Journalism has many benefits. In particular, it will allow you to broaden your general knowledge. You will also have the opportunity to work with passionate people, meet great people and travel a lot. However, as the journalism profession is constantly evolving, it is essential to follow good training. The master’s degree in journalism is one of the possible options.
Why choose a Master in Journalism?
The master’s degree in journalism is a diploma recognized by the State. Finalizing professional training in journalism, it promotes integration into the job market. Indeed, do a master’s degree in journalism allows you to obtain a bac+5 level qualification.
Once you have this diploma, you can choose to turn to the written press, radio, television or even digital media. Moreover, a master’s degree in journalism will give you access to many career opportunities. Here are some examples of jobs that you can pursue after following such training:
- Journalist and image reporter;
- Specialized journalist (sports, legal, scientific, etc.);
- Investigator;
- Correspondent;
- Columnist;
- Locate;
- Computer graphic designer;
- Editorial head;
- Editor-in-chief;
- Managing Editor.
The written press is the main provider of journalist positions. That said, the development of the Internet leads to the multiplication of new professional opportunities. You should know that a beginning journalist receives an average gross monthly salary of 1,800 euros.
What are the prerequisites for doing journalism?
Before doing a master’s degree in journalism, it is important to determine whether you have the prerequisites to become a journalist. First of all, you must master the French language in case you want to work in a French-speaking media outlet. You must be able to express yourself fluently and flawlessly, both orally and in writing. So don’t hesitate to take French courses if you feel that you have certain gaps. Knowledge of English is also an asset.
We must also keep in mind that the profession of journalist is based on information. It is therefore essential to be interested in current affairs and to stay informed in order to exercise it. Listen France Info live radio is a great way to do this. Furthermore, information can change very quickly so that it will be necessary to update it quickly. Therefore, responsiveness is another essential quality.
Although it is often considered a fault, curiosity is also essential for a journalist. You will indeed be constantly dealing with new subjects. However, these will not always necessarily be exciting. With a keen sense of discovery and a constant desire to learn, you will remain motivated by any theme.
In addition, it is necessary to know how to adapt and be able to work in different media to become a journalist.
Which school to join?
There are numerous training courses to become a journalist. However, not all are equal. To put all the chances on your side, opt for training provided in schools and universities recognized by the national collective agreement for journalists. Indeed, employers favor graduates who come from the following establishments:
- The CPJ (Journalist Training Center) in Paris;
- The ESJ (Higher School of Journalism) in Lille;
- The IPJ (Practical Institute of Journalism) in Paris;
- The EJT (Toulouse School of Journalism);
- The Sciences Po School of Journalism in Paris;
- EJCAM (Aix-Marseille School of Journalism and Communication);
- The CUEJ (University Center for Journalism Education) in Strasbourg;
- LE CELSA (School of Advanced Studies in Information and Communication Sciences) in Paris;
- The ICM (Institute of Communication and Media) in Échirolles;
- The IFP (French Press Institute) of the University of Paris Panthéon-Assas;
- The IJBA (Bordeaux Aquitaine Journalism Institute);
- The IUT (University Institute of Technology) of Lannion;
- The IUT of Tours.
Note that theadmission to a major school or in a university generally involves a very selective entrance exam. Therefore, remember to prepare yourself well. It should also be noted that students who wish to do a master’s degree in journalism must hold a bachelor’s degree or equivalent at bac+3 level. However, there is no age limit. The duration of the master’s degree in journalism is 2 years. The training includes both theoretical and practical lessons.
