News Reporter

What you need to know



What is this career like?

Most reporters and correspondents work for newspaper, website, or periodical publishers or in television or radio broadcasting. Broadcast news analysts mainly work in television and radio.

Some of the things a reporter, correspondent, and broadcast news analyst might do:

  • Investigate new story ideas and pitch ideas to editors
  • Interview people who have information, analysis, or opinions about a story or article
  • Write articles for newspapers, blogs, or magazines and write scripts to be read on television or radio
  • Review articles for accuracy and proper style and grammar
  • Update stories as new information become available
What skills are needed?
  • Communication skills: Reporters, correspondents, and broadcast news analysts must be able to report the news. Strong writing skills are important for journalists in all kinds of media.
  • Computer skills: Journalists should be able to use editing equipment and other broadcast-related devices. They should also be able to use multimedia and coding software in order to publish stories on websites and mobile devices.
  • Interpersonal skills: To develop contacts and conduct interviews, reporters need to build good relationships with many people. They also need to work well with other journalists, editors, and news directors.
  • Persistence: Sometimes, getting the facts of a story is difficult, particularly when those involved refuse to be interviewed or provide comment. Journalists need to be persistent in their pursuit of the story.
  • Stamina: The work of journalists is often fast-paced and exhausting. Reporters must be able to keep up with the additional hours of work.
What is the pay?

The average pay for reporters, correspondents, and broadcast news analysts in the United States ranges from $22,970 to $195,520.


What is the career outlook?




What education is required?

Most employers prefer workers who have a bachelor’s degree in journalism or communications. However, some employers may hire applicants who have a degree in a related subject, such as English or political science, and relevant work experience.

Some journalism students may benefit from classes in multimedia design, coding, and programming. Because content is increasingly being delivered on television, websites, and mobile devices, reporters need to know how to develop stories with video, audio, data, and graphics.

Discover some of the courses you will take pursuing a degree in Journalism or Communications.