Magazines and newspapers are evolving in the age of the Internet. Circulation is no longer as important as web hits and stickiness. Professionals who can manage new media outlets hold a special place in information delivery systems. A masters degree in journalism places writing professionals ahead of the game.
Instructions
1. Get an undergraduate degree. Traditionally, English or journalism undergrads go on to a masters degree in journalism. Recent graduates are likely to come from a wide variety of backgrounds. Business and liberal arts undergrads bring a different perspective to journalism that spice up any writing team. During a financial crisis, for example, an accountant, financial adviser or broker with a journalism background knows what questions to ask and explain esoteric financial information to a non-financial audience. The same can be said of attorneys and even medical professionals.
2. Take the GRE. GRE stands for Graduate Record Examination. It is one of the tools used by graduate schools to determine which candidates gain entrance into graduate programs. The test takes three hours and has an English and math portion. Test takers will also have to write two essays. Potential graduate students for journalism schools must take steps to study for this exam. It is offered monthly at various test centers in most major cities in the United States and various places throughout the world.
3. Research graduate schools. The first level of searching is done online. Review the various websites of journalism graduate schools. Find schools that meet cost and curriculum requirements. Some schools have programs online for busy professionals who need to work while attaining a masters degree in journalism. Make calls and visit the schools that make your final cut to determine which ones are best.
4. Create a portfolio. One advantage for journalism undergrads is that they have written extensively and can easily create online and hard copy examples of their work. Other professionals may do the same thing with some extra work. The Internet offers ample opportunities for anyone with basic writing skills and a desire to write. Not only will this give others examples of writing capability, it also gives the writer an opportunity to get feedback professional editors.
5. Find an internship. Once accepted to a journalism masters program, it's a good idea to look for a media outlet in search of interns. This provides on-the-job experience for the potential graduate, a chance to apply education and a possible job opportunity upon graduation.
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