How to Become a Journalist in India: Step- by-Step Guide

Learn how to become a journalism in India. Anyone, regardless of which stream they are pursuing in Class 12, can become a journalist if they study English as a major subject and get 50% marks or higher from a recognized board. Journalism as a career has career options in print, digital, and broadcast media, just right for those who love telling stories and covering modern affairs. Learn the critical steps, like right courses, gaining practical experience, and building a solid portfolio, to succeed as a journalist in India's evolving media market.

Who Is a Journalist?| Key Role and Responsibilities

A journalist is a trained professional who writes, researches, and collects news with the aim of informing people. Journalists cover current affairs, significant issues, and news in newspapers, web sites, television, and radio. Journalists interview, conduct research, and check facts in preparation to provide correct, reliable reports.

To become a journalist, try to develop excellent writing skills, inquisitiveness, and investigative skills. Journalists write reports, news articles, and occasionally live report, playing the role of a valuable instrument in ushering transparency, accountability, and awareness.

Step-by-Step Process to Start Your Journalism Career

1.What Does a Journalist Do?

Journalism involves interviewing, reporting, and investigating daily news in the areas of politics, entertainment, sport, and more.

Modern journalism also includes digital usage like video editing, photography, and social media.

2. Educational Qualifications

A bachelor's degree in mass communications, journalism, or a related field is required. A master's degree can further facilitate career advancement and integrity.

3.Must - Have Journalism Skills

Excellent writing and story-telling skill
Fact-finding and research
Good communication and interviewing
Ethics and critical thinking

4.Acquire Journalism Experience

Begin with newspaper internships, TV station internships, or Internet media internships.Freelance writing and collegiate publication writing also build hands-on skills.

5. Create a Journalism Portfolio

Create an online portfolio of your quality work, video stories, and multimedia. Use blogging sites or LinkedIn to showcase your skills

6. Network with Media Professionals

Enroll in journalism workshops, press conferences, internships, and seminars. Join societies like the Press Club of India to get guidance on your career and profession and networking.

7. Be Informed and Updated

Read newspapers, study news websites, and understand global trends to sharpen your observation and reporting.

8.Find Journalism Careers

Look for job openings on job websites, media firm websites, and LinkedIn. Tailor your resume to include suitable writing and media skills..

9.Select a Journalism Niche

Start specialized areas like political, sports, technology, or investigative reporting to stand out and widen your career.

10. Continuously Learn

Take courses in journalism, webinars, and become certified using digital media tools in order to be competitive in the fast-paced changing news media today

Responsibilities and Skills Required to Become a Journalist in India

Here’s quick overview of the main responsibilities and skills needed for aspiring journalists in India:

Category	Details
Research & Information Gathering	Journalists must research and collect accurate data from credible sources to ensure factual reporting.
News Writing	Writing clear, engaging, and informative news stories is a fundamental responsibility of every journalist.
Fact-Checking & Verification	Verifying sources and information is essential to maintain journalistic integrity and credibility.
Event Reporting	Journalists cover press conferences, public events, and breaking news to deliver real-time updates to audiences.
Networking & Relationship Building	Establishing connections with sources, industry experts, and other media professionals helps in news collection and career growth.
Storytelling (News Articles)	Ability to craft compelling news stories that capture the essence of current events in an engaging manner.
Multimedia Skills	Proficiency in video, audio, and text formats enhances storytelling across digital and traditional platforms.
Communication Skills	Strong verbal and written communication is vital for interviews, reporting, and presenting stories effectively.
Understanding of Local Business	Awareness of regional trends and business developments helps in creating relevant community-focused reports.
Social Media Savvy	Using platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook for real-time reporting, news sharing, and audience engagement.
Online Publishing	Knowledge of digital content formats and CMS tools is key for publishing and managing online news stories.
SEO (Search Engine Optimization)	Journalists should apply SEO best practices to boost the visibility of online content on search engines.
Current Affairs Awareness	Staying updated with the latest news and global trends is critical for producing timely and relevant journalism.
Content Distribution & Marketing	Promoting articles through digital channels to maximize reach, visibility, and audience engagement.

Best Courses to Become a Journalist in India (2025)

If you are looking for how to become a journalist in India, the first thing to do is pursue the relevant journalism course. Below are some of the top journalism and mass communication courses with eligibility, top colleges, and average fee structure.

1.BA in Journalism

3-year under graduate program to develop fundamental skills in news writing, ethics of the media, and communications.

Eligibility: 50% marks in Class 12 (any stream).
Top Colleges: Jamia Millia Islamia (JMI) Delhi, Chandigarh University, LPU, DAV Indore, Christ University Bangalore
Average Charges: ₹20,000 – ₹1,00,000

2. BJMC (Bachelor of Journalism and Mass Communication)

This 3-year course focuses on print, digital, and broadcasting media to prepare students for the current media situation.

Eligibility: 50% marks in 10+2 from a recognized board
Entrance Tests: IPU CET, DU Journalism Entrance Test
Top Colleges: IP University, Mewar University, IMS Noida
Average Charges: ₹50,000 – ₹3,00,000

3.Diploma in Journalism

2-year diploma course with working experience in news writing, editorial, and media making ideal for career starters.

Eligibility: 50% in Class 12
Best Colleges: Lady Shri Ram College (LSR) Delhi, Asian College of Journalism Chennai, Madras Christian College
Average Fees: ₹10,000 – ₹5,00,000

4.PG Diploma in Journalism

1-year postgraduate diploma to specialize in areas like political, investigative, or online journalism.

Eligibility: Bachelor's degree with minimum 50% marks in related field or journalism
Top Institutes: TV/Cinema/ Radio - FTII Pune, Print - IIMC, JMI Delhi, AJK Mass Media, AJKMCRC
Average Charges: ₹75,000 – ₹3,00,000

5.Postgraduate Diploma in Broadcast Journalism

This 1-year course is specialized in multimedia, radio, and TV journalism, most suitable for those who want to find employment in broadcast media.

Eligibility: Bachelor's degree in any discipline
Top Institutes: Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), Asian College of Journalism
Average Charges: ₹1,00,000 – ₹2,00,000

Digital Journalism Certificate Course

Short-Term Digital Journalism Course (6 months to 1 year) — For those who want to be digital media professionals, these courses include social media, content generation, and digital storytelling. Best for Class 12 passouts, available in IIMC and other top institutes, as well as online, with fees from ₹20,000 to ₹50,000. A low-cost, fast way to begin an online journalism career.

Feature	Details
Course Name	Certificate Course in Digital Journalism
Duration	6 months to 1 year
Eligibility Criteria	Completion of Class 12 (any stream)
Core Subjects Covered	Social media journalism, digital storytelling, multimedia reporting, content creation
Top Institutes	Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC), online platforms like Coursera, edX
Mode of Learning	Offline and Online
Course Fees	₹20,000 – ₹50,000
Career Outcomes	Digital journalist, social media reporter, content creator, online editor
Why Choose This Course?	Perfect for beginners looking to enter online journalism and digital media
SEO Keywords Targeted	digital journalism course India, certificate in journalism, journalism after 12th, online media training

Types of Journalists in India & Average Salaries

Following is an overview of the different types of journalists in India and their average salary:

Type of Journalist	Description	Average Salary (INR/Year)
Investigative Journalist	Uncovers hidden facts, scams, and corruption through deep research and reporting	₹3.56 LPA
Website Journalist	Writes and publishes news content for digital news platforms	₹2.55 LPA
Sports Journalist	Covers sports news, events, and interviews with athletes	₹3.11 LPA
Entertainment Journalist	Reports on films, celebrities, shows, and pop culture trends	₹2.75 LPA
Political Journalist	Focuses on politics, elections, and governmental affairs	₹3.24 LPA
Photojournalist	Captures compelling images to support news stories and visual reporting	₹5.50 LPA

Best Recruiting Companies for Journalists in India

If you want to pursue a career in journalism, knowing about the top-notch media houses that are hiring journalists in India can give you a competitive advantage. These top news channels are renowned for offering excellent career growth, more exposure, and industry recognition:

Hindustan Times – It is India's highest-rated English language daily with proper digital footprints.
The Times Group – Publisher of The Times of India, with print, broadcasting, and online media opportunities.
The Pioneer – Established publication hiring intelligent reporters and writers.
The Hindu – With a reputation for quality journalism, the ideal candidate for print and editorial roles.
Malayala Manorama – Success regional newspaper hiring regional language journalists.
Outlook India – A top-notch magazine with investigative and feature writing possibilities.
Jagran Prakashan Group – Publisher of the top recruiter for Hindi-language reporters, Dainik Jagran.
Indian Express – A pioneer of recruiting political reporting and investigative journalism.
The Telegraph – East India's leading English daily with rigorous editorial standards.
Deccan Herald – Established South Indian media group with reach in internet and print media.

Journalist Salary in India (2025)

The average journalist salary in India in 2025 is around ₹3.92 Lakhs per annum Experience and role determine salaries:

Entry-Level (0–1 year): ₹3.6 Lakhs per annum
Mid-Level (5–10 years): ₹80,000 – ₹1.5 Lakhs per month
Senior & Specialized Jobs: ₹1.5 Lakhs+ per month

Conclusion: The Journey To Become a Journalist in India

Becoming a good journalist is a step-by-step procedure that incorporates formal studies, on-ground experience, and ongoing skill-building. Possessing a graduation degree in journalism or mass communications, internships, and having a good portfolio as the basic necessities, you are already halfway there.

Pursuing higher studies or certification may allow specialization in a particular field, and maintaining an ongoing application for employment opportunities and networking with the media circle increases your chances of being included in appropriate opportunities.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to search for journalism internships and work experience?

To get a journalism internship, send your resume, portfolio, and cover letter to media organizations, news bureaus, or websites. Also, networking, freelance writing, and applying through job websites or college placement offices can increase your chances.

How to become a journalist after 12th class?

In order to become a journalist after Class 12, finish your secondary education with at least 50% marks, and English good enough as a basis for good communication. Then pursue a bachelor's degree in journalism, mass communication, or any other such field to develop necessary competencies in media ethics, reporting, and media law in order to become a successful journalist.

What qualification is needed to become a journalist?

For becoming a journalist, students of any stream of Class 12 are eligible if they have English as a principal subject and achieved at least 50% or equivalent CGPA from a well-known board.

How to start a career in journalism?

To become a journalist, pursue a relevant degree, some experience through internships, gain key skills such as writing and research, and then apply for vacancies.

What are entrance exams for journalism courses?

Famous entrance examinations for journalism in India include the IIMC Entrance Test, Jamia Millia Islamia (JMI) Entrance Test, Delhi University (DU) Entrance Test, Mumbai University Entrance Test, and Symbiosis Entrance Test (SET) for Symbiosis International University courses. All these entrance exams are the gateway to admission for top journalism and mass communication courses.