Not all reporting is chasing headlines. These 10 types of journalism offer very different paths—one of them might be yours.
Think journalism is just about breaking news and shouting questions at politicians? Think again.
The truth is, journalism comes in more flavors than a streaming service subscription—whether you’re into climate science, sneaker culture, election data, or pop divas. And no matter your vibe, there’s a journalism niche with your name on it.
Yes, all journalists need solid writing chops, sharp reporting instincts, and the kind of communication skills that would make your group chat jealous. But the way those skills show up? Totally different depending on the beat.
So how do you find your thing? Let’s explore the different types of journalism and how to figure out which one’s the best fit for your brain, your voice, and your career.
1. Investigative journalism: Digging deeper into the truth
This is the journalism that makes headlines—and sometimes makes enemies. Investigative journalists don’t just report what happened; they uncover what someone didn’t want you to know.
What it is:
Investigative journalism focuses on long-term reporting projects that expose wrongdoing, corruption, or systemic failures. Think: Pulitzer-winning deep dives, New York Times exposés, and photojournalists capturing the fallout on the ground.
Where it shows up:
You’ll find this work in print journalism, broadcast journalism, online journalism, and digital journalism outlets. It’s the kind of hard news that makes waves—and change.
Core skills:
- Strong writing skills
- Sharp research instincts
- Data analysis and fact-checking
- Familiarity with mass communication ethics and FOIA requests
- Ability to work with photojournalists, legal teams, and public relations fallout
Who it’s for:
This path is perfect for journalists with a bachelor’s degree (or master’s degree) in journalism, mass communication, or a related field—and a high pain threshold for bureaucracy.
Typical beats:
Government corruption, corporate fraud, healthcare failures, environmental injustice. Not exactly soft news.
Why it matters:
This form of journalism holds power accountable. It’s slow, difficult, high-impact work—and for the right journalist, it’s the dream job.
Best for:
Journalists who get a rush from long-form research, uncovering lies, and rattling a few cages along the way.
2. Political journalism: Covering power, policy, and elections
Love a good press conference? Obsessed with election maps? Welcome to political journalism—where caffeine is constant and chaos is part of the job description.
What it is:
Political journalism covers governments, elections, legislation, and policy shifts. From Capitol Hill briefings to grassroots protests, it’s all about documenting how power moves—and who it moves over.
Where it shows up:
You’ll see it everywhere: broadcast journalism, print journalism, online journalism, and across social media and political podcasts. Think: election coverage on The Washington Post, op-eds on digital journalism platforms, or explainers on policy in your favorite Substack.
Core skills:
- Quick turnaround reporting on hard news
- Interviewing political figures without sounding like a fan
- Fact-checking legislative jargon so your general public audience doesn’t cry
- Understanding of mass communication and media law
- Comfortable writing both breaking news and opinion pieces
Who it’s for:
Journalists who live for real-time news cycles, don’t mind navigating spin, and secretly love reading budget reports. A bachelor’s degree in journalism, mass communication, or political science doesn’t hurt.
Typical beats:
Congress, local elections, political scandals, policy reforms, and the occasional shouting match on Twitter.
Why it matters:
Political journalism shapes public discourse. It’s not just reporting on what politicians say—it’s digging into what their policies actually do.
Best for:
Writers with strong analytical skills, a healthy skepticism of official statements, and a passion for holding the powerful to account—without accidentally live-tweeting their existential crises.
3. Business and financial journalism: Breaking down the economy
If you’re the kind of person who reads earnings reports for fun—or at least Googles “WTF is the yield curve?”—business journalism might be your perfect beat.
What it is:
This form of journalism covers everything from Wall Street to local small business trends. Business and financial journalists help the general public make sense of markets, inflation, unemployment, crypto crashes, and why eggs cost $9.
Where it shows up:
In the financial sections of The New York Times, on Bloomberg TV, or in data-heavy explainers for platforms like Quartz. You’ll also find it all over broadcast journalism and niche digital outlets.
Core skills:
- Translating economic current events into human stories
- Fluency in terms like GDP, quarterly earnings, and “bear market” without scaring readers
- Strong data and writing skills—bonus points if you’re spreadsheet-curious
- Ability to spot trends before they hit mainstream headlines
- Understanding how business overlaps with politics, tech, and the environment
Who it’s for:
Writers who get a thrill from demystifying the economy and have the patience to read corporate reports and ask tough questions during CEO interviews.
Typical beats:
Stock markets, personal finance, corporate misconduct, mergers and acquisitions, and economic policy.
Why it matters:
This specialty in the field of journalism impacts everyone—from your Uber driver to your grandma’s pension. It’s how we track wealth, power, and where the economy’s headed next.
Best for:
Journalists who like following the money, have an eye for patterns, and want to explain complex systems in plain English. (And if you still remember your Econ 101 class fondly—definitely you.)
4. Science and health journalism: Making complex topics accessible
If you’ve ever tried to read a peer-reviewed study and thought, “There’s a great story in here—somewhere,” science journalism might be your calling.
What it is:
This form of journalism covers breakthroughs in medicine, public health, climate change, and emerging tech—minus the academic jargon and triple asterisks. It’s where facts meet storytelling, helping the general public make sense of complex issues that actually affect their lives.
Where it shows up:
You’ll find science and health journalists reporting for National Geographic, Scientific American, and even on Netflix documentaries. This niche also plays a big role in broadcast journalism, especially during global health events (hello, pandemic).
Core skills:
- Translating scientific research into clear, compelling narratives
- Interviewing scientists, doctors, and researchers without needing a master’s degree in molecular biology
- A sharp eye for accuracy, context, and public impact
- Staying up to date with current events in medicine, environmental science, and tech
Who it’s for:
Writers who geek out over journal articles, love reading abstracts, and believe climate reports are beach reading (you know who you are).
Typical beats:
Climate science, public health policy, new treatments, mental health, medical innovations, and tech ethics.
Why it matters:
Science and health journalism connects the dots between cutting-edge research and real-world decisions. It gives people the information they need to make smart choices—from vaccines to voting.
Best for:
Writers with curiosity, precision, and enough patience to explain CRISPR or carbon offsets without sounding like a textbook. Whether you’re a former entertainment journalist looking to switch lanes or starting out with an eye on journalism careers with global impact, this beat delivers.
5. Sports journalism: Covering the games that matter
If your idea of a perfect day includes a press pass, a packed stadium, and a deadline at halftime, welcome to sports journalism.
What it is:
This form of journalism goes beyond final scores. It blends hard news (injuries, trades, scandals) with soft news (player profiles, legacy pieces, cultural analysis). Whether you’re reporting on high-stakes sporting events or investigating what’s happening behind the locker room doors, you’re shaping the stories fans care about most.
Where it shows up:
From broadcast journalism on ESPN to feature writing in print journalism like Sports Illustrated, sports journalists operate across every platform—including digital outlets, podcasts, and social media feeds.
Core skills:
- Fast, engaging writing under tight timelines
- Knowledge of teams, stats, and industry trends
- Interviewing athletes, coaches, and fans
- The ability to turn both play-by-plays and post-game emotions into compelling narratives
Who it’s for:
People who thrive on adrenaline, analysis, and crowd noise. If you can translate a buzzer-beater or a crushing loss into a story that sticks, you’re in the right place.
Typical beats:
Live coverage of sporting events, investigative stories on athletic organizations, profiles of emerging stars, and the growing world of e-sports.
Why it matters:
Sports journalists don’t just report—they reflect the culture, emotion, and controversy of global fandoms. It’s where competition meets commentary.
Best for:
Writers who love the energy of the game, know how to read a stat sheet and a storyline, and can capture both with flair. Bonus points if you can write through overtime.
6. Entertainment and arts journalism: Reporting on culture and creativity
If you have strong opinions about award snubs, deep thoughts on the latest streaming series, or a soft spot for obscure indie bands—this might just be your beat.
What it is:
Entertainment and arts journalism covers everything from red carpet premieres to gallery openings, Broadway hits to breakout podcasts. This isn’t fluff—it’s in-depth coverage of the cultural forces shaping how we think, feel, and obsess.
Where it shows up:
Entertainment journalists contribute to broadcast journalism segments, online news stories, print features, podcasts, and newsletters. Outlets like Rolling Stone, Variety, and Vanity Fair are just the beginning.
Core skills:
- Feature writing with flair
- Interviewing celebrities and creators (without fangirling—unless it helps)
- Understanding trends in film, TV, music, and art
- A knack for critique, analysis, and storytelling
Who it’s for:
Writers who are naturally curious, plugged into pop culture, and not afraid to dive into the deeper meaning behind what we watch and listen to.
Why it matters:
Entertainment journalism reflects our cultural values, amplifies new voices, and connects audiences to art. It’s more than celebrity gossip—it’s cultural commentary with impact.
Getting started:
Whether through degree programs, freelance journalism jobs, or building your own platform on broadcast or digital channels, there are plenty of entry points into the field.
Best for:
Storytellers with strong instincts, sharp writing skills, and an obsession with the creative world. If you can break down a TV pilot and spot the next big trend? You’re in.
7. Opinion journalism: Shaping public debate
This is where journalism meets persuasion—and a good hot take can stir up real conversation.
What it is:
Opinion journalism is less about news reporting and more about interpreting the news. Whether it’s a political column, cultural critique, or fiery personal essay, the goal is to influence how people think about the issues shaping our world.
Where it shows up:
Opinion journalists write for major newspapers, magazines, and multimedia platforms. They appear in op-ed sections, on broadcast journalism panels, and increasingly in newsletters and podcasts with loyal followings.
Core skills:
- A clear, compelling voice
- The ability to back up arguments with reporting, logic, and insight
- Awareness of current events and cultural discourse
- Willingness to take a stand—and handle pushback like a pro
Who it’s for:
Writers who have something to say and the skill to say it persuasively. If your group chats regularly turn into debates, you may already be halfway there.
Why it matters:
Great opinion journalism shapes public dialogue, challenges dominant narratives, and provides clarity in a noisy world. Whether you’re a political journalist tackling policy or a pop culture writer dissecting a viral trend, your voice has power.
Getting started:
Build a portfolio with strong, focused arguments. Submit guest op-eds. Start a Substack. Or pitch a regular column to a niche outlet. Broadcast journalists with strong POVs are also finding new space in podcasting and video commentary.
Best for:
Writers who love critical thinking, bold takes, and turning arguments into art.
8. Technology journalism: Covering innovations that shape the future
If you’re the friend who reads about AI before it hits the headlines—or explains blockchain at dinner parties—this might be your niche.
What it is:
Technology journalism covers everything from the latest gadget drop to major shifts in cybersecurity, privacy, and the digital economy. It’s a fast-moving form of journalism that requires both curiosity and clarity.
Where it shows up:
Writers cover emerging tech for new media platforms, legacy outlets, newsletters, and specialized industry sites. Some focus on consumer tech, while others dive deep into enterprise innovation or data ethics.
Core skills:
- Ability to translate complex systems into plain English
- Curiosity about innovation and how it intersects with daily life
- Balanced viewpoints—this beat moves fast, but hype doesn’t equal news
- Confidence reviewing products, interpreting reports, and asking tough questions
Who it’s for:
Writers who love living at the edge of the future. If your tabs are filled with AI newsletters and quantum computing explainers, welcome home.
Why it matters:
Tech touches everything—from your fridge to your financial data. Tech journalists help readers navigate innovation, understand risk, and make smarter choices in a hyper-digital world.
Best for:
Writers with sharp analysis, strong curiosity, and zero fear of jargon (especially cutting through it).
9. Feature journalism: Telling compelling human stories
If breaking news is the sprint, feature journalism is the marathon—with scenic detours, emotional depth, and maybe some tears (yours or the reader’s).
What it is:
Feature writing trades urgency for nuance. It uncovers layers, explores context, and reveals the “why” behind the headline. It’s where journalism careers turn deeply human.
Where it shows up:
Think long-form storytelling in digital journalism, magazines like The Atlantic, or narrative photojournalism that brings moments to life. You’ll find features in print journalism, on podcasts, or inside soft news sections that lean into culture and community.
Core skills:
- Immersion reporting and strong writing skills
- The ability to structure a story that unfolds, rather than explodes
- Comfort working across mediums: audio, photo, multimedia
- A keen instinct for detail and pacing
Who it’s for:
Writers who love observation, emotion, and staying with a story longer than the news cycle allows. You’re here for character, mood, and meaning.
Why it matters:
In an age of scrolls and swipes, features slow us down. They invite reflection, build empathy, and tell the stories that stay with readers long after they’ve closed the tab.
Best for:
Storytellers who don’t just want to inform—they want readers to feel something.
10. Public service and watchdog journalism: Journalism with a mission
This is journalism with its sleeves rolled up and a magnifying glass in hand. Public service and watchdog reporting are less about clicks and more about consequences.
What it is:
This form of news journalism is all about accountability. These journalists investigate injustice, follow the money, and spotlight the things powerful people would prefer stayed hidden.
Where it shows up:
Think nonprofit newsrooms like ProPublica, independent media orgs, or foundations funding investigative journalism in the public interest. It’s also a core part of major outlets’ most important work.
Core skills:
- Deep-dive reporting and data analysis
- Relentless curiosity and commitment to the truth
- A strong understanding of public relations spin—and how to slice right through it
- Comfort working on long timelines with high stakes
Who it’s for:
Journalists who treat facts like forensic evidence, believe the public has a right to know, and aren’t afraid to make powerful people squirm a little.
Why it matters:
Without watchdog journalists, the world gets shady fast. This work doesn’t just break news—it builds trust and protects democracy.
Best for:
Anyone who wants their journalism career to mean something big. (And maybe win a Pulitzer while they’re at it.)
How to choose the right journalism niche for you
You don’t need to have it all figured out right away. But if you want a journalism career that actually fits, it helps to ask the right questions early:
- What are you naturally good at? If you love digging through data, investigative reporting might be your jam. Prefer conversations? You might thrive in interviews, profiles, or on-camera work.
- What topics light you up? From politics and sports to science, art, or tech—there’s a form of journalism for every obsession.
- What lifestyle do you want? Big-name media outlets offer prestige and structure, but demand constant availability. Freelancing brings flexibility—and chaos. Choose your chaos wisely.
- What experience can you get right now? Try a mix: a freelance feature, a student internship, maybe even a side project in photojournalism or podcasting. You don’t need permission to start—just a story and the will to tell it.
Whatever you choose, your niche isn’t a trap—it’s a launchpad. You can pivot, evolve, and combine specialties. That’s the beauty of a journalism career today.
Your journalism journey starts here
Journalism is a vast, evolving industry—there’s room for every interest.
Experiment, gain experience, and find the type of journalism that fuels your passion.
Whether you’re writing investigative exposés or covering the latest fashion trends, there’s a place for you in journalism.
And when you’re ready to get paid for it?
Grab our list of 200+ publications that pay $1 a word or more. It’s the ultimate shortcut to pitching smarter, skipping the low-paying gigs, and landing bylines you actually want to brag about.
