Journalist

What does a journalist do? – Tasks and working environment

A journalist works with collecting, reviewing, editing, and communicating information to the public through various channels such as newspapers, radio, television, and digital platforms. Tasks include interviewing people, investigating social issues, writing reports and news articles, and producing segments for broadcast media. The work is often characterized by tight deadlines, high pace, and demands for accuracy, while also requiring the ability to handle unexpected events and adapt to a changing media landscape. The working environment can vary from offices and newsrooms to fieldwork, which may involve travel or working at inconvenient hours.

Salary development over time

The salary of a journalist has shown a relatively stable but positive trend over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 43,000 SEK per month, which decreased slightly to 42 500 SEK in 2023. Afterwards, the salary increased to 44 800 SEK in 2024, representing an increase of approximately 5.4% between 2023 and 2024. This salary increase can partly be explained by increased demand for digital skills within journalism and changes in the media landscape where specialized journalists have become more attractive. Despite some salary variation, the profession has generally maintained a stable position in the job market, although the number of permanent positions has decreased due to industry restructuring. The gender pay gap remains small but still exists in favor of men.

Journalist salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 44 800 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 43,900 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 51,000 SEK/month (male, public sector, post-secondary education ≥3 years)
• Highest salary (female): 48,500 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 269 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 98% of what men do (men: 45 200 SEK, women: 44 400 SEK)
• Regional differences: Specific regional salary differences are not available

Education and qualifications

To work as a journalist, a post-secondary education in journalism, media, and communication or similar fields is usually required. Many employers also value practical experience, often through internships or work at student newspapers. Specialized courses, digital skills, and the ability to handle new publishing tools are becoming increasingly important. Self-study, networking, and continuous further education are also valuable to stay current in the profession.

• Formal education: Post-secondary degree in journalism or media (2–3 years)
• Certifications/courses: Courses in digital journalism, data journalism, photography, or video
• Internship/trainee: Internships at editorial offices or student media are highly recommended
• Prerequisites: High school diploma, often with a focus on social studies, language, or media
• Self-study/online: Opportunities to deepen knowledge via online courses and self-study
• Advice for choosing: Select programs with practical training and strong industry contacts

Common benefits and compensations

Journalists often have access to benefits such as collective agreement-based occupational pension, wellness allowances, professional development, and sometimes flexible working hours or remote work. Some employers also offer insurance, extra vacation days, and access to press cards and work-related travel, especially at larger media companies.

Competition and challenges

The profession of journalism is characterized by tough competition, especially for permanent positions at larger editorial offices. Digitalization and changing consumption patterns have led many employers to seek digital skills and the ability to produce content for multiple platforms. Uncertainty regarding employment forms and increased use of freelancers are common challenges. The ability to quickly adapt to new tools and working methods is crucial for success. At the same time, the profession carries a significant responsibility regarding ethics and source criticism, which demands integrity and independent thinking.

Tips for those who want to become a journalist

To succeed as a journalist, it’s good to be curious and have a genuine interest in social issues, which facilitates finding relevant news and angles. Being communicative and clear is important, both in interviews and when writing texts. Flexibility and adaptability are required to handle rapid changes in tasks and technology. It is also essential to be meticulous and uphold a strong ethical stance, as the profession involves reporting accurately and objectively. Practical experience, such as internships or student media, provides valuable contacts and skills. Building a broad network and continuously developing digital skills increase chances of establishing oneself in the industry. Finally, perseverance and patience are vital, as the path to a permanent position can be long and challenging.

Key facts about a journalist

• Education level: Post-secondary degree (usually 2–3 years)
• Work environment: Office-based with fieldwork elements
• Work form: Both permanent positions and freelance assignments
• Available jobs: 620 advertised within the profession
• Special skills: Digital publishing, source criticism, storytelling techniques

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a journalist, there are opportunities to advance to roles such as editor, news director, or specialized reporter in areas like politics, economics, or culture. Some choose to further specialize and become analysts, columnists, or producers for radio and TV. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecast, there is currently no precise assessment of future outlooks for the journalism profession due to limited data. However, labor market data indicates 620 available jobs, suggesting continued demand, especially for those with digital skills and the ability to handle multiple media formats. Opportunities may vary depending on the region and the size of the media outlet, and competition for permanent positions remains high.

Frequently asked questions about journalists

• What is the average salary of a journalist?
  - A journalist has an average salary of 44 800 SEK per month.
• How large is the salary difference between men and women?
  - Women earn 98% of what men do; men have an average of 45 200 SEK and women 44 400 SEK.
• What education is required to become a journalist?
  - Typically, a post-secondary education in journalism or media, usually 2–3 years.
• What does the job market look like for journalists?
  - There are 620 available jobs, but competition for permanent positions is high.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries for journalists?
  - The highest salary is 51,000 SEK (male, public sector, post-secondary education ≥3 years). The lowest salary is 43,900 SEK for both men and women.
• What benefits are common for journalists?
  - Benefits include occupational pension, wellness allowance, and professional development.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Specific regional salary differences are not available for this profession.