Journalist
Research, interview, and write stories for newspapers, websites, or broadcasters.
This UK journalist career guide covers what the role involves day to day, typical salary at each stage, the usual entry route, the skills employers expect, and related careers worth comparing.
Quick facts
- Starting salary
- £20,000 - £28,000
- Mid-career salary
- £30,000 - £45,000
- Senior salary
- £50,000 - £80,000
- Work environment
- Newsroom, remote, or out reporting
- Time to entry
- 1 - 3 years
- Degree required
- Often expected (NCTJ helpful)
- Category
- Marketing and Media
What a Journalist does
Research, interview, and write stories for newspapers, websites, or broadcasters.
- News Reporter - Cover daily news for a publication or broadcaster.
- Feature Writer - Write longer, in-depth pieces.
- Sports Journalist - Report on sport across print, online, or broadcast.
How to become a Journalist
- Look up Journalist roles on LinkedIn or Indeed and read 5 real job ads
- Talk to someone already working as a Journalist - even a 15-minute call helps
- Find one beginner course or qualification used by people in this role
- Build one small piece of evidence you've explored this (project, shadowing, short course)
- Apply to one entry-level role or related opportunity within the next month
Key skills
- Writing
- Research
- Interviewing
- Speed under deadline