A news journalist must investigate leads and tips, do background research on stories, observe events at the scene, and conduct interviews, either on tape or with extensive note taking. In the office a news journalist job requires one to research the material, decide on the focus of the story, write copy, and edit any videotaped material. Radio and television news journalists often report live from the scene of an event, sometimes adding an introduction or commentary to the story once they return to the studio.
News analysts, also referred to as anchors, are responsible for interpreting and examining news before broadcasting it to the public. They work in the studio, presenting news stories from prepared written copy and introducing videotaped or live transmissions from reporters in the field. Analysts who are stationed in large cities and report on the news from those locations are called correspondents.
The term “newscaster” encompasses several specialized fields, such as the sportscaster field, the weathercaster field, general-assignment reporting, crime, politics, foreign affairs, business, and many others. One of the most in-depth careers is that of the investigative reporter. This specialized news journalist can spend many days or even weeks working on a single story, gathering information, and interviewing people. Often, the investigative reporter will present his or her findings in a series of articles (for print media) or broadcasts (for radio or television).
Larger news organizations may have teams of reporters, composed of editors, photo- or videographers, graphic artists, “on-air” reporters, and other similar professionals. This allows for the coverage of a greater variety of stories, with the various members of the team working on different topics at one time. Smaller organizations — such as small town newspapers — are more likely to have reporters who cover all aspects of the news. They take photographs, write headlines, lay out pages, edit wire-service stories, and write editorials.
The work environment of a news journalist job is normally very hectic, with deadlines always looming. “Breaking” news stories can require airing with little or no preparation. Reporters in the field can be distracted by onlookers, police, or other emergency workers when covering a story. Reporting on wars, political uprisings, and natural disasters can often be dangerous. In addition, working hours in this career vary and can change at a moment’s notice because of breaking stories.
Educational Requirements to Become a News Journalist
Starting a career as a news journalist generally requires the completion of specialized programs within the field. Most employers look for individuals with at least a bachelor’s degree in journalism or mass communications, but some hire graduates with other majors.
Experience at school newspapers, radio stations, or television stations is a plus for anyone interested in a career as a news journalist. Completion of internships with news organizations will also help a news journalist land a job.
More than 1,500 institutions offer degree programs in communications, journalism, and related fields. These degree programs focus on a liberal arts curriculum in addition to journalism classes, which include basic reporting and copy editing, history of journalism, and media law and ethics classes. Some schools also offer master’s or PhD degrees in journalism, which can prepare students for either news careers or careers in education. Graduate degrees will often help those looking to advance more quickly in the field.
