by Christine Maguire

Created on: May 26, 2008

In the ever-changing media market, the role of a journalist is constantly evolving. Today more than ever journalists must be flexible. A career in journalism is much sought after, and competition is high.

There is debate about the best methods for training journalists. Journalism degrees are relatively new, and it was not so long ago that journalists did not receive qualifications to do their job. In Ireland it is said that 100 students graduate every year with journalism degrees, a high number in a small country. Having a degree is a definite advantage.

However, there are many journalists who never studied journalism, and are wonderful at their job. Journalism is not like law, teaching or dentistry, where a degree is vital. As journalism is a practical profession, a degree is not necessary in order to do a good job, but it may be when it comes to actually seeking employment.

Although theory learned in colleges is valuable and gives journalists a definite advantage, there is a lot to be said about practical experience which comes with actual work experience. According to the National Union of Journalists, 40% of their members entered directly into journalism, and were trained by their employers.

A journalist's job involves gathering, writing and reporting news. They inform the public of the goings on in the world, and do so accurately. They must also edit their own work to fit to the space allocated to them by an editor. Journalism covers a wide range of jobs, not just in the traditional print field.

A newspaper journalist interviews people for articles, they attend events and look through press conferences. They then write articles about what they have found. They have many strict deadlines. A journalist working at a magazine does much the same, although they have longer deadlines to research and write their articles.

Broadcast journalists communicate information through the medium of news bulletins, documentaries and factual shows, either on television or radio.

A freelance journalist does not have a steady, regular job. They are not employed by anyone. They are often called in to do a number of assignments, and also send ideas for articles to different editors. Although they are not restricted to any one publication, and can manage their time as they please, it is not always a stable job, and they often have to negotiate pay with editors for jobs that they have done.

In today's society journalists are under greater pressure, as consumers want the news immediately.

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