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MEDIA, COMMUNICATION & LANGUAGES

Journalist

Finding Facts, Explaining What Matters

Journalist

Journalists investigate events, verify information and communicate stories in the public interest. Their work may use writing, audio, video, data and live reporting.

Key Outcomes

What this career leads to

  • Verified information
  • Public understanding
  • Accountable institutions
  • Documented events

What They Do

On the job

  • Research topics and identify reliable sources
  • Interview people and verify claims
  • Write, record or produce accurate reports
  • Correct errors and follow editorial and ethical standards

Where They Work

Typical workplaces

  • Newspapers and magazines
  • Television and radio organisations
  • Digital newsrooms
  • Independent media platforms
  • News agencies
  • Research and documentary teams

Core Skills

What it takes

  • Research and interviewing
  • Clear writing and storytelling
  • Verification and media literacy
  • Ethics, curiosity and working to deadlines

Areas of Application

Where this knowledge shows up

  • News reporting
  • Investigative journalism
  • Broadcast and multimedia journalism
  • Data and visual journalism
  • Feature and specialist reporting

Education & Entry Path

The learning route

Journalism, media or communication degrees are useful, but strong reporting skills, subject knowledge and a credible portfolio are central. Legal and safety training are important for some assignments.

Career Scope

The long view

Journalists may specialise by medium or topic, become editors or producers, work independently, or move into documentary, data and investigative work.

Related Careers

Kindred paths to explore

Explore Scientists’ Contribution

The discoveries behind this field