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Which Degree is Best for Journalism?

This article provides an overview of the best degrees for a career in journalism, including options after 12th grade, eligibility criteria, and details about online journalism courses.

Nigam Sharma15 Oct, 2025

Which Degree is Best for Journalism? Journalism is a dynamic and ever-evolving field, with a growing demand for skilled professionals who can effectively report, write, and communicate information across various platforms. Whether it's print, broadcast, or digital media, a degree in journalism provides a solid foundation for aspiring journalists.

However, with numerous specializations and degree options available, choosing the best one for your career goals can be challenging. This article will explore the top degrees in journalism, the various journalism courses after 12th, eligibility criteria, and even online course options.

Top Degrees for a Career in Journalism

Several degrees can prepare you for a career in journalism, each with its unique focus and specialization. Here are the most common and widely recognized journalism degrees:

1. Bachelor of Journalism (BJ)

A Bachelor of Journalism (BJ) is a focused degree that offers a strong foundation in the essential skills of journalism. It covers a range of topics such as news writing, editing, reporting, ethics, and multimedia journalism. This degree is best suited for individuals who want a direct and specialized route into the field.

Duration: 3 years
Key Subjects: News writing, Editing, Media Law, Public Relations, Broadcast Journalism
Best For: Aspiring journalists interested in print, television, or online news media.

2. Bachelor of Mass Communication (BMC)

This degree provides a broader look at the world of mass media, including journalism, public relations, advertising, and media production. The BMC degree is versatile and offers a more holistic understanding of media and communication strategies.

Duration: 3 years
Key Subjects: Public Relations, Advertising, Media Studies, Journalism, Communication Research
Best For: Students interested in exploring journalism along with other aspects of mass communication like PR and advertising.

3. Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Journalism and Mass Communication

A BA in Journalism and Mass Communication is another popular choice, combining journalism education with broader communication disciplines. This degree allows for flexibility, offering students the opportunity to pursue journalism or related media fields such as content creation, digital media, or film studies.

Duration: 3 years
Key Subjects: Media Ethics, Investigative Journalism, Media Laws, Film Studies, Corporate Communication
Best For: Students who wish to explore various forms of media and communications while focusing on journalism.

4. Bachelor of Science (BS) in Journalism

While not as common in India, a BS in Journalism is available in some institutions abroad. This degree tends to focus more on the technical aspects of journalism, such as data journalism, analytics, and digital reporting.

Duration: 3-4 years
Key Subjects: Data Journalism, Digital Storytelling, Multimedia Production
Best For: Students who are keen on entering digital and data-driven journalism.

Degree	Duration	Key Subjects	Best For
Bachelor of Journalism (BJ)	3 years	News writing, Editing, Ethics, Broadcast	Students focused on traditional journalism fields
Bachelor of Mass Communication (BMC)	3 years	PR, Advertising, Media Studies, Journalism	Those exploring various aspects of mass communication
BA in Journalism and Mass Communication	3 years	Investigative Journalism, Film Studies, Media Law	Flexible students with broader media interests
Bachelor of Science (BS) in Journalism	3-4 years	Data Journalism, Digital Media, Multimedia	Students focused on digital and tech aspects of journalism

Journalism Courses After 12th

For students who have completed their 12th standard and aspire to build a career in journalism, several undergraduate courses are available. These programs equip students with the necessary skills to thrive in various media industries.

Bachelor of Journalism (BJ) – A specialized journalism degree focusing on news reporting, writing, and editing.
Bachelor of Mass Communication (BMC) – A broader degree encompassing journalism along with other forms of mass media like advertising and public relations.
BA in Journalism and Mass Communication – A versatile degree offering knowledge in both journalism and mass media.
Diploma in Journalism – A shorter program (1-2 years) for students looking for a fast-track entry into the field.
Bachelor of Media Studies – Focuses on both practical and theoretical aspects of media, covering print, television, and digital journalism.

Journalism Courses after 12th	Duration	Specialization
Bachelor of Journalism (BJ)	3 years	News writing, Editing
Bachelor of Mass Communication (BMC)	3 years	PR, Advertising, Journalism
BA in Journalism & Mass Communication	3 years	Media Ethics, Investigative Reporting
Diploma in Journalism	1-2 years	Short, practical training
Bachelor of Media Studies	3 years	Print, Broadcast, Digital Media

Journalism Eligibility Criteria

The eligibility criteria for journalism programs generally depend on the university or college. However, the standard requirements are:

Educational Qualification: Students must have completed their 12th standard or equivalent with any stream from a recognized board. Some institutions prefer candidates with a background in arts or humanities.
Minimum Marks: Most universities require a minimum of 50% aggregate marks in the 12th standard.
Entrance Exams: Some reputed universities and colleges conduct entrance exams for journalism courses. Popular entrance exams include IPU CET, DUET, and XIC OET.

Online Journalism Courses

In today’s digital age, many aspiring journalists are turning to online courses for flexibility and convenience. Numerous platforms offer specialized journalism courses, ranging from beginner to advanced levels. These courses allow students to learn at their own pace and often provide certificates that can enhance career prospects.

Popular Online Journalism Courses

Certificate in Digital Journalism: Focuses on digital reporting, multimedia storytelling, and social media journalism.
Diploma in Data Journalism: Offers insights into data-driven reporting and investigative journalism.
MOOCs (Massive Open Online Courses): Platforms like Coursera, edX, and Udemy offer journalism courses from universities around the world, including topics such as media ethics, broadcast journalism, and investigative reporting.

Online Journalism Courses	Duration	Platform
Certificate in Digital Journalism	6 months	Coursera, Udemy
Diploma in Data Journalism	1 year	edX, FutureLearn
Investigative Journalism MOOC	Varies	Coursera, Udemy

Online courses are especially beneficial for those already working or pursuing other degrees, as they provide flexibility without compromising on learning quality. These courses cover various fields within journalism, including digital media, investigative reporting, and multimedia journalism, making them ideal for students looking to enhance their skills while pursuing other academic or professional commitments. Choosing the right degree for journalism depends on your career goals and interests. Whether you prefer a specialized degree like a Bachelor of Journalism or a broader option like Mass Communication, each path offers valuable skills for aspiring journalists. Furthermore, students can also pursue online courses to enhance their skills and stay updated with the latest trends in digital media. By understanding the various degrees, journalism courses after 12th, and eligibility criteria, you can make an informed decision that best suits your career aspirations. Whether you aim to be a print journalist, a digital storyteller, or a broadcast news anchor, the right degree will set you on the path to success in the competitive world of journalism.

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Which Degree is Best for Journalism? FAQs

Q1. What is the best degree for journalism?

Ans. A Bachelor’s degree in Journalism or Mass Communication is considered the best for aspiring journalists, offering comprehensive knowledge in reporting, editing, and media ethics.

Q2. What courses can I pursue in journalism after 12th?

Ans. After 12th, students can pursue courses like Bachelor of Journalism, BA in Mass Communication, or Bachelor of Media Studies.

Q3. What is the eligibility for a journalism degree?

Ans. The general eligibility is passing 12th grade (10+2) from a recognized board, with some institutions requiring specific entrance exams.

Q4. Are online journalism courses available?

Ans. Yes, many universities and platforms offer online journalism courses that cover digital journalism, content creation, and media ethics.

Q5. What skills are required for a journalism degree?

Ans. Key skills include strong writing, communication, research, critical thinking, and an understanding of media technology.