What Age Can We Join a Journalism Course?

The pursuit of a career in journalism is a creative and lucrative path that appeals to many. But what age can one join a journalism course? There are various degree levels available in journalism, each with different eligibility criteria. The age limit can depend on the course chosen, but there are clear pathways to entry regardless of your age.

Undergraduate Journalism Degree

Getting started with a journalism career often begins at the undergraduate level. If you are interested in pursuing this route, the first step is to ensure you have completed your secondary education. Most institutions require you to have passed class 12 with a minimum of 50 marks. The academic stream can be Science, Commerce, Arts, or any other discipline as long as English proficiency is maintained. This level of education is crucial as it lays the foundation for understanding the nuances of journalism. Additionally, some universities may conduct an entrance test or consider your class 12 marks for admission. Some colleges may also include personal interviews to assess your suitability for the course.

Postgraduate Journalism Degree

For those who have already completed their undergraduate degree, a postgraduate course in journalism can be the next step. To be eligible for a postgraduate journalism course, you need to have graduated from a recognized university or institution. The duration of your UG degree could range from 3 to 5 years. Each university may have its own entrance test for admission into the postgraduate program. One example is the Master of Arts in Communication and Journalism offered by upGrad, an online platform. Postgraduate journalism programs offer advanced training and specialization in various areas such as investigative journalism, multimedia reporting, and content creation.

Diploma in Journalism

A diploma in journalism is a one-year full-time course that is accessible to students who have passed class 12 with at least 50 marks. This course is an excellent option for those who want to delve into the practical aspects of journalism without committing to a longer degree program. Any stream of class 12 is acceptable, as long as English proficiency is maintained. After completing the diploma, you could pursue a UG or PG degree or enter the workforce directly. This course is designed to provide hands-on experience and practical skills in journalism.

PG Diploma in Journalism

A PG diploma in journalism is a one-year program that offers specialized training in journalism. To apply for this course, you need to have a UG degree with at least 50 marks, which should be from an accredited institution or a recognized university. Each university may have its own admission criteria, so it's important to check these requirements. PG diploma courses provide in-depth knowledge in journalism and often lead to higher-paying jobs or advanced positions within the industry.

Admission Process Overview

The admission process for journalism courses varies by institution but generally follows a few key steps. Many prestigious journalism courses are entrance exam-based or merit-based. For entrance exam-based admissions, you need to fill out a registration form and follow the specific instructions provided by the college. Entrance exams may be conducted to assess your knowledge and aptitude for the course. Once the test is completed, a merit list is likely to be published, and shortlisted candidates will be called for a group discussion (GD) round or a personal interview. For merit-based admissions, you need to submit the required documents and may be invited for a personal interview or GD round based on your overall performance and academic record.

It's important to consider that the admission process can vary significantly among different universities. Always check the specific requirements and procedures of the institution you are interested in. Understanding these criteria can help you prepare adequately and ensure a smoother application process.