Employment of reporters and correspondents is expected to moderately decline by 8 percent from 2010 to 2020. Declines are expected because of the consolidation of news organizations, decreases in the readership of newspapers, and declines in viewership for many news television shows.
Employment of broadcast news analysts is expected to grow by 10 percent from 2010 to 2020, about as fast as the average for all occupations. Growth is expected as news agencies prefer news analysts over traditional reporters to provide insight and commentary about the news.
In recent years, news organizations have begun to merge and consolidate, meaning that larger organizations acquire smaller organizations. Often, after a merger, the news agency reduces the number of reporters and correspondents on staff. As a result, the demand for journalists has decreased.
In addition, readership of newspapers and the viewing audience for many news television shows have been declining. As a result, news organizations may have more difficulty selling advertising, which is often their primary source of revenue.
To make up for decreased revenue, news organizations may need to downsize and employ fewer journalists. However, an increase in demand for online news and podcasts (audio or video digital media files that can often be downloaded from a website) may offset some of the downsizing.
Opportunities are expected to be limited because of both the number of workers who are interested in entering this field and declines in the number of positions. Prospects should be best for those with experience in the field, often gained through internships or by working on school papers.
In addition, opportunities will likely be better in small local newspapers or television and radio stations.
Competition will be particularly strong in large metropolitan areas, at national newspapers with higher circulation figures, and at network television stations.
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2012-13 Edition