Journalism education and training is necessary for anyone that's interested in a career as a journalist. You must learn the tricks of the trade before you can work and journalism classes help you understand the ins and outs.

There are certainly a number of different ways that you can work as a journalist—broadcast journalist, reporter, and documentary filmmaker. Think about what you may want to specialize in when you are choosing between the many journalism schools.

Before you start journalism training, you should decide if it's right for you:

1. Many journalists work on a freelance basis. This could mean that you don't have a steady paycheck. Make sure that you take a few business management classes in addition to journalism courses so that you can handle yourself as a business.

2. It can take time to build a good reputation. Even if you were the best student in your journalism classes, there is still a lot of competition for jobs. You may have to work a second job while you build your reputation and portfolio.

3. Some journalists must travel. This is great for some people, but not so great for those who want a family.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Get your journalism writing education at the top schools

When most people think about journalism, they think of reporters writing the news. Learn how to write as a journalist by studying journalism in college. A degree in journalism makes you more attractive to potential employers.

I recommend: You won't have to go far for a journalism education. Most states have schools that offer programs in journalism. Check out JournalismSchools.com for a list of schools that offer journalism programs. If you want to do more than get an undergraduate degree, you can apply for the Masters program at the University of California, Berkeley.

Look for the best broadcast journalism education program

Broadcast journalism is exciting and one of the more steady careers in journalism. You may think that this type of program is only for people who want to be in front of the camera, but it is a great program for those who want to work on the technical end behind the scenes.

I recommend: The broadcast journalism program at Northwestern prepares students to be journalists in the real world. Emerson College offers a Masters program in journalism that has students practice their skills by participating together as a broadcast team.

Obtain journalism education and training as a documentary filmmaker

Working on documentaries is another great way to work in journalism. A solid documentary journalism education is necessary to learn all aspects of filmmaking.

I recommend: There are many types of film schools, but you should try to find one that specializes in documentary filmmaking. The Center for Documentary Studies at Duke University offers an excellent training for those who are interested in documentary journalism. Stanford University also offers an excellent documentary program.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Try to get an internship while you are taking journalism courses. This experience could help you get a job after school.