Broadcast Journalism

Broadcast Journalism allows you to have the option to report on-camera or work behind the scenes. As Chicago is the number three market, a lot of success stories come from students that work in smaller markets to develop more experience and their reel, get an agent (for an anchor or reporter) and work their way into bigger markets. It is important to have a current reel as well.

What it Takes

  • Your job search arsenal includes business cards, an online portfolio, resume, and reels/examples of your work.
  • Save everything. For broadcast, make sure you save every single piece you have done. Make a reel, too!
  • Experience is crucial. Prove yourself doing freelance writing, reporting and internships, and it will lead to other offers.
  • Network. Nearly all hiring/offers for work come through relationships.

  • Sample Job Titles

    Anchor

    Assistant Editor

    Assignment Reporter

    Associate Editor

    Associate Video Producer

    Copy Editor

    Digital Reporter

    Entertainment Anchor

    Executive Editor

    Field Editor

    Finance Reporter

    Floor Director

    Graphics Operator

    Interactive Producer

    Meteorologists

    Motion Design Artist

    Multicast Operations Manager

    Newscast Director

    News Editor

    Online Reporter

    Political Reporter

    Programming Assistant

    Production Assistant

    Sports Anchor

    Sports Video Journalist

    Staff Reporter

    Sports Reporter

    Senior Editor

    Social Media Writer

    Traffic and Sales Coordinator

    Technical Director

    Translation Editor

    Web Reporter

    Web Editor

    Web and Social Media Manager

    Web Producer

  • Key Companies

    WTTW

    WCIU

    WGN

    NBC

    ABC

    CBS

    FOX

    Big Ten Network

  • Chicago Area Resources

    Illinois Broadcasters Association - IBA is the leading advocate for the broadcast industry in Illinois and is engaged in shaping public policy to create a positive legislative and regulatory environment for its members.

    Chicago Headline Club - Provides support and networking for area journalists, reporters, editors, photographers, news executives, educators and students.

    FOIA Illinois   - Illinois Freedom of Information Act Information

    Association for Women Journalists – Promotes the respectful treatment of women by the news media. 

    Society of Professional Journalists – Illinois Chapter – Dedicated to Free Press for journalists.

  • National Resources

    Journalism Career Guide – General information about careers in journalism.