Investigative Journalist

From Curiosity to Impact: Your Career Adventure as an Investigative Journalist!

About

Investigative Journalism is a kind of journalism in which reporters thoroughly investigate only a single topic of interest like criminal, political, corporate, entertainment, etcetera. Moreover, an investigation on a single topic might take up several months or even a year. It is also known as “watchdog reporting” or “accountability reporting.” Investigative Journalists either work with newspapers or as freelance journalists. 

Furthermore, in order to investigate cases they use various methods like documentation analysis which involves interrogating legal papers, public records, financial information, exploring the data, conducting deep research, diving deep into interviews and much more. Their main motive is to find the truth at all costs and showcasing the reality to the World. Investigative Journalism is a difficult yet fruitful path to choose as a career.

Eligibility

For Bachelor’s

  • Aspirants need to pass 10+2 with at least 50% aggregate in any stream from a recognised board. 
  • Students can opt for a Bachelor's degree in Journalism, Broadcasting, English, Communication, Political Science or any other related field. 

 For Masters

  • To gain job market knowledge, one can opt for a Master's degree in Communication or Journalism
  • Working with experienced journalists or applying for internships can help you gain great expertise in the industry. 

Job Roles

The field of Investigative Journalism aims to provide in-depth knowledge and enhance the skills of the students. To do such a task, this field presents innumerable job profiles:  

  • Investigative Reporter
  • Video Journalist
  • Researcher
  • Special Writer
  • Investigative Producer
  • Investigative Data Reporter
  • Assistant News Director
  • Reporter
  • Sr. Journalist
  • Threat Researcher
  • Consumer Investigative Reporter
  • Political Journalism

Top Recruiters

There are many recruiters from leading companies who enlist potential students in the Investigative Journalism field. Following are some Recruiters from where students can find an employment opportunity in India: 

  • Nextmedia India
  • The Better India
  • W. Media
  • Shining India News
  • Seven Consultancy
  • CoinGape News
  • Republic World
  • Virtusa
  • Semicon Media
  • CryptoNewsZ

Salary

The salary range may vary from company to company, but the salary of an Investigative Journalist is very impressive only in India.

 

Level of Salary

Salary Package per Year

Starting Salary

Approx ₹3,60,000

Mid Level Salary

Approx ₹6,80,000 

Senior Level Salary

Approx ₹10,40,000 

Skills

  • Analytical Skills
  • Interpersonal Skill
  • Organizational Skills
  • Research Skills
  • Time Management is Crucial  
  • Strong Writing Ability
  • Interviewing Quality
  • Presence of Mind

Scope

Investigative Journalism as a career option is extremely competitive, challenging and difficult, but at the same time it is rewarding as well. One must opt for this career path if they are adventurous and are not afraid of going to depths in search of truth. In a way they offer a service to the society by uncovering and reporting important issues.

Furthermore, Investigative Journalists are intended to uphold officials, criminals, companies, states as well as influential individuals accountable for their actions. If one wishes to become an Investigative Journalist the key features to keep in mind are one must have a keen eye for detail and zest for finding out the truth at all costs. 

Benefits

  • Creative Work Profile
  • Meeting New People
  • Interesting Working Environment
  • Well Paid
  • Lot of Travel Opportunities

Drawbacks

  • Highly Competitive
  • Physical Burn Out
  • Long Working Hours
  • Envious Atmosphere
  • Strict Deadlines