Types of Journalism - Which is Right for You?
The different types of journalism include Photojournalism, Broadcast Journalism, Investigative Journalism, Sports Journalism, Business Journalism, Print Journalism, Entertainment Journalism, Political Journalism, and Crime Journalism. Explore each one to find your passion!
Types of Journalism: Journalism is one of the known and demanding course in the present era. Over the years, journalism has evolved to encompass a diverse range of practices and approaches, each tailored to different audiences and purposes. The different types of journalism includes photojournalism, broadcast journalism, investigative journalism, sports journalism, business journalism, print journalism, entertainment journalism, political journalism, and crime journalism. They serve distinct and crucial functions, from uncovering hidden truths through investigative reporting to providing timely updates on current events. Whether it’s the in-depth analysis of business journalism, the human interest stories of feature journalism, or the engaging narratives of lifestyle journalism, each type of journalism offers unique opportunities to explore different aspects of the world and contribute to public understanding. Whether you are drawn to the visual storytelling of photojournalism, the immediacy of broadcast journalism, or the analytical depth of investigative journalism, there is a niche for every interest in the diverse landscape of journalism. Explore different types of journalism to find where your passion lies!
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What is Journalism?
Types of Journalism in India
Various types of Journalism can be put under certain categories to understand them better. However, it should be noted that all types of Journalism come under the bigger umbrella of Mass Communication, as do most Journalism courses. Let us understand various Journalism categories.
- Photojournalism
- Broadcast journalism
- Investigative Journalism
- Sports Journalism
- Tabloid Journalism
- Data Journalism
- Political Journalism
- Business Journalism
- Print Journalism
- Entertainment Journalism
Types of Journalism Regarding Hard News
Hard news and soft news are broadly classified based on the kind of information they provide. Hard news mostly includes serious factual stories about politics, current affairs, government, crime, and business.
Investigative Journalism: Investigative Journalism involves objectively uncovering the hidden truth or facts on a given matter, person, topic of interest, or event. An investigative journalist finds the facts by studying cases that require much effort. They expose scandals for propaganda by making headlines. Due to the complex procedure, a single case can sometimes take months to years to finish. So, to become a successful investigative journalist, one must possess knowledge, patience, and persistence. There are several colleges offering investigative journalism courses.
Political Journalism: This is considered one of the serious types of Journalism. The field of political Journalism can be broken down into three categories: international political news, national political news, and local political news. A journalist whose niche is political news must have an in-depth knowledge of political events, political figures, bodies, election campaigns, policies, their impact, and the aftermath and then report the news unbiasedly. A political journalist needs to deliver a piece of information to the audience without impacting it due to a personal opinion. So, it would not be too much to say that being a political journalist is a tough and risky job because if your news is hindered by your personal opinions, it can make you look bad in common people’s eyes.
Crime Journalism: A crime journalist writes and researches criminal events for media outlets like newspapers, television, magazines, or other platforms. The journalists conduct interviews and also attend court hearings. From murder to some manipulation in the stock market, anything against the code of law is a criminal offense. So, a crime journalist covers all kinds of crimes be it a mysterious homicide or money embezzlement at an MNC.
Business Journalism: Free flow of communication between two businesses or companies is healthy for a country’s economy. Because of this communication, the economy remains highly interlinked. For instance, a finished product of one company could be used as a raw material at some other company. Policies adopted by a major organization can affect a huge part of the economy. A merger of two giants can impact the turnover of many small organizations. So, to promote all of this, a business journalist delivers information on business news. These journalists talk about the stock market, big mergers, stakeholders, etc.
Also Read: Why Skills Matter as Much As a Degree in Journalism
Types of Journalism Regarding Soft News
Soft news covers less serious issues like celebrities, arts, sports, and culture. Check out the types of Journalism based on soft news below.
1. Arts Journalism
This type of Journalism is for people who love art. Arts Journalism covers various forms of art, such as music, dance, films, literature, painting, drama, poetry, etc. An arts journalist analyses trends in the art world and shares the information with a related audience. Since art Journalism is quite popular amongst the audience, many news agencies hire art journalists to gather news in the field.
2. Celebrity Journalism
It is one of those types of Journalism that has been very popular. The word ‘paparazzi’ has become very well-known in the past few years. This term is designated to celebrity journalists. A journalist in this field works to gather information on celebrities about their personal lives, movies, shows, or public appearances. A celebrity journalist also interviews celebrities and reports gossip as fans always want to know what is happening in the lives of the people they admire. A large number of the audience enjoys watching and reading about their favorite celebrities.
3. Education Journalism
Education Journalism deals with reporting different developments and events happening in the field of education. These education Journalism reports help a policymaker to implement new education policies, when in need. The main focus of an education journalist is to increase awareness about the education system and to encourage students to opt for higher education. Usually, the target group for education Journalism is students, researchers, and teachers.
4. Sports Journalism
As the name suggests, a sports journalist covers news related to a sports series, event, or a sportsperson. This type of journalism comes with additional perks like watching live sports events and traveling to different places, and it even provides you with the opportunity to meet and interview sportspeople. To work in this field, one is required to know about sports, must be omnipresent, and should have good communication skills.
5. Lifestyle Journalism
Another well-known form among the types of journalism is lifestyle journalism. In recent times, people’s interest in knowing about different lifestyles has increased. Lifestyle Journalism serves this purpose by delivering news related to leisure, music, cooking, gardening, entertainment, home decor, fashion, shopping, exercise, yoga, and healthy eating habits. This type of Journalism helps readers know the tips to lead a healthy and better lifestyle.
Also Read: BJMC vs BA Journalism
Types of Journalism Based on the Medium of Delivery
Based on the medium of news delivery, there are three Journalism categories: TV and Radio Journalism/ Broadcast Journalism, Print Journalism, and Online Journalism.
1. Cyber/ Online/ Digital Journalism
Cyber Journalism, also known as online/ digital Journalism, is the latest type of Journalism. As the name suggests, it deals with delivering content on different internet platforms. After the introduction of the World Wide Web (WWW) and the Internet, the whole world has become a virtual global village. With several easily accessible platforms, cyber or online Journalism has risen in popularity. Several channels dedicated to Journalism are followed on YouTube. Various TV and Print media houses have started going digital through blogs, websites, YouTube, and social media applications.
2. Print Journalism
This type of Journalism deals with delivering news through newspapers, magazines, etc. Since these mediums can hold the same news or information as other mediums, a journalist can work for both print and some other media at the same time. Print Journalism is the most popular of all Journalism courses. Now, whether print Journalism is dying or not, that only time will tell. But this topic has been in conflict for a long time now. The higher costs of material, lower subscription numbers, and the increment in other easily accessible media platforms have had a huge impact on print Journalism.
3. Broadcast/ TV/ Radio Journalism
It is one of those Journalism categories that deal with broadcasting news through television or radio. Both of these mediums are widely used and possess unique characteristics. A reason why TV Journalism is more popular than print Journalism is that it does not only deliver news for the eyes but the ears as well. Audio-visual experience provided to the audience through TV Journalism engages them. This Journalism has large budgets and resources that help journalists create high-quality content. Unlike TV, radio includes much interaction with the target audience. However, it usually gathers a limited number of participants as the broadcasting is done live. Radio channels usually have smaller budgets than TV channels, causing limitations in covering fewer stories.
Eligibility for Different Types of Journalism Courses
For Certification Journalism courses, candidates must have passed 10+2.
For Diploma Journalism courses, candidates must have passed 10+2 with a minimum aggregate of 50% marks.
For PG Diploma Journalism courses, it is mandatory for the students to have completed a diploma or an undergraduate Journalism course.
To enroll in UG Journalism courses, candidates must have passed 10+2 with a minimum of 55% marks and qualified for an entrance exam (if any).
To become eligible for PG Journalism courses, students must have successfully passed an undergraduate Journalism course with at least 50-55% marks and qualified for an entrance exam (if applicable).
Candidates completing a UG and PG Journalism course with a minimum of 50-55% aggregate marks and qualifying for a national or university-level entrance exam such as UGC NET, IIT JAM, etc., become eligible for Doctoral Journalism courses.
Top Journalism Courses
Name of the Course | Average Annual Course Fees |
|---|---|
Diploma in Journalism | INR 10,000 - 50,000 |
Diploma in Journalism and Mass Communication | INR 14,000 - INR 80,000 |
PG Diploma in Journalism and Mass Communication | INR 30,000 - INR 1,00,000 |
PG Diploma in Journalism | INR 13,000 - INR 90,000 |
PG Diploma Broadcast Journalism | INR 12,000 - INR 1,00,000 |
BA Journalism | INR 30,000 - INR 1,50,000 |
BA in Journalism and Mass Communication | INR 50,000 - INR 2,00,000 |
BA (Hons.) Journalism | INR 20,000 - INR 1,00,000 |
BA English with Journalism | INR 20,000 - INR 1,00,000 |
BA (Hons) in Mass Communication and Journalism | INR 20,000 - INR 1,00,000 |
MJMC | INR 50,000 - INR 2,00,000 |
MA Journalism and Mass Communication | INR 50,000 - INR 3,00,000 |
Master of Communication & Journalism | INR 30,000 - INR 1,90,000 |
MA Broadcast Journalism | INR 20,000 - INR 1,00,000 |
MA Journalism | INR 50,000 - INR 3,50,000 |
Ph.D. Journalism and Mass Communication | INR 4,000- 1,20,000 |
MPhil Journalism and Mass Communication | INR 14,000- 1,20,000 |
Top Colleges Offering Different Types of Journalism
The most eminent colleges in India offering Journalism courses are as follows.
Name of the College | Courses Offered | Total Course Fee Range |
| INR 2,30,000 | |
| INR 10,000 - INR 30,000 | |
| INR 70,000 | |
Bachelor of Mass Media (BMM) | INR 2,90,000 | |
Bachelor of Mass Media (BMM) | INR 3,60,000 | |
| INR 5,00,000 | |
| INR 17,000 | |
Alliance School of Liberal Arts, Alliance University, Bangalore | B.A. in Media Studies (Journalism, OTT, Mass Communication) | INR 14,75,000 |
PG Diploma in Mass Communication | INR 22,000 | |
| INR 4,00,000 - 11,00,000 |
Syllabus for Different Types of Journalism
Check the table below to know about the syllabuses for different specializations under Journalism.
Types of Journalism | Syllabus |
Political Journalism |
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Investigative Journalism |
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Broadcast Journalism |
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Business Journalism |
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Print Journalism |
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All types of journalism have their own way of functioning and challenges. Some require extreme focus and consciousness, whereas others are more relaxed. If you are preparing to choose journalism as your future, you might start preparing for some entrance exams to pursue journalism at reputed colleges. So, which type of Journalism suits you the best is up to your preferences.
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FAQs
Which are the top entrance exams for Journalism courses?
The top entrance exams for journalism courses include:
- AIMCET/GMCET
- IIMC Entrance Exam
- JMI Entrance Exam
- ACJ Entrance Exam
- XIC XET
- CUET
- MASCOM Entrance Exam
Which are some of the top colleges for Journalism abroad?
Some of the top colleges for journalism abroad include:
- Columbia University
- Cardiff University
- The University of Melbourne
- The University of Sydney
- Monash University
- University of Leeds
- University College London
- Western University
- McGill University
- The University of British Columbia
- New York University
- University of California
Are scholarships available for Journalism courses?
Yes, there are scholarships available for Journalism courses. Candidates can either appear for scholarship exams or they can apply for scholarships during admission to journalism courses. It must be noted that to avail scholarships candidates must have an excellent academic record and also have other accomplishments in academics.
Does Journalism fall under Mass Communication?
Yes, journalism falls under Mass Communication. A variety of media, including journalism, public relations, advertising, film production, and management, are all included under the broad category of "mass communication." Although there are major differences between Journalism and Mass Communication, journalism seeks to enlighten the public about global news and current affairs. Mass communication on the other hand includes any channel or medium used to communicate to large audiences at the same time.
What are the different types of Journalism?
There are several types of journalism and there are subcategories for each major branch of journalism. The board categories in which journalism can be divided include:
- Print/Online Journalism: Includes articles, blogs for print, and online publications, like newspapers and magazines.
- Broadcast Journalism: Includes television or radio, and other forms of video or audio broadcast channels.
- Photojournalism: Mainly includes different types of photography and its related fields.
- Multimedia Journalism: It is a combination of written, broadcast, and photojournalism.
Which type of Journalism has the most lucrative job opportunities?
One of the most sought-after careers today is journalism. There are many ways to break into journalism, from writing for publications like newspapers and magazines to reporting on programs like TV and radio. The following are some of journalism's most lucrative specialties:
- Broadcast Journalism
- Photo Journalism
- Public Relations and Advertising
- Media Arts
- Radio, TV, and Digital Broadcasting
- Communication and Media Studies
- General Journalism
- Digital/Online Journalism
- Tabloid Journalism
- Mobile Journalism
What types of job roles are best suited for Journalism graduates?
Graduates with degrees in journalism can choose from a wide range of jobs. Programs in journalism offer career opportunities in both the public and private sectors. Candidates can kickstart their careers from the very beginning in the field of Journalism if they have the right plan and have chosen the type of journalism suited for them. Here is a list of some of the entry-level job positions and career options available to journalism graduates in India:
- Public Relations Officer
- Media Journalist
- Investigative Journalist
- Radio Jockey
- Editor
- Content Writer
- Content Curator
What are the best colleges for Journalism courses?
There are several colleges in India that offer excellent Journalism courses to aspirants. Some of the top colleges offering Journalism courses are:
- St. Xavier's College (Autonomous)
- Indian Institute of Mass Communication
- Telecom Management.
- Jamia Millia Islamia
- Christ University
- Chandigarh University
- Symbiosis Institute of Media & Communication AND Symbiosis Institute of
- Film and Television Institute of India
- Banaras Hindu University
What is the scope of a degree in Journalism?
With a degree in journalism, students are equipped to work as journalists or pursue careers in print journalism, advertising and promotion, marketing and management of mass communication, public relations, corporate communication, broadcast journalism, and media management. Jobs are available for graduates of the BA Hons. in Journalism program in both the public and private sectors.
What are the eligibility criteria for Journalism courses?
As with any other academic course, candidates must meet the requirements for Journalism courses in order to enroll in them. The following are the requirements for enrolling in journalism courses:
- Candidates have to secure 50% in Class 12th in any stream to be considered eligible to apply for the Journalism courses.
- Admissions for Journalism courses are often done based on entrance test scores conducted by universities and colleges across the country. Direct admissions are also offered by some institutions.