What Duties Do News Reporters Have?

News reporters gather facts and write a story for the general public in newspapers, TV and radio stations, news magazines and online news sites.

Education

In the past, getting a reporting job right out of high school was common, but all candidates today are expected to have at least a bachelor's degree in journalism or one of the liberal arts, such as English, history or political science.

Training

In addition to classroom education in ethics and writing, students in journalism programs in colleges and universities often produce a daily campus newspaper or newscast. However, the best place to learn about a working newsroom is through a student internship at a TV or radio station or newspaper.

Beats

Some news reporters specialize in a particular area, or "beat," such as city hall, health, crime or environmental issues. In smaller news operations, reporters do "general assignment" work that requires them to research and report on all topics.

The Fundamentals

Regardless of the medium, a news reporter relies on fundamental fact gathering. Each story must answer the "who," "what," "where," "when" and "why" of a news event.

Future of Journalism

The Internet is changing the way news is delivered to consumers, with newspapers under particular economic pressure. While the delivery method is likely to change, especially for print media, the need for well-researched, unbiased original content will remain.