A journalist is a professional who gathers, investigates, and reports news and information to the public. They research interview sources, write articles, create multimedia content, and analyze events to inform and educate readers, viewers, or listeners about current affairs, trends, and issues across various media platforms.
To become a journalist, candidates can pursue various UG and PG-level journalism programs after completing their 10+2. Some of these programs are BA Journalism, BA Mass Media, BJMC, BA Journalism and Communication Studies, and B.Sc Mass Communication and Journalism.
Top recruiters of journalists in India are Thomson Reuters, BBC, The Times of India, Times Internet, Hindustan Times, NDTV, India Today, PinkVilla, etc. The average salary for journalists in India is INR 3 LPA while the salary ranges from INR 2 LPA to INR 8 LPA.
Also Check: Journalism Jobs
Table of Contents
- How to become a Journalist after 12th: Quick Facts
- Eligibility to Become a Journalist after 12th
- Steps to become a Journalist after the 12th
- Journalism Courses after 12th
4.1 Entrance Exams
How to become a Journalist after 12th: Quick facts
Eligibility | Class 12 |
Qualifications | UG degree in Journalism |
Starting salary | INR 2 LPA |
Average salary | INR 4 LPA |
Top recruiters | Thomson Reuters, BBC, The Times of India, Times Internet, Hindustan Times, etc. |
Eligibility to become a Journalist after 12th
The applicant must fulfil the following eligibility criteria to pursue journalism after the 12th. The eligibility may vary according to the universities.
- Candidate must have passed 10+2 in any stream from a recognized board with a minimum of 50% marks.
- Candidate must complete a degree course (UG or PG) in a journalism-related field.
Steps to become a journalist after 12th
Candidates can pursue journalism as a career after completing class 12th by following some series of steps. These steps are mentioned below.
- Candidates should enrol themselves on journalism-related UG courses like BA Journalism, BA Mass Media, and BJMC. In most colleges, the admissions are merit-based however, in some colleges, candidates must take entrance exams. Some of the common entrance exams are IPU CET, and IIMC.
- Candidates must complete their UG degree with at least 60% marks.
- Candidates can either pursue a Master’s in the same field or can pursue internships with various media houses.
- Candidates who choose to pursue a Master’s can also pursue internships after completing that degree. Internships frequently offer beneficial job experience.
- After gaining immense experience of journalism through internships, candidates can apply for the journalists in various media houses like Newspapers, Television Channels, Online Media Portal, or magazines.
Journalism Courses after Class 12th
Journalism courses after Class 12th offer comprehensive training in media, writing, and communication. Some of the top Undergraduate programs in the field of journalism are given below.
Name of the Course | Colleges | Annual Fee |
---|---|---|
BA Journalism | Madras Christian College, Chennai Christ University Bangalore, St. Xavier’s College Kolkata, etc. | INR 20,000 - INR 1,00,000 |
BA Mass Media | Madras Christian College, Lady Shri Ram College for Women, St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai, etc. | INR 60,000 - INR 1,00,000 |
BJMC | International Institute of Mass Media, Chandigarh University, Chandigarh Institute of Management Studies, etc. | INR 1,00,000 - INR 3,00,000 |
BA Journalism and Communication Studies | Calcutta University, Banasthali Vidyapeeth, Amity University, etc. | INR 2,000 - INR 5,00,000 |
B.Sc Mass Communication | Xavier University, Bhubaneshwar AAFT School of Mass Communication, Noida Pacific University, etc. | INR 1,00,000 - INR 5,00,000 |
Entrance exams
Some of the entrance exams that are required for admission into various Journalism programs are given below.
Exam Name | Exam Date | Results |
---|---|---|
IIMC Entrance Exam | June 18, 2023, | June 30, 2023, |
JMI Entrance Exam | April 15, 2023, | July 4, 2023, |
ACJ Entrance Exam | May 15, 2023, | May 23, 2023, |
XIC OET | April 29, 2023 | - |
DCJ Entrance Exam | August 2023 | August 2023 |
MASCOM Entrance Exam | June 24, 2023, | Third week of July 2023 |
Top Journalism Colleges
Top journalism colleges in India provide programs in media studies that emphasize practical skills, industry insights, ethical journalism, and opportunities for experience in diverse media platforms. Some of the journalism colleges are listed below.
Colleges | First Year Fees |
---|---|
Lady Shri Ram College for Women - [LSR], New Delhi | INR 29,170 |
Indian Institute of Mass Communication - [IIMC], New Delhi | INR 1,60,000 |
Xavier Institute of Communications - [XIC], Mumbai | INR 3,25,230 |
AJK Mass Communication Research Centre, New Delhi | INR 86,320 |
Christ University, Bangalore | INR 80,000 |
Savitribai Phule Pune University - [SPPU], Pune | INR 34,500 |
Indian Institute of Journalism and New Media - [IIJNM], Bangalore | INR 4,34,000 |
Amity School of Communication - [ASCO], Noida | INR 2,69,000 |
Skills Required to become a Journalist after 12th
To become a good journalist, candidates need a diverse skill set like reporting, storytelling, and navigating the dynamic world of journalism. Some of these skills required to excel in a career as a journalist are listed below.
Excellent writing | Research | Critical Thinking |
Communication | Interviewing | Time Management |
Social Awareness | Multimedia Proficiency | Informed about Current Events |
Benefits of becoming a Journalist after Class 12th
Some of the key benefits that come along after becoming a Journalist are listed below.
- Journalism opens doors to roles in print, digital, TV, radio, and online media, which allows candidates to choose a specialization that aligns with their interests.
- Journalists have the power to inform, educate, and shape public opinion on critical issues, contributing to societal change and progress.
- Journalism allows candidates to craft compelling narratives, use multimedia tools, and explore creative approaches to storytelling.
- As journalists, candidates can interact with diverse sources, experts, and fellow journalists, building a strong professional network that can enhance their career prospects.
Salary of a Journalist
Salary of a journalist varies based on factors like experience, media type, and location, starting from approximately INR 15,000 to INR 25,000 per month. The salary of a Journalist based on their specialization is listed below.
Specialization | Average Annual Salary |
---|---|
Broadcast Journalist | INR 4.20 L |
Photojournalists | INR 4.50 L |
News presenter | INR 3.70 L |
Political Journalist | INR 6.10 L |
Entertainment Journalist | INR 5.80 L |
How to become a Journalist after 12th: FAQs
Ques. What would the starting wage be for journalism graduates?
Ans. The starting wage for journalism graduates in India can vary widely based on factors like the type of media house, location, specialization, and individual skills. Generally, it could range from around INR 15,000 to INR 25,000 per month, but figures may differ.
Ques. Which of the best universities offer programs in journalism?
Ans. Some of the best universities in India that offer journalism programs are Jindal Global University, Indian Institute of Mass Communication, Chandigarh University, Calcutta University, Indian Institute of Journalism and New Media, Madras Christian College, Xavier Institute of Communications, etc.
Ques. What difficulties could journalists encounter during their careers?
Ans. Particularly in the quick-moving world of digital media, journalists may face obstacles like strict deadlines. It can be challenging to maintain objectivity while covering sensitive or divisive subjects. In addition, journalists may run the risk of harm while covering risky circumstances or in combat zones. However, overcoming these difficulties requires a commitment to the truth and upholding one's ethical standards.
Ques. What are some crucial traits that potential employers want in a journalist?
Ans. Employers look for journalists that uphold journalistic values including impartiality, fairness, and accuracy. Additionally appreciated are flexibility and the capacity to function in various settings and circumstances. Delivering interesting news material requires solid research techniques, outstanding writing skills, and an appealing narrative approach.
Ques. Do I need to complete internships while I'm studying journalism?
Ans. Internships are very helpful in the journalistic industry. You may work alongside seasoned experts, gain crucial industry contacts, and gain practical experience from them. Many media companies choose applicants with internship experience since it shows commitment to the industry and real-world experience.
Ques. After I graduate from high school, may I work in a specialized area of media like sports or investigative reporting?
Ans. Yes, you can opt to specialize in other areas of journalism after earning your bachelor's degree through postgraduate coursework or valuable internships. Sports journalism, environmental journalism, business journalism, broadcast journalism, and investigative journalism are some examples of specializations.
Ques. Are there special tests for admission to journalism programs?
Ans. Some colleges and universities have admission tests for their journalism programs, while others may accept students depending on their performance on their 12th-grade exams. The IIMC entry Exam, the IP University Common Entrance Test (CET), and the Symbiosis Entrance Test (SET) are popular entry exams in India for journalism programs.
Ques. What formal schooling is needed to work as a journalist after grade 12?
Ans. To work as a journalist in India after grade 12, pursuing a bachelor's degree in journalism, mass communication, or related fields from a recognized university or college is typically required for formal training and career preparation.
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