, training, and other resources. A perfect place for the burgeoning editor.

To help turn your iPad into something more than to impress your friends with, we have collected these 25 essential iPad apps for journalists. Ranging from the moderately pricey to the downright free to keep forever ones, they include everything you need to take a journalism career to the next level.

Free Essential iPad Apps for Journalists

These free apps can do everything from organize your notes to backing them up when problems arise.

1. Evernote
   Whether writing your own notes or simply taking pictures of them, Evernote stores it all. Named as the top iPad app in many lists, it is also a win for journalists who keep stacks of notes and would ordinarily have no way or time to organize them. Evernote allows you to capture everything, access it from your iPad or other device, and even search by keyword, tag, and more.
2. Dragon Dictation
   Turn your iPad into an audio recorder with this free app. Simply tap the app’s record function to begin recording interviews, notes, lectures, and much more. It also automatically converts voice to text to save precious typing minutes.
3. QuickVoice
   Another voice recording app, it can conveniently record voice notes, reminders, dictations, meetings, interviews, shopping lists, to do lists, and even entire lectures and seminars. Users can even send emails using their voice recordings. In addition to one click recording, the app can also be used to create unique, quality ringtones.
4. iPrompter
   If the president can use a teleprompter, why can’t journalists? This app lets your iPad function as a teleprompter to help you out in your next presentation, report, and more. You can also control preferences such as font, size, background, loop, and speed.
5. WordPress
   Because no one prints solely on paper anymore, click here. This app allows users to work directly with WordPress, a leading name in publishing online blogs. Upgrades include composing, commenting, and even using location mapping.
6. Tweetdeck
   Are you a journalist trying to break in? Many stories are now being featured first on Twitter. Use this free app to make the most of any Twitter account complete with customizations, management, and loads of rave reviews.
7. Qik
   In accordance with the above, get a jump on your in person reporting with this handy app. It allows for instant video recording and sharing to many popular sites such as YouTube and Facebook. Make videos public or private, and all that is needed is a registration.
8. CNN
   With both the network and website featuring up to the minute breaking news, it makes sense for any journalist to download this app. Choose from which stories you are interested in, comment, watch live video, and more. The app is specifically designed to take advantage of iPad’s capabilities.
9. NY Times
   It is rumored that journalists can’t write anything without first looking at “The New York Times.” See if and why it is true in their free app. The improved features include more content, including blogs, videos, and slide shows.
10. Fring
    That other video conferencing app may be the first thought of name, but this one can steal the show. It allows for users to join in on free video calls, voice calls, and live chat. A high ranker, it can also cut down on long distance bills.
11. Read it Later
    Have a column to read but no time to read it in? Use this app to mark it and read it whenever time does come up. Download, save as text only, and get other handy features in this free app.
12. Dropbox
    Because every device, application, and file is subject to all sorts of perils, it only makes sense to back them all up. Use this popular app to store all of your important files and access them on the go. Upload text, photos, videos, and more, then use the app to share with family, co-workers, and more.
13. Flipboard
    Although it may not be just for journalists, this is one app every iPad owner can appreciate. It maximizes the flip feature of the iPad and turns many popular sites into online magazines. Visit their site to see a short video of what Flipboard can do for you at no charge.
14. Quark
    This popular software is often used by many journalists on the publishing side. Use the free app to create your own custom app with branding and user interface. Compatible with .zave and PDF files.

Paid Essential iPad Apps for Journalists

From $1.99 to $24.99, a little investment in a journalism app can truly pay off.

15. World Atlas HD
    Don’t know exactly where Abbottabad is? Finding the answer to that and other geographical issues has never been more fun than with this app from National Geographic. For only $1.99, it can turn your iPad into a rich atlas, complete with 3D images and much more of the entire globe.
16. Wordbook
    Now that you have found many international locations and other information, the problem of pronunciation can easily arise. For another $1.99, you can have a dictionary on your iPad that includes the professional pronunciation of thousands of words. There is even a “sounds like” option when you just can’t find the word you need.
17. Photogene
    For only $1.99 you can get this unique, photo editing app. The makers at Mobile Pond strive to offer an app that makes it easy to use your iPad to edit, improve, and decorate your photos. Features include adjustment of color levels, exposure, filters, crop, and even add effects. Check out their tutorial for how to use the app.
18. Camera Bag
    Not enough photo editing above? Then spend $1.99 to turn your iPad into a dozen different cameras such as magazine, Helga, Lolo, 1962, and many others. There is even a Vary button to customize photos even more.
19. Momento
    What kind of journalist doesn’t keep a journal of his or her work? For those with $2.99 and a desire to chronicle their career, use this app to write a diary on the go. In addition to the calendar and text entries, you can also use the app to include popular web services such as Facebook, Twitter, and more.
20. SoundNote
    Because only chumps have to type and talk at different times, there is this app. Selling for $4.99, it allows you to both record audio as you type on your iPad. It also includes amazing features such as being able to jump to a word in the recording by tapping on it.
21. Instapaper
    Turn your iPad into a virtual newsstand with this $4.99 app. Simply choose the articles, blogs, or sites you would like to read but don’t have time to. The app stores them beautifully and allows you to read them at home or on the go, even without an internet connection.
22. Air Display
    Because an iPad is often an accessory to a traditional computer, check out this app. It turns your iPad into another screen for your current Mac. Selling in pounds for 5.99, it is also useful for those needing a second computer screen.
23. Documents to Go
    This app supports Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, PDF, and the journalism necessary Word. It also has the ability to sync with popular choices such as Google Docs, Dropbox, Box.net, and more. The basic version is $9.99 and the premium is $16.99
24. Webster’s New World Dictionary
    Why spend $14.99 on this app? It could be because it is the official dictionary of The Associated Press. It has over 163,000 entries and allows users to look up etymology and even words within definitions of other words.
25. AP Stylebook
    All the journalism degrees in the world can’t teach what the proper way to style an article is like the official AP Stylebook. It includes searchable listings for the main, sports, business and punctuation sections, as well as the new social media chapter. Visit to get a preview, or purchase the entire book for $24.99.

And the above 25 essential iPad apps for journalists are only the beginning. With improvements constantly being made, the next generation of mobile devices on the way, and other unpredictable changes in journalism, staying on top of everything including technology can be made less difficult with a little research and adaptability.

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Print Journalism

Even though newspapers are in decline, print journalists have had an important place in history. Many print publications are moving to the Internet, and many print journalists today augment their columns by writing blogs. Here are some of the most influential print journalists in history:

1. John Peter Zenger: This man published the New York Weekly Journal in the 1700s. He wrote unflattering things about the British government, and in 1735 he was arrested and tried for libel. He was found not guilty, since what he wrote was based on fact. His case not only helped influence the American Revolution, but established one of the litmus tests for libel.
2. Benjamin Franklin: We know that Benjamin Franklin had a lot of interests. But many people don’t realize that the inventor and founding father was also a journalist. His The Pennsylvania Gazette began in the 1730s, and Franklin used it to help get his ideas out there and influence the populace leading up to the American Revolution.
3. William Randolph Hearst: Hearst was well known as one of the biggest publishers and journalists of his time. He started with The San Francisco Examiner, and went from there. Hearst was one of the instigators of “yellow journalism” which started a whole branch of journalism that involved sensationalism.
4. Joseph Pulitzer: This man is so famous that his name is on the prize given for the best journalism contributions. Joseph Pulitzer wrote for newspapers and later purchased and ran the New York World. After it became obvious that his circulation war with Hearst was becoming problematic for the sensationalized stories, he gravitated toward truth in journalism. He was indicted for libel when he exposed an illegal payment to the French Panama Canal Company, but since the story was based on fact, the indictment was dismissed.
5. Tom Wolfe: In the 1960s and 1970s, news writing and journalism underwent a bit of a transformation, and was called “new journalism“. One of those at the forefront was Tom Wolfe. This was magazine journalism, and Wolfe helped established a style that was carried on in long-form narrative, using scenes rather than straight-out facts.
6. Hunter S. Thompson: Like Wolfe, Hunter S. Thompson was heavily involved in the new journalism movement. He was a proponent of “Gonzo journalism“, in which reporters actually become involved in action of the story, participating in the events, rather than just watching and reporting. He recently committed suicide (in 2005), but his influence on journalism and literary tradition remains strong.
7. Woodward and Bernstein: Admittedly, these are two separate people. But they are forever linked by their stories that brought then-president Richard Nixon down over the Watergate scandal. Bob Woodward and Carl Bernstein are well-known for their investigative journalism and for proving that it was still possible for the press to effectively hold the government accountable.
8. Helen Thomas: This woman is the first lady of print journalism. Helen Thomas is a veteran journalist in the finest tradition, and has been a White House reporter since 1961. She is known for her relentless questions, and for her ability to get to the heart of the matter. Thomas gained new influence and prominence during the administration of George W. Bush for her sharp questions and criticisms.
9. Robert Novak: A moderate/liberal turned conservative, Robert Novak was known for his columns and stories in a variety of newspapers. He was a reporter and later became a Washington insider. He helped play a role in CNN when it was founded, bringing the credibility of print journalism to broadcast journalism. He died in 2009 after a battle with a brain tumor.
10. Judith Miller: One of the most famous journalists of our time is Judith Miller. She was known for her exclusive stories with Ahmad Chalabi in the run-up to the Iraq War, and for her breaking news stories. She is a Washington insider with contacts in high places. Miller gained increased, er, press when she went to jail over the Valerie Plame scandal when she refused to reveal her sources.
11. Seymour Hersh: Recognized as one of the best investigative journalists of the current era, Seymour Hersh is known for his exclusive military contacts, and for his hard-hitting pieces. He is meticulous, and writes for The New Yorker, and his influence helped reshape the debate over the Iraq War.
12. Maureen Dowd: As the only female op-ed writer for The New York Times, Maureen Dowd has significant influence. Her ideas are polarizing, though, and that makes for interesting debate. Dowd is known for her beginning as a gritty reporter, and is now known for her Washington contacts and her ability to influence debate.

Broadcast Journalism

Television and radio changed the look of journalism. There are many broadcast journalists who have influenced journalism, and even the world.

13. Edward R. Murrow: The most distinguished figure in broadcast journalism in the U.S. is Edward R. Murrow. He developed many of the techniques associated with newsgathering for broadcast. His integrity, and his willingness to go up against the “powers that be” was a mark of his career. He influenced public opinion and even policy by exposing the abuses of power in the government.
14. Walter Cronkite: Another icon of American broadcast journalism, Walter Cronkite was known for his investigative journalism, fulfilling his watchdog role, and for his matter-of-fact way of delivering the news as a CBS anchor. He died in 2009.
15. Ted Koppel: Many of the most influential journalists have been TV newsmen, and Ted Koppel is no exception. His newscasts and his newsgathering was a standard of journalism for years. Koppel hob-nobbed with decision makers and interviewed the powerful. Now retired, he hosts a show on Discovery.
16. Dan Rather: Early in his career, Dan Rather was known for his investigations, and for his meticulous newsgathering. He was influential, interviewing the politically powerful, and for exposing government cover-ups. However, a snafu over false documents related to George W. Bush tarnishes his career.
17. Barbara Walters: As one of the most influential broadcasters is Barbara Walters. She was one of the first women to become a successful broadcast journalist. She started as a research and writer, and soon worked up to become an interviewer and one of the faces of television.
18. Tim Russert: Well known for his ability to get the powerful decision makers to explain themselves, Tim Russert is considered one of the most influential broadcast journalists. In order for aspiring Washington insiders to get anywhere, they first have to appear on Russert’s “Meet the Press” and answer questions.
19. Wolf Blizter: One of today’s most influential broadcast journalists is Wolf Blitzer. He is seen everywhere, and is one of the most well-known insiders in Washington. Indeed, his shows and his ability to be heard makes him a force to be reckoned with.
20. Gloria Borger: As one of the broadcasters known for exposing the machinations of Washington, Gloria Borger is quietly influential. Her stories are aimed at helping people understand what is going on, and she is a CBS correspondent and PBS commentator.
21. Katie Couric: Katie Couric is the first female anchor of a major network’s evening news. She has appeared on 60 Minutes and done a great deal in terms of journalism. Now, she anchors the CBS Evening News. She interviews the powerful, and reaches hundreds of thousands in their homes.
22. Cokie Roberts: As someone raised in Washington, and well-acquainted with life on Capitol Hill, Cokie Roberts is an adept at exposing the excesses in government, and offering reason and moderation. Her broadcast career encompasses ABC and NPR, and she also writes a syndicated column.
23. Brit Hume: Fox News isn’t exactly known as a bastion of actual journalism, but Brit Hume, the anchor of Special Report is known for his hard work and integrity. He is recognized as influential, as his weeknight show was the #1 political program in its time slot. He stepped down, though, after saying that he lost his enthusiasm for the job.
24. Jim Lehrer: The venerable Jim Lehrer is know as the most thoughtful broadcast journalist right now. His PBS newscast is known for its insight, and he is respected by his peers and by decision makers as someone with integrity, savvy and good sense.
25. Anderson Cooper: First rising to prominence as a reporter for CNN during Hurricane Katrina, Anderson Cooper is known one of the most influential broadcast journalists around. While he hosts his even show from New York City, he often still travels to report on breaking news. He interviews the rich and powerful, and many enjoy watching his newscast. His “everyman” persona, combined with his classic attractiveness, is one of his most powerful assets as a journalist.

Introduction to Media Studies
This is the course for Media Studies for students who are grown up in global multimedia environment and wish to be literate and critical consumer and producers of media. This course defines all the aspects of media, including, oral, print, performance, photographic, broadcast, cinematic and digital cultural forms and practices. This course looks at the Mediated communication, the functions of media, the history of transformations in media and role of media in society.

Effective Writing and Communication
There are a number of free online classes on writing and communication which are fundamental in journalism available from reputable colleges and universities. These classes teach you how to improve your grammar and communication skills in journalism. They also teach you how to understand and connect effectively with others. Among the other classes available is cleaning your copy. It will teach you on identifying grammar mistakes i.e. is stylistics and spelling errors. It’s very suitable for learners who have a serious intention in pursing journalism as a full time career.

BBC Writing Training
The BBC news style guide highlights various aspects of methods by the news agency BBC .It helps you to become a more effective writer. There is also the technology for professional writer’s classes. The classes explore the different technology available for writers who do not have the necessary background on technology.

Columbia Interactive Journalism Course
This open courseware is part of the curriculum offered at Columbia University under subject journalism.  It consist of new updates and news about journalism part of university syllabus and there is consisted a good number of list on topics under e-seminar provided over here.

News University
News University was consisted and prepared by The Poynter Institute for Media Studies funded by the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation.  NewsU cater to the journalists need for the training and provide interactive, inexpensive courses that are preferred by journalist at all level of experience ad in all types of media.

Information Law and Policy
This open course deals with a number of policies that is related to copyright and other laws related to this aspect of journalistic as well as creative writing. Course provides an introduction to the students about copyright, legal protection to database, licensing of information, consumer protection, liability for insecure systems and defective information, privacy and international information policy.

Communications and Information Policy
Course featured with an extensive readings list, lecture notes, and examples of team project gives an introduction to the technology and policy context of public communication networks. This course discusses communication models as represented by government and complexities of ever emerging technologies in context of government model and other related issues.

To become successful in the journalism field it is important to have a few attributes like a general interest in people and the things that happen around them. A person should also be inquisitive in nature, have good communication skills, be versatile and adventurous and the communication skills should also be to perfection. If you are the type that is able to meet deadlines and have an opinion on everything that happens, then an online journalism course will be best for you. Journalism is a broad field and it comes with many practices and theories, so when finding a good online journalism school get to know the modules that are offered in the school.

Newspaper and journal writing, editing, broadcast journalism, media law and ethics and photo journalism are some of the areas that an online journalism college offers. Depending on the choice of school you can get a diploma, degree and masters in Arts and journalism. With a diploma any media institution can give you a job. When taking up a course in journalism you will need all the practical and theory when it comes to editing, reporting and writing either for magazines, newspapers, television and website reporting. So look for a good school and begin the course that works for you.