Top Online Journalism Degree Programs and Industry Salary 2023/2024

An online journalism degree provides you with a range of core journalistic skills including researching, investigating, interviewing, reporting and writing, in addition to technical skills such as video, editing, shorthand, audio, content management and web design.

Many graduates go on to pursue careers that allow plenty of room for flexibility and creativity, often helping inform and change communities in significant ways.

Online Journalism Degree

A journalism degree program teaches you the necessary skills to uncover, write, and report news stories for a target audience. You can also learn best practices for conducting research and interviewing people as well as checking facts and sources.

Individuals who are drawn to journalism as a major are often detail-oriented, curious, and self-driven. They typically have strong interpersonal skills, allowing them to find the heart of a good story through interviewing others. Journalists generally have a strong understanding of what makes a compelling story. They use their knowledge of narrative to communicate a specific story to an audience in an engaging way.

During a typical bachelor’s degree in journalism program, you may take courses such as:

• Multimedia storytelling
• Investigative reporting techniques
• Feature storytelling
• First amendment law
• Long-form narrative
• Media law and ethics
• Audio storytelling
• Writing and reporting

These courses are designed to help you build a strong foundation in storytelling, communication, and reporting. They also explore the role of free speech in journalism and provide an opportunity to analyze ethical debates in the media.

Many journalism bachelor degree programs also include an internship requirement. This provides a hands-on opportunity to develop skills in a real-world professional environment. After graduation, many journalism majors pursue work in journalism as well as other media and communications industries. Others continue their educations in either on-campus or online masters in journalism programs.

Professionals with a journalism degree may pursue careers like the following:

• Journalist
• Reporter
• Editor
• Videographer
• Photographer
• Content manager
• Copywriter
• Public relations manager

A journalism degree program can help you develop many transferable skills that are applicable in a number of industries, including journalism, advertising, and public relations.

Some of these versatile skills include:

• Networking
• Communication
• Collaboration
• Perseverance
• Active listening
• Reflection

The ability to connect with others, persevere when things are difficult, and reflect on professional successes or shortcomings are beneficial skills in any industry.

Common Online Journalism Degree Concentrations

The field of journalism is broad, and it encompasses many subtopics. Journalism majors often have the opportunity to select a concentration to focus their studies on a specialty area. Common concentrations include:

• Public Relations. This concentration combines key concepts from journalism, public relations, and multimedia. Topics studied may include writing, research, public speaking, and strategic planning.
• Sports Journalism. Designed for anyone with an interest in sports writing and reporting, this concentration prepares students for work in sports journalism. You can learn how to write feature pieces, shoot sports photos, and analyze political issues in sports.
• Photojournalism. This concentration focuses on using images to tell a story. You may take courses in photography, digital editing, composition, and storytelling.
• Broadcast Journalism. In this concentration, you can learn the foundations of radio and television reporting. Typical topics covered include news production, broadcast news writing, multimedia storytelling, and audio and video editing.
• Writing and Publishing. This concentration focuses on the writing and publishing aspect of print journalism. You might study copyediting, accounting, book production, and distribution.

Selecting a concentration can help you focus on a specific area, allowing you to learn the skills for your preferred industry or career path.

Journalism Careers & Salaries

There’s a wide variety of job opportunities available to individuals with a BA in Journalism. Many careers related to journalism require strong communication and problem-solving skills. They also require a deep understanding of ethical and professional boundaries, especially when interviewing others.

Management positions often require several years of professional experience, but journalism studies can help you enter the fields of advertising, public relations, and other communication sectors. According to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics, here are the median salaries for some of the career paths related to journalism.

It can be helpful to choose a degree concentration that aligns with your professional goals. That could allow you to learn the specific skills needed to be successful in a certain industry, such as public relations or broadcasting.

It should be noted that a bachelor’s degree in journalism can help you qualify for jobs in the field, but it does not promise a specific position or salary. The jobs you are eligible for and the amount you earn may be impacted by factors such as your geographic location, previous work experience, and area of academic study.

Bachelor of Journalism Curriculum & Courses

Curricula at journalism major colleges may include courses similar to the following:

• Multimedia Storytelling: In this course, you’ll learn how to tell a story using different media formats and platforms.
• Investigative Reporting Techniques: This course teaches you necessary investigative tools and techniques, exploring topics like analyzing data, cultivating sources, and using public records to inform reporting.
• Feature Storytelling: In this course, you’ll learn how to craft a compelling feature story by using elements of narrative to bring a nonfiction or factual experience to life.
• First Amendment Law: This course examines the importance of the first amendment in journalism and explores potential issues, covering topics like commercial speech, political expression, and free exercise of religion.
• Modern Journalism: This course explores the ways in which journalism has changed and evolved with the advent of new technology, impacting the way people consume information.
• Media Law and Ethics: In this course, you’ll learn about the legal rules guiding journalism, including freedoms and restrictions, trademark laws, and copyright issues.
• Audio Storytelling: This course covers the fundamentals of telling audio stories, exploring topics such as pitching stories, editing software, and podcast development.
• Writing and Reporting: This is an introductory course that includes the basics of accurate journalism, covering topics like editing and presentation, visual literacy, and information gathering.
• Data Analysis and Visualization: In this course, you’ll explore the role of data in modern journalism, learning how to create interactive data representations, analyze data, and anticipate how people will make sense of infographics.
• Social Media Video: This course examines the algorithms and business models of social media news posts, exploring innovative examples, necessary applications, and current trends.

Throughout a journalism degree program, you can also develop your interpersonal and problem-solving skills.

How to Choose an Online Bachelor Degree in Journalism Program

Selecting the right journalism degree program for you will depend on your educational and professional goals. As you make your decision, it is also helpful to consider factors such as:

• Cost. Journalism degree programs are offered at a range of prices. You can search for one within your budget or consider applying for financial aid.
• Concentrations. If you are eager to enter into a specific subfield of journalism, such as sports or broadcasting, it is important to find a school that offers a concentration in that area.
• Format. Online schools typically offer asynchronous (pre-recorded), synchronous (live), or blended courses. Depending on your personal schedule and learning preferences, you can select a program that teaches the majority of classes in your preferred style.
• Location. While most online programs do not have an in-person requirement, some do ask that you attend events on campus a few times a year. If that is going to be an issue for you, you can look for online programs close to home or without any physical attendance requirements.

Keeping these factors in mind could help make the program selection process a little bit easier.

Admissions Requirements

Admissions requirements will vary between online schools for journalism, but you may expect to find some of the following items in an admissions packet:

• SAT or ACT scores (only some schools require them)
• Personal statement
• Academic transcripts
• Letters of recommendation

A growing number of schools are no longer relying on standardized test scores to determine eligibility. Instead, admissions teams are often more interested in your academic transcripts, extracurricular activities, personal achievements, and motivation for applying to their particular school.

Accreditation

Attending a regionally accredited school is beneficial for several reasons. In order to become accredited, a school must undergo a thorough review process. A team of assessors will evaluate its staff, facilities, and programs to ensure that it provides a high quality education in a safe environment.

Attending an accredited college or university can also impact the way others view the degree you earn. Hiring managers, for example, often look for candidates who earned their degree at an accredited institution, as an accredited degree is considered credible.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

Financial aid options can help make college more accessible to students who qualify. By filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), you can determine how much federal aid you are eligible to receive.

If you are interested in applying for scholarship opportunities, these can often be accessed through your school or outside companies or organizations. Scholarships can be applied for in addition to federal and state aid. If you are employed while you attend school, you can also check to see if your employer offers tuition reimbursement.

Journalism Professional Organizations

Joining a professional organization can help you expand your network. Some common journalism organizations include:

• American Society of Journalists and Authors (ASJA): This organization is made for independent writers and offers opportunities for professional development, client networking, and advocacy.
• Investigative Reporters and Editors (IRE): IRE is a nonprofit organization that works to educate and connect journalists in order to improve the overall quality of journalism around the world.
• Society of Professional Journalists (SPJ): This organization offers professional development, journalism advocacy, and local connections to its journalist members.

Being a member of a professional organization is also a way to stay up to date on developments in the field of journalism.

Is Journalism a Good Major?

Yes, journalism is a good major for many undergraduate students. Journalism majors often develop strong skills in critical thinking, researching, and writing. They learn to communicate their ideas in engaging and exciting ways, allowing them to reach a wide range of audiences.

These transferable skills can be applied to jobs outside the field of journalism as well. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary for media and communication workers is $62,340. Many journalists also have the opportunity to travel over the course of their career. They might get to explore new locations, meet diverse groups of people, and become knowledgeable about many cultures.

What Can You Do with a Journalism Degree?

An online journalism bachelor’s degree can lead to many exciting job opportunities, both in the field of journalism and in other fields as well.

Many students who earn a degree in journalism go on to become news analysts, reporters, and journalists. These career paths allow graduates to directly apply the writing and storytelling skills they can develop during their degree program.

Some individuals who study journalism choose to become public relations specialists, editors, technical writers, or authors. Others choose to enter into broadcasting, advertising, or marketing. With experience, they can also pursue leadership positions.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Journalism Degree Online?

If you follow a traditional 16 week semester and attend school full-time, it will generally take 4 years to earn a bachelors degree in journalism online.

If you follow an 8 week semester and stay continuously enrolled year-round, including over the summer, you may be able to complete your degree in less time. One of the benefits of attending school online is the flexibility it permits. Many online degree programs have alternative timelines available for students with professional or personal commitments.

What Jobs Can You Get with a Journalism Degree?

Earning a degree in journalism may help prepare you for creative job opportunities after college. Some professionals with a bachelors in journalism work in roles such as:

• Journalist
• Copywriter
• Author
• Public relations specialist
• Editor
• Technical writer
• Broadcast, sound, or video technician

Many of these jobs require strong interpersonal and technical skills, both of which are emphasized in a journalism degree program. While earning a bachelor’s degree does not guarantee that you will find employment in a specific position or industry, it can help you develop professional qualifications and skill sets.

How Much Does a Journalist Make?

The amount that journalists make can vary depending a number of factors, including their job title, location, employer, and level of experience. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for news analysts, reporters, and journalists is $48,370. Top earners in the field, though, make more than $120,590 per year.

Professionals with a degree in journalism may also pursue related communication careers. For instance, the median salary for public relations specialists is $62,800. Similarly, the median for writers and authors is  $69,510 (Bureau of Labor Statistics).

What’s the Difference Between a Communications vs. Journalism Bachelor Degree Online?

While journalism and communications have many similarities, communications has a broader scope than journalism.

• Communications: This degree field encompasses different forms of communication, including advertising, film, and public relations.
• Journalism: This subfield of communications focuses on sharing news and information with an intended audience.

A degree in communications or journalism could lead to similar career paths, but it’s helpful to research their coursework and concentration offerings to see which one best aligns with your personal goals. For example, if you prefer to focus on news stories, you might consider pursuing a degree in journalism.

What’s the Difference Between a Journalist vs. Reporter?

Reporting is part of journalism. Most journalists do some reporting, but not every reporter works as a journalist.

Journalists are responsible for the research and creation of a news story, while reporters tend to gain information for a story by conducting interviews in the field.

Is a Journalism Degree Worth It?

Yes, a journalism degree is worth it for many students. Journalists often have the opportunity to be creative in the work that they do. Not only do they use their research and interpersonal skills to discover a story, but they employ their writing and storytelling abilities to make it come to life. This can keep work exciting and fresh.

Many careers related to journalism are also experiencing employment growth at a rate as fast or faster than the national average for all occupations. For media and communication occupations overall, the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 14% job growth over the next ten years.

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