College Crunch

Marketing agencies are increasingly turning towards mainstream media outlets to get the word out about the services and products they promote. A degree in journalism and marketing will position you as a high-demand bridge between these two inter-related careers.

With the growth of digital media, journalism majors are well poised to provide content to a growing number of firms spanning digital radio, television and Internet broadcasts. The largest trends today are in real time communications, so students that combine traditional journalistic ethics and style with a penchant for quick reporting and trends are well positioned today.

In addition to standard media jobs, an increasing number of companies are hiring journalism majors for public relations, ensuring that their corporate message is broadcast through blogs, video and traditional outlet. Employers look for strong research, writing and technology skill sets in an increasingly competitive field.

To gain an advantage, students can start up an independent journalistic profile through blog writing, client work or internships, all of which will well position you for the job market. Familiarity with on line publishing mediums and new mediums such as Twitter can only benefit you, along with the development of traditional journalism skills. While the traditional print market is contracting, there are opportunities for students with tech backgrounds.

Salary Expectations

Starting pay is generally low for journalism majors, beginning at around $30,000, below that of related majors such as communications. However, as a merit based field, journalism allows for promotion based upon the development of skills and it is possible to build a career as a public speaker, writer and PR consultant with correspondingly higher salaries in addition to traditional writing jobs.