How to Become a Journalist in India: Comprehensive Guide

If you’ve ever dreamed of telling stories that inform and inspire, journalism might be the perfect career for you. In India, where the media is constantly evolving, becoming a journalist can open doors to endless opportunities. To become a journalist, students can choose any stream in Class 12, as long as English is a major subject, and achieve a minimum aggregate score of 50% or equivalent CGPA from a recognised board.

Whether you’re passionate about uncovering the truth or sharing important news, this guide will help you how to become a journalist in India.

Who is a Journalist?

A journalist is a professional who collects and reports news to keep the public informed. They investigate and write about current events, important issues, and interesting stories for newspapers, websites, TV, or radio. Journalists interview people, research topics, and verify facts to ensure their reports are accurate and reliable.

Their work involves writing articles, creating reports, and sometimes appearing on camera. By providing news and information, journalists help people stay aware of what’s happening around them and make informed decisions. Their role is crucial in a free society, as they uphold transparency and accountability.

Responsibilities of a Journalist

The responsibilities of a journalist are as follows:

1. Researching and collecting accurate information from various sources.
2. Writing engaging, and accurate news stories.
3. Verifying the accuracy of information and sources.
4. Reporting on various events, such as press conferences or breaking news.
5. Building relationships  and networking

Steps on How to Become a Journalist:

The basic steps that must be followed on how to become a Journalist are listed below for your reference.

1. Complete Your Education: Begin your journey by finishing Class 12 with at least 50% marks, ensuring you have a solid foundation in English, for clear and effective communication. After high school, enrol in a bachelor’s degree program in journalism, mass communication, or a related field. This will provide you with fundamental knowledge of media ethics, reporting techniques, and media law.

2. Gain Relevant Experience: To build practical skills and gain a real understanding of the field, seek internships or part-time jobs with media organizations such as newspapers, magazines, or broadcasting companies. These experiences will allow you to apply your classroom knowledge, understand industry practices, and start building a professional portfolio of your work. Hands-on experience is crucial for developing a deep understanding of journalism and for making valuable industry connections.

3. Develop Your Skills: Continuously work on improving your writing, reporting, and research skills. Regular practice is key to honing these abilities. Stay updated on current events and industry trends to ensure your reporting is relevant and timely. Developing a unique writing style and a keen eye for detail will set you apart in a competitive field. Engaging in regular writing exercises, such as creating articles or blog posts, will help refine your craft.

4. Pursue Advanced Studies (Optional): If you aim for specialized roles or advanced positions, consider pursuing a master’s degree or a PG Diploma in journalism. These programs offer in-depth knowledge and training in specific areas of journalism, such as investigative reporting or multimedia journalism. Advanced studies can enhance your expertise, improve your job prospects, and provide opportunities for career advancement.

5. Build a Portfolio: Assemble a portfolio that showcases your best work, including articles, reports, and multimedia content. A well-organized portfolio demonstrates your skills and experience to potential employers and serves as a practical tool during job applications. Highlight a range of work to illustrate your versatility and expertise, and keep your portfolio updated with your latest achievements.

6. Apply for Jobs: Start searching for job openings in various media outlets, including newspapers, magazines, online platforms, and broadcasting companies. Tailor your resume and cover letter to emphasize your relevant experience, skills, and accomplishments. Be prepared to showcase your portfolio during interviews and demonstrate how your experience aligns with the job requirements.

7. Stay Informed and Adapt: The media industry is dynamic and constantly evolving. To stay relevant, continuously educate yourself about new trends, technologies, and developments in journalism. Adapt to changes in the industry by learning new skills, embracing digital tools, and staying informed about current events. This ongoing learning will help you remain competitive and effective in your role as a journalist.

Skills Required to Become a Journalist

The list below mentions the top skills on how to become a journalist.

• News Stories: Journalists should be able to craft compelling and informative news articles that capture the essence of current events.
• Multimedia: They must know various forms of media, including text, video, and audio, to enhance storytelling.
• Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills for clear and engaging interactions are crucial for journalists.
• Local Business: Understanding local business trends and issues to cover community-related news effectively is an important part of journalism.
• Social Media: Leveraging platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram helps journalists distribute news and engage with audiences effectively.
• Online Publication: Knowledge of digital publishing practices is important for effectively presenting content on online platforms.
• SEO: Implementing search engine optimization techniques to improve the visibility of online content is one of the key skills of a journalist.
• Current Events Awareness: Staying informed about ongoing news and trends ensures journalists provide timely and relevant coverage.
• Content Marketing: Journalists must know how to promote and distribute content effectively to increase visibility and engagement

Courses to Become a Journalist in India

BA Journalism

A 3-year undergraduate program in the arts focusing on news and media. Candidates need 50% marks in Class 12 from any stream to be eligible. Top colleges include JMI New Delhi, Chandigarh University, LPU, DAV Indore, and Christ University, Bangalore. The average fee ranges from INR 20,000 to 1 Lakhs.

BJMC (Bachelor of Journalism and Mass Communication)

This 3-year undergraduate course covers media and journalism trends and research. Eligibility requires a 50% score in 10+2 from a recognized board. Common entrance tests include IPU CET and DU Journalism Entrance Test. Leading colleges are IP University, Mewar University, and IMS Noida. Course fees can go up to INR 3 Lakhs.

Diploma in Journalism

A 2-year diploma course focusing on professional writing for newspapers, magazines, and broadcasting. Eligibility requires 50% marks in Class 12 from a recognized board. Top colleges include LSR New Delhi, Asian College of Journalism Chennai, and Madras Christian College Chennai. The average fee ranges from INR 10,000 to 5 Lakhs.

PG Diploma in Journalism

This 1-year program is for graduates aiming to specialize in various journalism fields. Eligibility requires a bachelor’s degree with at least 50% marks in journalism or a related field. Prominent institutions include Savitribai Phule University Pune, JMI New Delhi, and AMU Aligarh. Course fees typically range from INR 75,000 to 3 Lakhs.

Postgraduate Diploma in Broadcast Journalism

A 1-year program focusing on television and radio journalism. Eligibility includes a bachelor’s degree in any field. Institutions offering this course include the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) and the Asian College of Journalism. Fees generally range from INR 1 Lakh to 2 Lakhs.

Certificate Course in Digital Journalism

A short-term program, often lasting 6 months to 1 year, focusing on digital media and online journalism. Eligibility is typically a Class 12 pass. Leading providers include the Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC) and various online platforms. Fees are generally between INR 20,000 and 50,000.

Types of Journalists

Journalist type	Average Salary
Investigative Journalist	INR 3.56 LPA
Website Journalist	INR 2.55 LPA
Sports Journalist	INR 3.11 LPA
Entertainment Journalist	INR 2.75 LPA
Political Journalist	INR 3.24 LPA
Photojournalist	INR 5.5 LPA

Top Recruiting Companies

The leading recruiters for journalists are as follows:

• Hindustan Times
• Times Group
• The Pioneer
• The Hindu
• Malayala Manorama
• Outlook
• Jagran Prakashan Group
• Indian Express
• The Telegraph
• Deccan Herald

Salary of Journalists in India

After learning about how to become a journalist in India let us see the salary of a journalist. The average salary for a journalist in India in 2024 is ₹392,042 per year. Here’s a breakdown based on experience levels:

• Entry level:  Less than 1 year of experience, with an average total compensation of ₹361,885.
• Experienced Professionals: Journalists with extensive experience, typically 5-10 years, can earn between INR 80,000 and INR 1.5 Lakhs per month. Positions at this level include editor, news anchor, or bureau chief.
• Senior-Level and Specialized Journalists: Highly experienced journalists, especially those in specialized fields or with significant media presence, can earn upwards of INR 1.5 Lakhs per month. Roles might include managing editor, executive editor, or senior news correspondent.

Journey of Becoming a Journalist

To become a successful journalist involves a combination of formal education, hands-on experience, and continuous skill development. Starting with a solid educational foundation, gaining practical experience through internships or part-time work, and honing your writing and reporting skills are essential steps.

Advanced studies can further enhance your specialization. Building a strong portfolio and actively applying for jobs is one of the crucial steps on how to become a journalist in India. Staying informed about industry trends and adapting to changes will ensure you remain relevant and effective throughout your career. With dedication and persistence, you can navigate the dynamic world of journalism and make a meaningful impact.

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