People have always relied on stories to understand the world around them. Whether you follow the news to stay informed, make sense of current events, or feel inspired by the actions of others, you’ve likely consumed thousands of news stories in your lifetime. But have you ever wanted to join the conversation?
So What Exactly Does a Journalist Do?
There are many kinds of journalists, such as news writers, anchors, reporters, podcasters, producers, and editors. No matter their role, they’re all driven by a desire to inform the public. Journalists work to create accurate, truthful content that is independent and fair. They also strive to present information in engaging ways that allow audiences to form their own opinions.
Education and Training Requirements
While it’s possible to enter journalism without formal training, most journalists begin by earning a bachelor’s degree in journalism, communications, or a related field. During school, students gain hands-on experience through campus newsrooms, internships, and student media outlets.
After graduation, aspiring journalists continue building skills in writing, interviewing, technology, and storytelling through entry-level roles. As they gain experience and move into larger markets, they often take on more complex and high-impact stories.
How BYU Independent Study Can Help
BYU Independent Study offers flexible, self-paced courses that help you build a strong foundation in writing, media literacy, and mass communication—key skills for future journalists. Because it is flexible and self-paced, BYU IS makes it easy for you to balance internships, school, and other responsibilities as you work toward your bachelor’s degree. Some of the journalism-related and mass communication courses offered through BYU include:
- COMMS 101 – Mass Communication and Society
- COMMS 300 – Media Ethics, Law, and Responsibility
- COMMS 411 – Media Effects
- COMMS 482 – Religion, Media, and Society
- WRTG 150 – Writing and Rhetoric
Next Steps
After completing courses through Independent Study, your next steps typically include finishing your bachelor's degree, gaining meaningful experience with your campus newsroom or an internship, and seeking relevant entry-level positions. Each of these steps will help you build the skills, confidence, and ethical grounding needed to tell important stories and serve the public through journalism.