How to Become a Journalist: 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 embark on your journey of how 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 recognized board.

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

How to become a journalist? Becoming a journalist is an exciting and rewarding career choice for those passionate about storytelling, current affairs, and communication.

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. If you’re interested in how to become a journalist, you’ll need to develop strong writing skills and a keen sense of curiosity.

How to become a journalist, Journalists write articles, create reports, and sometimes appear on camera. By providing news and information, they 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. By understanding how to become a journalist and following the necessary steps, aspiring journalists can embark on a fulfilling career that contributes significantly to a well-informed society.

Comprehensive guide on how to become a journalist:

1. Understand the Role of a Journalist

• Research and Reporting: Journalists gather information, conduct interviews, and report on various topics, including politics, sports, entertainment, and social issues.
• Writing and Editing: They write articles, edit content, and ensure accuracy and clarity in their reporting.
• Multimedia Skills: With the rise of digital media, journalists often need skills in photography, video editing, and social media management.

2. Educational Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree: A degree in journalism, mass communication, or a related field is typically required. Many universities in India offer specialized programs in journalism.
• Postgraduate Studies: While not mandatory, pursuing a master’s degree in journalism or communication can enhance your knowledge and job prospects.

3. Develop Essential Skills

• Writing Skills: Strong writing skills are crucial for crafting compelling stories and articles.
• Research Skills: Ability to conduct thorough research and verify facts is essential for credible journalism.
• Communication Skills: Effective verbal and non-verbal communication skills are important for interviews and public interactions.
• Critical Thinking: Journalists must analyze information critically and present it in an engaging manner.

4. Gain Practical Experience

• Internships: Seek internships with newspapers, magazines, radio stations, or online media platforms to gain hands-on experience.
• Freelancing: Start writing articles or blogs on topics of interest to build your portfolio and gain exposure.
• Campus Media: Participate in college newspapers, radio stations, or online platforms to hone your skills and gain experience.

5. Build a Portfolio

• Collect Your Work: Create a portfolio showcasing your best articles, reports, and multimedia projects.
• Online Presence: Consider starting a personal blog or contributing to online platforms to establish your online presence and reach a wider audience.

6. Networking

• Connect with Professionals: Attend journalism workshops, seminars, and conferences to meet industry professionals and expand your network.
• Join Professional Organizations: Consider joining organizations like the Press Club of India or the Indian Journalists’ Association for networking opportunities and resources.

7. Stay Updated

• Follow Current Affairs: Stay informed about national and international news, trends, and issues to enhance your reporting skills.
• Read Widely: Read newspapers, magazines, and online publications to understand different writing styles and perspectives.

8. Apply for Jobs

• Job Portals: Look for job openings on online job portals, media company websites, and social media platforms.
• Tailor Your Applications: Customize your resume and cover letter for each application, highlighting relevant skills and experiences.

9. Consider Specialization

• Niche Areas: As you gain experience, consider specializing in areas such as political journalism, sports journalism, environmental reporting, or investigative journalism.

10. Continuous Learning

• Professional Development: Engage in continuous learning through workshops, online courses, and certifications to stay updated on industry trends and improve your skills.

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 of how to become a journalist 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, enroll 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 as you explore how to become a journalist, 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 as part of your journey on how to become a journalist. 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, understanding how to become a journalist can involve 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:

As you navigate how to become a journalist, 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. making it essential for aspiring journalists to understand how to become a journalist. 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 on How to Become a Journalist:

BA Journalism

A 3-year undergraduate program in the arts focusing on news and media is a vital step in how to become a journalist. 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, making it a key step in how to become a journalist. Eligibility requires a 50% score in 10+2 from a recognized board. Common entrance tests include the 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 is a fantastic opportunity for those exploring how to become a journalist. 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 and is a crucial step in how to become a journalist. 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, making it a great option for those exploring how to become a journalist. 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 between 6 months to 1 year, is designed for those interested in digital media and online journalism. This program is particularly relevant in today’s rapidly evolving media landscape, where digital platforms play a crucial role in news dissemination and audience engagement. Eligibility typically requires candidates to have completed Class 12, making it accessible to a wide range of aspiring journalists.

Leading providers of this program include the Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC), renowned for its comprehensive curriculum and industry connections, as well as various online platforms that offer flexible learning options. How to become a journalist? These courses often cover essential topics such as social media journalism, content creation, and digital storytelling techniques, equipping students with the skills needed to thrive in the digital age. Fees for these programs generally range between INR 20,000 and 50,000, offering an affordable pathway for those looking to jumpstart their careers in the dynamic field of online journalism!

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
Photo journalist	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 let us see the salary of a journalist. The average salary for a journalist in India in 2025 is ₹392,042 per year (Salary as per Glassdoor). 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, and gaining practical experience through internships or part-time work. These are essential steps in how to become a journalist.

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. 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.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)