Degrees in Journalism

Career Options with This Degree

Journalism is a specialized field within the communication industry. In this line of work, students can be a writer or work in television or radio communications. Journalists travel around the world and cover everything from current political events to fashion to food. This field allows students to combine one of their passions (like sports or parenting) with communication. In addition to serving as a news analyst or reporter, a degree in journalism can also lead to work as a teacher, editor, producer, publisher, fact checker, researcher, and more.

Average Salary of Degree Holders

The salary students can expect as an entry-level journalist depends on the scope of their work. Many companies and publications hire workers on a freelance basis at first, then later consider them for a full-time position. Students could also be paid a percentage of advertising sales or subscription sales, rather than per piece or a typical salary. Of course, many journalists also do work on salary, and according to Indeed salary reports, the average salary for journalists as of September 2010 was $52,000. Like with most industries, students typically earn more money in management and director positions, so they can benefit from working their way up the ladder to work in positions with increasing amounts of responsibility.

Coursework Required to Obtain This Degree

As one can image, a degree in journalism requires a number of communication courses, so expect to take classes in writing, visual media, and public relations. Students can also benefit from related classes in fields like law and business, so create a schedule with classes that cover the topics students want to cover as a journalist. For example, if students are interested in world events, they can take political science and current events classes, while if they are interested in the arts, they can take art history or music classes.

Journalism Degree Programs

Other Degrees Related to Journalism

Associates in Communications Degree Programs

University of Phoenix — AA in Communication

Bachelors in Communications Degree Programs

Masters in Communications Degree Programs

English/Language Arts Degree Programs

Online Journalism Schools and Degrees

With blogs, social media, and bookmarking websites, communication is increasingly becoming dependent on the internet. Education is no different as more accredited schools are offering Journalism and Communication degrees through online programs. Click on any links found below to request free information on a school's tuition, programs, accreditation, and more.

BA in Journalism BA in Communication Studies BA in English/Language Arts	Ashford University — Ashford's bachelor's degree program in either journalism & mass communications or communication studies is a good fit for anyone pursuing a career in business, communication management, media, journalism, or public policy. Upon completion of either program, graduates are highly valued and sought after in the job market in all of these industries. Ashford also offers a similar degree in English/Language Arts that is geared toward individuals interested in a liberal arts education.
BS in Communication Advanced Start BS in Comm	Kaplan University — For aspiring journalists seeking a communications degree, Kaplan University offers two such programs, the BS in Communication/Organization Communication and the Advanced Start BS in Communications for students who have already earned an associate's or bachelor's degree. Students enrolled in online programs engage classes through the use of online communities of peers, multimedia, and hands-on assignments
AA in Communication BS in Communication	University of Phoenix — The University of Phoenix offers its communications programs at two degree levels, Associate of Arts and Bachelor of Science. The associate's degree-level communications program develops a foundation for understanding effective exchange of information regarding journalistic news presentations for print, Web, and broadcast media. The bachelor's degree-level program builds on these lessons and helps develop critical thinking and problem solving skills that journalists will use in a career.
MA in Journalism & Mass Comm: PR	Kent State University — Kent State offers a master's degree of Journalism and Communication. This degree is specializes in Public Relations, preparing students for managerial positions or in-house PR positions with courses on social media, branding, strategy campaigns, and crisis management. This is one of only a few online masters of journalism programs available.
MS in New Media Journalism	Full Sail University — The MS in new media journalism from Full Sail University allows journalists to keep their skills sharp all while meeting the demands required by today's media consumers. The degree program combines traditional methods of journalism with emerging technology. You'll learn how to produce multimedia content, use social media to engage audiences and promote your work, and publish and distribute content across digital delivery platforms.
BS in Communication	Walden University — Walden University offers a Bachelor of Science degree in communication that combines communication theory with practical skills. This particular degree focuses on journalistic aspects of new media, including Web publishing, online video, podcasts, Web conferencing, and more. Assignments consist of exercises reflecting the material and interaction with other students taking the same course.
BA in Communication	Southern New Hampshire University — Southern New Hampshire University offers a BA degree in communication that combines courses in communication with a solid foundation in the liberal arts. Graduates of this program will be prepared to enter careers in advertising, business writing, corporate communications, journalism, and more.
BA in Communications BA/Comm in Digital Film BA/Comm in Graphic Design BA/Comm in Public Relations	Grand Canyon University — For the aspiring journalist, Grand Canyon University offers a BA in communications degree with three different specializations: digital film production, graphic design, and public relations. Students of the communications program are prepared to become leaders in the fields of media and communications.