How to Become a Sports Journalist

Journalists are a vital part of our society who impart newsworthy information to the general public in a timely manner. Sports journalists sometimes incorporate their own points of view to the actual news thereby making a report which is both entertaining and factual.

Difficulty:

Challenging

Instructions

1. Complete high school with an emphasis on English and business related subjects. Maintain a good GPA to get into a college of your choice. Make a list of colleges and begin researching journalism undergraduate degree programs. Get a good score on the college entrance exam.

2. Enroll in a journalism degree program which offers a comprehensive study of subjects such as journalism, business, law, ethics, editing, reporting and broadcasting. Look for a program that also offers a practical approach to the field of sports journalism.

3. Work as an intern at a newspaper, sports magazine, radio station or television station during your college years to gain valuable practical experience. Finish your undergraduate degree with a high GPA.

4. Apply to newspapers and sports magazines to work as an entry level journalist. Also consider working as a freelance sports journalist to create a portfolio of work.

5. Enroll in a journalism graduate degree program if you are serious about establishing yourself as a sports journalist. Complete the one to three years of intense study and submit your final year thesis on any area related to sports journalism.

6. Pursue a career in print sports journalism or be a part of the media sector. With a graduate degree under your belt and a few years of experience, you will be in a position to join the ranks of national sports journalists.