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Journalist

A journalist finds out what is happening, checks the facts and explains it to people in clear language. Today that means not only newspapers and TV, but also websites, podcasts, YouTube and Telegram channels. If you like writing, asking questions and digging into complex topics, and you are curious about people and their stories, journalism could be for you.

Journalist

This work takes courage and responsibility. You need to arrange interviews, tell truth from rumor and respect the people you write about. Deadlines are often tight, and readers can be harsh critics. In return, a journalist can draw attention to important problems and help society understand what is really going on around it.

What the job involves

  • Looks for story ideas and sources
  • Interviews people and gathers facts
  • Checks information against several sources
  • Writes articles, shoots video or records podcasts
  • Works with an editor to polish and publish the story

Skills you need

  • Strong speaking and writing

    Expressing ideas clearly and engagingly, both aloud and on paper.

  • Curiosity

    Wanting to get to the bottom of things and ask uncomfortable but important questions.

  • Critical thinking

    Checking facts, spotting manipulation and separating opinion from information.

  • Sociability

    Getting people to open up and building trust with sources.

  • Media tools

    Basic filming, editing and social media skills are now needed by almost every journalist.

Who it suits

Personality types

Strong intelligences

  • Linguistic
  • Interpersonal
  • Intrapersonal

UNT subjects to take

State grants 2026

Main competition, full-time study. Quotas and separate state orders can have lower scores. Check your chances

Where to study

In Kazakhstan, journalism is studied at the bachelor's level for 4 years. Instead of profile subjects on the UNT, applicants take a creative exam, and each university sets its format. Well-known journalism faculties exist at Al-Farabi Kazakh National University and L. N. Gumilyov Eurasian National University, where students also do internships in newsrooms.

Many journalists start at school by running a school newspaper, a blog or a channel and joining media schools and contests. This builds a portfolio of published work that helps both at the creative exam and when looking for a first job. A degree matters, but newsrooms often look at what you have already done.

Outlook

Journalists work at news agencies, TV and radio stations, online outlets and the press offices of companies and government bodies, and some launch their own media. The profession is changing as audiences watch more video and short formats, so versatile specialists are valued. Competition is high, and success depends a lot on reputation and honest work.

Frequently asked questions

What do I need to take on the UNT to become a journalist?

Journalism applicants take the compulsory UNT subjects and a creative exam instead of profile subjects. Check the exam format and requirements with your chosen university in advance.

Can I become a journalist without a journalism degree?

Yes, people from other fields, such as philology, law or economics, also become journalists, especially when they write about their own area. A journalism degree still gives you a foundation in ethics, genres and working with sources.

Which language is best for a journalist in Kazakhstan?

Media in Kazakhstan publish in Kazakh, Russian and other languages, and knowing two of them opens more doors. English helps you read foreign sources and work with international outlets.

Is this career right for you?

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