Subject Spotlight: Journalism and Mass Communications
What is Journalism and Mass Communications?
Welcome to the dynamic world of Journalism and Mass Communications, a field that plays a critical role in shaping public opinion and disseminating information. This discipline offers a platform to those who want to make a difference through powerful storytelling and communication.
Journalism and Mass Communications is a discipline that involves the collection, creation, presentation, and dissemination of news and information related to varied sectors of society. It spans various media forms including newspapers, television, radio, and digital platforms.
Why Study Journalism and Mass Communications?
Studying Journalism and Mass Communications offers several benefits:
- Impactful Work: As a journalist or mass communicator, you have the power to influence public opinion and bring about change.
- Diverse Opportunities: The field offers a wide range of roles across different media platforms.
- Dynamic Field: With the advent of new media technologies, the field is constantly evolving, offering exciting challenges and opportunities.
What’s it like to study Journalism and Mass Communications?
Studying Journalism and Mass Communications typically involves learning about news reporting, writing, editing, digital media, public relations, and media ethics. Students may also get practical experience through internships and campus media outlets.
What Can You Do with a Journalism and Mass Communications Degree?
A degree in Journalism and Mass Communications opens doors to a variety of exciting career paths. Here are some potential roles:
- Journalist: They research, write, and report on news stories for print, broadcast, or online media. This can involve covering anything from local events to global politics.
- News Reporter: Reporters work on the front line to gather information, create news reports and present these stories on television, radio or online platforms.
- Editor: Editors plan, review, and revise content for publication. They may work for newspapers, magazines, websites, or publishing companies.
- Public Relations Officer: PR officers manage an organisation’s public image and reputation.
- Media Planner: They develop strategies for advertising campaigns, determining which media platforms will be most effective to reach the target audience.
- Broadcast Presenter: Presenters introduce, host (or co-host) a programme, create links between items, introduce and interview guests and interact with the audience.
- Social Media Manager: They oversee an organisation’s social media strategy, creating engaging content and interacting with customers online.
- Content Writer: Content writers produce engaging written content for various media platforms, including websites, blogs, and social media.
Each of these roles requires strong communication skills, creativity, and a deep understanding of the media landscape. As you progress in your career, you may have the opportunity to specialise in a particular type of journalism, such as investigative reporting or feature writing.
Professional Bodies for Journalism and Mass Communications
Key professional bodies in this field include the Society of Professional Journalists (SPJ), International Communication Association (ICA), and Public Relations Society of America (PRSA). These organisations offer resources, networking opportunities, and professional development for journalists and communicators
Careers for Journalism and Mass Communications Graduates
Graduates can pursue careers in various areas such as Broadcast Journalism, Print Journalism, Digital Journalism, Public Relations, or Media Planning. They may work for news organisations, PR agencies, corporate communication departments, or non-profit organizations.
Skills that Journalism and Mass Communications Students Need
Students in this field need to have strong writing and communication skills, critical thinking abilities, and a keen eye for detail. They should also be curious, ethical, and able to work under tight deadlines.
Typical Degree Titles that are Journalism and Mass Communications Focused
Degree titles in this field may include Bachelor of Arts in Journalism, Master of Science in Communication, or Doctor of Philosophy in Mass Communication. Some programs may offer specialisations in areas like Sports Journalism, Political Communication, or Digital Media.
By completing an NCUK qualification, you have access to a wide range of Journalism and Mass Communications courses with our University Partners. Find more information about the wide range of courses, the universities offering them and the entry requirements using our course finder.