Edited By Charlotte Sears
Review & Contribution By Dr. William Clark
Pursue careers in news, broadcasting, digital media, and public relations with an Online Journalism Degree that covers media ethics, reporting, digital media, and communication skills.
The field of journalism deals with producing and distributing reports on the interaction of facts, ideas, people, and events, which keeps society informed. An online journalism degree often appeals to those interested in current affairs happening worldwide and presenting them to the public in formats like print, media, etc. Through the online journalism bachelor’s degree, one learns reporting, editing, media law, history, journalism, writing, and ethics. Students gain practical experience in developing, editing, and researching new pieces. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projected a decline of 9% in employment for the decade of 2021 to 2031. Despite the projection decline, there are more than 4,900 openings for professionals in this field[1].
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Featured Online Degree in Communication Programs
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Southern New Hampshire University
PROGRAM: Online Degree in Communication (BA)
Southern New Hampshire University is a private, nonprofit, accredited institution with more than 3,000 on campus students, over 170,000 online students, making it one of the fastest growing universities in the nation. Founded in 1932, we’ve been relentlessly reinventing higher education ever since and have gained national recognition for our dedication to helping students transform their lives and the lives of those around them.
We’re proud to provide affordable, accessible education that students can pursue on our 300-acre campus in Manchester, NH, or via our innovative online platform.
SNHU has earned the GetEducated.com Best Buy and Best of Business – Best Online Degree awards and is consistently ranked as a top Military Friendly® School by G.I Jobs®.
Find the Best Online Journalism Programs
Finding a good bachelor’s degree involves evaluating components like core and elective courses, the quality of teaching, hands-on experiences provided, accreditation, fees, etc. To help prospective students make informed decisions, our team at FBD has evaluated many colleges and degrees from across the country and, using our unique ranking methodology, prepared a list of institutions that offer the best online journalism degrees:
| Univ | Address | Tuition | Grad Rate |
| University of Florida | 341 Tigert Hall 300 SW 13th St, Gainesville, Florida 32611 | $6,381 | 90% |
Universities and programs are ranked by various factors, such as affordability, curriculum and coursework, reputation and availability, program length, statistics, the potential of employment, and return on investment for the students. For a more in-depth analysis, please read about our rankings methodology page.
What to Expect from an Online Journalism Degree
An online degree in journalism helps students learn how to report stories, study issues, and produce different content to help the public make sense of the world and the events happening around them. The program can be taken up online, offline, or in the hybrid learning mode and can be completed in about four years. The 120 to 128-credit-hour coursework sharpens students’ skills in writing and reading while learning how to work with deadlines and produce professional content that meets the standards established by experts in the field. Through the program, students develop strong analytical and critical thinking skills that enable them to succeed in careers in journalism and related fields. Undergraduates who enter the job market with a journalism bachelor’s degree may find opportunities for employment as reporters, editors, or even commentators. It also prepares them for graduate-level studies leading to further education or research.
Curriculum and Coursework
The journalism degree online gives a basic understanding of fundamental concepts of communication and media. The curriculum is designed to help students sharpen their skills in writing, reading, interviewing, knowing basic journalistic standards, intercultural communication, and much more. Most colleges require students to finish their degree with either a capstone project or an internship. Those taking the capstone route can design their portfolio of work online or in an electronic format, helping them demonstrate their expertise in journalism. This capstone can also be used for further job applications or admissions.
Some core classes that one must take include critical thinking and public speaking, broadcast news writing, media economics, media in society, web design and development, and so on. The coursework would differ from institution to institution, depending on the program’s structure and specialization. However, some common courses one can expect to take are:
Introduction to Journalism
This course introduces students to the practice of journalism. It gives them an understanding of how they must gather, record, verify, and report information meaningfully to the public. They also analyze the different journalistic processes that have evolved over the years and how data is disseminated, consumed, or collected. The course also enhances understanding of how much news is valued, the reader’s interests, and the various sources of information.
Newswriting and Reporting
The knowledge of news writing and reporting are elemental to all journalism students. In this course, they will understand how to use many writing and reporting examples from broadcast, online, and print sources to reveal and deconstruct today’s many journalistic techniques, practices, and philosophies. Students also learn about article writing and reporting personal opinions; report writing focuses on factual evidence and information.
Journalism Ethics
To work as an eminent writer, one needs to know the various journalism ethics pertinent to their geographical area or the demographic they intend to work with. This course includes some fundamental knowledge of journalism ethics they will need to work in the field, including fact-checking, identifying valid sources, not distorting information intentionally, avoiding discrimination or stereotypes, and supporting the different exchange of opinions.
Introduction to Media and Culture
This course provides a dynamic understanding of how media is a critical source of mass communication and what roles journalists play in disseminating ethical information to the public. It emphasizes media study in economic, political, social, and historical contexts. Also, it involves examining various forms of culture created and disseminated by media industries.
Creative Writing
This course enhances creative ways in which professionals in this field can report the causes or events around them. Students are encouraged to practice grammar rules and styles for writing efficiently and in career-related writing and literature.
Examples of a few more courses in an online journalism degree include but are not limited to:
- Principles of Public Relations
- News Literacy
- International Journalism
- Introduction to Visual Storytelling
- Opinion Writing
- Magazine Writing
- Introduction to Media Industries and Institutions
- Media and Education,
- Interview Practices
Read the bachelor’s program guide to understand more about a bachelor’s degree.
Learning Outcomes and Skills Gained
Students graduating with a bachelor’s in journalism learn about reporters’ privilege, journalistic standards, intercultural communication, writing and interviewing skills, and other elemental topics from journalism. The interdisciplinary learnings from this degree can be transferred to dynamic professions within this field, including content marketers, reporters, social media specialists, public relations specialists, and more. Some of the skills students gain from the degree include the ability to:
- research the happenings around the world critically and investigate them in a manner that is meaningful and can be translated into the news;
- look at events with a creative mindset and report and write their findings;
- demonstrate an understanding of the history and ethics of journalism and use their knowledge to build on them;
- apply various techniques and methods to produce broadcast, print, and digital content;
- practice core values, ethics, and customs as a professional journalist in various roles within journalism;
- articulate clearly what role a journalist should have and embody inclusive and diverse values; and
- demonstrate decision-making and skills necessary to become a professional in the field.
Types of Degrees Journalism Students Can Obtain
The journalism online degree is typically available as a Bachelor of Arts or BA degree. One is unlikely to find any other degree type in journalism apart from the BA Journalism.
Bachelors of Arts of BA in Journalism
The Bachelor of Arts or BA in journalism is a program designed to give students hands-on experiences and skills for a career in print, online, and broadcast journalism. The coursework helps students keep pace with the changing landscapes of today’s digital media. The degree prepares them to gain skills in various forms of writing and develops critical thinking and analytical skills.
Areas of Specialization for Journalism Students
Most schools offer an online degree journalism with one or more specializations from the subfields of journalism. These concentrations allow students to develop expertise in one area, making them experts and primed for niche roles in the journalism sector. Here are a few specializations of journalism one could consider:
| Area of Specialization | Description | Career Options |
|---|---|---|
| News Reporting and Editing | In this specialization, students understand how news reports are found in newspapers and their purpose to keep the readers informed about the happenings worldwide. They also appreciate structures that news reports need to follow, for example, inverted pyramids. | News copy editors, broadcast journalists, news producers, news reporters, news editors, freelance writers, photojournalists, magazine feature editors, and political risk analysts |
| Public Relations | This specialization helps students evaluate public attitudes geared to identify the policy and procedures within the organization that directs the public’s interest. They learn about various communication channels to deal with people and target audiences. | Journalists or copywriters in organizations related to branding, media planning, event management, advertising and market research, and corporate communications |
| Sports Journalism | This concentration is intended to help students become sports journalists who understand data statistics, social media, and modern-age analytics. They learn how to write and edit sports news, along with the ethics of convergent media. | Sports journalists in newspapers, media productions, broadcast media, public relations and communications, marketing, advertising, etc. |
| Digital Content/Media | This concentration is for those who want to understand the techniques used by media today. It covers modern tools and ways to connect with and reach people and includes studying social media and connected networks. | Web content managers, ad copywriters, digital content writers, etc. |
| Creative Writing | This specialization teaches students the nuances of writing and conveying information and data through various writing styles like short stories, long-form journalism, multimodal journalism, screenwriting, fiction, and more. | Authors, bloggers, children’s writers, critics, communications consultants, etc. |
Full-Time and Part-Time Programs
The bachelor’s in journalism online can be completed in four years or an average of 48 months when taken up full-time. Some schools offer part-time programs that take four to six years to finish. Here is a summary of the journalism degree timeline:
- Full-time bachelor’s in journalism: about four years
- Part-time bachelor’s in journalism: between four and six years
Accelerated Journalism Programs
Accelerated programs are generally designed to help students make quick academic progress, complete the degree requirements early, and graduate in less than the usual four years. These fast-paced programs often include 15 to 16 credits each spring or fall semester for three years and sometimes even summer sessions. Those who enter universities with prior credits from an associate’s degree can shorten the degree duration further. Another way to accelerate one’s degree is to opt for integrated programs that include a bachelor’s and master’s degree, requiring 4+1 years instead of 4+2. Some examples of universities offering an accelerated journalism online degree include Colorado State University[2], Suffolk University[3], and The University of Memphis[4].
Requirements for Getting into an Online Journalism Degree Program
To enroll in an online journalism degree, students must have a high school diploma, GED, or its equivalent. Usually, applicants do not have any prerequisites to complete, and the admission process is quite straightforward. Although admission requirements vary by college and program, here are some common online journalism degree admission requirements:
- Application form and prescribed fee
- High school diploma or GED
- GPA of 2.0 or more
- At least two Letters of Recommendation
- Application essay highlighting the motivation to apply for the program
- Statement of Purpose
- Portfolio or samples of at least two to three works (this includes handbooks, research essays, videos or podcasts, infographic, press release, etc.)
- ACT or SAT scores, depending on the school
How to Ensure an Online Journalism Program Is Accredited
Accreditation is a critical component of higher education. It assures students and future employers that the quality of education or the program is up to or beyond the prescribed standards set by a competent accrediting body. An institution’s accreditation status can be checked on the official Department of Education[5] and Council for Higher Education Accreditation[6] websites.
Programmatically, most online journalism online degrees are accredited by the Accrediting Council on Education in Journalism and Mass Communications[7]. Additionally, universities are often accredited by one of six regional accrediting agencies, which are:
- New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
- Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
- Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
- Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
To understand more about accreditation, read the guide to college accreditation.
Where to Find Free Online Courses for Journalism Bachelor’s Students
Many students look for courses that help them enhance their skills and better understand their subject. For journalism students, several resources are available online, from “how to type sentences” to “structuring articles for print media”. Although not accredited or recognized by academic institutions, free journalism courses and tools can help students with assignments and gaining additional insights. Here are some examples:
| Course | Description | Provided by |
|---|---|---|
| Data Journalism and Media Standards[8] | In this course, students learn about how data is used in the field of journalism, examine new forms of media, and explore challenges that concern journalistic obligations and rights. It also discusses various ethical dilemmas faced by journalists. | Alison |
| Visualization for Data Journalism[9] | In this course, learners understand journalism’s history and emerging data visualization trends. They explore many topics and charts that help them recognize which graphics are used for storytelling. | Coursera |
| Fake News, Facts, and Alternative Facts[10] | This course helps learners distinguish between credible sources of news and identify biases in the information necessary to become a critical consumer of data. It is self-paced and enables them to evaluate psychological biases and logical fallacies. | edX |
Ways to Pay for an Online Journalism Degree
Paying for college has increasingly become difficult, with rising tuition costs and mounting educational expenses. Fortunately, online journalism degree students can use many ways to fund their education and access external financial aid from various sources, some of which are:
Scholarships
Scholarships are financial awards based on a student’s academic performance. Federal and state governments, colleges, universities, charities, for-profit organizations, community groups, and individuals frequently give scholarships to deserving students.
Grants
Grants are similar to scholarships but are given based on an applicant’s financial needs rather than merit. Grant money can be used to pay for tuition or other educational expenses.
Student Loans
Several banks and financial institutions offer loans to those who may not qualify for federal aid. Loans come with interest and, if not paid back on time, can lead to debt.
Federal Work-Study
The federal work-study program allows students to work part-time and simultaneously pursue their education.
FAFSA
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA, is a form students can fill out to determine whether they are eligible for financial aid and, if so, what types of aid. More information on FAFSA is available in the FAFSA student aid guide.
Scholarships for Online Journalism Degree Students
Those looking to fund their undergraduate studies can apply for one or more scholarships from individuals, non-profits, businesses, and community groups. Some examples of online journalism degree scholarships are:
| Scholarship | Description | Award/Amount | Application Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
| ACES Scholarship[11] | This scholarship is awarded to those who demonstrate excellence in editing news, writing, and other related skills. Applicants must show critical thinking skills and an aspiration toward a career in editing and journalism. | $3,500 plus financial aid to attend the ACES national conference | TBA in the summer |
| Al Neuharth Free Spirit and Journalism Conference[12] | The annual Al Neuharth Free Spirt and Journalism Conference program supports graduating high school seniors who want to pursue a career in journalism and showcase the qualities of a free spirit. Awardees can also attend the all-expenses-paid conference arranged in Washington along with the scholarship award. | $1,000 | March 1 |
| The Scholarship for Journalism Diversity Honoring Julie School[13] | This scholarship is provided to promising future journalists to bring more diversity to American journalism. Applicants must be high school seniors or in the process of applying for admission to an accredited college in the U.S. with a 3.0 GPA or higher. | $5,000 | February 15 |
Career Opportunities and Salaries After Graduating With an Online Journalism Degree
According to a survey by The American Journalist[14], the percentage of journalists in the U.S. with at least a bachelor’s degree continues to increase steadily. U.S. journalists’ median annual salaries rose to $74,010 in 2021. Journalism graduates can consider several roles and settings to carve out promising careers and can work as:
- Financial Writers
- Travel Journalists
- Political Reporters
- Business Reporters
- Feature Reporters
- Entertainment Reporters
- Sports Journalists
- Magazine Writers
- Editors
- Investigative Journalists
- Photo Journalists
Here is a closer look at some careers a journalism degree online can lead to:
| Occupation | Job Description | Skills Required | Job Growth (up to 2031) | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| News Analysts, Reporters, and Journalists[1] | News analysts, reporters, and journalists keep the public updated about recent events and notable information one must be aware of. They are in charge of reporting national, international, and local news for magazines, websites, radio, television, and newspapers. | Communication skills, interpersonal skills, technological skills, persistence, stamina | -9% (decline) | $48,370 |
| Editors[15] | Editors review, revise, and plan content for various publications. They rewrite tests to make them legible, evaluate submissions from fellow journalists and writers, and decide on publishable content. | Creativity, detail-oriented, interpersonal skills, writing skills, good judgment | -5% (decline) | $63,350 |
| Technical Writers[16] | Technical writers prepare instructional manuals, journal articles, how-to guides, and additional supporting documents to communicate technical information in a manner that laypersons can comprehend. They also work routinely with other technology experts. | Critical-thinking skills, writing skills, technical skills, detail-oriented, teamwork, imagination | 6% (as fast as the average for other occupations) | $78,060 |
| Writers and Authors[17] | Writers and authors develop content for media platforms like blogs, books, advertisements, movies, magazines, plays, television scripts, etc. They research to collect authentic details and factual information. | Adaptability, creativity, determination, persuasion, social perceptiveness, critical-thinking skills, writing skills | 4% (as fast as average) | $69,510 |
| Public Relations and Fundraising Managers[18] | Public relations and fundraising managers help plan and direct the creation of materials to enhance their client’s public image. They coordinate with other professionals to create successful campaigns that help bring donations to organizations. | Interpersonal skills, leadership skills, organizational skills, problem-solving skills, speaking skills, writing skills | 8% (faster than average) | $119,860 |
| Public Relations Specialists[19] | Public relations specialists help maintain and create a positive public image for groups, organizations, and individuals they represent. They release and develop social media programs to devise public perceptions of their clients and help increase awareness on various fronts. | Interpersonal skills, organizational skills, problem-solving skills, writing skills, speaking skills | 8% (faster than average) | $62,800 |
Certifications and Licensing for Online Journalism Degree Graduates
Professional certifications demonstrate competency or knowledge in a specific skill and area. Although some for-profit businesses offer certifications targeting specific use cases, it is difficult to come by certifications offered by a credible board or professional organization. Moreover, in most instances, a candidate would require a master’s degree to apply for certification. Consequently, apart from the candidate’s experience, most employers will look at academic credentials.
Journalists are essential professionals in today’s society and must uphold strict standards, ensuring their information and reporting are legitimate and ethical. However, to maintain these standards, no licensing is required by either the federal or state government in the United States. Journalists are not required to be approved by the state or other professional organizations.
Additional Resources for Online Journalism Degree Graduates
A bachelor’s degree in journalism online provides a basic foundation in journalism; however, beyond the degree, tapping into various resources is prudent to gain wider perspectives and deeper insights. To that end, here are some organizations and resources graduates can consider:
| Title/Resource | Description |
|---|---|
| Society of Professional Journalists[20] | The Society of Professional Journalists is a national journalism organization dedicated to stimulating high ethical behavior standards and encouraging journalism’s free practice. They have roughly 6,000 members promoting the free flow of information to inform citizens through their daily work. |
| The National Press Club[21] | The National Press Club provides its members access to a unique professional network, cutting-edge programming to grow, exclusive events with newsmakers in good standing professionally, and aid with being part of a social club where one can connect with like-minded peers. |
| News Leaders Association[22] | The News Leaders Association, or NLA, empowers professionals in the field of journalism at all levels with the support, networks, and training needed to transform and lead sustainable and diverse newsrooms. They aim to advance the cause of ethical and quality professional journalism, welcoming news leaders, academicians, journalists, and other interested individuals. |
| American Society of Journalists and Authors[23] | The American Society of Journalists and Authors is one of the largest professional organizations of independent writers who tell the world about their stories for brands and publishers. Through this organization, independent journalists, content writers, and authors find a community, various networking opportunities, and professional development needed to advance their careers. |
| Investigative Reporters and Editors[24] | The Investigative Reporters and Editors is a grassroots organization that aims to improve the quality of investigative journalism and reporting. They also have a forum through which journalists can help each other by sharing news sources, newsgathering techniques, and story ideas. |
FAQs About Online Journalism Degree Programs
What do I learn as a journalism student?
Journalism students learn about fact-checking, conducting interviews, and using research techniques. An undergraduate degree will prepare students as writers and thinkers and give them the skills, including web designing, layout designing, photography, video production, editing, etc., that help them stay technically relevant to the developments in the field.
Can you get a journalism degree online?
Will a journalism degree get me a high-paying job?
What kind of careers fall under journalism?
Is a bachelor’s degree enough to become a journalist?
Is a journalism degree hard to do?
Citations:
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics- Occupational Outlook for Journalists
Council for Higher Education Accreditation
Accrediting Council on Education in Journalism and Mass Communications
Alison-Data Journalism and Media Standards
Coursera-Visualization for Data Journalism
Edx-Fake news, facts, and alternative facts
Al Neuharth Free Spirit and Journalism Conference
The Scholarship for Journalism Diversity Honoring Julie Schoo
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics- Occupational Outlook for Editors
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics- Occupational Outlook for Technical Writers
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics- Occupational Outlook for Writers and Authors
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics- Occupational Outlook for Public Relations and Fundraising Managers
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics- Occupational Outlook for Public Relations Specialists
Society of Professional Journalists