Journalist (Electronic Media)

What is Journalism (Electronic Media)?

Journalism in electronic media involves collecting, verifying, and presenting news and information through digital platforms such as television, radio, and online news portals. It focuses on audio-visual storytelling and real-time reporting to engage and inform the audience.

Educational Eligibility

  • Undergraduate Courses: Completion of 10+2 from a recognized board with a minimum of 50% marks. Some institutions may require proficiency in English or Media Studies.
  • Postgraduate Courses: A bachelor’s degree in journalism, mass communication, or a related field is usually required.
  • Specialization in digital media, video production, or communication can be advantageous.

Handicapped Eligibility

Most institutions are inclusive and offer facilities and accommodations for differently-abled students, such as:

  • Accessible infrastructure (ramps, lifts, etc.).
  • Assistive technologies (screen readers, magnifiers).
  • Flexible examination and project submission timelines. Candidates are advised to verify the specific provisions of their desired institutions.

Admission Process

  • Undergraduate: Based on 12th-grade marks or an entrance examination conducted by the university.
  • Postgraduate: Entrance exams, group discussions, and personal interviews.
  • Some colleges also consider portfolios or prior experience in media.

Entrance Exams

  • Common Entrance Exams:
    • Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC) Entrance Exam
    • Jamia Millia Islamia (JMI) Entrance Test
    • Symbiosis Entrance Test (SET)
    • Xavier Institute of Communications (XIC) Exam
  • State-Level Exams: Specific to local universities or media schools.

Colleges and Universities

  • Top Institutions in India:
    • Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC), New Delhi
    • Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi
    • Symbiosis Institute of Media and Communication, Pune
    • Asian College of Journalism, Chennai
    • Xavier Institute of Communications, Mumbai
  • International Options: Columbia University, Northwestern University, University of Westminster.

Scholarships

  • Merit-based or need-based scholarships offered by:
    • Government agencies (e.g., National Scholarships).
    • Private institutions.
    • Specific journalism bodies or foundations like the Rory Peck Trust.
  • Some media houses sponsor students in exchange for service agreements.

Time and Expenses

  • Undergraduate Degree: 3–4 years; costs ₹50,000–₹3,00,000 per year.
  • Postgraduate Degree: 1–2 years; costs ₹1,00,000–₹5,00,000 per year.
  • Additional Expenses: Equipment (e.g., cameras, software), internships, workshops.

Average Income

  • Entry-Level: ₹2,00,000–₹4,00,000 per year.
  • Mid-Level: ₹4,00,000–₹8,00,000 per year.
  • Senior-Level: ₹8,00,000–₹20,00,000+ per year. Freelance journalists may earn based on projects and assignments.

Career Growth

  • Career advancement can lead to roles such as:
    • Senior Correspondent
    • News Anchor
    • Editor/Producer
    • Media Manager
  • Diversification into content creation, public relations, or digital marketing is also possible.

Specialists

Fields of specialization in electronic media include:

  • Political Journalism
  • Business and Financial Reporting
  • Investigative Journalism
  • Sports Journalism
  • Documentary Production
  • Digital Media Strategy

Scope in Government and Private Sectors

  • Government Sector:
    • Doordarshan
    • All India Radio (AIR)
    • Press Information Bureau (PIB)
  • Private Sector:
    • News Channels (e.g., NDTV, CNN-IBN, Republic TV)
    • Radio Stations (e.g., FM Radio, Community Radio)
    • Digital Media Companies (e.g., Scroll, The Quint)

Special Eligibility in a Person

  • Strong communication skills.
  • Adaptability to technological changes.
  • Ethical and critical thinking.
  • Physical and mental resilience for challenging assignments.

Workplace Responsibilities

  • Researching and gathering news stories.
  • Conducting interviews with subjects.
  • Writing and editing scripts or reports.
  • Producing visual and audio content.
  • Anchoring live broadcasts.
  • Collaborating with the editorial team to meet deadlines.