An MA in Mass Communication and Journalism opens doors to diverse media careers, but TV journalism remains one of the most sought-after paths. With the rise of 24/7 news channels, OTT platforms, and digital broadcasting, skilled TV journalists are in high demand.
However, breaking into TV journalism requires more than just a degree—it demands practical skills, networking, and industry awareness. If you’re wondering “How do I start a career in TV journalism after my MA?”, this step-by-step guide covers:
✅ Essential skills TV news channels look for
✅ How to build a strong portfolio during/after your MA
✅ Top internship and job opportunities in India
✅ Career growth paths (Reporter, Anchor, Producer, etc.)
✅ Exclusive tips from industry professionals
By the end, you’ll have a clear roadmap to launch your TV journalism career.
Must-Have Skills for TV Journalism
1. Strong News Writing & Scripting
- TV news requires crisp, engaging, and error-free scripts.
- Practice writing news packages, headlines, and teleprompter scripts.
- Pro Tip: Follow BBC, NDTV, and Republic TV styles to understand tone variations.
2. On-Camera Confidence & Voice Modulation
- Work on:
- Voice clarity (avoid monotone delivery).
- Body language (posture, eye contact, gestures).
- Diction (neutral accent preferred in national media).
- Exercise: Record mock news bulletins and analyze your performance.
3. Video Editing & Technical Proficiency
- Learn tools like:
- Adobe Premiere Pro (basic cutting, transitions).
- Final Cut Pro (used by many Indian newsrooms).
- Bonus Skill: Mobile journalism (MoJo)—shooting/editing on smartphones.
4. Research & Fact-Checking
- TV journalists must verify information quickly before reporting.
- Use tools like: Google Fact Check, Alt News, PRS India.
5. Adaptability & Breaking News Handling
- TV news is fast-paced—you must think on your feet.
- Example: Covering live events, elections, or crises.
How to Build Your Portfolio During/After MA
1. Campus Media & Reporting Clubs
- Join your college’s news channel, radio, or YouTube team.
- Cover college events, local issues, or student interviews.
2. Freelance Reporting (Even as a Student)
- Contribute to:
- Hyperlocal news platforms (The Quint, Scroll.in).
- Community YouTube channels.
- Pro Tip: Pitch human-interest stories—they get more visibility.
3. Create a Demo Reel
- Include:
- Stand-up reports (record at iconic locations).
- Mock news anchoring (use a plain background).
- Packages you’ve edited (add captions for context).
- Keep it short: 3–5 minutes max.
4. Internships at News Channels
- Apply for internships at:
- National channels: Aaj Tak, India Today, NDTV.
- Regional channels: TV9, News18, Zee Media.
- Note: Many internships lead to full-time jobs.
Top Job Opportunities in Indian TV Journalism
1. Entry-Level Roles
| Role | Skills Needed | Salary Range (Starting) |
|---|---|---|
| News Reporter | Field reporting, live coverage | ₹3–5 LPA |
| Video Journalist | Shooting, editing, scripting | ₹2.5–4 LPA |
| Production Assistant | Scripting, coordination | ₹2–3.5 LPA |
2. Mid-Career Roles
- News Anchor (₹6–15 LPA)
- News Producer (₹5–12 LPA)
- Special Correspondent (₹8–20 LPA)
3. Where to Apply?
- Job Portals: LinkedIn, Naukri, JournalismJobs.com.
- Channel Careers Pages: Times Group, Network18.
- Media Networks: Press Club of India events.
Exclusive Tips from TV Journalists
1. “Start Regional, Go National” – Rajdeep Sardesai (Consulting Editor, India Today)
“Most national anchors began in regional media. Build credibility there first.”
2. “Social Media is Your CV” – Faye D’Souza (Independent Journalist)
“Tweet breaking news, post explainer reels—editors notice active profiles.”
3. “Specialize Early” – Barkha Dutt (Founder, MoJo Story)
“Politics, business, or tech—pick a beat and own it.”
Conclusion: Your TV Journalism Roadmap
- Hone skills (reporting, editing, anchoring).
- Build a portfolio (internships, freelancing, demo reel).
- Network aggressively (media events, LinkedIn, press clubs).
- Apply smartly (target regional channels first).
Ready to start? IFCT’s MA in Mass Communication and Journalism includes:
- TV studio training with industry-standard equipment.
- Internship tie-ups with top news networks.
- Placement support for journalism careers.
Enroll Now and launch your TV journalism journey!