Media & journalism graduate jobs & schemes 2025

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This sector offers a variety of career paths, including:

Media & Broadcasting

  • TV & Radio Production (e.g., producer, researcher, editor)
  • Digital Media (e.g., content creator, video editor, podcast producer)
  • Advertising & Media Buying (e.g., media planner, strategist)
  • Public Relations (PR executive, communications officer)
  • Social Media & Digital Marketing

Journalism

  • Print & Digital Journalism (e.g., news reporter, features writer)
  • Investigative & Political Journalism
  • Sports, Business, or Entertainment Journalism
  • Broadcast Journalism (TV, radio, online news platforms)
  • Editorial & News Editing

Publishing

  • Editorial (e.g., commissioning editor, proofreader, copy editor)
  • Literary Agent & Rights Management
  • Book Production & Design
  • Marketing & Publicity (book PR, social media management)
  • Digital Publishing & E-books

Many roles combine content creation, research, digital skills, and storytelling .

Graduate schemes exist, but they are highly competitive . Some key employers offering structured programs include:

  • Media & Broadcasting: BBC, ITV, Channel 4, Sky, Global Radio, Warner Bros. Discovery
  • Journalism: The Times, The Guardian, Reuters, Bloomberg, BBC News, The Telegraph, The Economist
  • Publishing: Penguin Random House, HarperCollins, Hachette, Bloomsbury, Oxford University Press, Macmillan
  • Advertising & PR: WPP, Edelman, Ogilvy, Publicis, Dentsu

Most graduate schemes last 12–24 months and involve training across different areas before specialization.

It depends on the role:

  • Journalism: A journalism degree or NCTJ qualification is preferred but not always essential. Experience and a strong portfolio matter more.
  • Publishing: A degree in English, Creative Writing, or Publishing can help, but internships and work experience are key.
  • Media & PR: Many roles prioritize practical experience, networking, and digital skills over specific qualifications.

Some people break into these industries through apprenticeships, freelance work, or self-publishing .

  • Strong writing & storytelling – Essential for journalism, content creation, and editorial roles.
  • Digital & social media expertise – Understanding platforms like TikTok, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Twitter is vital.
  • Editing & multimedia skills – Proficiency in video/audio editing (e.g., Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, Audacity).
  • Research & investigative abilities – Key for journalism, fact-checking, and editorial roles.
  • Networking & relationship building – Helps in PR, publishing, and media buying.
  • SEO & data analytics – Important for digital journalism, online publishing, and content strategy.

Salaries vary significantly depending on the role and employer:

  • Journalism: £20,000 – £28,000 (entry-level), rising with experience.
  • Media & Broadcasting: £22,000 – £30,000, with higher earnings in major companies.
  • Publishing: £20,000 – £26,000 (editorial roles), with marketing and rights jobs often paying more.
  • Advertising & PR: £25,000 – £35,000 in agencies, higher in corporate roles.

Freelancers in journalism, media production, and publishing may earn more or less , depending on workload and experience.

  • Highly competitive , especially in journalism and publishing.
  • Most jobs require experience through internships, freelancing, or networking before landing a permanent role.
  • Entry-level roles often start with temporary contracts, freelance gigs, or unpaid internships (though these are becoming less common).

Many roles require flexibility, travel, and occasional evening or weekend work .

✔ Gain industry experience – Work on a student paper, blog, podcast, or YouTube channel.
✔ Develop a portfolio – Showcase writing, video, or digital content to demonstrate your skills.
✔ Learn digital skills – SEO, data journalism, video editing, or social media analytics can make you stand out.
✔ Network with industry professionals – Attend media, publishing, or journalism events.
✔ Consider freelance work – Writing articles, editing, or digital content creation can lead to full-time opportunities.
✔ Stay informed – Follow industry trends, read top publications, and keep up with changes in media consumption.