Journalism in canada career options and competencies required
1. Journalism in Canada: Career Options and Competencies Required
A diploma in journalism prepares students for a variety of careers, including
Broadcast journalists
Editorial assistants
Magazine journalists
Newspaper journalists
Press sub-editors
Proofreaders
Print production planners
Commissioning editors
These are just a few career options for journalists. However, the advancement
in digital media and online platforms has opened doors to more exciting career
options. The career prospects are bright for new-age journalists. They can be
engaged in
Researching a subject
Writing and telling stories
Producing and live-streaming radio and television newscasts
Covering different events
Preparing reports
Writing for magazines, newspapers, radio outlets and social media
platforms
Attending press launches and other events
Interviewing people face-to-face or on phone
Writing scripts for bulletins
Identifying and deploying resources
Competencies Required for Building a Career in Journalism
Building a career in journalism is difficult, given the fierce competition in the job
market. In order to seek employment in this field, the professionals are
expected to possess some basic knowledge, skills and ability, such as:
Inquisitiveness
Excellent writing skills
Ability to relate to all kinds of people
In-depth understanding of social and political issues
Ability to keep up with the latest happenings or current affairs
Good at absorbing information quickly
Critical analysis skills
Ability to handle stress
Flexible yet creative approach
Ability to meet deadlines
Ability to communicate information effectively
Journalism Program
A journalism program can help individuals gain all necessary knowledge and skills required to enter the
world of work. It helps students learn how to
Report
Examine issues
2. Tell stories
Break news
Operate in a real newsroom
Produce an online publication
Write for online media
The course covers a wide range of subjects, including:
Journalism Design
News Reporting
Imaging: Journalism
Journalism Laws and Ethics
Magazine/Freelance Journalism
Advanced Interviewing Techniques
News Laboratory
Radio News
Multiplatform Journalism
Beat Reporting
Television News
Journalism Career Management
The program combines classroom learning, real-world experience producing stories for award winning
newspapers and websites, one-on-one interaction with experienced faculty and a one-semester
intensive field placement.
Journalism Schools in Canada
There are a number of journalism schools in Canada, but Centennial College offers a fast-track
program in journalism that prepares college and university graduates for diverse careers in just two
years. It is an accelerated yet intensive program that covers all aspects of traditional and
contemporary journalism, preparing students to enter this fast-paced and exciting career.
The college also allows qualified graduates to apply their credits earned during this fast-track
journalism course towards further study at the university. They can also choose to pursue their careers
right after graduation.
Admission Requirements
In order to apply for this course, students will need:
College diploma or university degree in any discipline
Relevant work experience (for applicants with partial post-secondary education)
Additional Requirements
For Applicants with a Record of Published Journalism-Related Work
An up-to-date resume
References
Six-ten published pieces, including clippings, printouts or airchecks
For Applicants without a Record of Published Journalism-Related Work
Complete a two-part writing test
Submit an up-to-date resume
Submit six-eight writing samples