India has more than 150 million active online news consumers. This has led to a rise in the popularity of journalism and mass communication degrees.
The opportunity to study journalism online is more accessible than ever before. With the growing number of online courses, degrees, and resources, many people wonder whether starting a journalism career without prior experience is possible.
The good news is that it is possible to study journalism online without any previous background. In fact, many people begin their journey into journalism through an online Bachelor of Arts in Journalism and Mass Communication (BAJMC) and successfully build careers in the field.
This blog explores how anyone can step into journalism without prior experience. Look at journalism courses for beginners, why online learning is a great option, and the types of online courses available.
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What is Journalism?
Journalism is the method of gathering, assessing, creating, and presenting news and information to the public. Journalists can work across various media, including newspapers, magazines, television, radio, and the internet. Their job is to report on events and issues relevant to society.
Journalism covers many topics, from hard news like politics and economics to lifestyle, entertainment, and human interest stories. Whether a journalist is writing a report on the latest scientific discovery or interviewing a local celebrity, their goal is to inform, educate, and sometimes entertain the audience.
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Why Study Journalism Online?
Online BAJMC for freshers might seem daunting, especially without prior experience. However, studying online provides several benefits that can make the process more accessible and flexible:
1. Accessibility
One of the best advantages of online courses is that they are available to anyone with an internet connection. Students don’t need to relocate to a particular city or university. They can study from the comfort of their own home, at their own pace, and without worrying about commuting.
2. Flexibility
Many online courses offer flexible learning schedules, ideal for those with work, family, or other commitments. Students can study part-time, allowing them to learn while continuing their daily life.
3. Variety of Courses
Many online journalism courses are available, catering to different interests and skill levels. Whether individuals want to learn the fundamentals of news writing or dive into advanced topics like digital media and investigative journalism, there is a course or specialisation to suit their needs.
4. Learning at One’s Own Pace
Unlike traditional classroom settings, no experience journalism degree online offers the flexibility to learn at one's own pace. Learners can revisit lessons, take breaks, and spend as much time as needed to grasp each topic fully, ensuring a thorough understanding of the material.
5. Cost-Effective
Online learning is more affordable than traditional, on-campus courses. Many universities offer online journalism degrees or diplomas at a fraction of the cost of traditional programs, and there are many free courses available as well. Amity University also offers a zero-cost EMI option, which makes getting the BAJMC degree much more affordable.
What Does the Online BAJMC Degree Cover?
An online BAJMC degree provides students with a comprehensive understanding of journalism and mass communication, ideal for beginners without prior experience. It covers a variety of subjects to build essential skills and knowledge for a career in this field.
Here's what students typically learn in entry-level mass communication courses:
1. Basics of Journalism
Students are introduced to the history of journalism, the different types of journalism, and the role of journalists in society. This foundational knowledge helps them understand how the profession has developed and its significance in the modern world.
2. News Writing and Reporting
Courses in this area teach students how to write clear, concise, and accurate news stories. Key skills include:
- Writing news articles.
- Conducting interviews.
- Collecting and verifying information.
- Structuring stories and creating compelling introductions (leads).
3. Digital Journalism
With the growth of online media, students learn to produce content for digital platforms. This includes:
- Writing for websites and social media.
- Using Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) to increase content visibility.
- Engaging audiences through multimedia tools like videos, images, and infographics.
4. Media Ethics and Law
Students understand the legal and ethical principles that guide journalists. Topics covered include:
- Copyright and intellectual property laws.
- Defamation and privacy regulations.
- Ethical responsibilities, such as accuracy, fairness, and objectivity.
5. Broadcast Journalism
For those interested in television, radio, or video production, this field teaches the following:
- Write scripts for broadcast.
- Present news on camera or microphone.
- Use cameras, microphones, and editing software to create professional content.
6. Investigative Journalism
Advanced courses teach students how to conduct in-depth research and uncover important stories. Skills include:
- Gathering detailed information from multiple sources.
- Writing long-form reports.
- Producing stories that expose hidden issues or hold individuals and organisations accountable.
7. Public Relations and Advertising
Some mass communication courses for beginners also introduce students to PR and advertising. These courses help them understand how to manage media campaigns, communicate on behalf of organisations, and engage effectively with target audiences.
Also Read:- Online BAJMC vs On Campus BAJMC
Relevant Skills to Succeed in Journalism
While students don’t need prior experience to study journalism, certain skills will help them succeed. Here are a few essential skills they can develop through online learning:
- Writing Skills: Writing is at the heart of journalism. Whether it’s for a newspaper or online content, clear and engaging writing is a must. Good journalists know how to tell a story that captures the reader’s interest.
- Research Skills: Journalists must gather reliable and accurate information quickly. Researching topics efficiently and verifying facts is crucial to producing trustworthy content.
- Communication Skills: Good communication is one of the most important parts of journalism. Journalists must be able to conduct interviews, ask the right questions, and communicate information. They must be well-versed in both written and verbal communication skills.
- Critical Thinking: Journalism is about analysing and presenting information in a fair and balanced way. Journalists must think critically, ask questions, and evaluate sources to ensure they’re telling the truth.
- Technical Skills: In the modern world of journalism, it’s also important to be familiar with digital tools. These might include social media platforms, content management systems (CMS), audio-visual editing software, and online research tools.
- Attention to Detail: Accuracy is key in journalism. Journalists must pay attention to the smallest details to ensure their reporting is correct, factual, and error-free.
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Conclusion
It is possible to study journalism online without prior experience. Online education offers flexibility, accessibility, and a range of courses that help develop the essential skills for a successful career in journalism. Starting with journalism courses for beginners, building a strong portfolio, and gaining practical experience can open the door to opportunities in the field. Whether pursuing a career as a news reporter, digital content creator, or investigative journalist, online learning provides a solid foundation.
Amity University Online is a leading choice for those pursuing an online BAJMC degree. As India's first UGC-approved online learning platform, Amity offers an affordable and high-quality program. Ranked among the top 10 universities in the Asia Pacific by QS University Rankings, Amity combines global standards with the convenience of online education.
