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Ask the Recruiter
Joe Grimm of the Detroit Free Press tackles journalism's toughest recruiting questions.

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Bachelor's or master's?

Q: Thanks for your site, it is a lifesaver and a great read. I have a question regarding possible routes for journalism. I graduated eight months ago with a bachelor's degree in political science and sociology. After I graduated, I realized I would like to pursue a career in print journalism. I am currently in graduate school seeking a graduate certificate in urban planning.

I am planning to be a reporter for the university paper in the fall.

I am wondering if I would be better off getting a second undergraduate degree in journalism or pursuing a master's in journalism? Do newspapers look down on entry-level reporters with graduate degrees, or does it really not matter?

Thanks for your site and your time, I hope to hear from you soon!

Ryan

A: Without a doubt: get experience and, pursue a master's in journalism, rather than a second bachelor's.

A person in your situation -- making a transition -- can make good use of a master's degree.

Good luck.

Posted at 7:00:00 PM

E-mail this item | QuickLink this item: A109442


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  • July 23-27, UNITY 2008, Chicago
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Give Me a Sign
As we travel our career paths, wondering where to go next, we get signs. They can be in places ordinary or unexpected. They can come from above or from the road commission. We use those signs in Ask the Recruiter.

If you see a sign that speaks to you about your career, e-mail a photo of it to joe.grimm@gmail.com. Who knows? The sign you see may serve another.
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