Journalism - Broadcast BRJ

Holland Code: A (Artistic)

What academic skills do I need to be successful in the program?

This list does not replace the admission requirements you must have for admission to the program. Please see website for details.

Arts & Literacy Courses in media arts and communication technology are recommended. Courses in economics and politics are recommended. Applicants should have above average written and spoken English Language skills.

Technology Basic computer skills required (Microsoft Office, email, Internet, checking the student portal daily).

What personal qualities should someone interested in this career have?

• Self-confidence
• The ability to effectively engage with people
• Initiative, curiosity, persistence, resourcefulness, objectivity, integrity, creativity and an accurate memory
• Interest in and knowledge of current events
• Ability to work in a team
• Strong interview skills
• Able to set priorities

Useful background experience for this program would be

Having an interest in drama and public speaking and Involvement with toastmasters or similar types of clubs.

What kind of work could I do when I graduate?

Graduates of this program may go on to become a

Broadcast Journalist in electronic media, radio, television and emerging broadcast media.

Places you may find yourself employed include

Public and private broadcasting, audio and video production studios, post-production houses, community cable systems or audio/video production departments within companies.

Typical working conditions for this kind of work:

• Cope with a hectic pace, the pressure of deadlines
• Long irregular hours
• A work environment filled with noise, interruptions and distraction

Tasks a graduate may do in the workplace

• Research and verify information found in documents and from meetings, interviews, conferences, court hearings, artistic performances, sporting events and press statements
• Interview, in person or by telephone, individuals involved in news events, witnesses, knowledgeable people and others whose activities are of public interest
• Go "live, on location" to provide eyewitness coverage of some events
• Translate complex issues into concise, informative news stories
• Research and write articles or stories as assigned by editors or find stories on their own initiative
• Write news stories that are accurate, fair and balanced
• Write critical reviews of literary or artistic works based on personal knowledge, judgment and experience
• Produce concise written copy from notes or tape recordings taken during interviews or press conferences
• Organize material into factual or analytical reports
• Maintain a presence on social networking sites (for example, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn, Flickr, blogs, forums) to post breaking news and ongoing developments and monitor sites for news and tips.
• Obtain video footage of current news events
• Gather sound and video for news, current affairs programs and documentaries
• Conduct interviews using digital or tape recorders
• Write and edit their own reports under the supervision of a news editor or director
• Assist in directing camera operators who are filming news events

Helpful links for further research into this Fanshawe College program and career opportunity

• Ontario Association of Broadcasters (OAB)
• Canadian Association of Broadcasters (CAB)
• Canadian Broadcast Standards Council (CBSC)
• Fanshawe’s library has prepared a subject guide for current students in this program. You may find the links and information provided very useful in learning more about this career.

Opportunities for further development or education

• Students may wish to go on an exchange in Belgium. See website for details.
• Graduates may qualify to apply to Fanshawe College graduate certificates in Broadcast Journalism – Television news; or Corporate Communication and Public Relations.
• Graduates have opportunities to transfer credits to a university degree program at multiple schools within Canada and around the world. Articulation agreements are in place with several schools in Wales, England, and Australia. New agreements are being put into place each year.

Last Modified: January 11, 2024