Broadcast journalist

Entry Requirements:

You can get into this job through:

• a university course
• an apprenticeship
• working towards this role
• applying directly

University

Most broadcast journalists have either a degree in journalism or a degree in another subject followed by a postgraduate qualification in broadcast journalism.

Some courses are accredited by the Broadcast Journalism Training Council .

Graduate trainee schemes

As a graduate you could apply to broadcasting companies like the BBC who offer advanced journalism trainee schemes. Places are limited and competition is strong.

Entry requirements:

• 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
• a degree in any subject for a postgraduate course

Entry requirements:

Apprenticeship

You may be able to become a broadcast journalist by doing a level 5 journalist or a level 7 senior journalist apprenticeship.

There is a lot of competition for places. Recruitment to the larger broadcast journalist schemes takes place at set times during the year. Check their websites to find out when you can apply.

Entry requirements:

• 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship

Work

You could start as a production assistant, media researcher or runner with a broadcasting company and work your way up.

Volunteering

Volunteering is a good way to get experience of what it's like to work in the media and will help when you apply for courses and jobs.

Organisations offering work experience opportunities include:

• Community Media Association
• Hospital Broadcasting Association
• ITV
• Channel 4
• BBC

DirectApplication

You can apply directly for broadcast journalist roles if you a qualification and some experience. Experience in print journalism is also relevant.

Required Skills:

Digital skills : to be able to use a computer and the main software packages confidently

Skills:

• knowledge of media production and communication
• knowledge of English language
• the ability to use your initiative
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
• excellent verbal communication skills
• patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
• customer service skills
• ambition and a desire to succeed
• the ability to read English
• excellent written communication skills
• active listening skills
• thinking and reasoning skills
• the ability to think clearly using logic and reasoning
• knowledge of computer operating systems, hardware and software
• the ability to understand people’s reactions
• broadcasting and telecommunications knowledge
• concentration skills
• a good memory
• maths skills

What you'll do:

Broadcast journalists research and present the news on TV, radio and the internet.

As a broadcast journalist you might:

• research stories, follow 'leads' or develop ideas
• prepare and conduct live and pre-recorded interviews
• present in a TV or radio studio or on location
• record voiceovers for recorded material
• ask questions at briefings and press conferences
• direct a small camera or sound crew or operate equipment yourself

Location : You could work at a TV studio, from home, in an office or at a film studio.
Environment : Your working environment may be you'll travel often and outdoors in all weathers.

Salary:

Starter : £23,000
Experienced : £42,000

These figures are a guide

Working hours:

37 - 39 hours irregular

Working Pattern is evenings / weekends / bank holidays at short notice

Career Path:

With experience, you could become a studio presenter or a special news correspondent.

You could also make, produce or manage your own programmes.